{"id":411,"slug":"best-things-to-do-in-turin","title":"15 Best Things to Do in Turin: A Local’s Guide to Italy’s Royal Capital","excerpt":"Best things to do in Turin, Italy: palaces, museums and hidden gems.","content":"Turin is a city of grand boulevards, baroque palaces, and a culinary scene that rivals any in Europe. Often overlooked in favor of Rome or Milan, those who visit quickly discover that Turin offers a rare blend of royal elegance and industrial innovation. As Italy’s first capital, the city is rich in history, yet it feels refreshingly authentic and uncrowded.\n\nFrom the iconic Mole Antonelliana rising above the skyline to the world-renowned Egyptian Museum of Turin in the heart of the city, Turin is filled with unforgettable landmarks and hidden gems. Whether you are planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, this guide covers the best things to do in Turin for every type of traveler. To make the most of your time, using the [Tripnly Torino City Pass™](https://torinocitypass.tripnly.com) ensures seamless access to the city’s best things to do in Turin.\n\n### What is the number one thing to do in Turin, Italy?\n> The Egyptian Museum of Turin is widely considered the best thing to do in Turin as it houses the world's most significant collection of Egyptian antiquities outside of Cairo. It is a must-visit for history lovers and is conveniently included in the Tripnly Torino City Pass™ for easy access.\n\n## 15 Best Things to Do in Turin (Top Attractions & Experiences)\nTo help you plan your trip, we have curated the definitive list of the best things to do in Turin, covering history, art, and gastronomy.\n\n1. **Explore the Egyptian Museum of Turin:** This institution holds the title of the oldest Egyptian museum in the world and the second most important after Cairo. You can wander through four floors filled with incredibly preserved mummies, colossal statues, and everyday papyrus scrolls. The museum uses innovative lighting and layout to bring the ancient Nile civilization to life right in the heart of Piedmont. It is a massive space, so we recommend dedicating at least three hours to see the highlights properly. Visiting this site is even more convenient when using the Tripnly Torino City Pass™.\n\n2. **Scale the Mole Antonelliana:** This towering structure was originally designed as a synagogue but now stands as the most iconic symbol of the Turin skyline. You can ride a high-tech glass elevator suspended by thin cables through the center of the building’s hollow dome. Once you reach the outdoor observation deck, you are treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city and the Alps. On clear days, the contrast between the red-roofed city and the snow-capped mountains is truly spectacular. It is widely considered one of the best things to do in Turin for first-time visitors.\n\n3. **Visit the National Cinema Museum:** Located inside the Mole Antonelliana, this museum offers a vertical journey through the history of the moving image. You can lie back on comfortable red loungers in the main hall to watch classic clips projected onto the giant interior walls. The exhibits range from early shadow puppets and magic lanterns to original costumes from Hollywood blockbusters. It is a highly interactive experience that appeals to both film buffs and families with children. The creative design of the displays makes it one of the most unique museums in all of Europe.\n\n4. **Tour the Palazzo Reale:** As the primary residence of the House of Savoy for centuries, this palace reflects the sheer opulence of Italy’s former royal family. You can walk through the Royal Armory, which features one of the most impressive collections of medieval and Renaissance weaponry in the world. The shimmering throne room and the Daniel Gallery showcase intricate frescoes and gilded decorations that rival Versailles. Outside, the Royal Gardens offer a peaceful escape with manicured hedges and hidden fountains designed by André Le Nôtre. Entry to the entire complex is included for those holding a Tripnly Torino City Pass™.\n\n5. **See the Shroud of Turin:** The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist houses one of the most famous and debated religious relics in the Christian world. While the original cloth is only rarely put on public display, you can still visit the dedicated chapel where it is kept in a climate-controlled case. The cathedral itself is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and provides a quiet space for reflection. There is a nearby museum dedicated to the shroud that explains the scientific and historical research conducted over the years. Even without a public viewing, the site remains a major destination for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.