Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turin. From the majestic Royal Palace to the enchanting streets of the city center, our guide unveils the best of Turin. Perfect for travelers seeking a unique blend of art, history, and gastronomy.
For those who find themselves in Turin due to work commitments, it’s a missed opportunity to only see this city through the lens of corporate engagements. Turin is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, waiting to be discovered. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a list of essential stops that can fit into the tightest of schedules. Our suggestion? Plan ahead and carve out some time – even if it’s just a few hours or ideally a full day – to immerse yourself in the wonders of Turin, a city that promises to captivate.
- What to see and do in Turin
- Turin’s Chocolate Heritage
- Navigating Turin: Practical Tips for Traveler
- Turin day trips
What to See and Do in Turin
Embarking on Turin’s Journey: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
At the heart of Turin’s historic center stands the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, an architectural masterpiece that marries Renaissance elegance with Baroque flair. Constructed in the late 15th century, the cathedral is celebrated for its imposing dome designed by Guarino Guarini and its significance as the custodian of the Holy Shroud. This makes it the perfect starting point for our exploration.
© stephane333 via flickr
The Royal Palace: A Testament to Turin’s Grandeur
For centuries, the Royal Palace stood as the cultural and political heart of Italy. Once the home of the Savoy family, this opulent palace is a showcase of artistic brilliance spanning from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Visitors are left in awe by the splendor of the Throne Room, the Ballroom, the Swiss Hall, and the grand Scissor Staircase, each a testament to the palace’s historical significance.
Cinema and the City: The National Cinema Museum
Turin’s identity is deeply intertwined with cinema, making the National Cinema Museum a must-visit. Nestled within the iconic Mole Antonelliana, the museum boasts an extensive collection of film memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and historical equipment, offering a comprehensive overview of the cinematic arts. The journey to the museum’s panoramic temple, via a glass elevator, offers unparalleled views of Turin, adding a memorable highlight to your visit.
Valentino Park: An Oasis for the Active Traveler
For those who enjoy a run or a leisurely stroll, Valentino Park offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of business commitments. Stretching along the Po River, this lush park features tree-lined paths, biking trails, and historical gems like the Valentino Castle and its medieval fortress. It’s the perfect green getaway, conveniently located near Turin’s business and coworking spaces.
Turin’s Chocolate Heritage
Turin’s love affair with chocolate is legendary, dating back to when Emanuele Filiberto of Savoy introduced cocoa beans to Piedmont in the late 16th century. This rich tradition continues in the city’s historic cafes and chocolatiers, where one can savor specialties like gianduia. Notable stops include
- Baratti & Milano in Castello Square,
- Stratta in San Carlo Square,
- Pfatisch in Via Sacchi,
each offering a taste of Turin’s confectionery history.
The Chocolate Festival and Beyond
Turin hosts the annual “CioccolaTò” festival, a celebration of chocolate in all its forms. The festival brings together local and international chocolatiers, offering tastings, workshops, and demonstrations. It’s an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the city’s chocolate heritage, learn about chocolate making, and indulge in innovative chocolate creations.
© Historical archive of the city of Turin
Navigating Turin: Practical Tips for Traveler
Effortless Travel with Italo
The most efficient way to reach Turin is by train, with Italo offering numerous connections from across Italy. Upon arrival, take a moment to enjoy the culinary offerings at Turin’s Porta Nuova or Porta Susa stations before diving into your business agenda. And, should your stay extend beyond work commitments, consider exploring more of what Turin has to offer with our three-day city guide.
How many days in Turin?
How many days you should spend in Turin really depends on what you want to do and see. For a comprehensive exploration of the city’s main attractions, including its museums, historical sites, and culinary experiences, we’d recommend a minimum of 2 to 3 days. This allows you enough time to visit key sights such as the Mole Antonelliana and the National Cinema Museum, the Royal Palace, the Egyptian Museum, and to stroll through the charming streets of the city center, enjoying the local cuisine along the way.
If you’re keen on delving deeper into the cultural and artistic aspects of Turin, or if you wish to include day trips to nearby attractions such as the Venaria Reale (a magnificent palace often compared to Versailles) or the beautiful Piedmont countryside known for its wines, you might want to extend your stay to 4 or 5 days.
For travelers with a specific interest, such as automotive history, a visit to the National Automobile Museum could be a highlight, whereas chocolate lovers would not want to miss exploring the various historic cafes and chocolate shops that dot the city.
Turin day trips
Taking day trips from Turin by high-speed train opens up a variety of exciting destinations across Italy, allowing you to explore beyond the Piedmont region comfortably and efficiently. Here are some top destinations you can reach.
Milan
Just about an hour away by high-speed train, Milan is a global fashion and design capital. Beyond shopping, the city offers rich cultural experiences with the stunning Duomo, Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” and vibrant neighborhoods like Navigli, known for its canals and nightlife.
Travel by train from Turin to Milan
Genoa
In approximately 1.5 hours, you can reach Genoa, a city with a rich maritime history and the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Explore the historic center’s narrow lanes, visit the impressive Aquarium, and enjoy the city’s unique blend of culture and architecture.
Florence
Though a bit farther, Florence is reachable in about 2.5 hours, making it feasible for a longer day trip. The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence boasts unparalleled art collections, stunning architecture like the Duomo, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge.
Travel by train from Turin to Florence
Bologne
Around 2 hours away, Bologna is known for its rich cuisine, vibrant medieval center, and the oldest university in the Western world. Don’t miss trying the local delicacies such as tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù (the original “bolognese”), and mortadella.
Travel by train from Turin to Bologna
Venice
With a journey time of about 3.5 hours, Venice might be a stretch for a day trip but is certainly doable for those willing to start early. The city of canals offers a unique and unforgettable experience with its historic architecture, gondola rides, and intricate waterways.
Travel by train from Turin to Venice
