Turin is one of those places that quietly impresses you. It’s stylish, a little bit fancy, but still feels relaxed. If you want an Italian city break with great food, fewer crowds, and stunning views, this is it.
Why Choose Turin?
Tucked up in northern Italy near the Alps, Turin feels a bit different from the usual Italian hotspots—and that’s exactly why people love it. It’s got this mix of grand, elegant buildings and a cool, modern edge that just works.
You’ve got royal palaces, wide open squares, and some seriously impressive museums. But then you’ve also got chocolate shops on every corner, cosy cafés, and that laid-back Italian lifestyle we all love. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning exploring history and the afternoon sipping coffee like a local.
And the setting? Unreal. With the Alps in the background and wine country just a short drive away, it’s not just a city break—it’s a bit of everything rolled into one.
Holiday Details
Booking with On the Beach Holidays makes planning your Turin break easy. You can bundle your flights and hotel together, which saves time and often works out cheaper. It’s ideal if you just want everything sorted without overthinking it.
Getting there from the UK is simple. Direct flights to Turin take around 2 hours, depending on where you’re flying from. Once you land, the city centre is only about 20–30 minutes away by taxi, train, or shuttle bus.
That quick transfer is a big plus. You’ll be checking into your hotel and heading out to explore (or eat) in no time.
Turin has a great range of places to stay, from budget-friendly hotels to more luxurious spots in historic buildings. Staying near the centre means you can walk to most attractions, which makes the whole trip feel easy and relaxed.
Food & Drink
If you like food (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t), Turin will win you over quickly. This city is famous for chocolate, and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Gianduiotto—smooth hazelnut chocolate—is the local star, and it’s dangerously easy to keep buying more.
Then there’s aperitivo. Early evening drinks come with snacks, and sometimes it’s enough to count as dinner. Grab a spritz or a glass of local wine, find a spot in a square, and just soak it all in.
For proper meals, you’ve got rich, comforting dishes like agnolotti pasta and vitello tonnato. It’s hearty, full of flavour, and perfect after a day of exploring.
And don’t skip the cafés. Turin’s historic coffee spots are beautiful inside, and trying a bicerin (coffee, chocolate, and cream) is basically a must.
Must See’s
Start with the Mole Antonelliana—it’s the symbol of Turin and you’ll spot it from all over the city. Head up to the top for incredible views across the rooftops and out towards the Alps. It’s one of those “wow” moments.
Next up, the Royal Palace of Turin. If you like a bit of history and grandeur, this place delivers. Think chandeliers, gold details, and rooms that feel straight out of a film set.
The Egyptian Museum is a bit of a surprise highlight. It’s actually one of the best in the world, packed with mummies, artefacts, and stories that make it way more interesting than you might expect.
For a slower pace, wander along Via Po and under the city’s famous arcades. There are miles of these covered walkways, perfect for strolling whatever the weather.
If you fancy a view without the crowds, head up to the Basilica di Superga. It sits on a hill just outside the city and gives you a stunning panoramic look over Turin and the mountains.
For something different, check out the old Fiat factory at Lingotto. It’s now home to shops and a gallery, plus a rooftop test track—yes, really.
And when the sun starts to set, the Murazzi del Po area comes alive with bars and music right by the river. It’s a great spot to soak up the evening atmosphere.
Most Recommended Trips
Check out Viator & GetYourGuide for the best trips in Turin at great prices.
Sacra di San Michele Tour – Take a scenic trip into the Alps to visit this stunning hilltop abbey. Climb the famous staircase, explore historic architecture, and enjoy incredible views over the surrounding valleys.
Underground Turin Experience – Discover a hidden side of Turin beneath the streets. Explore ancient tunnels and WWII air raid shelters while learning how these spaces once protected the city’s residents.
Royal Palace Guided Tour – Skip the queues and explore Turin’s grand royal palace. Walk through lavish rooms, admire stunning interiors, and visit the beautiful gardens and historic Chapel of the Holy Shroud.
Egyptian Museum Guided Visit – Dive into one of the world’s top Egyptian collections. See mummies, artefacts, and ancient treasures while learning fascinating stories about pharaohs and life in ancient Egypt.
Langhe Wine Tour Experience – Head into the countryside to visit two wineries in the famous Barolo and Barbaresco regions. Meet local producers, taste wines, and enjoy a relaxed lunch surrounded by vineyards.
Turin Magic Evening Tour – Explore Turin’s mysterious side on a guided night walk. Discover hidden corners, unusual architecture, and hear stories about the city’s connection to magic and legends.
Turin Chocolate Tasting Tour – Taste your way through Turin’s chocolate scene, sampling local favourites while learning about gianduja. Stroll through elegant streets and pair sweet treats with a glass of local wine.
Barolo Hills Scenic Tour – Travel through the rolling hills of Barolo, visiting charming villages and scenic viewpoints. Enjoy the journey with a glass of sparkling wine while taking in the countryside views.
Handy Tips
Order bicerin in historic cafés—it’s a must-try local drink with chocolate and coffee.
Comfortable shoes are key—arcades are long and you’ll walk more than expected.
Visit museums early to avoid queues, especially the Egyptian Museum.
Carry small cash for cafés and transport—cards aren’t always accepted.
Shops often close midday, so plan shopping around Italian opening hours.
Tap water is safe and free—refill your bottle at fountains.
Evenings start later—locals eat dinner around 8pm or after.
Look for fixed-price lunch menus for great value meals.
Visit markets in the morning for the freshest food and best atmosphere.
Turin is quieter than other cities—perfect for a relaxed, crowd-free break.
Use trains for day trips to wine regions—easy and scenic.
Turin is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. It’s got style, history, amazing food, and just the right amount of calm. If you want a city break that feels a bit different—but still very Italian—you’ll love it here.
Leave a reply