One Day Turin Itinerary: Is Turin Worth Visiting?
Definitely yes! Turin is worth visiting. Let’s find out more about this stunning place in our Turin Itinerary!
On the second day of our Milan trip, we took a bus to Turin, which lies in a wide valley surrounded by the Alps. The ride took almost two hours, and it was well worth it. We chose to visit because of Turin’s rich historical significance, it was once the largest city in Italy and even served as the first capital of unified Italy. The city has a calm, elegant atmosphere, with wide boulevards and architecture that shows a clear French influence, a legacy of its royal past and breathtaking views everywhere.
How to Get from Milan to Turin
We decided to travel to Turin with FlixBus. Our journey started at Lampugnano Bus Station in Milan and ended at Turin Vittorio Emanuele Bus Station. The price was very affordable, around €5 per person for a one-way trip. However, I should mention that both our outbound and return buses were delayed by about an hour, which was quite frustrating. Of course, that might not be the case for everyone.
Another option is to take the train, but we found the tickets to be much more expensive, around €47. You can check current prices here.
Here you have the FlixBus station in Turin for better orientation, this is where we started our journey around the city.
Turin Map for Tourists
Here you can see our whole Turin Itinerary in one interactive map where you can easily find your way around the town!
What to see in Turin Step by Step
Fontana del Frejus
After arriving at the FlixBus station in Turin, we started our walk toward the city center. Our first major stop was the Fontana del Frejus in Piazza Statuto – about a 15-minute walk from the station. Along the way, we admired the wide boulevards and elegant 19th-century facades that make Turin feel so grand. The fountain is a striking monument commemorating the construction of the Fréjus Tunnel, a major engineering project linking Italy and France through the Alps. It’s a powerful symbol and a great spot to begin exploring Turin.
Piazza Savoia
Another point we visited in Turin was Piazza Savoia. This peaceful square stands out with its symmetrical layout, historic buildings, and the obelisk at its center, which commemorates the abolition of the death penalty in the Kingdom of Sardinia. It’s a quieter spot, perfect for taking a break and soaking in the atmosphere of old Turin.
Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
From Piazza Savoia, we continued walking toward one of the most important landmarks in Turin – the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist (Duomo di San Giovanni Battista). The cathedral is open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM (closed 12:30–3 PM for weekday churches, Sundays open from 8 AM) and offers free entry to its beautiful Renaissance-Baroque interior.
Piazza Castello with Torre Littoria
From the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, we continued our walk into Piazza Castello, the grand central square of Turin. Surrounded by monumental architecture and lively arcades, the square is one of the city’s most iconic spots. One of the first things that caught our eye was the Torre Littoria – a bold, 87-meter tower built in the 1930s. Its minimalist, rationalist design makes it one of the earliest skyscrapers in Italy, and a sharp contrast to the surrounding Baroque and Renaissance buildings. Although it’s not open to the public, it’s definitely worth a look for its historical and architectural significance.
Palazzo Madama
From Piazza Castello, we made our way to the remarkable Palazzo Madama – one of the most historically layered and architecturally unique buildings in Turin. As we approached it from the back, we were greeted by a powerful, fortress-like structure with massive brick towers, echoing its origins as a medieval castle. The contrast is striking when you walk around to the front: a grand baroque façade, complete with elegant columns and a monumental staircase, reflecting its later transformation into a royal residence.
This building isn’t just visually impressive – it tells the story of Turin across centuries. Today, it serves as the Civic Museum of Ancient Art, housing a rich collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorative objects. Visitors can explore its beautifully restored interiors, each floor representing a different era of Italian history.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Sundays until 7:00 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. If you are interested in this museum you can book your tickets here.
Chapel of the Holy Shroud
From Palazzo Madama, we continued our route toward the Guarini Chapel, officially known as the Chapel of the Holy Shroud (Cappella della Sacra Sindone). Designed by Guarino Guarini in the 17th century, this space is considered a masterpiece of baroque architecture. The moment we stepped inside, we were immediately drawn upward by the dramatic, geometrically complex dome, which lets in light in a way that feels almost spiritual.
The chapel was originally built to house the Shroud of Turin, one of the most mysterious and revered Christian relics. Although the actual shroud is not on public display, its presence still gives the space a sense of deep historical and spiritual importance. After suffering a major fire in 1997, the chapel underwent years of restoration and was reopened to the public in 2018.
Today, the Guarini Chapel is part of the Musei Reali complex, and access is included in the standard ticket. The site is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the last admission at 6:00 p.m.. Entry is €15 full price, €2 reduced, and free on select days or for visitors under 18.
