3 Days in Turin: Local’s Ultimate Guide to the City

So, you’ve given yourself three days in Torino? My heart is so full right now! 🥹
As someone born and raised here, I can tell you—you’re in for something truly special. Three days in this city gives you time to go beyond the main attractions and really appreciate its true charm. You’ll have the freedom to slow down, discover the highlights, and still find time for hidden gems and local favorites.

You probably already know that Turin was Italy’s first capital and the heart of the Savoy dynasty—but did you know it’s also where Aperitivo began? Or that it’s the birthplace of hazelnut chocolate, Lavazza coffee, the world’s tallest museum, and home to the second most important Egyptian museum in the world? You can even sip bicerin in the very café the royal family once frequented.

As someone who’s clinically obsessed with her hometown, I could go on and on about just how cool and underrated Torino is. But (to not give away too many spoilers) I’ll let you discover the magic for yourself as you follow this itinerary.

Over the next three days, I’ll guide you through it all: from iconic landmarks to my favorite local corners. You’ll explore the heart of the city, step into royal history, and experience Torino the Torinese way: deeply.

Without further ado, here’s how to spend the perfect three days in Torino! 💛👇

Disclaimer: This post has affiliate links that can help me earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. If you click through and buy with these links, thank you in advance for the extra support.💖😊

How to Spend the Best Three Days in Turin, Italy

Day 1: Turin’s Historic Heart & Hilltop Views

There’s no better first-introduction to Torino than by strolling around the phenomenal city center. Here is where you surround yourself with breathtaking, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, historic and world-renowned sites, Royal palaces and residences, and beyond.

On this first day of your 3-day Turin itinerary, you will start by taking in the timeless beauty of the city, diving into the Torinese culture, and enjoying two of the city’s most important sites.

Morning: Walk around the City Center + Royal Palace

The perfect morning in Turin starts with three simple things: the city center’s squares, a cappuccino, and visiting a cultural site.

Start your day by heading to Piazza San Carlo, arguably Turin’s most beloved square amongst locals and tourists alike. In this square, you will be surrounded by some of the city’s most beautiful Baroque architecture, a few luxurious shops, and one of Turin’s most historic cafes– Caffè San Carlo.

Fun fact: the famous pianist (and my personal favorite) Ludovico Einaudi is from Torino—so don’t be surprised if you hear street musicians playing his pieces like Nuvole Bianche or Experience.

Once you’ve passed Piazza San Carlo, you will slowly walk on Via Roma, a beautiful street with Turin’s iconic Portici, “porticoes”, which leads to Piazza Castello.

Piazza Castello is the most famous and visited square of Turin, which makes sense given it’s home to the Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama.

Once you’re ready, head inside the Palazzo Reale, “Royal Palace”, to start your visit of Turin’s most important and grand royal palace. For some context, the Palazzo Reale was the official residence of the House of Savoy Royal family and here you will find hundreds of incredible rooms.

Want to dive deeper into the history of the Palazzo Reale of Torino? This best-rated, private guided tour could be perfect for you! Book it here.👇

Lunch: Quadrilatero Romano

Once you’re done with your visit at the Royal Palace, head to the Quadrilatero Romano for a delicious lunch.

Just a few steps away from the Palazzo Reale, the Quadrilatero Romano is a square full of different restaurants beloved by locals. My two personal favorite restaurants in this square, which are both Gluten Free Friendly, are Pan Per Focaccia (pizza/pasta) and Il Mannarino (steakhouse).

🏃‍♀️ Not in the mood for a slower sit-down-lunch? Head to Reborneat Streetfood for a schiacciata or burger, or Poormanger for Italian-inspired jacket potatoes.

😋 Discover all the best Gluten Free Restaurants in Turin!

Afternoon: Museo Egizio

Welcome to Turin’s most important museum, and the second most important Egyptian Museum in the world!

The 250+ year old museum, Museo Egizio, is home to over 30,000 artifacts from Egypt – making it the second biggest Egyptian museum after the one in Cairo.

