Iconic Landmarks

Mole Antonelliana

The unmistakable symbol of Turin, the Mole Antonelliana dominates the city skyline with its soaring 167-meter spire. Originally begun in 1863 as a synagogue, it was later completed by the city and today houses the remarkable National Cinema Museum, one of the most unique film museums in the world. Inside, visitors move through immersive exhibits on film history, early cinema technology, and iconic movie moments. A glass elevator rises through the hollow center to a panoramic terrace near the top, offering sweeping views over Turin’s grid of baroque streets and, on clear days, the snow-capped Alps stretching across the horizon.

Basilica di Superga

Perched high on a hill just outside the city, the Basilica di Superga offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region. Designed by architect Filippo Juvarra and completed in 1731, the church was built by the House of Savoy to commemorate a victory over French forces during the Siege of Turin in 1706. From its terrace you can see the entire city laid out below, framed by the Alps. Superga is also a place of deep emotion for football fans: just behind the basilica stands the memorial for the Torino FC team that tragically died in the Superga air disaster in 1949. The site remains a pilgrimage destination for supporters of the legendary “Grande Torino.”

Turin Cathedral

Also known as the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Turin’s cathedral is most famous for housing the mysterious and controversial Shroud of Turin. This ancient linen cloth, believed by some to be the burial shroud of Jesus, has fascinated scientists, historians, and pilgrims for centuries. The relic is rarely displayed, but it is preserved in a specially designed chapel behind the cathedral, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1997. Even when the Shroud is not visible, the cathedral remains an important spiritual and historical landmark in Turin’s historic center.

Royal Savoy Sites

For centuries, the House of Savoy ruled from Turin, transforming the city into an elegant royal capital filled with grand palaces, sweeping piazzas, and refined baroque architecture. Many of these residences and landmarks are now part of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, showcasing the power and ambition of the dynasty.

Piazza Castello

The heart of Turin’s historic center, Piazza Castello is where the city’s royal history comes into focus. This large, elegant square has been the political and ceremonial center since the 16th century. Surrounded by arcaded walkways, it connects several of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, and the Teatro Regio. From here, Turin’s perfectly ordered streets radiate outward, reflecting the careful urban planning of the Savoy era.

Palazzo Reale di Torino

Facing Piazza Castello, the Palazzo Reale was the primary residence of the Savoy royal family. Built in the 17th century, the palace reflects the grandeur of a dynasty that eventually ruled all of Italy. Inside, lavish rooms filled with frescoes, chandeliers, and gilded details give a glimpse into court life. Highlights include the opulent Throne Room and the magnificent Royal Armory, one of Europe’s most important collections of historic weapons and armor. Behind the palace, formal gardens provide a peaceful green space just steps from the city center.

Palazzo Madama

Standing dramatically in the center of Piazza Castello, Palazzo Madama tells the story of Turin’s evolution across centuries. Its foundations date back to a Roman gate, later transformed into a medieval fortress. In the 18th century, architect Filippo Juvarra added the striking baroque façade that faces the piazza today. The palace takes its name from the powerful Savoy royal widows, known as “Madama Reale,” who once ruled from here. Today it houses the Museo Civico d’Arte Antica, with collections ranging from medieval art to decorative objects.

Palazzo Carignano

One of the most distinctive buildings in Turin, Palazzo Carignano is famous for its curved brick façade and dramatic baroque design by Guarino Guarini. It was here that Victor Emmanuel II was born in 1820. The palace later became the meeting place of the first Italian parliament after the unification of Italy in 1861. Today it houses the Museo Nazionale del Risorgimento Italiano, dedicated to the movement that led to modern Italy.

Museums

Turin is one of Italy’s most underrated cultural capitals in italy. Thanks to its royal past and industrial history, the city is home to museums that span ancient civilizations, modern design, and automotive innovation. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, Italian history, or engineering, Turin offers some of the most compelling museum experiences in the country.

