Things to Do at Basilica di Superga

Complete Guide to Basilica di Superga in Turin

About Basilica di Superga

The Basilica di Superga stands majestically atop the Superga hill, overlooking the city of Turin and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps and Po Valley. Built between 1717 and 1731 by the renowned architect Filippo Juvarra, this baroque masterpiece was commissioned by Duke Victor Amadeus II as a votive offering for the liberation of Turin from French siege in 1706. The basilica serves as the royal mausoleum of the House of Savoy, housing the tombs of numerous kings and members of the Piedmontese royal family. Beyond its religious significance, the basilica holds a poignant place in modern Italian history as the site of the 1949 Superga air disaster that claimed the lives of the entire Torino football team, known as 'Il Grande Torino.' Today, visitors come not only to admire the stunning architecture and royal tombs but also to enjoy some of the most spectacular views in Northern Italy from its elevated position at 672 meters above sea level.

What to See & Do

Royal Crypt

Explore the underground burial chambers containing the ornate tombs of Savoy royalty, including kings Victor Amadeus II, Charles Emmanuel III, and other members of the dynasty

Baroque Interior

Marvel at Juvarra's architectural masterpiece with its impressive dome, marble decorations, and beautiful frescoes adorning the walls and ceiling

Panoramic Terrace

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Turin, the Po Valley, and the majestic Alpine chain stretching from Monte Rosa to Monviso

Memorial Plaque

Pay respects at the commemorative plaque dedicated to the Grande Torino football team and other victims of the 1949 air tragedy

Bell Tower

Climb the bell tower for even more spectacular elevated views and to see the historic bells up close

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM (winter until 5:00 PM). Closed on Mondays except holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Basilica free entry; Royal Crypt €5 adults, €3 reduced; Combined ticket with rack railway €13 adults, €9 children

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds. Clear days offer the most spectacular mountain views

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours including travel time, crypt visit, and time to enjoy the panoramic views

Getting There

The most scenic route is via the historic Sassi-Superga rack railway (trenino), which departs from Sassi station (reachable by bus 61 from Turin center) and takes 18 minutes through beautiful countryside. Alternatively, drive up the winding mountain road (about 30 minutes from central Turin) or take bus line 79 on weekends. The rack railway operates daily except Mondays and provides a charming vintage experience dating back to 1884.

Things to Do Nearby

Parco Naturale della Collina di Superga
Extensive natural park surrounding the basilica with hiking trails, picnic areas, and diverse flora and fauna

Villa della Regina
Elegant 17th-century Savoy villa with terraced gardens and vineyard, located on the hillside below Superga

Borgo Medievale
Faithful reconstruction of a 15th-century Piedmontese village in Valentino Park along the Po River

Mole Antonelliana
Turin's iconic tower and symbol, housing the National Cinema Museum with panoramic elevator to the top

Palazzo Reale
Former royal palace of the Savoy dynasty in Turin's historic center, featuring opulent rooms and royal apartments

Tips & Advice

Check weather conditions before visiting as fog can obscure the famous panoramic views

Bring a jacket even in summer as it can be windy and cooler at the hilltop location

Consider timing your visit for sunset to see Turin illuminated below

Book the trenino in advance during peak season as it's a popular tourist experience

Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are some steep paths around the basilica grounds