The Perfect 1 to 2 Days in Turin Itinerary (2024)

Tucked in the mountains of Northern Italy, planning a 1 to 2 days in Turin itinerary is an excellent way to see the capital of Piedmont.

Turin is the 4th largest city in Italy yet few people know of this beautiful and architecturally rich city in the Piedmont region. Just standing in the center, you’ll notice the breathtaking Alps proudly hugging the city.

This guide will help you best plan out how to spend your time exploring this gorgeous Northern Italian city.

How Many Days in Turin?

Being one of the less-visited cities in Italy, it’s hard to know how many days to spend in Turin. While it is a relatively big city, it’s pretty compact and easy to see the main spots in a day or two.

With one day in Turin, you’ll catch the main sights and have the opportunity to wander around the city a little.

With 2 days or a weekend in Turin, you’ll manage the main sights but also be able to enjoy one of the many unique experiences and places this city has to offer.

Turin is also a great base if you want to spend more time in the Piedmont region and prefer to stay in a large city. To your benefit, the Piedmont region is rich but still quite undiscovered by tourists and travelers.

This way you’ll have convenient train transport connecting to the rest of the region but also will have the conveniences of a large city. Keep in mind while planning how long to stay, that this second-largest region of Italy offers some of the most delicious food as well as outstanding terrain and scenery.

Getting To & Around Turin

If you’re arriving by plane and would like to fly into the city, the Turin International Airport is quite small but offers plenty of flights in and out of Europe. The airport is around 16 km from the center of the city and the best ways to reach the city are by shuttle bus and train.

The shuttle bus is by the company SADEM which stops at each of the main train stations in the city. The journey is around 45 minutes with buses running frequently.

If you plan on reaching the center of the city from the airport by train, make your way to the train station outside of the airport and take the GTT train to Dora station. The journey to the city takes 20 minutes.

You can reach Turin’s main train station, Torino Porta Nuova from Milan in just under an hour, Genoa in around 2 hours and Rome in 4 ½ hours. You can even get to La Spezia directly in under 3 hours if you want to add a Cinque Terre itinerary to your Northern Italy trip.

Turin is also known as the gateway from France to Italy as Piedmont is the neighboring region to France. This makes visiting Turin for 2 days an excellent idea if you’re coming from France. You can view train schedules here.

Although the metropolitan city is quite large, the center is fairly small which makes it quite easy to navigate. You’ll manage well by walking throughout the city if you’re someone relatively active, but the city also has wonderful transport if needed.

Metro, buses, and trams have connections all over the city center. The metro in Turin is one single line, making it easy to navigate. Buses are also frequent, and the trams offer exquisite views of the city.

If you’re keen on biking and would like more of a unique way to see the city, Turin is an extremely bike-friendly city with bike lanes throughout the center.

1 to 2-Day Turin Itinerary

Turin; the baroque wonderland home to Fiat (located in the Lingotto neighborhood), Lavazza coffee, dreamy gianduja chocolate, and aperitivo. This is the Italian city that you may have never heard of but without a doubt need to visit.

Day 1 – The Center, Chocolates & Aperitivo

Piazza Castello

The perfect place to begin is at the main square (or piazza), Piazza Castello, the heart of the city dating back to the 16th century. The square is lined with many museums, cafes, theaters, and more, making it a great starting point.

Have a coffee here – one of the best things to do in Turin – and take in the surroundings of the grand square.

Palazzo Reale

Just around the corner from the Piazza Castello is the Palazzo Reale, or the Royal Palace of Turin. One of the first things you’ll likely notice when you arrive in Turin is the drastic difference in architecture from the rest of Italy.

The majority of architecture in the city of Turin is in the Baroque style, which lends the city more of a refined French feeling than the Italian Renaissance. The Palazzo Reale is no exception, built-in 1646 by Baroque architect Filippo Juvarra.

The palazzo has strong similarities to Versailles, and wandering inside and outside of the palace is a true delight. Inside are different galleries from world-renowned artists, ancient Greek, and Roman artifacts, as well as occasional rotating exhibits.

It is also possible to book a skip-the-line guided tour.

A great place nearby for lunch afterward is Pino & Pino where you can try classic Piedmontese cuisine in a quirky atmosphere and restaurant.

Turin Cathedral & the Holy Shroud

Another defining point of the city is the cathedral of Turin. The Turin Cathedral sits directly across from Palazzo Reale making it the perfect second stop during your first day in the city.