Museo Egizio

Widely considered one of the most important museums of Egyptian antiquities in the world, second only to Cairo, Museo Egizio was founded in 1824. It holds more than 30,000 artifacts that trace ancient Egypt over thousands of years. Highlights include statues, sarcophagi, papyrus scrolls, everyday objects, and entire reconstructed tombs. The museum’s modern design makes the experience immersive and easy to follow, even for visitors who aren’t experts in Egyptian history. It’s consistently ranked among Europe’s top museums and is often a cultural highlight of a visit to Turin.

 

Museo Nazionale del Risorgimento Italiano

Housed inside Palazzo Carignano, this museum tells the story of Italian unification, known as the Risorgimento. Turin played a central role and briefly served as Italy’s first capital in 1861. The museum traces the political struggles, revolutionary ideas, and key figures such as Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, and Giuseppe Garibaldi. Exhibits include historic documents, paintings, uniforms, and the restored parliamentary chamber where Italy’s first national parliament met.

Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile

Celebrating Turin’s central role in the Italian automotive industry, this museum is closely tied to Fiat and the city’s reputation for design and engineering. It showcases more than 200 vehicles spanning over a century of innovation, including early experimental cars, iconic Italian sports cars, and futuristic concept vehicles. Beyond the cars, exhibits explore how automobiles shaped modern society, from urban planning to pop culture. It’s an engaging stop even for visitors who aren’t car enthusiasts.

GAM – Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

Turin’s premier modern and contemporary art museum, GAM houses an extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century works. It excels in Italian movements such as Divisionism and Arte Povera, but also features international artists like Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso. Quieter than some of Turin’s blockbuster museums, it rewards those interested in modern art.

Museo Lavazza

Coffee is part of Turin’s identity, and this sleek museum inside Lavazza’s headquarters tells the story of one of Italy’s most famous coffee brands. Through interactive exhibits, visitors learn about espresso culture, global coffee production, and the role Turin cafés played in shaping Italy’s coffee traditions.

Museo Nazionale della Montagna

Located on Monte dei Cappuccini overlooking the city, this museum explores the culture and history of the Alps. Exhibits cover mountaineering, alpine photography, mountain communities, and climbing and skiing. The terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of Turin with the Alps rising behind it.

Museo Pietro Micca

A smaller but fascinating museum dedicated to the underground tunnels used during the Siege of Turin. It tells the story of soldier Pietro Micca, who sacrificed his life to stop French troops advancing through the tunnels beneath the city.

Beautiful Squares and Historic Streets

One of the defining features of Turin is its elegant urban design. The city was carefully planned as a royal capital, resulting in wide boulevards, graceful piazzas, and miles of covered arcades, making it one of Italy’s most walkable cities. Strolling through these historic streets is often the best way to experience Turin’s atmosphere.

Piazza San Carlo

Often called Turin’s most elegant square, Piazza San Carlo is a masterpiece of baroque urban planning. The large rectangular piazza is framed by harmonious arcaded buildings and anchored by the twin churches of San Carlo Borromeo and Santa Cristina. At the center stands an equestrian statue of Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy, commemorating his victory at the Battle of St. Quentin in 1557. Surrounded by historic cafés where Turin’s coffee culture was born, Piazza San Carlo has long been a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Via Roma

One of Turin’s main shopping streets and most impressive boulevards, Via Roma was rebuilt in the 1930s with elegant arcades and clean architectural lines. The street connects Piazza San Carlo with Piazza Castello and Piazza Carlo Felice near Torino Porta Nuova railway station. Beneath the covered porticoes you’ll find boutiques, cafés, and historic pastry shops. The arcades make it possible to walk comfortably even in rain or summer heat.

Quadrilatero Romano

Just a few blocks from Piazza Castello, the Quadrilatero Romano is the oldest part of the city, built on the grid of the original Roman settlement. Today it’s lively with narrow streets full of wine bars, restaurants, and cocktail spots. In the evening, locals gather for aperitivo, making it one of the best places to experience Turin’s social life. Hidden courtyards, small piazzas, and centuries-old buildings give this neighborhood a very different feel from the grand Savoy-era boulevards.