Being such an enormous place, you can expect to spend about 2 to 3 hours in here, as you navigate from one room to the next, admiring everything from toys, to scripts, all the way to Sarcophagi and mummies.

Insider Tip. If you get the 3 Day Torino+Piemonte Card, make sure to reserve your time slot on the museum’s website. Being Turin’s most visited museum, the Museo Egizio easily sells out and if you show up with the City Card, they might not let you in without a reservation on busy days.

Want to dive deeper into the history of the museum and all of its artifacts? Then this best-rated, guided tour of the Museo Egizio is for you! This skip-the-line tour is offered in 5 different languages, including English, Spanish, and German. You can also decide whether to book it as a private tour, or join a group tour.

Book your tickets for this tour today, or asap, before they sell out.👇

Merenda / Pick-Me-Up Time: Gelateria Pepino

Neighboring with the Museo Egizio is the Gelateria Pepino – one of Turin’s most historic cafes, dating back to 1838, and home of “Pinguino“.

Located in Piazza Carlo Alberto, Gelateria Pepino was once frequented by the Royal Family and was one of their official suppliers. They are particularly famous for their gelato – especially their invention of Pinguino: chocolate covered gelato on a stick. In other words, if you love Magnum ice cream – you can thank both this cafe and Turin!😂😍

❄️ Visiting Turin in the winter time? If so, I strongly recommend trying their Zabaglione, which they prepare on the spot. Zabaglione is Italy’s eggnog, and is composed of three ingredients only: egg yolks, sugar, and (typically) marsala wine.

Evening: Monte dei Cappuccini and Aperitivo

Now that you’ve had your pick-me-up, you will walk down the beautiful Via del Po, then through the breathtaking Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, and head to Monte dei Cappuccini.

Monte dei Cappuccini, “Mount of the Capuchin (Friars)”, is an elevated viewpoint from which you can get one of the most iconic and beautiful sights over Turin. From here, you will see Turin’s city center full of Baroque architecture and red roofs, the Mole Antonelliana in all its glory, and the splendid Italian Alps hugging the city.

Insider Tip. If you have, or are traveling with someone who has, mobility difficulties, it is important to note that the last part of the route to Monte dei Cappuccini is fairly steep. If you cannot walk up steeper hills, I recommend grabbing a taxi ride!

Once you’re done soaking in all the views, make your way down back to the beautiful Piazza Vittorio Veneto – a large square that comes to life with locals and tourists alike, enjoying aperitivo and/or dinner.

Day 2: Royal Residences & Sunset in Superga

Your second day is all about discovering Torino’s lesser-known treasures, taking you beyond the city center to explore its rich history and hidden splendor.

Because today’s attractions are outside of the city center, this day will involve commuting – either by car or by public transportation. Trust me though, the commuting will be 1000% worth it!

Morning: La Venaria Reale or Palazzina di Stupinigi

Your second day in Turin will start with one of the two royal residences and UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi or the Venaria Reale.

These two residences are very well known amongst the locals, but are hidden gems to many tourists – likely due to them being outside of the city center.

Having visited both, I can easily tell you that these two palaces will have you in AWE. Being quite different from one another, I want to give you the option to choose which one you visit. Here’s what you need to know.

The Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi was once the hunting lodge of the Royal Family. Dating back to the 18th century, this lavish residence is a masterpiece of Rococo architecture and one of the most prestigious Savoy residences in all of Piedmont. More than just a hunting lodge, it was a place for royal parties, celebrations, and even weddings.

Fun fact: in the 19th century, the palace briefly became a zoo of exotic animals—including an elephant named Fritz!

The Venaria Reale, on the other hand, is a grand Baroque palace that served the House of Savoy as a royal residence and hunting base. Often referred to as the “Versailles of Piedmont,” this palace differs from Stupinigi in both scale and style. The Venaria Reale is vast, monumental, and deeply rooted in history. It frequently hosts exhibitions and boasts some of the most breathtaking formal gardens in northern Italy.

