Near France in the Piemonte region of Italy, lies a city called Turin. While maybe not as well known as other cities in Italy, the city still has its own appeal and there are plenty of things to do in Turin.

After studying in Turin for a semester, I fell in love. I still come back to the city frequently to see my friends and my lovely host family. While Turin is typically more for work than for tourism, there are still plenty of things to do.

Things to do in Turin

Tour the Royal Palace

This palace was created in the 16th century and is in the heart of Turin. There are guided tours to see the interior of the palace. Otherwise, it’s just nice to walk around the piazza and visit the gardens.

Climb the Mole Antonelliana

The most famous building in Turin is a tower in the center of town. You can climb the tower to get a great view of Turin, as well as visit the cinema museum (Museo Nazionale del Cinema) that’s located in the same building.

Explore the Egyptian museum

Now, you’re probably thinking: Why would I go to an Egyptian museum in Italy? However, the Museo Egizio in Turin actually houses one of the largest Egyptian collections in the world (more than 30,000 artifacts)!

Shop on Via Garibaldi and near Piazza San Carlo

Italians love shopping, and these two main areas hold luxury and ready-to-wear alike. These areas are also great to walk around even if you don’t have the time or luggage space for shopping!

Climb up to Monte dei cappuccini

To get the best view of Turin, be sure to walk up to Monte Dei Cappuccini. On a clear day in the colder months, you’ll even be able to see the Alps!

Visit Basilica di Superga

In the mountains to the east of Turin, you can visit the Basilica di Superga. Built in the 1700s, this cathedral has beautiful architecture and a cupola to climb for a view. However, this basilica is also the site of a tragedy. In 1949, due to foggy weather and low visibility, a plane carrying the entire Grande Torino football team and their crew crashed into the wall of the basilica. When you visit Superga, you can also visit the memorial of these players, the management, and journalists that all perished in the crash.

Have fun at the Automobile museum

Housing a collection of 200 cars, the Museo Nationale dell’Automobile is one of the world’s largest automobile museums. It has something for everyone: whether you’re a car lover or not.

Take in some history at Porta Palatina

The Porta Palatina is one of the best preserved Roman ruins. In ancient times, it was a gateway to the city. Nowadays, you can simply take a tram to see the wall still standing in a park.

Eat Italian aperitivo in Piazza Vittorio Veneto

Aperitivo is AMAZING. You pay, let’s say, 10 euros and receive a drink (usually wine or even a cocktail) as well as access to a kind of buffet with many Italian dishes.

For more recommendations on food to try in Italy, check out The Best Regional Dishes from North to South

Go out in San Salvario

San Salvario is a student-friendly neighborhood, filled with great restaurants and endless bars. It’s walkable and the perfect place to spend a good night with friends

Although there are many things to do in Turin, these make the top of my list. Be sure to check out other places to visit in Italy