Piazza Vittorio Veneto

Often called “Piazza Vittorio” by locals, this enormous square is one of the largest in Europe and one of Turin’s most dramatic spaces. Built in the early 19th century and named after Victor Emmanuel I of Sardinia, the square sits at the eastern edge of the historic center where the city opens toward the Po River. Lined with elegant arcaded buildings, Piazza Vittorio Veneto is a favorite gathering spot. During the day, cafés spill onto the piazza, while at night, the surrounding bars and restaurants make it a vibrant nightlife hub. From here, visitors can walk across the river to the striking neoclassical church of Gran Madre di Dio. Looking back from the riverbank offers one of the most beautiful perspectives of Turin’s urban layout, with the long arcaded façades stretching toward the historic center and the Alps visible on clear days.

Parks and Outdoor Spots

Despite its grand architecture and royal history, Turin is surprisingly green. Along the banks of the Po River, you’ll find large parks, tree-lined paths, and scenic viewpoints where locals walk, bike, and relax. These outdoor spaces provide a peaceful contrast to the busy streets and historic piazzas of the city center.

Parco del Valentino

Stretching along the Po River just south of the historic center, Parco del Valentino is Turin’s most beloved public park. Opened in 1856, it was one of Italy’s first public gardens and remains a favorite place for strolling, jogging, or picnicking under centuries-old trees. Wide paths follow the riverbanks, and the park is dotted with fountains, gardens, and quiet green spaces. It’s also home to the elegant Castello del Valentino, a 17th-century Savoy residence now part of the university.

Borgo Medievale

Tucked inside Parco del Valentino, Borgo Medievale looks like a village straight out of the Middle Ages. Built in 1884 for an international exhibition, it’s a detailed reconstruction of medieval Piedmontese castles and towns. The complex includes towers, courtyards, a drawbridge, artisan workshops, and a fortress modeled on historic regional castles. Walking through its narrow streets gives visitors a sense of medieval life in Piedmont.

Monte dei Cappuccini

Rising just across the Po River from the historic center, Monte dei Cappuccini offers one of the best panoramic views in Turin. At the top stands the church of Santa Maria al Monte dei Cappuccini, built in the 16th century. From the terrace, you can see the city’s rooftops, domes, and orderly streets stretching toward the Alps. On clear days, the mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, making this a favorite spot for photographers and sunset views.

Parco Dora

A large, modern park in the former industrial district of Dora, Parco Dora combines green space with reminders of Turin’s industrial past. Old factory structures have been repurposed into walkways, playgrounds, and climbing areas, giving the park a unique urban-meets-nature vibe. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, or letting kids play, and often hosts cultural events and open-air exhibitions.

Parco della Pellerina

One of Turin’s largest public parks, Pellerina is slightly north of the historic center and ideal for sports, picnics, and long walks. With expansive lawns, tree-lined paths, and playgrounds, it’s a favorite for locals who want space to relax, jog, or cycle. It also hosts seasonal events and fairs, giving a lively, community-focused experience.

 

More Places to See in Turin

There's no shortage of beautiful and interested sites in Turin. Here are more of our suggestions.

Villa della Regina

A former Savoy hillside residence with terraced gardens and small vineyards overlooking the city. The views across Turin toward the Alps are stunning, and it’s far quieter than the grand palaces downtown.

Santuario della Consolata

One of the city’s most beloved churches. Its richly decorated baroque interior and intimate, local atmosphere feel very different from the major tourist landmarks.

Galleria Subalpina

A small 19th-century glass arcade tucked just behind Piazza Castello. Elegant ironwork, mosaic floors, and quiet cafés give it old-world charm without the crowds.

