Things to Do in Turin in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in Turin
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather in the Alps - snow has melted from lower trails (up to 1,200m/3,937ft) but higher peaks still offer snow views without extreme cold
- Easter celebrations transform the city - elaborate chocolate displays at historic cafés, special aperitivo menus, and processions through Quadrilatero Romano without summer tourist crowds
- Peak white truffle season ends and spring vegetables begin - restaurants feature both seasonal transitions with asparagus, artichokes, and the last precious white truffles at 30-40% lower prices than winter
- Ideal photography conditions with longer daylight (sunrise 6:45am, sunset 7:50pm) and dramatic Alpine backdrops often shrouded in atmospheric clouds
Considerations
- Highly unpredictable weather - can swing from 8°C (46°F) and rainy to 22°C (72°F) and sunny within the same day, requiring multiple outfit changes
- Many outdoor terraces and rooftop bars remain closed or have limited hours due to cool evenings and variable conditions
- Spring break crowds from northern Europe arrive mid-month, driving up accommodation prices by 25-35% and creating queues at major museums
Best Activities in April
Sacra di San Michele Alpine Hiking
April offers the perfect window for hiking to this iconic abbey - snow has cleared from the main trail but dramatic Alpine scenery remains. Morning temperatures around 12°C (54°F) are ideal for the 3km (1.9-mile) ascent, warming to comfortable 18°C (64°F) by afternoon. Wildflowers begin blooming on lower slopes while higher peaks maintain snow caps for stunning photography.
Po River Cycling Tours
April's mild temperatures and longer daylight make cycling along the Po perfect before summer heat arrives. The riverside path offers 25km (15.5 miles) of flat terrain with views of the Alps. Morning mist creates atmospheric conditions, clearing by 10am for bright cycling weather around 16°C (61°F).
Royal Palace and Museum Complex Tours
April's variable weather makes indoor cultural exploration essential. The Royal Palace complex stays comfortably climate-controlled while outdoor queues are shorter than summer months. Special spring exhibitions often launch in April, and the gardens begin showing early blooms without full tourist crowds.
Egyptian Museum Extended Tours
Perfect indoor activity for April's rainy days (expect 8 rainy days this month). The world's second-largest Egyptian collection deserves 3-4 hours, ideal when outdoor activities are weather-dependent. New digital exhibits launched in 2024 enhance the experience significantly.
Langhe Wine Region Day Trips
April marks the beginning of the wine tourism season as vineyards come alive with budding vines. Cool mornings around 8°C (46°F) warm to pleasant 18°C (64°F) afternoons perfect for cellar visits and outdoor tastings. Truffle season overlaps with spring wines, offering unique pairing opportunities.
Historic Café and Chocolate Tours
Turin's legendary chocolate culture peaks in April with Easter specialties alongside regular offerings. Historic cafés like those in Via Po provide perfect warm refuges during cool, variable weather. Temperature-sensitive chocolate demonstrations work best in April's mild conditions.
April Events & Festivals
Salone Internazionale del Libro
Turin's massive international book fair transforms Lingotto into a literary wonderland. Over 1,400 exhibitors from 40 countries, author readings, and cultural events. Perfect indoor activity during April's variable weather. Features special food and wine sections celebrating Piedmont culture.
Easter Celebrations and Markets
Historic chocolate shops create elaborate Easter displays while traditional markets appear in Piazza Castello and around the Duomo. Special aperitivo menus feature seasonal ingredients, and processions wind through the medieval Quadrilatero Romano district.
Primavera Barocca Festival
Classical music festival featuring baroque performances in historic palaces and churches. Intimate venues provide perfect atmosphere during cool April evenings, with concerts typically starting at 8:30pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels indoors.