✨ Both palaces are about a 30-minute drive from the city center or roughly 50 minutes by public transport. The Venaria Reale is €16, just a few euros more than the Palazzina di Stupinigi.

Would you rather experience something more unique like the Palazzina, or go big with the grandeur and historical weight of the Venaria Reale? Let me know in the comments which one you’d choose! 😊

Afternoon: Lunch and Free Time

Once you’ve finished up your visit, soaking in all the phenomenal architecture and history, head to my all-time favorite restaurant and local hidden gem to enjoy some of Turin’s most authentic flavors and dishes.

La Crocetta is a restaurant that specializes in traditional Turin and Piedmontese cuisine. Here you will find all of Piedmont’s most iconic dishes – all of which are must tries. Some dishes I strongly recommend are the Albese, Agnolotti del Plin, Bonet, Fritto Misto, and anything with artichokes (seasonal).

Having basically grown up in this restaurant, La Crocetta holds a dear place both in my heart and taste buds.😂😍 In other words, I cannot recommend this restaurant enough.

Depending on the time of the year you’re visiting Turin, the hour for sunset will change – going from as early as 4:40 PM to as late as 8:30 PM. Due to this, I’m now “giving” you free time after lunch – here are some ideas to choose from if you need inspo!

Evening: Superga Sunset

There’s no better way to end your day in Turin than by catching the sunset from the beautiful and iconic Superga, one of the highest hills overlooking the city.

At the top of the hill sits the stunning Basilica di Superga, an 18th-century masterpiece designed by none other than Filippo Juvarra.

When visiting Superga, you have two options: simply enjoy the hilltop views and soak in the sunset, or pay to enter the basilica. Inside, you can explore the royal crypts and climb up to the dome for a breathtaking 360° view of Turin embraced by the Alps.

I haven’t had the chance to try it yet, but if you’re in the mood for a sunset drink or dinner, there’s a restaurant right next to the basilica that looks like the perfect spot!🤩

Superga is a 20 minute car ride and 40 minute tram ride from Piazza Castello. With the Torino+Piemonte City Card, you get a discount on the trenino, “little train”, for Superga – which starts from Stazione Sassi.

Day 3: Slowing Down – Parco del Valentino & Local Life

Your third and final day in Turin is all about slowing down and enjoying local life—from riverside strolls to charming neighborhoods that reflect Turin’s true rhythm

Morning: Parco del Valentino

Welcome to the Green Lungs of Turin and a true gem of a park – and local favorite.

As someone who was born and raised in Turin, and visits regularly, I’ve lived many mornings here and can easily confirm – there’s not much better than experiencing a slow morning here.

Parco del Valentino sits right on the bank of the Po River – Turin’s iconic river and the longest river of Italy. The Torinesi tend to be very active people with at least one sport they regularly enjoy. Due to this, you can expect to see lots of locals running around the park, while others are on the Po rowing – one of the most beloved sports in the city.

Throughout the Parco del Valentino you will also find quirky art installations by Rodolfo Marasciuolo, the impressive Castello del Valentino, and a medieval hidden gem: Borgo Medievale.

Once you’re done walking through the Parco Medievale, head to city center for a lovely breakfast, or even lunch!

Afternoon: Mole Antonelliana

Welcome to Turin’s beloved landmark and tallest museum in the world!

Dating back to 1863, the Mole Antonelliana was once one of the tallest buildings in all of Europe, and was the tallest building in Turin until the early 2000s.

The Mole is not only a landmark, but the host of the Museo Nazionale del Cinema – one of the most important cinematic museums there is. This is a very fun and interactive museum that all ages can enjoy, plus there’s a panoramic lift that brings you to the top, for incredible views over the city.

This museum is already incredible, but it is especially incredible when they have an exhibition. In the recent years, they hosted the Tim Burton exhibition and Hollywood Icons exhibitions and they were so phenomenal I wish they could both be permanent.😅

Note. The tickets to the Museum and Panoramic Lift are separate. With the 3 Day Torino+Piemonte City Card, you get free entrance to the museum and a discount for the lift.

