Basilica Di Superga - Turin

Things to Do at Basilica Di Superga

Complete Guide to Basilica Di Superga in Turin

About Basilica Di Superga

The Basilica di Superga rises 672 meters above Turin, its copper-crowned dome catching morning light like a lighthouse beacon. Filippo Juvarra completed this baroque masterpiece in 1731, commissioning white marble columns that soar toward frescoed vaults in perfect mathematical harmony. General admission costs €5 ($5.50) with an additional €3 for the royal crypt, where three centuries of Savoy kings rest in carved marble tombs. The historic rack railway chugs up the steep hillside through dense forest, your ears popping as altitude builds and the city shrinks below. Inside the basilica, footsteps echo off marble floors while filtered sunlight streams through the dome windows, casting golden patterns across the walls. Visit before 4 PM when afternoon light transforms the interior into a glowing sanctuary, and the panoramic terrace offers views stretching from the Alps to the Po Valley.

What to See & Do

The Main Basilica

Juvarra's baroque interior is genuinely stunning, with soaring columns and intricate marble work that shows why he was considered one of Europe's finest architects

Royal Tombs in the Crypt

The underground burial chambers house the Savoy dynasty's remains in elaborate sarcophagi - it's surprisingly moving and gives you a real sense of Italian royal history

Panoramic Terrace

The views over Turin and the Alps are absolutely spectacular on clear days - you can see the entire Po Valley stretching out below

The Dome Interior

If you can manage the climb, the frescoed interior of the dome offers an intimate look at 18th-century religious art up close

Torino FC Memorial

A simple but touching memorial to the Grande Torino team that perished here in 1949 - worth a moment of reflection even if you're not a football fan

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Generally open daily 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, though hours can vary seasonally and may be reduced on Sundays

Tickets & Pricing

Around €5-8 for the basilica and crypt, with additional fees for guided tours. The rack railway costs extra but is often worth it for the experience

Best Time to Visit

Late morning or early afternoon for the best light and clearest views. Spring and fall tend to offer the most reliable weather for photography

Suggested Duration

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours including travel time up the hill and a proper look around both the church and grounds

Getting There

The most atmospheric way up is definitely the historic rack railway (Tranvia Dentiera) that's been chugging up the hill since 1884 - it departs from Piazza Modena and takes about 20 minutes. You can also drive up via a winding road, though parking can be limited during peak times. Bus service is available but less frequent. The rack railway itself is part of the experience, so I'd recommend that route if you're not pressed for time.

Things to Do Nearby

Villa della Regina
An elegant 17th-century villa with terraced gardens that offers another perspective on Savoy royal life, about 15 minutes down the hill
Parco Naturale della Collina di Superga
Nice walking trails through the surrounding parkland if you want to extend your visit with some nature
Eremo dei Camaldoli
A peaceful hermitage nearby that's worth the short detour for its quiet gardens and valley views
Borgo Po District
The charming riverside neighborhood at the base of the hill, perfect for a meal or aperitivo after your visit

Tips & Advice

Check the weather forecast - cloudy days will rob you of those famous panoramic views that are half the reason to visit
The rack railway can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting on weekdays if possible
Bring a jacket even in summer - it's noticeably cooler and windier up on the hill than down in Turin
If you're driving, fill up your tank first - the road up is steep and can be hard on older cars

Tours & Activities at Basilica Di Superga

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