Turin is a city where every cobblestone whispers tales of past glories and contemporary charm. It is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for day trips from Milan.
This guide unveils some of the best day trips from Milan to Turin that you can take, luring travelers down Turin’s baroque elegance and sampling rich culinary traditions while marveling at artistic innovations.
These day trip ideas go beyond the typical tourist experience, delving into the soul of Turin, promising to enrich travelers’ understanding and appreciation of one of Italy’s most fascinating destinations.
1. Turin’s Historical Heart: A Must-do Day Trip
The first idea of a day trip to Turin from Milan is to visit Turin’s main attractions. Admire the grandeur of Piazza Castello, the elegance of the Royal Palace, and the impressive Mole Antonelliana.
Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum which houses one of the most significant collections of Egyptian artifacts in the world.
This exploration of Turin’s Historical Heart also brings travelers to the lesser-known but equally fascinating sites that contribute to the city’s rich tapestry of history.
Wander through the Quadrilatero Romano, the oldest part of the city, where Roman and medieval architecture coexist. Here, hidden courtyards, ancient Roman walls, and narrow alleyways offer a more intimate glimpse into Turin’s past.
You should also visit the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, housing the famous Shroud of Turin, a relic steeped in mystery and reverence.
It is the perfect day trip for those who love culture and history, but don’t forget to bring along your camera to capture beautiful moments for your feed.
2. Turin’s Coffee & Chocolate Culture: A Culinary Exploration
Our second idea for a day trip from Milan to Turin is to enjoy the city’s famous cafes and artisanal chocolatiers.
You should definitely visit some of the city’s most iconic coffee houses, like Caffè Al Bicerin or Caffè Fiori. Or pay a visit to the Lavazza Museum to learn about the history of coffee.
A visit to Turin’s chocolate shops where you can indulge in Gianduiotto is a must, some of our favorites are La Perla and Guido Gobino. Another unmissable experience is the Turin Chocolate Festival which happens every November. It is a great opportunity to taste the best chocolate in Italy.
This gastronomic journey is an ideal follow-up to a Milan walking tour, offering a taste of Turin’s rich culinary traditions and a delightful sensory experience while also immersing you in the cultural architecture of the beautifully designed city.
3. Turin’s Art & Cinema: Discovering Creative Spaces
The third suggestion of a day trip from Milan to Turin is dedicated to art lovers. Turin is also known as the cradle of Italian cinema.
Film enthusiasts and art lovers simply must not miss a visit to the National Museum of Cinema. It’s located at the iconic Mole Antonelliana building, you will find there contemporary art galleries that showcase Turin’s creative pulse.
Your itinerary should also include a walk searching for Turin’s vibrant street art, highlighting the city’s modern artistic expressions. While Milan is known to be fashion-focused, in Turin there is art to be found everywhere.
4. The Royal Residences of Turin: A Journey into Royalty
Step into the opulent world of Italian royalty with a day trip to Turin’s majestic Royal Residences. This adventure takes you to the lavish Royal Palace of Turin, the elegant Villa della Regina, and the grand Stupinigi Hunting Lodge.
Each of these attractions is a testament to the city’s sovereign past and the House of Savoy. This trip offers a glimpse into the lives of Italian nobility through guided walks through halls of grandeur.
Here is our guide to 7 Stunning Royal Palaces in Turin that you must visit once in a lifetime.
Also, keep an eye on Club Silencio’s Instagram for events with drinks, food & music at those palaces.
5. Turin Natural Wonders: An Outdoor Adventure
Adventurous souls can explore the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Turin. Here are options to cater to all levels of sports enthusiasts.
Right in the city you have an easy/moderate hike to the Basilica of Superga or a long walk along the River Po.
Heading to the Alps things become more serious, in Bardonecchia, you can hike up to 2400 m ASL to Quatro Sorelle peak. Another option is to head to Gran Paradiso National Park for breathtaking hikes.
More day trip ideas include the hidden gems of the Piedmont countryside. Venture into the verdant valleys and rolling hills, where quaint villages and vineyards dot the landscape, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely walks or cycling – not to mention, ample opportunity for wine tasting. The worldwide famous Barolo wine is from the Piedmont region.
Travelers who love local fare and want to experience authentic local culture should make sure to visit in summer because, in the warmer months, these areas come alive with outdoor festivals and markets.
Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing or snowshoeing, and yes, you can go skiing near Turin, so don’t miss the opportunity.
6. Turin’s Automotive Legacy
Not many people know that Turin is considered the car capital of Italy. FIAT, Lancia, Studio Pininfarina, and Abarth were born or later headquartered in Turin.
The former Fiat factory was renovated and transformed into a multi-use complex with a shopping mall, art gallery, bars, and hotels. For me, the highlight is the bar on top of the complex.
Here you can enjoy a vermouth while admiring the view and the race track where the cars were tested. A little detail, this race track is located on the top of the building. Panoramic views filled with speed and history.
MAUTO – the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile is a mandatory stop for car enthusiasts. You will learn all about the history of car manufacturing in Italy and also admire stunning vintage cars. The interactive exhibition is perfect for adults and kids.
While it’s not a common day trip from Milan to Turin, it is definitely one to check out.
7. Exploring Turin’s Mysteries and Legends
You probably don’t know, but Turin is considered a city where white and black magic collide. And it’s an interesting story to follow.
To dive deeper into Turin’s magical side, travelers may look for its mysteries and legends. Look for tours that will take you beyond the well-known landmarks to lesser-known locales steeped in occult history and dark history.
You will be visiting ancient alchemical symbols hidden in plain sight, exploring the secret passages of historic buildings, and hearing tales of Turin’s mystical past from local guides – an intriguing journey through the shadows and secrets of a fascinating world.
Which day trip from Milan to Turin do you like the most?
These 7 ideas for day trips from Milan to Turin will offer you an unforgettable journey filled with diversity, discovery, and depth. And I hope you can fit one (or more) on your Italian itinerary.
Each itinerary is a unique chapter in the narrative of Northern Italy, revealing different facets of Turin’s rich heritage. In case you are not sure if Turin is worth a day trip, here are 10 reasons you should visit Turin, and to be honest I would stay here for more than 1 day.
If you decide to stay longer in Turin, read our guide to the best hotels in Turin to find the perfect stay and here is a guide to all the unmissable things to do in Turin.
See you in Turin.