Even without seeing the shroud itself, this chapel is an absolute highlight – not just for its religious significance, but for its bold and innovative design. It’s one of those places that reminds you how architecture can be both devotional and visionary at the same time.
Palazzo Reale
From the Guarini Chapel, we continued to the adjacent Palazzo Reale, the former royal residence of the House of Savoy and one of the most important historical buildings in Turin. Standing in front of its symmetrical white façade and ornate gates, it’s easy to understand why this palace was chosen as the seat of power. The complex is not just one building – it includes the Royal Apartments, the Royal Armoury, the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, the Royal Library, the Galleria Sabauda, and the Archaeological Museum.
Palazzo Reale is part of the Musei Reali complex also as Guarini Chapel, and a single ticket gives you access to all areas. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the last admission at 6:00 p.m. Tickets cost €15 full price, €2 reduced, and entry is free on certain public days or for visitors under 18. If you want to book your tickets in advance, you can have a look here.
Fontana delle Nereidi e dei Tritoni
We continued into the eastern section of the Royal Gardens, where we came across the Fontana delle Nereidi e dei Tritoni. Tucked among the greenery, this beautiful fountain dates back to the 18th century and was sculpted by Simone Martinez, a relative of architect Filippo Juvarra. It depicts a graceful sea nymph (Nereid) surrounded by powerful tritons, creating a dynamic scene that feels full of life and movement.
The fountain was recently restored to its original glory, and the surrounding gardens reopened to the public only in 2021. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break and soak in a more romantic and mythological side of Turin, surrounded by hedges, statues, and calm.
Museo della Radio e della Televisione
After the gardens, we stopped by the Museo della Radio e della Televisione, a small but interesting museum located near the RAI building. Inside, we saw a collection of vintage radios, old TV sets, and historical broadcasting equipment. It’s a quick visit, free of charge, and usually open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. A nice hidden gem for anyone interested in media or retro tech.
Mole Antonelliana
From there, we continued to the Mole Antonelliana, probably the most iconic building in all of Turin. We didn’t go inside, but instead sat on the steps in front and just enjoyed the atmosphere. It’s a great spot to rest for a while – calm, spacious, and full of locals and tourists alike.
For those with more time, it’s possible to visit the National Cinema Museum inside, or take the glass elevator to the panoramic terrace for an incredible view over the city and the Alps. The combined ticket (museum + lift) costs €15 for adults or €12 reduced, while a museum-only ticket is €11, and the panoramic lift alone costs €8. Entry is free for children under 6, people with disabilities (plus one companion), and some pass holders.
The Mole Antonelliana is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with last admission at 6:00 p.m., and is closed on Tuesdays.
If you’re interested in visiting, there are also guided tours tickets available.
Don Saro Restaurant
After that, we decided to get something to eat using the Too Good To Go app, which we can definitely recommend for budget-friendly meals while traveling. The idea is simple – restaurants, bakeries, or cafés offer surplus food during the day at a discounted price, and you can book a surprise bag through the app. Technically, you don’t know exactly what you’ll get but they let you choose sometimes. 🙂 I have also written about this great app in our 3 Day Milan Itinerary.
We chose a nearby restaurant and were pleasantly surprised – we got to pick two slices of pizza, followed by a fresh omelette and a grilled sausage wrapped in pizza dough. All of that for just 4 euros.
After picking it up, we walked back to the Mole Antonelliana, found a quiet bench nearby, and enjoyed our meal right there. Sitting under the tower in the evening light, with good food and no rush, was one of those small but perfect travel moments.
Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Along the way, we stopped at the Royal Church of Saint Lawrence (Chiesa di San Lorenzo), one of Turin’s most beautiful and unique baroque churches.
The church is free to enter and is usually open Monday to Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and again from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. On Sundays and holidays, it’s open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 to 7:30 p.m. It’s a short visit, but well worth it for the atmosphere alone.
View of Ponte Vittorio Emanuele
From there, we continued towards the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I, which opened up to one of the most scenic views in Turin. The elegant stone bridge spans the Po River, offering a perfect line of sight to the iconic Gran Madre di Dio church and the hilltop Monte dei Cappuccini just behind it.
This peaceful viewpoint gave us a moment to pause and take in the contrast between the historic buildings and the natural surroundings. It’s a great place to sit on the riverbank, soak in the atmosphere, and snap a few beautiful photos.
Piazza Vittorio Veneto
We soon found ourselves in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, an enormous and elegant square that stretches all the way to the banks of the Po River. With its symmetrical buildings, wide open space, and rows of cafes with outdoor seating, it’s a classic example of Turin’s graceful urban planning.