Built in 1491 and dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, this Cathedral is a truly beautiful monument that is worth even just stopping by from the outside to take in its glory.

Within the Cathedral is the Holy Shroud of Turin, which still to this day is brimming with mystery. The Shroud itself is a long piece of linen cloth bearing the face of a man – who some believe to be Jesus Christ.

Many also believe that the cloth was what he was wearing during the crucifixion. To this day it’s a mystery and a fun place with a great deal of history to discover for yourself.

Madama Palace

About a 4-minute walk from the Turin Cathedral is the glorious Madama Palace (Palazzo Madama). The Madama Palace earned its spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 for good reason; it was the first Senate of the Kingdom of Italy.

The Madama Palace is the most ancient building in Turin and has been an important part of the history of modern Italy as well as back to Ancient Rome. Today it hosts the Museum of Ancient Arts and fills all 4 levels of the palace to visit.

A great way to learn more about the sites in the historical centre of Turin is by walking tour. There are many great options such as this city highlights tour and they are a great way to orient yourself for the rest of your trip.

Chocolate at Guido Gobino

To end your first day in Turin, you’ll have the option of two classic Torinese tastes and experiences or both if you’re keen.

Turin is the home of chocolate in Italy and experiencing the exquisite chocolate delicacies for yourself is a must on a trip to Turin.

My suggestion is to head to the famous Guido Gobino and take part in a chocolate tasting. You’ll learn all about the process and journey of chocolate making from start to finish and end with a tasting.

The workshop is around an hour. Don’t forget to take home your selection of the Torinese classic, Gianduja.

Aperitivo

While the Aperol Spritz was invented in Padua, the home to the ritual of the aperitivo itself is deeply rooted in Turin.

Aperitvo is the Italian version of what many of us know as happy hour – a time before dinner to meet up with friends and enjoy a drink with a light snack. The snack and drink are included in one price and prices typically range between €8 and €15 depending on where you go.

The place you go for aperitivo will also decide the type of food or drinks that you will have the option of; some are classic Italian finger foods and others have a modern twist.

This now-famous concept took off in the 1920s when workers would end their work day meeting with friends for a bitter drink and small snack before heading home for dinner. The rest is history!

With Turin being the home of aperitivo, you can’t miss enjoying a true aperitivo during your trip.

Some great spots for aperitivo in Turin are:

La Drogheria – A stylish spot close to the river Po with views of the Monte dei Cappuccini. They have more modern food options to accompany your aperitivo drink.

Gran Bar – Gran Bar is located in the Piazza Gran Madre di Dio, making it a great option if you fancy some people watching. For food, you have the option of either a classic aperitivo or a Japanese sushi-style aperitivo.

Farmacia del Cambio – Located in one of the best-known areas for food in the city “cambio corner”, is this unique bar set in what was once a pharmacy in 1833. Either enjoy your classic aperitivo inside the now quite glamorous setting or head outside to the piazza.

Of course, if you’re looking for something a little sweet to drink, then also make sure to try a bicerin – a local drink consisting of layers of espresso, hot chocolate and milk.

Alternatively, you can also book a wine tasting session of local Piedmontese wines. Or, for those who want to explore the local cuisine, this Turin food tour is an excellent choice.

Day 2 – Museums Galore

If you plan to spend 2 days in Turin, it is essential to spend at least one day at one of the many exciting museums the city has to offer.

Day 2 includes two favourites, but there are many others depending on your interests.If you want to visit several museums, consider purchasing the Torino+Piemonte Card which grants free or discounted entry into several different museums throughout the city and region.

Piazza San Carlo

Begin your second day in Turin at Piazza San Carlo. This grand baroque square was designed by Carlo di Castellamonte in 1642. Numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants envelop the piazza making it the perfect place to start your day and grab a coffee and breakfast.

The defining point of the piazza is the centered equestrian statue dedicated to Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy. Those who want to learn more about the House of Savoy can also find their burial place at the Basilica of Superga a bit outside the city center.

Caffe’ Torino located within the piazza is the perfect place to sip your coffee, eat your cornetto, and begin to plan your day ahead of you.

Egyptian Museum

Located beside the Palazzo Reale is the Egyptian Museum of Turin. The Egyptian Museum or “Museo Egizio” in Italian is the second most important Egyptology museum in the world after the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

This gives an unforgettable experience for visitors even if Egyptian history isn’t something up your alley. It is also possible to book a skip-the-line guided tour.