\n\n6. **Drink a Bicerin at Caffè Al Bicerin:** This tiny, historic cafe has been serving Turin’s signature drink in the same location since 1763. The beverage is a delicate, non-mixed layer of hot espresso, rich chocolate, and cold heavy cream served in a small glass. Locals suggest not stirring the layers to appreciate the different temperatures and textures as you sip. The cafe retains its original wooden paneling and marble tables, making you feel as though you have stepped back into the 18th century. It is a quintessential local experience that every foodie must include on their itinerary.\n\n7. **Wander through Parco del Valentino:** Stretching along the banks of the Po River, this is the city's largest and most beloved public park. You will find the Borgo Medievale here, which is a charming 19th-century reconstruction of a 15th-century Piedmontese village. It is the perfect spot for a long walk, a bike ride, or a relaxing picnic away from the urban bustle. The park also houses the Castello del Valentino, a UNESCO World Heritage site that now serves as the University’s Architecture faculty. Many locals gather here at sunset to watch the rowing teams practice on the river.\n\n8. **Discover the Automobile Museum (MAUTO):** Turin is the historic capital of the Italian car industry, and this museum tells that story with style and innovation. The collection features over 200 original cars ranging from the very first steam-powered vehicles to modern Formula 1 racers. The displays are highly immersive, using lighting and soundscapes to explain the social impact of the automobile. You can see rare prototypes and legendary models from brands like FIAT, Ferrari, and Lancia. It is an essential stop for anyone interested in design, engineering, or the history of 20th-century technology.\n\n9. **Shop under the Arcades:** Turin boasts over 18 kilometers of covered walkways, which were originally built so royalty could walk through the city without getting wet. These elegant arcades now house high-end fashion boutiques, traditional bookstores, and artisanal chocolate shops. Walking under them allows you to appreciate the city’s architectural symmetry while staying protected from the sun or rain. They connect major squares like Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo, forming a seamless shopping circuit. It is one of the most stylish ways to experience the daily rhythm of Italian life.\n\n10. **Marvel at the Basilica of Superga:** Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this magnificent baroque church was built as a vow of gratitude after a military victory. To reach it, you can take a historic rack railway that offers a nostalgic journey up the steep incline. The basilica’s dome provides an incredible vantage point where the entire city appears laid out like a map at your feet. You can also visit the Royal Tombs beneath the church, where many members of the House of Savoy are buried. The site is tragically also known for the 1949 air disaster, which is commemorated by a moving memorial behind the church.\n\n11. **Visit Palazzo Madama:** This building is a fascinating architectural puzzle that combines a Roman gate, a medieval castle, and a Baroque palace façade. Located in the center of Piazza Castello, it currently houses the Museum of Ancient Art. You can climb the grand staircase to see collections of ceramics, jewelry, and paintings that span centuries of Piedmontese history. The panoramic towers offer a great view of the square and the surrounding royal buildings. It is a perfect place to witness the layers of Turin’s history physically stacked on top of one another.\n\n12. **Experience Lingotto Rooftop:** The former FIAT factory is a masterpiece of industrial architecture that has been reimagined as a modern shopping and cultural hub. Its most famous feature is the rooftop test track, where vintage cars were once driven at high speeds. You can visit the \"La Pista 500,\" which is now an elevated garden and art installation space overlooking the city. The complex also houses the Pinacoteca Agnelli, a private art gallery that resembles a \"scrigno\" or jewel box floating above the track. It is a brilliant example of how Turin honors its industrial roots while moving toward a creative future.\n\n13. **Eat at the Original Eataly:** Located in the Lingotto district inside an old vermouth factory, this was the very first Eataly to open in the world. It is a massive marketplace where you can find the highest quality Italian ingredients, from fresh pasta to aged balsamic vinegar. You can choose to eat at various themed counters that specialize in meat, fish, pizza, or seasonal vegetables. The underground wine cellar is particularly impressive, housing thousands of bottles from the Piedmont region. It is a paradise for food lovers and a great place to buy authentic souvenirs.