Fiat Lingotto Test Track & Casa 500

At the former Fiat factory in the Lingotto district, you can visit the La Pista 500 rooftop test track, where cars were historically driven off the assembly line for quality checks. Nearby, Casa 500 celebrates the iconic Fiat 500, and the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli art gallery showcases masterworks in a stunning modern space. The rooftop also offers fantastic views of the city and the Alps

Borgo Campidoglio

A small historic neighborhood alive with colorful street art, artisan workshops, and a creative local vibe far from the polished city center.

Balon Flea Market

Held in the Aurora district, this lively Saturday market is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage goods, and curios. The monthly Gran Balon (every 2nd Sunday) is especially bustling, with hundreds of vendors filling the streets.

Villa Amoretti

A hidden gem in the Cit Turin neighborhood. The historic villa now houses a public library, and its surrounding park, Parco Rignon, is a peaceful place to wander. It’s quiet, photogenic, and gives a glimpse into Turin’s lesser-known architectural heritage.

Basilica di Maria Ausiliatrice

A striking basilica associated with John Bosco. Often overlooked by visitors, locals cherish its serene atmosphere and beautifully decorated interior.

Porta Palatina

One of the best-preserved Roman gates in the world, quietly standing near the city center. It gives visitors a tangible sense of Turin’s ancient history.

Mercato di Porta Palazzo

Europe’s largest open-air market and one of the most authentic slices of Turin life. Stalls overflow with fresh produce, cheese, clothing, and street food, creating a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.

Galleria Umberto I

This elegant covered passage dates back to the late 1800s and was built on the site of Turin’s first major hospital. The long cross‑shaped arcade links Piazza della Repubblica (home to Europe’s largest open‑air market) with Via della Basilicaand the historic Quadrilatero Romano. Inside you’ll find shops, cafés, bistros, and the historic Farmacia Mauriziana, which has stood there for centuries. Its glass‑and‑metal roof floods the marble floors with light, making it a lovely place to escape weather while wandering between the market and downtown.

It’s quieter and more local than the better‑known Galleria Subalpina, but equally worth visiting for its mix of history, shopping, and casual food stops, a great detour before or after exploring Porta Palazzo.

12 specialties you must try in Turin

Vitello tonnato

Thin slices of cold veal served under a creamy tuna and caper sauce. It may sound unusual, but the combination is sublime: savory, tangy, and silky. A true Piedmontese classic often enjoyed as a starter.

Tajarin

Delicate, ultra-thin egg pasta, sometimes made with 30 to 40 egg yolks per batch. Served simply with butter and sage or a rich ragù, it perfectly showcases Piedmont’s love for egg pasta.

Agnolotti del plin

Tiny hand-pinched pasta pockets stuffed with meat, usually served with melted butter and sage or roasting juices. The name “plin” means “pinch,” highlighting the careful technique that gives each piece its signature bite.

Bagna cauda

A warm, pungent anchovy and garlic dip traditionally eaten with raw and cooked vegetables. Bold, communal, and intensely flavorful, this dish embodies Piedmontese culinary tradition.

Brasato al Barolo

Veal cheek braised slowly in Barolo wine until tender and rich. The wine-infused sauce is deeply flavorful and a must for meat lovers.

Carne cruda

Turin’s version of steak tartare, finely chopped and simply seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and salt. Light, delicate, and best paired with a glass of local red wine.

Gianduja

Chocolate blended with the famous hazelnuts from the Langhe region. Turin invented this smooth, nutty treat, which became the precursor to modern hazelnut spreads.

Bicerin

The iconic layered drink of espresso, chocolate, and cream first served at Caffè Al Bicerin and now found at cafes throughout the city. Warm, decadent, and uniquely Turinese.

Tramezzini

Soft, triangular sandwiches invented at Caffè Mulassano. Typically filled with tuna, egg, or ham, they make a perfect light snack while exploring the city.

Vermouth

Turin is the birthplace of vermouth. Sampling it in a historic bar is a rite of passage. Sweet or dry, neat or in a cocktail, it’s an aperitivo tradition that locals take seriously.

Grissini

Thin, crunchy breadsticks originating in Turin, often enjoyed as an appetizer.

