One of the great ways to explore a bit more of the Piedmont region of Italy and beyond is by taking day trips from Turin. The city has great public transportation connections and is easy to travel to and from by car, as well.
The challenge actually comes from having to choose which day Turin day trips you should choose because the choices are many! So, I’ve put together this guide using my local knowledge of the area (it is my second home, after all!) to help you decide which day trips to focus on, what to see in each place, and local tips on how to get there.
I hope it helps you put together an amazing northern Italy itinerary. Andiamo!
1. Sacra di San Michele
Going on a day trip from Turin to Sacra di San Michele is like stepping into the pages of a historical mystery novel, just like “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco who used the abbey as the inspiration for the book’s setting. The Sacra sits high up on Mount Pirchiriano, giving off an air of mystery and intrigue.
Dating way back to the 10th century, the Sacra di San Michele isn’t just a historic old building—it’s part of something bigger called the Saint Michael’s Line, which incredibly connects different sites dedicated to the Archangel Michael across Europe in a perfect line.
From the abbey, you can take in stunning views of the Val di Susa, a beautiful Alpine valley with a ton of history packed into it going back to Roman times.
Once you arrive, you’ve got two options: either hike from the town of Sant’Ambrogio along the old mule track or take the easy route and drive up. Keep in mind that the hike isn’t a walk in the park—it’s moderately challenging, with slippery stones to watch out for. Along the way, you’ll pass by the Stations of the Cross, each one carrying its special meaning and adding to the spiritual experience.
Whether you decide to hike it or drive, reaching the Sacra di San Michele treats you to some jaw-dropping views of the Val di Susa and the Italian Alps surrounding this ancient site.
How to Get There
To reach Sacra di San Michele from Turin, you have a couple of options: by train or car. If you prefer driving, it’s approximately a 45-minute drive along the A32/E70 highway toward the “Frejus” exit. Once you arrive, you can park near the base and walk about 10-15 minutes to reach the entrance. Remember to have coins or small bills for the parking machine.
If you plan to hike, you can take a direct train from Turin’s Porta Nuova station to Sant’Ambrogio in about 30 minutes. From the station, you can walk into the village and to the trailhead near the Church of San Rocco. It should be marked as “Sentiero 502.”
Alternatively, you can take a guided tour from Turin to Sacra di San Michele. This option provides convenience as it includes transportation from Turin and a guided visit to the medieval abbey.
2. Reggia di Venaria/Venaria Reale
A day trip from Turin to the palace of Venaria is a great way to explore the history of the Savoy royal family. Venaria Reale is one of the 14 Royal Savoy residences recognized by UNESCO and nicknamed the Versailles of Piemonte. And while you certainly can guess that the Colosseum in Rome or the Duomo in Milan are among Italy’s most visited sights, did you realize that Venaria Reale is on that list, too?
Venaria Reale is only about 8.5 miles (by car) from Turin’s historic center. Arriving in the town of Venaria Reale, you’ll see the grand palace, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, and learn about the history of the royal family, the palace itself, and northern Italy.
One of the most impressive rooms, and my favorite, is the Great Gallery, with its ornate marble carvings, oversized French doors, and black and white tile floor. Inside the Royal Stables, you’ll see some of the actual carriages used by the royals and the Bucentaur, the royal boat, which is pretty unique. The beautiful gardens have manicured lawns, fountains, and statues and are worth a visit, too.
Overall, Venaria Reale offers a mix of history, architecture, and beautiful scenery, all wrapped into a refined palace just a short trip from Turin.
How to Get There
Getting to Venaria Reale via public transport is a breeze from Turin since there are direct bus routes to the small town.
The Venaria Express shuttle bus runs every day from Tuesday to Sunday and on public holidays. This service takes you straight from Turin to the Reggia di Venaria. Alternatively, there are regular bus services connecting Turin to Venaria Reale. Lines 11, VE1, and SF2 connect Turin to Venaria Reale if you need more flexibility when traveling to and from the palace.
Venaria Reale is also a short drive from Turin if you have a car. Use the Tangenziale Nord and take the exits for Venaria or Savonera/Venaria. For cyclists who want to enjoy a scenic bike ride, the Reggia di Venaria is part of the Corona Verde (Green Crown) cycle trail, which connects the Royal Residences of Piedmont.
3. Alba
Alba is one of Piedmont’s absolute gems! If you’re considering it as a day trip from Turin, take this as your sign to go. It’s a fantastic day trip.
Alba is famous for its international truffle festival, which takes place in the fall and is a big deal if you love truffles. The hills just outside of Alba are one of the only places in the world where elusive white truffles grow naturally. Together with black truffles, these decadent fungi pair perfectly with the area’s world-famous wine.
If you go on a Saturday, the town is buzzing with a market full of stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, bread, clothes, and housewares. It’s a great place to stroll around and maybe pick up some unique trinkets or souvenirs to bring home.
