Three Days of Royal Elegance in Turin

Baroque Palaces, Egyptian Treasures & Alpine Views

Trip Overview

Experience the refined elegance of Italy's first capital on this three-day journey through Turin's royal heritage and cultural treasures. This carefully paced itinerary balances world-class museums with leisurely park strolls, baroque architecture with modern Italian life, and iconic landmarks with local discoveries. You'll explore ancient Egyptian artifacts at one of the world's finest collections, ascend the city's most recognizable monument for panoramic views, wander through royal gardens and palaces that housed the House of Savoy, and venture to a hilltop basilica overlooking the Alps. Between cultural highlights, you'll savor Piedmontese cuisine, sip legendary coffee in historic cafes, and discover why Turin is Italy's most underrated gem. The moderate pace allows time to truly absorb each experience without feeling rushed, perfect for travelers who appreciate art, history, and la dolce vita.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) for pleasant weather; winter for fewer crowds and Christmas markets
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Turin, History and art enthusiasts, Architecture lovers, Couples seeking romantic getaways, Culture-focused travelers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Ancient Egypt Meets Baroque Splendor

Historic Center
Dive into Turin's cultural heart with the world's second-largest Egyptian collection, explore the royal residence and art gallery, then experience the city's elegant squares and arcaded streets.
Morning
Museo Egizio
Begin your Turin adventure at the spectacular Egyptian Museum, home to over 30,000 artifacts spanning 4,000 years. Explore mummies, papyri, statues, and the complete tomb of Kha and Merit. The chronological journey through ancient Egyptian civilization is beautifully curated across four floors. Allow ample time to see the Temple of Ellesiya and the stunning statue collection. Audio guides provide excellent context for the remarkable collection that rivals Cairo's.
2.5-3 hours $18-20
Book tickets online in advance to skip the often lengthy ticket lines, especially during peak season and weekends
Lunch
A traditional trattoria near Piazza San Carlo serving Piedmontese specialties
Regional Italian - try agnolotti del plin or vitello tonnato Mid-range
Afternoon
Tour the opulent Royal Palace, former residence of the House of Savoy, featuring lavishly decorated state apartments, the Throne Room, and the Royal Armory. The Galleria Sabauda within the palace complex houses masterpieces by Van Dyck, Rembrandt, and Italian masters. Then walk to nearby Palazzo Madama in Piazza Castello, a architectural marvel spanning 2,000 years from Roman gate to baroque palace, now housing decorative arts and offering rooftop views from its distinctive facade.
3-3.5 hours $25-30 combined
Consider the Torino+Piemonte Card for combined admission to multiple royal residences and museums
Evening
Evening stroll and dinner
Walk through the elegant arcades to Piazza San Carlo, Turin's 'drawing room,' then enjoy aperitivo at a historic cafe under the porticoes followed by dinner at a traditional restaurant serving brasato al Barolo and local wines

Where to Stay Tonight

Historic Center near Piazza Castello (Mid-range hotel or B&B in a historic building)

Central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions and allows you to experience Turin's elegant evening atmosphere along the arcaded streets

Turin's famous bicerin (a layered drink of espresso, chocolate, and cream) was invented here - try it at a historic cafe near Piazza Castello for an authentic local experience
Day 1 Budget: $140-180
2

Icons, Parks & Panoramic Heights

City Center to Hillside
Ascend Turin's iconic tower for breathtaking views, relax in the city's beloved riverside park, then journey to a magnificent hilltop basilica overlooking the Alps and city below.
Morning
Mole Antonelliana and Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
Start at Turin's most iconic landmark, the Mole Antonelliana, whose distinctive dome defines the skyline. Take the glass elevator to the panoramic terrace at 85 meters for stunning 360-degree views of the city and Alps. The building houses the National Cinema Museum with fascinating exhibits on film history. Afterward, visit the nearby Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, home to the famous Shroud of Turin (replica visible; original rarely displayed) and featuring Renaissance architecture.
2.5-3 hours $15-18
Visit early morning for the best visibility and fewer crowds at the panoramic terrace
Lunch
A casual spot near Parco del Valentino with outdoor seating
Light Italian fare, panini, or pizza Budget
Afternoon
Parco del Valentino and Villa della Regina
Spend a leisurely afternoon in Parco del Valentino, Turin's most beloved green space along the Po River. Stroll through the romantic gardens, admire the medieval borgo (village replica), and enjoy riverside views. Cross to visit Villa della Regina, a stunning baroque villa on the hillside with magnificent terraced gardens, ornate interiors, and spectacular views over Turin. The villa's wine pavilion and Chinese cabinet are particular highlights of this lesser-known royal residence.
3-4 hours $12-15
Villa della Regina requires advance booking for guided tours; check schedule as it has limited opening hours
Evening
Basilica of Superga at sunset
Take the historic rack railway up to the Basilica of Superga for sunset views. This magnificent baroque basilica offers unparalleled panoramas of Turin, the Po Valley, and the Alps. Tour the royal tombs and basilica interior, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the hills before returning to the city center

