Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized 5-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Turin during the
Day 1: Exploring Turin’s Historic Heart
Start your journey in the heart of Turin at Piazza Castello, a stunning square surrounded by grand baroque buildings. From there, visit the Palazzo Madama, a medieval castle that now houses the Museum of Ancient Art. Next, marvel at the iconic Mole Antonelliana, a towering architectural masterpiece that houses the National Museum of Cinema. End your day at the renowned Museo Egizio, one of the world’s finest collections of Egyptian antiquities. For dinner, I recommend Consorzio, a cozy restaurant serving delicious traditional Piedmontese cuisine.
Don’t miss the winter markets and Christmas lights that transform Piazza Castello and other squares into a festive wonderland during this time of year.
Day 2: Exploring Turin’s Outskirts
Start your day with a visit to the Basilica di Superga, a stunning baroque church perched atop a hill overlooking Turin. Afterward, explore the vast Parco Naturale La Mandria, a former royal hunting reserve that offers hiking trails, bike paths, and opportunities to spot wildlife. For lunch, I suggest Caffè Mulassano, a historic café famous for their delicious tramezzini sandwiches.
If the weather permits, consider ice skating at the rink in Piazza Solferino, a charming square in the heart of the city.
Day 3: A Day in the Langhe Wine Region
Take a day trip to the picturesque Barolo region, known for its world-famous wines and stunning landscapes. Visit a local winery for a guided tour and tasting, and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by vineyards. Explore the charming villages of the Langhe, such as La Morra and Monforte d’Alba, and indulge in the region’s delicious cuisine and wines.
I highly recommend booking a guided tour or hiring a private driver for this day trip, as navigating the winding roads and finding the best wineries can be challenging for first-time visitors.
Day 4: Turin’s Automotive and Roman Heritage
Start your day at the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile, a must-visit for car enthusiasts and anyone interested in Italy’s automotive history. Afterward, explore the Quadrilatero Romano, the remains of an ancient Roman settlement that once stood where Turin is now located. For dinner, I recommend Scannabue, a cozy trattoria serving classic Turinese dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Day 5: Royal Turin and Shopping
Spend your final day in Turin exploring the city’s royal heritage. Visit the Palazzo Reale, the former residence of the House of Savoy, and the Galleria Sabauda, which houses an impressive collection of Italian and Flemish art. For lunch, indulge in the famous hot chocolate at Caffè San Carlo, a historic café frequented by royalty. In the afternoon, stroll along Via Roma for some shopping and people-watching.
General Travel Tips for Turin, Italy
- Use public transportation (buses and metro) to get around the city efficiently and avoid the hassle of driving and parking.
- Many attractions and museums are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Dress warmly for outdoor activities during the winter months, as temperatures can be quite chilly.
- Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like agnolotti del plin (small stuffed pasta), bicerin (a traditional hot drink), and Barolo and Barbaresco wines.
Turin is a city that truly comes alive during the winter season, with its festive markets, cozy cafés, and rich cultural offerings. By following this itinerary, you’ll experience the authentic side of this beautiful city, away from the typical tourist crowds. Buon viaggio!