Cinema Museum & Mole Antonelliana

One of the most unique, defining, and bizarre architectural pieces in the city of Turin is the Mole Antonelliana. Construction of the building first began in 1848 as a synagogue and throughout time has molded into many different places.

The Mole Antonelliana now houses the National Museum of Cinema and boasts one of the most impressive collections of cinematic history in the world.

With the museum consisting of 5 levels, you’re taken back in history through all aspects of the film experience with the top-level taking you to the Mole. You will be treated to the most incredible views of the city of Turin from the highest museum in the world!

It’s recommended to book time-slotted tickets in advance online due to popularity.

Parco Pietro Colletta

Close to the National Cinema Museum is the Parco Pietro Colletta as well as other numerous green spaces surrounding the river Po. After your museum visit, this is a great time to get a slice of pizza or bring a picnic to spend time in the park.

Relax like a true Torinese while taking in the beauty of Turin and the immense natural beauty surrounding the city.

Have More Time?

With Turin being the capital of the Piedmont region, it’s also a great city to stay in for more than 1 or 2 days. As it is one of the most culturally rich cities in Italy, you won’t be a lack of things to do during your Turin itinerary.

If you’re just seeing Turin in a day, it’ll be hard to make a day trip, but if you’re staying longer these are great options.

Barolo/Langhe Wine Region

If you’re spending 3 days in Turin and are looking for a unique day trip option from the city, head to the famous Barolo wine region and spend time in the rolling hills of Langhe.

If you prefer to do a day trip independently, you’ll first want to take a train from Torino Porta Nuova station to the town of Asti. Asti is well known worldwide for its sparkling white wine and is a great place to visit to do a nearby wine tasting and experience northern Italy’s wine regions.

The journey from Turin to Asti takes around 35 minutes.

There are also other towns nearby and close to Turin if you want to visit a few or spend time in one of the wine towns less well-known than Asti.

Other recommendations are the towns of Bra & Alba. Bra is known as the home of the slow food movement in Italy so this is also a great option if you’re a passionate foodie!

You can also find superb day trip tours – such as this full-day tour – from companies to the wine regions near Turin that include tours and tastings within the town(s) as well as transportation to and from Turin.

Lavazza Museum

If you plan to see Turin in 2 days or more, love coffee, and would like a fun museum to visit, the Lavazza Museum is a great option as well.

The Lavazza Museum is a multi-sensory immersive experience taking you through the journey of coffee from beginning to end. You’ll also learn more about Italy’s impact on coffee, the way it has influenced the world, and how we associate the two so strongly.

Gran Paradiso

For those interested in getting out in nature to experience the natural beauty of Piedmont and the Alps, Gran Paradiso is truly a paradise.

The national park sits right on the border of France and is not far from the city of Turin.

You can reach the park from the city of Turin in a little over an hour and by public transportation plan around 2 ½ hours.

By bus head to the station located in Via Fiochetto and take the bus towards Rivarolo. By train, take the SFM1 line from Turin Porta Susa to exit at the Rivarolo station. From Rivarolo you will want to take local bus lines depending on where you’d like to go within the park.

There are also private transfer and tour options if you plan to head to the Gran Paradiso National Park.

Where to Stay in Turin

B&B Torino Arcuri – For those looking for a comfortable, cosy and centrally-located accommodation option in Turin on a mid-range budget, then this bed and breakfast is a great choice for you. They have a number of great rooms available, a central location perfect for exploring the city, and a great breakfast on offer each morning.

Corte Realdi Luxury Rooms – If you’re after a luxury accommodation option and have plans to splash the cash while visiting Turin, then this is a great option for you. There are a number of opulent rooms available, a great location for exploring the top sites of the city and a wonderful breakfast available in the mornings.

Tomato Backpackers – For solo travellers or those visiting Turin on a tight budget, this hostel is the perfect choice for you. They have a range of both private rooms and dorm beds available, an excellent location and great common areas that make it easy to meet other like-minded travellers!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Turin hotels!

Turin is undoubtedly one of the most underrated cities in Italy with its strong culture, art, food, and history that are worth the visit. Whether you prefer to spend time outdoors in the Alps or indoors learning about various topics, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t visited the Piedmontese capital until now.

Are you planning on visiting Turin? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!