Nicknamed the “Capital of the Alps,” Turin is an underrated Italian city with a rich history and culture. Located in the Piedmont region, it was the first capital of unified Italy and is still one of the country’s major industrial and economic centers. Though not yet overrun with tourists, Turin has plenty for visitors to experience.

No.	Activity	Description
1	Egyptian Museum	Explore an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian art and artifacts.
2	Royal Palace & Gardens	Tour the lavish 17th and 18th-century rooms and French-style gardens.
3	Baroque Architecture	Admire the carved façades and interiors of historic buildings.
4	Local Chocolates	Sample traditional gianduia chocolates and visit historic shops.
5	National Cinema Museum	Dive into the history of Italian and world cinema.
6	Slow Food Experience	Enjoy local cuisine focusing on seasonal and regional ingredients.
7	Mole Antonelliana and Film Museum	Visit Turin’s iconic landmark and explore film history.
8	Juventus Football Club	Experience a match or tour the team’s museum and trophies.
9	Porta Palazzo Market	Explore Europe’s largest open-air market.
10	Holy Shroud	Visit the Duomo housing this controversial Christian relic.
11	LivinGroove Festival	Join one of Italy’s largest electronic dance music festivals.
12	Sacra di San Michele	Marvel at a 10th-century abbey with stunning views.
13	Truffle Hunting	Participate in hunting for rare truffles in the countryside.
14	Salone del Gusto Food Festival	Attend a biennial festival celebrating Slow Food culture.
15	Vineyards of Langhe-Roero	Take a day trip to sample wines in this renowned region.

In 2024, make sure to include these 15 top attractions and activities in Turin on your Italian itinerary:

Marvel at the Egyptian Museum

Name and Location: Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio), Via Accademia delle Scienze, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: Houses one of the world’s largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside Cairo. Fascinating glimpse into ancient culture.

What to Expect: Viewing impressive statues, sarcophagi, tablets, jewelry and more. Learning about mummification, religion, everyday life. Audio guides available.

Visitor Information: Located near Piazza Castello. Open daily except Tuesday. Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line. Allow 2-3 hours.

Turin is home to one of the world’s most significant collections of ancient Egyptian art and artifacts outside of Cairo. The stunning Museo Egizio displays over 30,000 relics, including statues, sarcophagi, mummies, jewelry, tablets, and the Papyrus of Turin.

Wander through vast galleries exhibiting items from prehistoric times through the Coptic period. Highlights include a statue of Ramses II and intact tombs. Be sure to join a guided tour to fully appreciate the museum’s immense historical treasures. Allow at least half a day to take it all in.

Tour the Royal Palace & Gardens

Name and Location: Royal Palace and Gardens, Piazzetta Reale, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: Elegant palace complex that served as residence of Savoy rulers. Beautiful 17th-18th century gardens behind the palace.

What to Expect: Touring lavish staterooms, royal apartments, the royal armory and gardens. Getting a glimpse into royal Piedmontese history.

Visitor Information: Next to Piazza Castello. Open Tues-Sun. Admission ticket includes Palazzo Reale, Armeria Reale and Giardini Reali.

When Turin was the capital of the Savoy dynasty, the extravagant Palazzo Reale was the royal residence. After touring the lavish 17th and 18th century rooms, stroll through the manicured gardens behind the palace. Designed in 1697, these French-style gardens are a peaceful oasis with statues, fountains, and intricately clipped hedges.

Don’t miss the wooded hillside Parco del Valentino along the banks of the Po River, another former hunting ground of the Savoys. The riverside path through the park makes a pleasant walk or bike ride with scenic views.

Admire Baroque Architecture

Name and Location: Baroque architecture in Turin, Italy

History and Significance: As the Savoy capital starting in 1563, Turin underwent grand Baroque urban planning and architecture, evident throughout the city.

What to Expect: Seeing elaborate Baroque details on churches, palaces and piazzas. Notable examples are Palazzo Madama, San Lorenzo, and Piazza San Carlo.

Visitor Information: Baroque buildings found across Turin. Guided walking tours available. Exteriors can be seen for free while interiors have admission fees.