Evening: City Center Strolls

Time flies by when you’re having the best time in Torino!!🥹

Depending on how short your third day in the city is, let yourself walk around aimlessly around the city center and soak in the magic of Turin. For some quick ideas, you can revisit Turin’s most beautiful squares, enjoy some window shopping, grab an Aperitivo – the world is your oyster!

3 Days in Turin Map

How to Get to Turin

If you’re considering flying into Turin, you can fly into the Caselle airport – which is a 30 minute car ride from the city center. The train system in Italy is great, so you can also hop on Trenitalia or Italo for a comfortable and fast ride from any other destination in Italy, or grab a Flixbus for a more budget-friendly option.

If you’re like me and want to see every option available, to help you pick the best travel option for you, use Omio! This is my favorite platform to book any transportation method.

When it comes to Turin’s train stations, at times you get to pick which one to get dropped off at and other times they are direct to a specific station. As a quick rundown (should you need to pick), if you want the most central station – pick Porta Nuova. If you want a less crowded station and don’t mind a slightly farther out station – pick Porta Susa. Overall, both stations are great!

Where to Stay in Turin

For this 3 day itinerary, the best part of Turin to stay in is the city center. This helps you be nearby all the main attractions and, for the most part, a walkable distance or a quick tram ride.

The best, and most beloved, hotel in Turin is the Turin Palace Hotel – my personal favorite hotel in the city. This beautiful hotel has an incredible rooftop area (pictured), great amenities, comfortable beds, and it’s interior design is simply breathtaking. I genuinely cannot recommend this hotel enough!😍

The only thing to note is that this hotel is right next to the train station, Porta Palazzo. While you’ll be perfectly safe here, I do recommend that you don’t hang around in front of the hotel. As a general tip for hotels in Italy, always keep an eye and a hand on all your belongings!

In my experience, the NH Collection Hotels are always a great experience, and there’s one right next to Piazza Castello and the Quadrilatero Romano – NH Torino Santo Stefano. I haven’t been to this particular location, but based on location, reviews, and amenities, it sounds like a great place to book! With this location, you’ll have incredible restaurants just a few steps away and Turin’s most iconic sites!

3 Day Turin Itinerary FAQs

What is the difference between Turin and Torino?

Torino and Turin are the same word! Torino is the city’s name in Italian, Turin is “Torino” in English.

Is Turin a walkable city?

Turin could not be a more walkable city! Here, you will be able to walk pretty much from anywhere to wherever.

What area do I need to avoid in Turin?

While Torino is an overall safe city, there are a couple areas you should stay away from: Porta Palazzo / Mercato Centrale, Porta Nuova, and Barriera di Milano.

If you’re someone who enjoys going to markets when traveling, it’s important you make a note to NOT visit the Porta Palazzo area with the Mercato Centrale. This is an area where both locals and tourists are at risk of pick-pocketing and encountering rough people – especially at night time.

Porta Nuova is Turin’s biggest train station, meaning there are often pick-pockets or scammers hanging around. As long as you’re alert nothing will happen, but I definitely recommend avoiding hanging around this area – especially late at night.

Barriera di Milano is an area you will not be walking by, but I figured I should mention it just in case! This is a sketchy neighborhood with people you do not want to run into.

Want more help with your travels? Check out my other Posts!

Here are additional posts that will help you out with your upcoming Turin and Italian travels!👇

• How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Turin
• Where to Stay in Turin: A Local’s Complete Guide
• Turin Food: Traditional Foods, Drinks, & All to Know!
• The Most Historic Cafes of Turin
• Gluten Free Torino: 13 Best Gluten Free Restaurants
• 18 Best Things to do in Turin, Italy | Local’s Insights
• The Must-Visit Royal Residences of Turin, Italy
• Is Turin Worth Visiting? 9 Reasons Why it Is! (+ Important Tip)

📌 Pin it for your Future Italy Travels!

I have to ask…

Which of these three days in Turin are you most excited to experience? Did this itinerary make you feel more at ease? Let me know in the comments!😊👇