Things to do in Turin: top 19 must-see attractions

The Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile in Turin showcases over 200 vehicles from 80 different brands. Founded in 1932 and renovated in 2011, this site tracks automotive evolution from the 18th century to today. Between rare prototypes, legendary race cars, and Italian design masterpieces, the museum offers an immersive, interactive experience for all enthusiasts.

The National Museum of Cinema in Turin occupies the Mole Antonelliana, the city icon, with exhibits spiraling across five levels. Its collection holds over 2 million items, ranging from early magic lanterns to modern special effects. The panoramic elevator climbs to 85 meters in 59 seconds for a 360-degree view of Turin and the Alps.

Galleria San Federico, an elegant shopping arcade opened in 1933, connects Via Roma to Via Bertola and Via Santa Teresa via three T-shaped passages. Its checkered marble floors and glass roof house historic shops, antique dealers, the Lux cinema, and refined cafes. An icon of Turin life for nearly a century, it once hosted the headquarters of Juventus and the newspaper La Stampa.

The Royal Gardens of Turin span 17 acres behind the Royal Palace. Designed by André Le Nôtre in the late 17th century, they feature French-style landscaping, baroque fountains, and historic ruins. Entry is free to explore the dramatic Fountain of the Nereids and Tritons and the Bastion Verde, the last remnant of Turin's old city walls.

The Mole Antonelliana has stood 167 meters above Turin since 1889. This former synagogue now houses the National Museum of Cinema. Its eclectic architecture blends neoclassical columns with a gothic spire. A panoramic elevator offers 360-degree views of the city and the Alps. Collections track cinema history through 80,000 photos, 300,000 posters, and immersive exhibits.

The Gran Madre di Dio Church, a neoclassical masterpiece built between 1818 and 1831, commands the banks of the Po River with Corinthian columns inspired by the Pantheon. Erected to celebrate the return of Victor-Emmanuel I, it intrigues visitors with esoteric legends of the Holy Grail and the goddess Isis. Its forecourt offers a clear view of Piazza Vittorio Veneto and the historic center of Turin.

A symbol of the House of Savoy, the Royal Palace of Turin serves as the historic and political core of Turin. More than just a castle, it is part of the Musei Reali di Torino (Royal Museums of Turin), a complex featuring lavish apartments, one of the richest armories in Europe, an art gallery, and the famous Chapel of the Holy Shroud. Plan for a half day to explore this deep dive into the history of Italy.

The Sabauda Gallery, located within the Musei Reali di Torino (Royal Museums of Turin), displays over 700 works from the House of Savoy collections. Established in 1832 by Charles Albert, this major gallery covers six centuries of European painting. Flemish masters like Van Eyck and Rembrandt join Italian greats like Botticelli in a remarkable setting.

Often called the city's living room, this Baroque square impresses with symmetrical arcades and uniform 17th-century facades. Between the twin churches, watch passersby avoid the bronze bull embedded in the pavement. For a complete experience, grab a seat on a terrace when golden light highlights the rigorous architecture of Piazza San Carlo.

Stretching across 55 hectares along the Po River, Valentino Park invites you to wander between royal gardens and wild riverbanks. Do not miss the Borgo Medievale, an accurate reconstruction of a 15th-century village. It is the perfect spot for a bike ride or a picnic with clear views of the surrounding hills.

With slate roofs and intricate dormers, this royal residence stands out for its distinctly French architecture. While the interiors now house the architecture faculty, the site is best enjoyed via a stroll along the Po river. Keep an eye on Giornate FAI dates for a chance to explore its ornate 17th-century halls at Valentino Castle.

Tucked within the Royal Palace of Turin complex, this library founded in 1831 houses one of the world's most prized drawings: the presumed self-portrait of Leonardo da Vinci in red chalk, alongside a collection of 1,500 master sketches. This is a private experience, so check the exhibition calendar before you go.

The red brick facade of the Carignano Palace ripples like a wave, a sharp departure from traditional baroque styles. This historic landmark served as the site of the very first Parliament of the Kingdom of Italy. Today, it hosts a major museum dedicated to the Risorgimento, where you can tour the wooden chamber where Italian unification was sealed.

These two red-brick towers, remnants of the Roman Porta Principalis Dextra, have defined the skyline of Turin for nearly two millennia. Their unique silhouette reveals a fascinating architectural mix of imperial foundations, medieval additions, and 19th-century restorations. This rare historical witness is best viewed from the royal gardens to appreciate its temporal layers.

Perched 669 meters high, this baroque masterpiece by Filippo Juvarra dominates the skyline. Beyond its monumental architecture, the site offers a striking panorama of the Alps. Ride the historic rack railway to reach this landmark, which houses the royal crypt of the House of Savoy and a poignant memorial stele.

This monument spans two millennia of history, layering a Roman gate, medieval towers, and a baroque facade by Filippo Juvarra. Inside, the Museo Civico d'Arte Antica (Civic Museum of Ancient Art) displays collections across four floors. Explore the archaeological basement to see the ancient foundations, the core of this building of striking contrasts.

Founded in 1824, the Egyptian Museum of Turin is the oldest institution in the world dedicated entirely to ancient Egypt. Explore over 30,000 artifacts, including the intact tomb of Kha and Merit and a Nubian temple gifted to Italy. This collection rivals the scale of the Cairo Museum.

As the only Renaissance structure in Turin, the Turin Cathedral was built between 1491 and 1498. It houses the famous Shroud of Turin within a spectacular baroque chapel designed by Guarino Guarini from 1668 to 1694. This mysterious relic draws global interest. A replica is on display, while the original remains reserved for papal decree.

The Allianz Stadium in Turin is a prime destination for soccer fans and architecture enthusiasts. Opened in 2011, this modern venue seats 41,507 spectators in a high-energy setting. Its compact, vertical design keeps you close to the action. Explore the Juventus Museum to see legendary trophies and interactive exhibits detailing the club history.