Many of Turin’s most impressive buildings were constructed in the exuberant Baroque architectural style. Spend time admiring the carved, curving façades and interiors of structures like Palazzo Madama, Santuario della Consolata, and the Palazzo Carignano, where Italy’s first parliament met in 1861.

The 16th century Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, a UNESCO site, is a must-see for its ornate rocaille interior decoration. Turin’s elegant piazzas, lined with arcades in the Baroque style, are also beautifully photogenic spots for an afternoon stroll.

Sample Local Chocolates

Name and Location: Local chocolate shops, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: Turin has a long chocolate tradition, producing renowned brands like Gianduiotto, Caffarel and Venchi, as well as small artisanal shops.

What to Expect: Sampling and purchasing handmade chocolates, candied fruits, pralines. Browsing boutique and historic chocolate emporiums. Sweet souvenirs.

Visitor Information: Shops found across city center. Guido Gobino and Cioccolato Artigianale Pfatisch recommended. Look for local brands over chains.

Turin is famed as the birthplace of gianduia chocolate, a melt-in-your-mouth hazelnut and cocoa confection. Gianduiotti chocolates were first created in Turin in 1867. For chocolate lovers, sampling traditional artisanal chocolates is a highlight.

Stroll via Po to dip into historic shops like Stratta, Guido Gobino, and Peyrano for their signature candies. Pair chocolate with local wines, visit a chocolate museum, or even take a chocolate-making class to immerse yourself in Turin’s sweet culinary fame. Valentine’s Day in the city is especially delicious!

Visit the National Cinema Museum

Name and Location: National Cinema Museum, Via Montebello 20, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: Turin was the center of Italy’s film industry in the early 1900s. The museum highlights this legacy with artifacts, costumes, and more.

What to Expect: Browsing exhibits on early film studios, equipment, movie memorabilia and famous cult films. Movie screenings and temporary exhibits.

Visitor Information: Just east of the Mole Antonelliana. Open daily except Tuesday. Admission fee. Film screenings included with ticket.

Cinema may have been born in Paris, but Turin is its spiritual home. The National Cinema Museum chronicles the rich history of Italian and world cinema with engaging exhibits. See memorabilia, costumes, props, early equipment, posters, and interactive displays that recreate the magic of movie-making.

The unique architecture and special effects inside are just as astonishing as the collection. Cinephiles could easily spend hours here learning about cinema’s greatest classics through the years. A must-see for any movie buff!

Experience Slow Food in Turin

Name and Location: Slow Food in Turin, Italy

History and Significance: Turin is the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, which promotes local, sustainable food traditions and cuisine.

What to Expect: Experiencing farm-to-table dining at Osterie and eateries focused on regional wines, meats, cheeses, produce. Satisfying foodie experience.

Visitor Information: Slow Food restaurants all over city. Make reservations, as they are popular. Check menus for seasonal/local offerings. Food tours available.

Turin is a focal point of the Slow Food movement, which originated in the Piedmont area to preserve local cuisine and promote sustainability. Eating slow food is a quintessential Turin experience. Visit the markets at Porta Palazzo and San Secondo to shop for artisanal cheeses, meats, baked goods, and more.

Stop into neighborhood food shops, bakeries, cafés, wine bars, and restaurants focusing on seasonal and regional ingredients. Slow Food’s pillars of good, clean, and fair food shine through. Don’t miss the impressive Slow Food University campus.

Tour the Mole Antonelliana and National Film Museum

Name and Location: Mole Antonelliana and National Film Museum, Via Montebello 20, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: The Mole Antonelliana’s domed silhouette is an icon of Turin. The building houses an excellent film museum. Stunning architecture.

What to Expect: A glass elevator ride up for 360° city views. Displays on cinematic history, memorabilia, optical illusions and more. Fascinating even for non-movie buffs.

Visitor Information: In city center. Open Tues-Fri and Sun. Admission includes films, special exhibits and elevator ride. Tickets sell out so book ahead.

Rising up from the center of the city is the Mole Antonelliana, the tallest unfinished building in the world and Turin’s iconic landmark. Take theglass elevator up to the domed roof for amazing 360° views. The building also houses an impressive National Cinema Museum, with exhibits taking you on a journey through film history.

Cinephiles will love the collection of memorabilia, vintage cinema equipment, costumes, posters, and interactive displays. Don’t miss the quirky architecture and special effects inside. Seeing both the Mole and museum makes for an unforgettable visit.

