Turin, the elegant Savoy capital set between the Alps and the wide Piedmont plain, is a city that reveals new layers at every turn. Known as the cradle of the Italian Risorgimento, the industrial powerhouse of the 20th century and today a lively cultural hub, Turin offers experiences that range from art and architecture to mystery, food and wine. In this guide, we’ll take you through what to see in Turin, from its most iconic landmarks to lesser-known treasures. Get ready for a journey that blends history, atmosphere and authentic flavours, made even easier thanks to Italo’s high-speed rail connections.
Why visit Turin at least once in your lifetime
The Savoy city between history and modern life
Turin perfectly balances historic elegance with contemporary innovation. Walking along its tree-lined boulevards and seemingly endless porticoes feels like stepping into a regal setting, yet the city constantly surprises with cutting-edge museums, contemporary art galleries and creative districts such as Quadrilatero Romano and San Salvario. Here, centuries-old palaces coexist naturally with design spaces, cultural hubs and a lively urban energy that feels distinctly modern.
A cultural capital full of surprises
Today, Turin stands out as one of Italy’s most dynamic cultural destinations. The city hosts internationally renowned events such as the Salone del Libro and Artissima, while its year-round calendar is packed with exhibitions, concerts and food-focused festivals. Turin is also the birthplace of some of Italy’s most beloved icons: gianduja chocolate, vermouth and the refined tradition of historic cafés, where lingering over a coffee is as much a ritual as it is a pleasure.
What to see in Turin: the main sights you shouldn’t miss
Here are Turin’s must-see highlights:
- Piazza Castello and the historic heart of the city
- Mole Antonelliana and the National Museum of Cinema
- Egyptian Museum of Turin, a world-class treasure
- Valentino Park and the Medieval Village Turin
Piazza Castello and the historic heart of Turin
Piazza Castello is the symbolic and geographical centre of Turin, where the city’s history unfolds at every step. Surrounded by elegant arcades, grand palaces and historic cafés, the square sets the tone for the refined Savoy atmosphere that defines the city. From here, Turin’s main streets radiate outward, making it the perfect starting point for exploring museums, royal residences and the timeless elegance of the historic centre.
Mole Antonelliana and the National Museum of Cinema
An undisputed symbol of the city, the Mole Antonelliana dominates Turin’s skyline with its unmistakable dome. Originally conceived as a synagogue, it has become one of Italy’s most iconic architectural landmarks and the visual signature of the city itself.
Inside, the Mole houses the National Museum of Cinema, one of the most fascinating film museums in Europe. The visit is designed as a fully immersive experience: interactive installations, original film props, iconic posters and thematic exhibitions guide visitors through the history of cinema, from its origins to contemporary masterpieces. The museum’s vertical layout makes the journey feel dynamic and engaging, appealing even to those who wouldn’t usually consider themselves film enthusiasts.
One of the highlights is the panoramic lift, which ascends to the top of the Mole and opens onto a spectacular terrace. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views over the city, with the Alps on one side and the rolling hills of the Monferrato on the other—a perspective that perfectly captures Turin’s unique position between mountains and plains.
The Egyptian Museum of Turin, a one-of-a-kind treasure
Second only to the one in Cairo, the Egyptian Museum of Turin is one of the most important museums in the world dedicated entirely to ancient Egyptian civilisation. With a collection of over 40,000 artefacts, it represents an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Turin, regardless of their level of familiarity with ancient history.
Walking through its galleries feels like travelling back more than three thousand years. Monumental statues, richly decorated sarcophagi, mummies, papyri and everyday objects tell the story of a civilisation that continues to fascinate scholars and visitors alike. The museum’s modern layout and clear narrative approach make the visit engaging and accessible, guiding you through themes such as religion, daily life, writing and funerary rituals.
What truly sets the Egyptian Museum apart is its ability to combine scientific rigour with emotional impact. Each room invites you to slow down and observe, offering a deep and immersive experience that goes far beyond a traditional museum visit. It is, without question, one of Turin’s greatest cultural treasures and a highlight of any itinerary in the city.
Valentino Park and the Medieval Village
Just a short walk from the city centre, Valentino Park is a peaceful green oasis stretching along the Po River. Loved by locals and visitors alike, it offers tree-lined paths, open lawns and scenic river views—perfect for a relaxing break between cultural visits or a leisurely stroll away from the city’s more monumental side.
Within the park stands one of Turin’s most distinctive attractions: the Medieval Village Turin. Built in the late 19th century for the Italian General Exhibition, this carefully crafted reconstruction of a medieval village features towers, fortified walls, courtyards and artisan workshops. Walking through it feels like stepping into another era, with architecture and details inspired by real Piedmontese castles and settlements.
The combination of nature, history and atmosphere makes this area a refreshing change of pace. Valentino Park and the Borgo Medievale add a softer, more contemplative dimension to any Turin itinerary, balancing grand museums and royal squares with greenery and timeless charm.
Curiosities and unusual places to visit in Turin
Here are some of Turin’s most intriguing hidden sides:
- Turin magic: myths and esoteric legends
- Galleria Subalpina and its hidden corners
- Historic cafés and hot chocolate served al bicerin
Turin magic: myths and esoteric legends
Turin is often described as one of Europe’s most mysterious cities. According to legend, it lies at the centre of both the white magic and black magic triangles, alongside cities such as Prague and Lyon. This dual identity has fuelled centuries of stories, symbols and urban myths that still fascinate visitors today.