The city itself dates back to Roman times, so there’s a lot of history to uncover. I recommend the underground tour that takes you through some of the ancient remnants of the city. Make sure you also check out the cathedral. It’s beautiful and has spots inside where you can peek at the ruins the church was built upon.
Foodies will be in heaven in Alba. There are Michelin-starred restaurants if you’re looking for something fancy, but honestly, there are tons of great food options everywhere you look. Whether it’s a simple café or a nice restaurant, you won’t go hungry.
Overall, Alba is a perfect mix of history, great food, and a lively market atmosphere on Saturdays, making it a great day trip from Turin to immerse yourself in the culture of Piedmont.
How to Get There
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Alba from Turin is by train. The ride is only about 1 hour from Torino’s Lingotto Station which you can reach with the city’s M1 metro line. Trains from here run directly to Alba. From Porta Nuova, many trains to Alba require a connection which is not difficult but also not as convenient.
4. Langhe, Roero, Monferrato Wine Region
This UNESCO-recognized area is situated south of the Po River and is blessed with fertile hills perfect for vineyards growing grapes for some of the most well-known Italian wines including Barolo, Barbera, and Barbaresco, as well as regional secrets like Ruche, Grignolino, and Arneis. As a result, the green rolling hills are lined with row after row of grape vines that stem outward from one hilltop village after another. Mixed in you’ll find hazelnut bushes a plenty and all types of agriculture.
This rural area of Piedmont has largely flown under the radar for most visitors. Yet, it’s exactly the area to head if you’re in search of the “real” Italy. Its small cities of Alba and Asti get more attention but it’s when you travel into the hills that you can create your own unique day trip experience depending on which direction you head. While you could stick to some of the more popular villages like La Morra, Barolo, and Neive, I’d also recommend picking a spot (for navigation purposes) and then going where the road leads to make your own discoveries.
The Castle of Grinzane Cavour is one of the area’s more popular sights and perfect for wine lovers. It’s just outside of Alba and tells the story of how this area became a dynamo for wine production. There are 19 DOCG and 41 DOC wines that come from the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato!
Monferrato is also known for its infernots, caves dug into the local stone under the ground to preserve wine (and other foods) because of the constant cool temperatures. These are not your average caves though! Many contain shelves and even different chambers and had to be created by locals who had a deep understanding of the area and its climate.
One way to explore the area is to focus on a collection of villages and towns. Using the help of the “Strada delle Vino” or wine roads through Piedmont. These cover different towns and parts of the region and bring you past numerous wineries that aren’t located directly in a village or town.
Another option is to head out in search of the “panchina gigante” or big benches. If you do a search in Piedmont on Google Maps, you’ll see a bunch of them around the area. These big benches are positioned in scenic spots where you can take photos and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through villages and vineyards.
Whichever you choose, know that tucked into the hills and connecting the villages are hiking trails and cycling routes should you want to get out of the car.
For a totally local experience, head out on a Vespa, either with a mapped-out itinerary or with a local guide, to discover tiny villages, local food, and incredible landscapes far from the main tourist trail.
How to Get There
Although there are some towns in the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato with train access from Turin, like Alba, you’ll need a car to really explore the area. The true beauty lies in the numerous hilltop villages with their sloping rows of grapevines as far as the eye can see.
Villages like Neive, La Morra, Barolo, Monforte d’Alba, Nizza, Cella Monte, and Vignale Monferrato can only be reached by car. Not to mention, there are countless wineries and agriturismo restaurants tucked into the hillsides that can only be discovered by driving through the area.
As an alternative, take a look at this historic train ride which takes you on a vintage train to experience some key spots in the area. Trains depart from Turin’s Porta Nuova station at pre-set dates and times depending on the experience you choose.
5. Asti
Another great day trip from Turin is to the small city of Asti with its medieval past.
Asti is known for its impressive towers. The city used to have 125 of them, all built by Asti’s noble families as a sign of wealth. Today only 12 remain but they give you a glimpse of what the city skyline must have looked like years ago. One of the towers you can climb is the Torre Troyana with its 199 steps. The 13th-century Torre Comentina is open for wine tastings and samplings of local flavors.
The 14th-century Asti Cathedral also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and San Gottardo is a must-see with its unique painted vines winding around the pillars inside and mosaic floors. It’s a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the largest cathedral in the Piedmont region.
History buffs will love the Museum of San’Anastasio with its Romanesque crypt and artifacts going back nearly 1,000 years.
Make sure to visit Palazzo Mazzetti, a beautifully restored mansion that now houses art exhibitions. And don’t miss the Collegiata di San Secondo, another notable church in the Piazza San Secondo. In the same square is a Grom gelato shop—my favorite gelateria in Italy! You have to try it.