Farinata di Ceci

Chickpea flatbread baked in a wood-fired oven, often sold in pizzerias.

Restaurants We Love

Scannabue

One of the best places for traditional Piedmontese cuisine. Expect perfectly cooked tajarin, vitello tonnato, and rich agnolotti.

Consorzio

Slow Food–style cooking with an excellent wine list. Small, cozy, and highly respected by Turin foodies.

Tre Galline

Dating back centuries in the Quadrilatero Romano, this historic trattoria serves classic Piedmont dishes like finanziera and brasato.

Porto di Savona

A historic trattoria in Piazza Vittorio Veneto where locals keep coming back for traditional fare and a lively atmosphere.

Piola da Cianci

Chaotic, fun, and budget-friendly, this piola serves simple Piedmont dishes alongside generous glasses of wine, a true neighborhood experience.

Pastificio De Filippis

A legendary fresh pasta shop in Lagrange that also serves lunch. Their handmade agnolotti is a must-try.

L’Acino

Tiny and intimate, this Quadrilatero Romano restaurant shines with seasonal, carefully prepared dishes.

Ristorante del Cambio

This historic dining room has hosted politicians and intellectuals since the Risorgimento, making it a living piece of Turin history.

Civico 1

Chic, modern Italian cuisine with excellent attention to detail. A stylish spot where locals love to dine.

Osteria degli Ottoni

Small, cozy, and beloved for traditional dishes that feel homemade.

Osteria Antiche Sere

A relaxed, local osteria with seasonal cuisine and an authentic neighborhood vibe.

Piola da Celso

No-frills piola serving local staples and generous wine. The kind of place where you feel like a local immediately.

10 Historic Cafés in Turin

Caffè Al Bicerin

Tiny and iconic, this is the birthplace of the famous bicerin drink. A must-visit for anyone wanting to taste Turin’s signature layered espresso, chocolate, and cream beverage.

Caffè Torino

A glamorous café in Piazza San Carlo, known for its elegant art deco interior and refined atmosphere. Ideal for people-watching in one of Turin’s most beautiful squares.

Caffè Mulassano

Small and sophisticated, famous as the inventor of the tramezzino sandwich. A favorite for locals seeking a historic yet intimate café experience.

Baratti & Milano

Historic chocolate shop and café in Galleria Subalpina. Elegant interiors and a wide selection of chocolate and pastries make it a classic stop for a sweet treat or aperitivo.

Caffè Fiorio

Once a favorite of politicians and aristocrats during the Risorgimento, Fiorio maintains its refined atmosphere, offering a taste of the city’s political and intellectual history.

Caffè San Carlo

One of the grand cafés facing Piazza San Carlo. The large interior and historic charm make it a perfect spot for classic pastries and coffee.

Stratta

Historic pastry shop and café known for elegant chocolates and sophisticated aperitivo service. A favorite of both locals and visitors seeking timeless quality.

Caffè Elena

Located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, it was once frequented by writers and intellectuals. The terrace is perfect for enjoying the square while sipping coffee or a glass of wine.

Pfatisch

A historic chocolatier and café dating back to the early 1900s. Known for refined pastries and artisanal chocolates, it captures Turin’s old-world charm.

Platti

Classic pastry café on Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. Beautiful interiors and traditional pastries make it a perfect stop to soak in the elegance of historic Turin.

Gelato

Alberto Marchetti

One of Turin’s most celebrated artisan gelaterie, known for clean, creamy gelato made with high-quality ingredients and Slow Food influences. Favorites include pistachio, hazelnut, zabaglione, and fiordilatte. Multiple locations make it easy to stop by after sightseeing.

Siculo

A local favorite with classic Italian gelato. Straightforward flavors and smooth textures make it popular with residents.

Best Day Trips from Turin

Wine Country

Langhe

About 1 to 1.5 hours from Turin, this region is the heart of Barolo and Barbaresco wine. Rolling vineyard-covered hills, charming hill towns, and slow-paced lunches make it perfect for wine lovers.