Even during the quieter hours, the square has a majestic feel — a mix of daily life and timeless architecture. It’s a lovely spot to pause, grab a coffee, or just admire the view across the river toward Gran Madre di Dio.
Grande Madre di Dio
After crossing the Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I, we arrived at the majestic Gran Madre di Dio. Its striking front and grand staircase make it a natural focal point across the river. Built in the early 19th century to celebrate the return of King Victor Emmanuel I, the church offers not just religious significance, but also one of the best panoramic backdrops in Turin.
We didn’t go inside, but even from the outside, the view of the Po River and the city skyline is unforgettable. A peaceful place to pause, reflect, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this elegant district.
Po River
After visiting the Gran Madre di Dio, we found ourselves once again sitting in the park along the Po River, simply soaking in the view. We rested under the trees, listened to the sound of the water, and admired the view of Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I and the elegant buildings lining the riverside.
This part of the riverbank feels made for slow afternoons. Whether you sit on the grass or on a bench, the city flows quietly in front of you.
Villa della Regina
One of our favorite discoveries in Turin was the peaceful Villa della Regina, located on a hillside just east of the city center. The walk up is a bit of a climb, but once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with not only sweeping views over the city but also a perfectly preserved royal residence with elegant Baroque architecture.
We didn’t go inside due to the time, but we spent a good while wandering around the formal gardens, which are beautifully maintained and filled with statues, fountains, and trimmed greenery. The whole area had a calm, almost regal atmosphere, far away from the tourist crowds — perfect for a break from the city bustle. Opening hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00 (closed Mondays) and entrance is €7 (free for visitors under 18.)
Church of Santa Maria al Monte dei Cappuccini
A short walk uphill from the river brought us to Monte dei Cappuccini, home to the remarkable Church of Santa Maria al Monte dei Cappuccini. Built in the late Renaissance and completed in 1656, this church stands atop a hill that offers one of the best free viewpoints over Turin, including sweeping views of the Po River and the city skyline.
Visiting the church is a peaceful experience: serene interiors, a high altar made by Carlo and Amedeo Castellamonte, and a sense of history that spans centuries. Opening hours are daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (though some guides mention closing as late as 7:30 PM). The surrounding terrace remains accessible even when the church is closed. Entrance is completely free, making it one of the most rewarding stops for a budget-conscious traveler.
Palazzo Carignano
From there, we continued our walk through the city and soon reached Palazzo Carignano, one of the most important historical buildings in Turin and a true gem of Piedmontese Baroque architecture. Its curved red-brick facade immediately caught our attention, and the closer we got, the more impressive it became.
This palace was once the birthplace of King Victor Emmanuel II and later served as the seat of the first Italian Parliament, making it a place deeply rooted in the country’s unification history. Today, it houses the National Museum of the Italian Risorgimento, as well as the Princes’ Apartments, which you can also visit.
The palace is open Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 9:30 or 10:00 until 18:00, with the last entry around 17:10–18:00. It’s closed on Mondays. Admission to the Princes’ Apartments costs €5 (reduced €2.50), and entrance to the Museum of the Risorgimento is €10 (reduced €8). Entry is free for children, students, and several cardholders — and also on the first Sunday of each month, though a reservation is still required. Guided tours run every 30 minutes and are a great way to dive into the history behind the walls.
Palazzo Carignano was the final stop on our wonderful day in Turin, and a perfect way to end the trip and come back to the bus station where we recognized that the bus to Milan was about an hour delayed 😀 . We truly recommend visiting this city, we were impressed by the stunning views, rich history, and the overall vibrant atmosphere. Turin pleasantly surprised us, and it’s definitely a place we’d love to return to.
More Things to Do in Turin
If you’re planning a longer visit to Turin, here are some popular and well-rated activities you can book online in advance:
Juventus Museum & Allianz Stadium Tour
A visit for football fans interested in the history of Juventus. The tour includes entry to the museum and access to parts of the stadium that are usually off-limits, such as the locker rooms and tunnel.
Turin City Tour with Local Guide
A guided walk through the city’s key landmarks, ideal for those who enjoy some historical and cultural context while exploring. The guide shares stories about Turin’s architecture, royal past, and everyday life.
Turin Ghost Walk – Night Tour
A different way to experience Turin after dark. This walk focuses on the city’s legends, mysteries, and darker stories, suitable if you’re in the mood for something more unusual and atmospheric.
