Things to Do in Turin in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Turin
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect aperitivo weather - evenings cool to 18°C (64°F) making outdoor dining at rooftop bars and canal-side cafés absolutely magical
- Peak festival season with Estate Reale concerts in Royal Gardens and Cinema all'aperto (outdoor cinema) screenings happening nightly across the city
- Tourist crowds thin out significantly after Ferragosto (August 15th) while weather remains excellent through month-end
- Best hiking weather for Alps day trips - snow melted above 2,000m (6,560 ft), cable cars fully operational, and mountain huts serve seasonal dishes
Considerations
- Many family-run restaurants and artisan shops close for 1-2 weeks around Ferragosto, though major attractions remain open
- Afternoon temperatures can hit 30°C+ (86°F+) making midday walking tours uncomfortable - plan indoor activities for 12-4pm
- Accommodation prices peak during first two weeks when Italian families vacation, with rates 40-60% higher than shoulder season
Best Activities in August
Royal Palace and Museum Complex Tours
August's heat makes the air-conditioned Royal Palace perfect for midday exploration. The Armory and Egyptian Museum are less crowded post-Ferragosto, and special summer exhibitions run through August. Palace gardens offer shaded walking paths during the cooler morning hours before 11am.
Po River Cycling and Walking Paths
August evenings along the Po are Turin's best-kept secret. River breezes drop temperatures 3-5°C (5-9°F) below city center, and locals gather for evening runs, bikes rides, and picnics. The Murazzi del Po waterfront comes alive with outdoor bars and live music after 7pm.
Mole Antonelliana and Panoramic Views
Clear August skies offer spectacular Alpine views from the Mole's observation deck. Early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (5-7pm) visits avoid both crowds and harsh midday sun. The National Cinema Museum inside provides air-conditioned relief during peak heat hours.
Langhe Wine Region Day Trips
August is perfect for Langhe visits - grapes are ripening, weather is consistently sunny, and outdoor tastings at vineyard terraces are magical. Alba's truffle season hasn't started yet, keeping accommodation prices reasonable while weather remains ideal for countryside drives.
Gran Paradiso National Park Hiking
August offers the year's best alpine hiking conditions with all trails above 1,500m (4,920 ft) snow-free and mountain flowers in full bloom. Cable cars from Ceresole Reale operate extended summer hours, and alpine refuges serve seasonal dishes. Wildlife spotting peaks during early morning hours.
Aperitivo and Food Market Tours
August's long daylight hours (sunrise 6:30am, sunset 8pm) create perfect conditions for progressive aperitivo tours. Local markets like Porta Palazzo buzz with seasonal produce, and outdoor seating at historic cafés stays comfortable until 10pm thanks to evening breezes.
August Events & Festivals
Estate Reale - Royal Gardens Concert Series
Classical and contemporary concerts in the illuminated Royal Gardens every Tuesday and Thursday evening. Bring a picnic and enjoy world-class music under the stars in Turin's most elegant setting.
Cinema Massimo All'Aperto
Outdoor film screenings in courtyards and piazzas citywide, featuring both Italian classics and international films with subtitles. Free admission, starts at sunset around 8:30pm early August, 8pm late August.
Ferragosto Celebrations
Traditional mid-August holiday with special masses at Duomo, extended museum hours, and neighborhood festivals. Many locals leave the city, creating a uniquely peaceful atmosphere for visitors.