Watch the Juventus Football Club

Name and Location: Juventus Football Club, Allianz Stadium, Turin Italy

History and Significance: Juventus F.C. is Turin’s storied professional football (soccer) team. They have won more Serie A titles than any other Italian club.

What to Expect: Catching a match at the incredible Allianz Stadium. Tickets often sell out months in advance. Exciting chance to see soccer superstars play.

Visitor Information: Stadium located north of the city center. Match tickets must be purchased in advance online. Juventus Museum next door.

Turin is home to Juventus, Italy’s most successful football (soccer) team, which has won more Serie A championships than any other club. Juve fans are passionate, and attending a match at the impressive Allianz Stadium is electrifying.

The stadium tours are also worthwhile to see the team’s trophies and museum. If you can’t make it to a game, join the crowds cheering and celebrating big wins in Piazza San Carlo or one of the city’s sports bars. Soccer is life here!

Stroll Through Porta Palazzo Market

Name and Location: Porta Palazzo Market, Piazza della Repubblica, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: One of Europe’s largest outdoor markets selling everything from farm fresh produce and cheeses to clothing and housewares. A hub of commerce since the Middle Ages.

What to Expect: Wandering the labyrinth of bustling stalls. Sampling local wares. Bargain shopping for food, goods and souvenirs. preparation.

Visitor Information: Open mornings Monday to Saturday. Get there early for the best experience. Watch your personal belongings in the crowds.

One of Europe’s largest open-air markets is the sprawling Porta Palazzo in Turin’s historical center. The market’s rows of stalls sell everything from cheese, meat, seafood, and produce to clothing, flowers, wines, and crafts.

It’s a bustling, photogenic spot to experience local culture and street food. Stop into one of the salumerie (delis) and friggitorie (fried food stalls) for a bite. Don’t miss the famous Porta Palazzo flea market on Saturday mornings, perfect for rummaging through antiques and knick-knacks.

See the Holy Shroud

Name and Location: The Holy Shroud (Sindone), Turin Cathedral, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: This revered Christian relic has been kept in Turin Cathedral since 1578. Many believe it was Jesus Christ’s burial cloth. Only exhibited on rare occasions.

What to Expect: Viewing the cloth imprinted with the image of a wounded man. Contemplating faith and history regardless of personal beliefs. Often long lines to enter cathedral.

Visitor Information: Exhibited next in 2025. Otherwise, stored out of public view. Free to see when available but timed admission ticket required.

Turin’s Duomo is home to one of Christianity’s most controversial and mysterious relics—the Holy Shroud. Many believe this cloth was the burial shroud of Jesus Christ, bearing the image of his face. Skeptics argue it’s a medieval forgery.

This artifact has been studied extensively but keeps much of its history shrouded in debate. The shroud is only displayed on rare occasions. Seeing it would be a stroke of luck, but you can still visit the Duomo to view a replica. Either way, this enigmatic icon has fascinating backstory for history buffs.

Experience the LivinGroove Festival

Name and Location: LivinGroove Music Festival, Parco Dora, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: Turin’s long-running outdoor summer music festival attracts major Italian and international pop, rock, and rap artists over 3 days.

What to Expect: Enjoying live music on multiple stages. Energetic crowds dancing and reveling. Food stalls, bars, late nights in the park.

Visitor Information: Held annually in June. Purchase tickets well in advance online. Come prepared for all weather conditions.

Music festivals abound in Italy, but LivinGroove near Turin is one of the country’s largest electronic dance music fests. Held every July, this three-day rave draws over 100 DJs and live performers along with thousands of revelers. Past lineups have included top internationals like David Guetta, Armin Van Buuren, Skrillex, and Carl Cox.

EDM fans won’t want to miss the pulsating beats and good vibes. Festival tickets sell out fast, so book your trip to Turin in advance to join one of Italy’s biggest summer parties. The outdoor location and production are impressive!

Marvel at the Sacra di San Michele

Name and Location: Sacra di San Michele, Sant’Ambrogio, Italy

History and Significance: This medieval abbey perched dramatically on a mountaintop has origins back to the 10th century. An awe-inspiring architectural and historic site.