Best towns to visit:

• La Morra – Stunning panoramic views of vineyards stretching across the hills.
• Barolo – Home to a wine museum and numerous tasting rooms.
• Monforte d’Alba – A picturesque hill village with narrow streets and great local restaurants.

Langhe is also known for hazelnuts and seasonal truffles.

Roero

Across the Tanaro River from the Langhe, Roero is quieter and more rustic, ideal for travelers seeking vineyards without crowds.

Best stop:

Canale – Charming town with scenic vineyards and fewer tourists.

Mountain Escapes

Sestriere

About 1.5 hours from Turin in the Alps, Sestriere is famous for Olympic skiing in winter, but it transforms in summer into a paradise for hiking and cycling. The alpine scenery is dramatic, with high peaks, valleys, and fresh mountain air. Trails range from gentle walks to challenging climbs, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and panoramic views.

Val di Susa

A beautiful alpine valley west of Turin, Val di Susa offers both history and natural beauty. The main highlight is the Sacra di San Michele, a dramatic mountaintop abbey that inspired the setting of The Name of the Rose. Hiking up to the abbey rewards visitors with sweeping views of the valley below. The valley is dotted with charming villages and quiet trails, ideal for those looking to combine history, culture, and nature.

Bardonecchia

About 2 hours from Turin, Bardonecchia is a charming alpine town near the French border, known for skiing in winter and hiking, mountain biking, and climbing in summer. Its pedestrian-friendly center is lined with cafés, shops, and historic buildings, while the surrounding valleys offer trails for all skill levels. Highlights include the Colomion chairlift, alpine lakes, and scenic mountain passes perfect for cyclists. Bardonecchia is quieter and more authentic than some larger ski resorts, offering a relaxed mountain experience with plenty of outdoor adventure.

Historic Towns

Asti

Roughly an hour from Turin, Asti is known for sparkling Asti Spumante, medieval towers, and a lively historic center. Perfect for a relaxed lunch paired with local wines.

Alba

The capital of white truffles and hazelnuts. Its historic center is beautiful, the restaurants are outstanding, and the Alba White Truffle Fair in the fall is world-famous.

Ivrea

A small town north of Turin with a unique industrial history tied to Olivetti design. Ivrea is also famous for its wild Battle of the Oranges during Carnival, a truly unique experience.

Lakes

Lake Orta

One of northern Italy’s most peaceful lakes.

Visit:

• Orta San Giulio – Charming lakeside village with cobbled streets.
• Isola San Giulio – Tiny island with a historic basilica.

Lake Orta is quieter and more magical compared with the more touristy Lake Como.

Lake Maggiore

About 2 hours from Turin, Lake Maggiore offers palaces, gardens, and picturesque islands.

Highlights:

• Stresa – Elegant lakeside town with beautiful villas.
• Borromean Islands – A cluster of islands with palaces, gardens, and historic charm.

Hotels

5‑Star 

Principi di Piemonte 

Short walk to Torino Porta Nuova station, Piazza San Carlo, Via Roma, and Piazza Castello.
Refined interiors, wellness spa with indoor pool, and fine dining.

Grand Hotel Sitea

Iconic hotel close to Porta Nuova station and Turin’s main shopping streets.
Offers full-service restaurant, bar/lounge, fitness area, and free Wi‑Fi.

Turin Palace Hotel 

A modern hotel just steps from Torino Porta Nuova station.
High-quality rooms, excellent service, and easy walking access to central Turin.

4‑Star 

NH Collection Torino Santo Stefano 

Stylish hotel steps from Porta Palazzo market, the Quadrilatero Romano, and Piazza Castello.
Features modern rooms, rooftop terrace, restaurant, bar, and on-site parking.

3‑Star 

Le Petit Hotel 

Near Piazza Castello, Via Roma, and the Egyptian Museum.
Simple amenities but perfect for walking to the main historic sights.

Hotel Chelsea

Close to Piazza Castello and main attractions.
Quiet street location but still central for cafés, museums, and pedestrian streets.