Where to stay in Turin
We were a bit sad that we couldn’t stay there longer. So if you’re planning to spend more than only one day here, staying overnight can be a great idea, especially if you want to explore at a slower pace or enjoy the evening vibe of the city. Turin offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels in historic buildings. Here are a few tips on areas to consider and below, you’ll also find some suggestions for specific accommodation.
City Center (Centro Storico)
Perfect if you want to stay in the middle of everything — you’ll be surrounded by historic architecture, elegant piazzas, museums, and cafés. Most main sights are within walking distance. It’s a bit pricier, but the convenience is worth it.
Accommodations in City Center
Hotel Alpi Resort
A budget-friendly hotel located just a short stroll from the Po River and Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and breakfast is included, which is always a plus. If you’re looking for a central base that won’t break the bank, this is a solid pick.
ByMe Torino 85
This modern apartment is tucked in a quieter corner of the city center, offering a stylish design, air-conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s a great choice for couples or anyone who prefers more comfort and independence during their stay — with a nice balance between price and quality.
House with Terrace
A beautiful city house featuring a private rooftop terrace with lovely views over Turin’s rooftops. Inside, you’ll find sleek, modern decor and two bedrooms, making it ideal for travelers who value privacy, style, and a more luxurious experience right in the heart of the historical center.
San Salvario
This neighborhood near the Porta Nuova train station has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s known for its vibrant energy, multicultural vibe, and excellent nightlife. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and trendy cafés, along with budget accommodation.
Accommodations in San Salvario
Hotel Plaza Torino
A simple but functional 3-star hotel located close to Parco del Valentino and just a short walk from the metro. While the decor is more traditional, the rooms are spacious, quiet, and clean, a solid budget option if you’re prioritizing location and price.
ToHouse Rooms
This guesthouse is located in the lively San Salvario district, offering modern and tastefully decorated rooms. It’s ideal if you want to be close to nightlife and restaurants, but still have a clean, quiet place to return to at night.
Casa Forneris – New York Style Apartment
A spacious apartment with a stylish New York loft feel, featuring exposed brick, high ceilings, and a comfortable living space. Located near Parco del Valentino, it’s a great option for travelers who want more space and design-forward accommodation.
Vanchiglia and Along the Po River
A more residential and peaceful area that still offers easy access to key attractions. It’s perfect for those who want a more local, quieter feel. Plus, you’ll be close to places like the Church of Santa Maria al Monte dei Cappuccini, Villa della Regina, and scenic walks along the river.
Accommodations in Vanchiglia and Along the Po River
Santa Giulia Hotel e Residence Torino
This charming residence is located in a peaceful side street near Mole Antonelliana. The rooms blend modern design with touches of vintage style, and you’ll also find self-catering facilities, great for longer stays or travelers who enjoy a glass of wine at home.
Easy Flat Manin
A bright and minimalistic apartment just steps from the Po River, offering a fully equipped kitchen and a relaxed living space. It’s a perfect mid-range choice for couples or digital nomads who want both location and quiet.
Esclusivo 100mq – Fronte Mole
With a direct view of the iconic Mole Antonelliana, this spacious and stylish apartment offers 100 square meters of comfort. The sleek interior includes two bedrooms, a large living room, and designer touches throughout, ideal for those looking to splurge a bit while staying close to cultural landmarks.
Crocetta
Crocetta is one of Turin’s most elegant and peaceful neighborhoods, known for its tree-lined boulevards, Art Nouveau buildings, and residential charm. It’s a local favorite – a place where you’ll find beautiful architecture, artisan bakeries, and quiet cafés tucked away from the busy tourist areas.
Although it’s not right in the historic center, you can easily reach the main attractions by tram or on foot in about 15–20 minutes. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere without compromising on comfort or style.
Accommodations in Crocetta
Massena street Apartment
A budget-friendly private apartment located in a peaceful street of Crocetta. It offers a clean, modern interior, a fully equipped kitchen, and a great location close to public transport. A solid choice for couples or solo travelers who prefer independence and a quieter stay.
Residence Liberty
A mid-range option in a historic building that features cozy studio apartments with kitchenettes. The atmosphere is calm and homey, ideal for longer stays or anyone who values space and practicality. Trams to the city center are just a short walk away.
La Luna e i Falò
A stylish and slightly more luxurious guesthouse, offering art-inspired rooms with unique decor. Some rooms feature balconies or city views, and the entire place has a creative and boutique feel. A great choice for travelers who appreciate atmosphere and design.
If you don’t like these accommodations you can check an interactive map bellow the text where you will definitely find the perfect option for you.