What to Expect: Hiking or driving up for views of the soaring Gothic architecture against the Alps. Wandering the peaceful grounds and Romanesque church.

Visitor Information: Located 40 miles from Turin. Open daily. Small admission fee. Come prepared with sturdy shoes for the steep climb up.

Rising dramatically atop Mount Pirchiriano, this 10th century abbey is one of Piedmont’s most impressive monuments. To reach the top, you can take the hiking path up or ride the shuttle bus. Whichever route you choose, the sweeping views across the countryside are phenomenal once you reach this ancient mountaintop sanctuary.

The Romanesque architecture and mystical atmosphere make it well worth the journey. The secluded abbey inspired Umberto Eco’s “The Name of the Rose” and is rumored to be guarded by the Archangel Michael, so there’s no shortage of intrigue.

Go Truffle Hunting

Name and Location: Truffle hunting, Piedmont countryside outside Turin

History and Significance: The Piedmont region is renowned for prestigious white truffles that grow in the forest soil. Experiencing the truffle hunt tradition is a highlight.

What to Expect: Accompanying a truffle hunter and their trained dog through the woods to find truffles. Learning about cultivation, storage and cuisine.

Visitor Information: Join organized truffle hunts in season, September-December. Dress for the outdoors. Tours end with tasting truffle dishes.

The Piedmont region is one of the world’s premier truffle producers, and Turin makes an ideal base for seeking these pungent delicacies. Led by trained dogs, join a group and venture into the countryside forests to hunt for rare white or black truffles that grow underground near the roots of certain trees.

You’ll learn how to gather and handle these prized ingredients. Then feast on a meal featuring truffles shaved over pasta, meat, cheese or eggs. This hands-on experience offers adventure and insight into Piedmont’s culinary wealth.

Attend the Salone del Gusto Food Festival

Name and Location: Salone del Gusto Food Festival, Turin, Italy

History and Significance: This major international Slow Food festival celebrating food sustainability and traditions takes place biennially in Turin, Slow Food’s birthplace.

What to Expect: Sampling artisanal foods and wines from Italy and beyond. Cooking demos, workshops, talks by celebrity chefs. Lively convivial atmosphere.

Visitor Information: Held in September/October on even years. Purchase tickets in advance online. Come hungry! Local and sustainable offerings.

Held every two years, Turin’s Salone del Gusto festival celebratesSlow Food culture with over 3,000 Italian food producers and chefs. For five days each October, foodies flock here to sample artisanal products from wine to cheese to cured meats, attend cooking demos and workshops, and savor Piedmont’s seasonal bounty.

It’s an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in Italy’s excellent gastronomy. Don’t expect to leave hungry! Whether you’re an amateur home cook or culinary pro, this tasty festival delivers inspiration in abundance.

Day Trip to the vineyards of Langhe-Roero

Name and Location: Langhe-Roero vineyards, Piedmont countryside

History and Significance: The Langhe-Roero wine region near Turin produces prestigious red wines like Barolo and Barbaresco, as well as sparkling Moscato d’Asti. Stunning rolling hills.

What to Expect: Sampling full-bodied reds at wineries like Gaja, Ceretto and Vietti. Staying at an agriturismo vineyard. Exploring charming historic towns.

Visitor Information: Reach by rental car for flexibility. Check wineries for tours and tasting schedules. Book vineyard hotels far in advance.

No visit to Piedmont is complete without venturing into the rolling landscapes of Langhe-Roero, one of Italy’s premier wine regions just a short drive from Turin. This picturesque area encompasses the winemaking zones of Barolo, Barbaresco, Asti, and Dogliani.

Book winery tours to sample renown Piedmont wines like Barolo and Barbaresco on tranquil vineyards surrounded by the Alps. The charming medieval villages, castles, and abundant gastronomy round out an idyllic day trip. Don’t miss the truffle festival in Alba each fall!

Conclusion

Though often overlooked, Turin is an understated city overflowing with history, culture, and refinement. In 2024, dive into Piedmont cuisine, tour regal palaces and museums, explore bustling markets, and indulge in chocolate and wine. From ancient Egypt and Baroque beauty to film and Slow Food, Turin’s many charms reveal the city’s status as the ex-capital of kings.