Turin holidays

How to reach Turin

Flight time: Direct flights to Turin from London and other major UK airports take about 1 hour 55 minutes.

Transfer time:

• The ARRIVA ITALIA bus service runs every 15 minutes or so, taking passengers from Turin Airport to the city’s Porta Nuova train station in approximately 45 minutes.

• You can also take a taxi if you want a quicker journey.

• Another way to reach central Turin is by train. Services from the airport to the Turin Porta Susa run daily, at half-hour intervals.

Price:

• The bus costs around €7.50 if you purchase your ticket in advance, or €1 extra if you buy on board.

• A family pass (two adults and two children) is about €23.

• A taxi to the city centre will cost around €40–50.

• Alternatively, you can take the train for about €3.70 per person.

Best time to visit Turin

Holidays to Turin are delightful in any season, but when planning your trip to the city it’s worth considering how the weather, crowd levels and local events may impact your experience. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:

• April to June is a lovely time to visit the city. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring. Spring also sees fewer tourists than the bustling summer months.

• July to August can be hot, with temperatures reaching 30°C or more. It’s also a time when many locals head out of the city for holidays, so expect some businesses to close. However, you’ll enjoy long daylight hours, a vibrant atmosphere and many outdoor events.

• September to November offers cooler weather with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. This season is great for experiencing the local culture, food festivals and autumn colours.

• December to March brings much cooler temperatures, which often dip as low as 0°C. If you don’t mind wrapping up, the city has a wonderfully festive atmosphere, especially around Christmas. This quieter period is also great for exploring Turin’s museums and cosy cafes.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but you’ll find that many locals speak English. However, it’s always appreciated if you can offer a few basic Italian phrases.

• Local habits and customs: Turin has a relaxed but stylish vibe. Locals enjoy long, leisurely meals, especially at lunch. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s wise to carry some cash for small purchases.

• Getting around: Turin has an efficient public transport system that includes buses, trams and a metro line. A single ticket costs €1.90 and is valid for 100 minutes. You can buy tickets at station vending machines, authorized outlets or via the ToMove app. Remember to validate your ticket each time you board.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses the standard European 220 volts with two-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Turin is on Central European Time which is 1 hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Turin

Situated in Italy’s northern Piedmont region, Turin is a vibrant city that lures visitors with its enticing blend of history, culture and beautiful Alpine scenery. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do during your holidays to Turin:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mole Antonelliana: Not only is this iconic building home to the National Museum of Cinema, it also offers panoramic views of the city and distant Alps if you climb to the top.

• Monte dei Cappuccini: A short walk from the city centre, this hill offers another fantastic viewpoint over Turin. It’s the perfect spot to head for sunset.

The best districts

• Quadrilatero Romano (Roman Quarter): This historic district is perfect for wandering and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through its narrow streets filled with charming shops, cafes and restaurants.

• San Salvario: Known for its buzzing nightlife and multicultural vibe, this district is great for evening strolls, dining and experiencing Turin’s lively bar scene.

Museums

• Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum): One of the most important Egyptian museums in the world, it features an extensive collection of artefacts, and over 100 mummified remains.

• Museo dell’Automobile (National Automobile Museum): A must-see for car enthusiasts, this museum showcases the history of the automobile, with a particular focus on Turin’s own Fiat brand.

Historical monuments

• Piazza Castello (Castle Square): This square represents the heart of Turin, and is surrounded by stunning buildings like the Royal Palace and Palazzo Madama.

• Basilica di Superga: Located on a hill overlooking the city and accessed by a funicular railway, this impressive basilica not only offers historical and architectural beauty, but stunning views too.

Day trips in the area

• Langhe and Roero: These picturesque areas are perfect for day trips spent wine tasting and exploring the charming villages.

• Aosta Valley: Located about an hour’s drive from Turin, this region offers stunning mountain scenery, ancient castles and great hiking opportunities.

Activities for families in Turin

Turin is a fantastic destination for travellers young and old, offering plenty of sights and experiences to keep everyone entertained.

• Parco del Valentino (Valentino Park): This large park situated along the River Po is perfect for a family day out. Children will love exploring the playgrounds, botanical gardens and medieval village, while bike rentals and riverboat rides let you truly explore.

• Zoom Torino: A biopark located just outside the city, where kids can see animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats. There are also educational activities and shows, such as feeding sessions and engaging zookeeper talks.

• Planetario di Torino (Turin Planetarium): Perfect for budding astronomers, this planetarium offers shows and exhibits about space. It's a highly informative and entertaining experience that’s bound to inspire wonder in children and adults alike.

• La Mandria Regional Park: Just a short drive from the city, this park offers a chance to connect with nature. There are hiking and cycling trails, picnic areas and opportunities to spot local wildlife – ideal for escaping the urban hustle and bustle.

Free things to do in Turin

Turin holidays can easily be achieved on a budget. The city offers numerous free or low-cost activities that let you explore the sights and soak in its culture without spending a fortune.

• Piazza San Carlo (St. Charles Square): Known as Turin’s living room, this beautiful and historic square is perfect for people-watching. The elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a great place to relax with a coffee or gelato.

• Mercato di Porta Palazzo (Porta Palazzo Market): Europe’s largest open-air market is a great spot to soak up the local culture. Wander through the stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies and other interesting goods. It’s a vibrant spot that offers a true taste of Turin’s everyday life.

• Street Art: Turin has a thriving street art scene. Take a self-guided tour around the city to spot some incredible murals and graffiti, particularly in the Aurora and San Salvario districts. It’s a colourful, free and totally different way to explore the city.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Turin is surrounded by mountainous terrain that offers numerous hiking opportunities. Enjoy a day trip to the Alps, or stay closer to the city and take a quick hike up Monte dei Cappuccini for some incredible views.

• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore Turin’s extensive network of cycle paths, including routes along the River Po.

• Parco della Collina di Superga (Park of the Hill of Superga): This park offers scenic trails, picnic areas and stunning views of Turin and the surrounding countryside.

Local dishes in Turin

A trip to Turin promises an enticing and exciting culinary experience. From traditional meat dishes to its famous chocolatey treats, indulge in the city’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Some typical dishes

• Bagna Cauda: A warm dip made from garlic, anchovies and olive oil, traditionally served with raw and cooked vegetables.

• Vitello Tonnato: Thinly sliced veal covered with a creamy tuna sauce and often served as a starter.

• Tajarin: Thin, ribbon-like pasta usually served with a rich meat sauce or more simply with butter and sage.

Meat dishes

• Bollito Misto: A variety of boiled meats served with different sauces, including salsa verde and bagnet rosso.

• Brasato al Barolo: Beef braised in Barolo wine, resulting in a tender and flavourful dish.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Fritto Misto alla Piemontese: A fried mixture of meat, vegetables and sometimes seafood. Perhaps one for the more adventurous eater, it often includes liver, brains and sweetbreads.

Sweets and desserts

• Gianduiotti: Turin’s famous chocolates are made from a blend of cocoa and hazelnut paste. Perfect for a sweet after-dinner treat or to take home as a gift.

• Bicerin: A traditional drink made from layers of espresso, hot chocolate and whipped cream. It’s a must-try when in Turin.

• Panna Cotta: This creamy dessert originated in Piedmont and is often served with a sweet caramel or tangy berry sauce.

Local drinks

• Vermouth: Turin is the birthplace of vermouth, and you can enjoy this fortified wine in many local bars and restaurants.

• Barolo: This rich red wine from the nearby Langhe region pairs perfectly with the local cuisine.