On Saturdays, the market is a bustling scene with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothes and housewares. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll, some shopping, and a glimpse of the local vibe. Being a smaller city, Asti doesn’t see as many tourists as it deserves. But that also means if you do visit, you can enjoy daily Italian life in a laid-back way.
If you visit in September, maybe your timing will be right for the Palio di Asti. This bareback horse race goes back to the 13th century and includes other events the week of the race including a special market and processions.
Overall, Asti is a blend of history and local culture, making it a fantastic choice among your options for Turin day trips.
How to Get There
Located in the heart of Piedmont, Asti is easily accessible via train or car. Catch a direct train from either Turin Porta Nuova or Torino Lingotto stations to Asti. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Once you arrive, the Asti train station is just a short walk from the historic city center, making it perfect for a day trip.
If you decide to head to Asti by car, drive to Asti via the A21 Turin-Piacenza motorway. The trip typically takes around an hour. Set your navigation for “Parcheggio | Piazza Campo del Palio” which typically has a good amount of available parking. Keep in mind, on Wednesdays and Saturdays the market is set up in part of the square. Either way, there are parking meters in the square where you can pay for an amount of time and display the printed ticket on your dashboard.
6. Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi
History and palace enthusiasts, here’s a must-visit day trip from Turin: the majestic Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi, a former hunting lodge of the Savoy royalty and a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the other House of Savoy residences. I’m positive it’ll be the grandest hunting lodge you’ll ever see!
Located in Nichelino, just 6 miles from Turin, this historic royal residence was designed by architect Filippo Juvarra in a stunning Rococo style. The highlight is the oval-shaped main hall, surrounded by galleries and adorned with intricate stuccoes and frescoes. Explore the royal apartments to see furnishings fit for royalty and paintings telling the story of the Savoy dynasty’s reign.
Surrounded by extensive and well-maintained gardens, the lodge offers a serene atmosphere to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the lavish setting.
How to Get There
To get to Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi from Turin, you can either take a bus or go by car. Take the #282 bus directly to Stupinigi from outside Porta Nuova Train Station. There is only one stop in the small town, making it an easy and direct trip.
Alternatively, driving to Stupinigi is straightforward and quick, as the hunting lodge is less than a 15-minute drive from Turin. Take the Tangenziale Sud (Southern Bypass) and follow the signs to Stupinigi.
7. Bra
Bra, nestled in Italy’s Piedmont region, is celebrated as the birthplace of the Slow Food movement. Founded in 1986 by Carlo Petrini, this movement was and is all about sustainable, local, and high-quality food as opposed to the rise of fast food culture.
Today, this is still what Bra is most known for. It hosts events and markets that attract food and wine enthusiasts from around the globe. The town’s culinary scene is a highlight, offering trattorias and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Piedmontese dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss tasting the renowned Bra sausage, crafted from veal and pork.
Beyond its food culture, Bra boasts a charming historical center with architectural gems like the Baroque Church of Sant’Andrea, the Church of Santa Chiara, and the elegant Town Hall. Nearby in Pollenzo with its ancient Roman roots, you’ll find the University of Gastronomic Sciences, where you can tour the university premises, food laboratory, and library. You can even indulge in a wine-tasting session at the Wine Bank which keeps the best bottles of wine from all around Italy.
How to Get There
To get to Bra from Turin, you can either take a train or drive. Trains from Torino Lingotto to Bra take about 45 minutes and cost around €5, with departures at least once an hour.
If you prefer to drive, it’s a straightforward journey on highway E717, taking just under an hour to reach Bra. Both options are convenient and efficient travel from Turin to Bra. Keep in mind, if you also want to visit nearby Pollenzo, you’ll need a car to get there without too much hassle.
8. Aosta
This mountain town near Turin, Italy in the Valle d’Aosta region is like is perfect for a quick day trip and takes you into one of the least visited regions of northern Italy. Aosta is a charming town set against the backdrop of the Italian Alps known as “the Rome of the Alps.” It combines history, culture, and fantastic Alpine cuisine.
Aosta boasts Roman ruins in incredible condition. Key highlights include the Arch of Augustus, the Roman Theatre, and the ancient city walls. Also, check out the Criptoportico Forense, an underground crypt where you can learn more about the Aosta’s Roman past.
Explore the Collegiate Church of Sant’Orso, known for its stunning 11th-century frescoes and ancient Roman mosaics. To learn even more about Aosta’s history, end your trip at the Regional Archaeology Museum with its collection of artifacts from prehistoric to medieval times.
Don’t forget to take a break because Aosta’s food scene is comfort food at its best! You’ve got to try the local specialty, fonduta. It’s the northern Italian version of fondue made with fontina cheese that you eat with hot polenta. I 100% admit to wanting to lick my plate clean every time I visit!
