Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. Turin, the capital of Piedmont, is a hidden gem that often gets overlooked by visitors to Italy. But during the winter months, this city truly shines with its cozy cafes, world-class museums, and proximity to the stunning Italian Alps. Let me guide you through a
Day 1: Explore the Historic Heart of Turin
Kick off your trip by diving into the heart of Turin’s historic center. Start your day at the grand Piazza Castello, surrounded by impressive baroque buildings like the Palazzo Madama. From here, you can admire the iconic Mole Antonelliana, a towering architectural landmark that houses the Museo Nazionale del Cinema. For lunch, I recommend grabbing a slice of pizza or a panino from one of the local cafes lining the piazzas. In the evening, head to Caffè Al Bicerin to try the traditional bicerin drink, a decadent combination of espresso, chocolate, and cream.
Day 2: Uncover Turin’s Cultural Treasures
Today, delve into Turin’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the Egyptian Museum, one of the world’s finest collections of Egyptian antiquities. Afterward, take a scenic drive up to the Basilica di Superga, a stunning baroque church perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Spend the afternoon strolling through the picturesque Parco del Valentino, a vast public park along the Po River. For dinner, indulge in traditional Piedmontese cuisine at Consorzio, where you can savor dishes like agnolotti del plin and brasato al Barolo.
Day 3: Explore the Langhe Wine Region
No visit to Piedmont would be complete without exploring the world-renowned wine region of Barolo and the Langhe. Take a day trip to this picturesque area, where you can visit vineyards, taste the famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria. I suggest booking a guided tour or hiring a private driver to make the most of your day in the countryside.
Day 4: Discover Turin’s Automotive Heritage
Turin is the birthplace of the Italian automotive industry, so it’s only fitting to visit the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile, which houses an impressive collection of vintage cars and exhibits on automotive history. Afterward, explore the Quadrilatero Romano, a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively cafes. For dinner, head to Scannabue for aperitivo and local wines.
Day 5: Day Trip to Sacra di San Michele
Take a break from the city and embark on a day trip to the Sacra di San Michele, a stunning monastery perched atop a rocky peak in the Alps. This historic site, dating back to the 10th century, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history. On your way back to Turin, stop for a hearty dinner at Tre Galline, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Piedmontese fare and an excellent selection of local wines.
Day 6: Explore Turin’s Royal Residences
Turin was once the capital of the House of Savoy, and today you can explore their grand residences. Start your day at the Palazzo Reale, the former royal palace, and marvel at its opulent interiors and the Galleria Sabauda, which houses an impressive art collection. In the evening, stroll through the elegant Piazza San Carlo, one of the city’s most beautiful squares, and stop for an aperitivo at one of the historic cafes.
Day 7: Immerse Yourself in Local Life
Experience the vibrant local culture of Turin by visiting the bustling Porta Palazzo market, one of Europe’s largest open-air markets. Browse the stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade goods. Afterward, visit the Museo Nazionale del Risorgimento Italiano to learn about Italy’s unification movement. For dinner, try Farmacia del Cambio, a historic cafe known for its elegant atmosphere and delicious hot chocolate.
Day 8: Explore the Venaria Reale
Take a day trip to the magnificent Venaria Reale, a stunning baroque palace and gardens located just outside Turin. Wander through the lavish interiors, admire the intricate gardens, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at Combal.Zero, a modern Italian restaurant known for its creative cuisine and excellent wine list.
Day 9: Relax in Turin’s Parks and Gardens
Spend a leisurely day exploring Turin’s beautiful parks and gardens. Start at the Parco del Valentino, where you can stroll along the riverbanks or visit the charming Borgo Medievale, a recreated medieval village. If the weather permits, consider renting a bike or taking a boat ride along the Po River. In the evening, grab a hot chocolate or a glass of wine at one of the cozy cafes in the city center.
Day 10: Final Explorations and Farewell
On your final day in Turin, visit the Museo Nazionale del Cinema inside the iconic Mole Antonelliana for a fascinating look at the history of cinema. Afterward, take a stroll through the elegant Piazza Vittorio Veneto and enjoy one last leisurely lunch at a local trattoria. Before departing, be sure to pick up some local delicacies like hazelnuts, chocolates, and wines to take home as souvenirs.
General Travel Tips for Turin, Italy
- Use public transportation (buses, trams, and metro) to get around the city efficiently.
- Dress in layers during the winter months, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
- Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and attractions, especially during peak seasons.
- Don’t miss out on trying the local specialties like bicerin, agnolotti, and Barolo wine.
- Consider purchasing a Torino+Piemonte Card for discounted admission to museums and attractions.
Turin is a city that truly comes alive during the winter months, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. By following this itinerary, you’ll experience the authentic charm of this often-overlooked gem and create lasting memories of your time in the heart of Piedmont.