Night-time guided tours reveal a lesser-known Turin, where Masonic symbols, alchemical references and enigmatic architectural details are hidden in plain sight. Palaces, squares and seemingly ordinary doorways take on new meaning when viewed through this esoteric lens, transforming the city into an open-air book of secrets.
This mystical dimension adds depth to Turin’s elegant façade. Whether or not you believe the legends, exploring the city through its myths and symbols offers a compelling way to see familiar places from a completely different perspective—and to appreciate the layers of history and imagination that shape Turin’s unique character.
Located between Piazza Castello and Piazza Carlo Alberto, the elegant Galleria Subalpina is one of Turin’s most refined covered passages. With its Liberty-style architecture, historic bookshops and timeless cafés, it offers a quieter, more intimate atmosphere compared to the city’s grand boulevards.
Look beyond the shop windows and you’ll discover a world of hidden details: secluded courtyards, decorative porticoes and architectural elements that often go unnoticed. It’s a place best explored slowly, rewarding curious travellers who enjoy wandering off the main routes and observing the city’s more discreet elegance.
Historic cafés and hot chocolate al bicerin
You can’t truly experience Turin without stepping into at least one historic café. These refined spaces were once meeting points for intellectuals, writers and artists, and they still preserve an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Marble tables, mirrored walls and attentive service make them ideal places to pause and soak up the city’s rhythm.
This is where you can taste the famous bicerin, a traditional hot drink made with layers of chocolate, coffee and cream. Rich, velvety and unmistakably indulgent, it has become one of Turin’s most iconic symbols and a small ritual that perfectly reflects the city’s love for tradition and flavour.
What to do in Turin for an authentic experience
Here’s how to truly experience Turin:
- Walk under the arcades and enjoy shopping
- Taste Piedmontese food traditions
- Visit historic markets such as Porta Palazzo
Walk under the arcades and go shopping
With over 18 kilometres of arcades, Turin is made for walking in any season, sheltered from rain or summer sun. Strolling along Via Roma, Via Garibaldi and Via Po means moving effortlessly between elegant boutiques, independent bookshops and long-established historic stores. Shopping here is never just about buying: it’s a way to absorb the city’s refined rhythm and architectural harmony, where daily life unfolds beneath vaulted ceilings and perfectly aligned porticoes.
Taste Piedmontese food traditions
No trip to Turin is complete without discovering its cuisine, one of the most celebrated in Italy. From tajarin with white truffle to agnolotti del plin, all the way to the rich and comforting brasato al Barolo, every dish tells the story of a region deeply connected to its land, seasons and culinary heritage.
To end on a sweet note, it’s impossible to resist gianduiotti, the iconic hazelnut pralines that symbolise Turin’s historic bond with chocolate. Food here is not just nourishment—it’s culture, memory and identity, best enjoyed slowly and with curiosity.
Visit historic markets such as Porta Palazzo
For a glimpse into everyday Turin, head to Porta Palazzo Market, the largest open-air market in Europe. Stalls overflow with fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats and spices, while voices, colours and aromas create a lively, authentic atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to experience the city beyond museums and monuments, and to see how tradition and multicultural influences coexist in Turin’s daily life.
What to do in Turin in the evening, from music to craft beer
A musical evening, a good craft beer or a movie in the original language? Read the mini-guide on what to do in Turin in the evening and choose what’s right for you!
Places to visit near Turin
The Royal Palace of Venaria
Just a few kilometres from the city centre, the Reggia di Venaria Reale is one of the most spectacular Baroque complexes in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built as a Savoy royal residence, it impresses with its monumental halls, elegant galleries and perfectly restored architectural details.
Equally remarkable are the vast gardens, designed as an extension of the palace itself. Formal layouts, fountains and contemporary landscape elements combine to create a space that can be enjoyed in every season. A visit to Venaria offers a deeper understanding of the power, taste and vision of the Savoy dynasty, making it one of the most rewarding day trips from Turin.
The Basilica of Superga and panoramic views over the city
Perched on the Superga hill, the Basilica of Superga offers one of the most breathtaking views over Turin and the Alps. Designed by Filippo Juvarra, the basilica is both an architectural masterpiece and a place of strong historical memory, as it houses the royal tombs of the House of Savoy.
Superga is also forever linked to the tragic story of Grande Torino, whose plane crash in 1949 marked Italian sporting history. Today, the site combines reflection, beauty and panorama, making it a meaningful and scenic stop just outside the city.
Exploring the Langhe and Piedmont hills
If you have more time, a trip through the Langhe is not to be missed. This rolling landscape of vineyards, medieval villages and quiet country roads represents one of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions.
Here you can discover world-renowned wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco, often enjoyed alongside local cheeses and truffle-based dishes. The Langhe offer a slower pace and a strong connection to the land, providing the perfect contrast to Turin’s urban elegance and completing the journey with flavours, views and traditions deeply rooted in Piedmont.
One day in Turin: sights you must see
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.
Planning your trip to Turin with Italo
Reaching Turin is quick and straightforward thanks to Italo’s high-speed trains, which connect the city with major Italian destinations such as Milan, Rome, Naples, Florence and Venice. Travelling by train allows you to arrive relaxed and ready to explore, without the stress of traffic or parking.
Trains arrive at Torino Porta Susa, a modern station located right in the heart of the city. From here, Turin’s main sights are easily accessible on foot or by public transport, making it an ideal starting point for discovering museums, historic squares and neighbourhoods. Choosing Italo means optimising travel time and making the most of every moment in the Savoy capital.