Where to Stay Tonight

Historic Center or near Parco del Valentino (Comfortable hotel with river or park views)

Staying near the park area offers a quieter atmosphere while remaining close to dining options and easy transport connections

The rack railway to Basilica of Superga is an experience itself - the vintage train climbs through residential areas offering increasingly spectacular views as you ascend
Day 2 Budget: $120-160
3

Automobiles, History & Hidden Gems

South Turin and Historic Center
Discover Italy's automotive heritage at a world-class museum, explore Turin's role in Italian unification, and uncover lesser-known historical treasures in the ancient Roman quarter.
Morning
Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile
Explore one of the world's finest automobile museums, showcasing over 200 vehicles from 80 different brands spanning automotive history. The stunning modern displays trace the evolution from early horseless carriages to contemporary supercars, with particular emphasis on Italian design excellence. See rare Ferraris, Lancias, and Fiats, plus international classics. The museum brilliantly contextualizes cars within social history, showing how automobiles transformed society. Interactive exhibits and beautiful presentation make this engaging even for non-car enthusiasts.
2.5-3 hours $15-18
Lunch
A modern bistro or cafe near the automobile museum or back toward the center
Contemporary Italian or international Mid-range
Afternoon
Museo Nazionale del Risorgimento Italiano and Roman Turin
Visit Palazzo Carignano to explore Italy's Risorgimento (unification) at this comprehensive museum documenting the birth of modern Italy. The palazzo itself is an architectural masterpiece. Then discover ancient Roman Turin at the Palatine Gate, the best-preserved Roman gateway in northern Italy. Explore the Roman quarter's archaeological remains and visit the nearby Museo Civico Pietro Micca to learn about Turin's 1706 siege through underground tunnels. End at Giardini Reali di Torino for a peaceful garden stroll.
3-3.5 hours $18-22
Evening
Final evening in the Quadrilatero Romano
Explore the atmospheric old Roman quarter with its narrow streets, artisan shops, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a farewell aperitivo followed by dinner at a cozy osteria, then perhaps catch live music or simply wander the beautifully lit Piazza Castello one last time

Where to Stay Tonight

Historic Center (Same accommodation as previous nights for convenience)

Staying in the same location eliminates check-in/check-out hassles and lets you store luggage easily on departure day

The Free Walking Tour Turin is an excellent way to discover hidden details and local stories - consider joining one if you want deeper insights into neighborhoods you've already explored
Day 3 Budget: $120-170

Practical Information

Getting Around

Turin is highly walkable, with most central attractions within 20-30 minutes on foot. The efficient public transport system includes metro, trams, and buses - purchase a Torino+Piemonte Card for unlimited transport plus museum entries. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available. For Basilica of Superga, take the historic rack railway from Sassi station. The city's flat terrain makes it bicycle-friendly, with bike-sharing programs available. Most visitors won't need a car as the compact center and good public transport make driving unnecessary.

Book Ahead

Book Museo Egizio tickets online to skip lines; reserve Villa della Regina tours in advance due to limited capacity; consider purchasing the Torino+Piemonte Card for cost savings on multiple attractions

Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, layers for variable weather, modest clothing for churches, light rain jacket, sunglasses, reusable water bottle for public fountains, power adapter (Type L Italian plug)

Total Budget

$380-510 for 3 days (excluding accommodation and international travel)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels or budget hotels outside the center, use the Torino+Piemonte Card for transport and attractions, focus on free sites like Giardini Reali di Torino and Parco del Valentino, enjoy aperitivo for dinner (generous free snacks with drinks), shop at markets for picnic lunches, skip paid museum audio guides and use free apps. Many churches and piazzas are free to explore. Daily budget can drop to $70-100 excluding accommodation.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at a five-star hotel in a converted palazzo, book private guided tours of royal residences, enjoy Michelin-starred dining experiences, arrange a private car and driver for Basilica of Superga and day trips to nearby wine regions, splurge on truffle-based dishes in season, take a cooking class with a local chef, add a private cinema museum tour, book wine tastings at exclusive Barolo estates just outside the city. Daily budget increases to $400-600.

Family-Friendly

The Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile captivates children with interactive displays and vintage cars. Parco del Valentino offers playgrounds and the medieval borgo for exploration. Mole Antonelliana's glass elevator thrills kids. Replace some museums with more park time and gelato breaks. Many restaurants welcome families early evening. Consider the interactive exhibits at the Cinema Museum. The rack railway to Superga is exciting for children. Shorter museum visits and more outdoor activities maintain young travelers' interest while still experiencing Turin's highlights.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Turin

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.