\n\n14. **Admire the Piazza San Carlo:** Often referred to as \"Turin’s Drawing Room,\" this square is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. It is framed by İki symmetrical \"twin churches\" and elegant 17th-century buildings with long porticos. You can find the city’s most prestigious historic cafes here, where philosophers and politicians used to gather. At the center stands the impressive equestrian statue of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy. It is the heart of the city’s social life and a perfect spot for people-watching while enjoying an evening aperitivo.\n\n15. **Day Trip to Venaria Reale:** Located just outside the city, this massive royal estate is often called the \"Versailles of Italy.\" The Great Gallery, with its soaring white arches and natural light, is one of the most photographed rooms in the country. You can spend an entire day exploring the palace rooms, the vast gardens, and the neighboring La Mandria Park. The estate frequently hosts international art exhibitions and classical music concerts in its grand halls. Using the Tripnly Torino City Pass™ makes the trip even more worthwhile as it often includes transport and entry benefits for this site.\n\n## Deep Dive: Turin’s Royal and Cultural Heritage\nEvery exploration of the best things to do in Turin should begin at Piazza Castello. This grand square is the epicenter of the city’s royal history. The Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) stands as a testament to the House of Savoy’s power. Inside, you can wander through the Royal Armory, the shimmering throne room, and the beautiful Royal Gardens.\n\nWalking through these halls, you see the architectural elegance that earned Turin the nickname \"The Little Paris.\" If you are planning your trip, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn provide the perfect weather for strolling through these expansive royal grounds without the summer crowds. This timing allows you to appreciate the intricate details of the Savoy architecture under a soft, golden light that defines the Piedmontese experience.\n\n## Indulge in Turin’s Historic Cafe Culture\nTurin is the birthplace of solid chocolate and the world-famous Gianduja. Spending an afternoon in a historic cafe like Caffè Torino or Caffè San Carlo is an essential local experience. The ritual of the \"Aperitivo\" also started here, making a late-afternoon vermouth one of the best things to do in Turin for those who enjoy the local lifestyle. \n\nThese cafes have remained largely unchanged for over a century, featuring marble counters and gilded mirrors. Discovering the perfect Bicerin spot is a journey into the city’s true culinary soul, where the aroma of roasted coffee and dark chocolate defines the local atmosphere. Sitting in these historic spaces allows you to experience the same regal elegance that has charmed visitors for generations.\n\n## People Also Ask About Visiting Turin\n### How many days do I need in Turin?\nMost travelers find that 3 days is the perfect amount of time to see the main museums, enjoy the historic cafes, and take a half-day trip to the nearby Venaria Reale palace.\n\n### Is Turin walkable?\nYes, the city center is very flat and organized in a grid system with many pedestrianized streets and over 18 kilometers of covered arcades, making it easy to walk even on rainy days.\n\n### What is Turin famous for?\nTurin is world-renowned for its royal Savoy history, the Shroud of Turin, being the home of FIAT cars, and its incredible chocolate and coffee culture.\n\n### Is the Tripnly Torino City Pass™ worth it?\nIf you plan on visiting at least three major museums (like the Egyptian and Cinema museums) and using public transport, the pass offers significant savings and convenience.\n\n### What should I eat in Turin?\nDon't leave without trying Agnolotti del Plin (small pasta parcels), Vitello Tonnato, and anything containing hazelnuts or dark chocolate.\n\n## Embracing the Spirit of Piedmont\nExperiencing the best things to do in Turin is the ultimate way to understand the evolution of Italy from a collection of kingdoms to a modern nation. It reminds us that Italy is not just about ancient ruins, but also about royal elegance and industrial grit. Whether you are exploring the rooftop track at Lingotto or diving into ancient history at the Egyptian Museum, you are participating in a local tradition that celebrates the incredible diversity of Tripnly Torino City Pass™ territory.","author":"Alper Aydın","authorInfo":{"name":"Alper Aydın","bio":"Co-founder & CEO of Tripnly","avatarUrl":"https://ethical-car-b690d7e735.media.strapiapp.com/Alper_Aydin_c81fc3ed4d.png","role":"","socials":{"twitter":"","x":"","instagram":"http://instagram.com/alperaydin1","linkedin":"https://www.linkedin.com/in/alperaydin1/"}},"date":"2026-05-03T22:22:45.622Z","category":"Local Guides","imageUrl":"https://ethical-car-b690d7e735.media.strapiapp.com/best_things_to_do_in_turin_551e8bb678.png","imageCaption":"","readTime":6,"views":0,"isPopular":false}