If you’re in Turin around Christmas time, check out Aosta’s Christmas market. It’s a great way to combine the town’s history and food with the festivities of the season.
How to Get There
Getting to Aosta and the Aosta Valley from Turin is straightforward via train from Torino Porta Nuova which takes about 2 hours. Aosta is a small town, so you can get around on foot once you hop off from the train station. There are also direct buses to Aosta that leave every 4 hours from Turin which takes less than two hours.
If you want to explore the valley, driving is the best option. The A5 autostrada connects Turin to Aosta and the Mont Blanc tunnel, offering beautiful mountain views along the way. While traffic is restricted in the town center, there are convenient parking lots available within walking distance of the town center.
9. Fenestrelle Fortress & Usseaux
After the Great Wall of China, the Fenestrelle Fortress (Forte di Fenestrelle) is the next largest walled structure, and yet it’s one of the most under-the-radar historic sights I’ve ever come across in northern Italy…or anywhere.
Located in the Val Chisone, which served as a vital trading route for centuries, the fortress has impressive towers and walls. To fully explore Fenestrelle, going with a local guide is necessary, as only a few areas are freely accessible without one. Most tours, however, are in Italian. But there are guidebooks to help you learn more about the history.
The key buildings of Fenestrelle are within San Carlo Fort, including the governor’s palace, officers’ pavilion, church, military quarters, a large powder tower, laboratories, and an old pharmacy. Keep in mind the best time to visit is in summer when this higher-altitude location has more pleasant weather. You’ll need to dedicate nearly a full day (with a lot of stairs) to tour the entire fortress.
If you have time after visiting the fortress, stop by Usseaux. This small alpine village in the Susa Valley is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful, thanks to its picturesque mountains and meadows. The town has traditional Alpine architecture with stone houses, wooden balconies, and slate roofs. If you happen to be here for lunch, don’t pass up tasting the area’s alpine-infused dishes like soups, polenta, and rich mountain cheeses.
How to Get There
The best and most convenient way to get to Fenestrelle Fortress is by car. There’s a free parking lot right in front of the fortress. The drive from Turin to Fenestrelle, through the scenic Val Chisone, covers about 53 miles and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
10. Lake Orta
One of the best day trips from Turin is to the romantic and peaceful Lake Orta, one of the gorgeous lakes in the Italian Lakes District along with popular favorites like Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore.
Start your visit in the charming town of Orta San Giulio. With its narrow, cobblestone streets, picturesque piazzas, and historic buildings, this town exudes old-world charm. Be sure to visit Piazza Motta, the heart of the town, where you can enjoy a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes and take in the stunning views of the lake.
A highlight of any trip to Lake Orta is a visit to Isola San Giulio, known as the Island of Island of Silence. This small island is dominated by the beautiful Basilica di San Giulio, an ancient church with exquisite frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere. You can reach the island by a short boat ride from Orta San Giulio, and once there, enjoy a silent stroll around the pilgrimage route, taking in the serene beauty and historic architecture.
The UNESCO-recognized Sacro Monte di Orta is another must-visit in Lake Orta. This chapel is set on a hill overlooking the lake. Each chapel is adorned with stunning frescoes and statues.
After you explore Lake Orta, you’ll understand why it inspired so many iconic novels and paintings.
How to Get There
Getting to Lake Orta by car offers the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. The drive from Turin takes just 90 minutes, making it convenient for a day trip.
If driving isn’t an option, you can take a train from Turin to stations near Lake Orta, such as Orta-Miasino. From the station, you can easily hail a taxi or catch a local bus to reach your destination. The walk isn’t far either (about 1 mile) if you’d like to set off on foot. Keep in mind, without a car, you won’t be able to visit the Sacro Monte di Orta without a steep hike up to the site.
11. Saluzzo
Saluzzo is an elegant hidden gem south of the city of Turin. It’s rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture.
I recommend starting your visit in the heart of Saluzzo’s old town, where narrow cobblestone streets wind through beautifully preserved medieval buildings. You can explore the Castiglia, a historic fortress that now houses museums and art galleries. The walk up offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
Next, visit the Cathedral of Saluzzo, a great example of Gothic architecture. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and intricate woodwork that reflect. Another must-see is the Church of San Giovanni, which dates back to the 13th century and features an exquisite cloister and a collection of Renaissance art.
Just outside of Saluzzo, be sure to visit the Castello della Manta. This is one of my favorite castles. Its unique frescoes show scenes of Arthurian legends and are in remarkable condition. The castle’s well-preserved interior combined with the stunning views of the surrounding countryside make it a highlight of the region.
Also nearby is the Staffarda Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century. This abbey is a serene and beautiful spot, with its Romanesque architecture and peaceful gardens. I recommend getting the audioguide so you can better understand the abbey’s history.
How to Get There
Getting to Saluzzo from Turin is straightforward, whether by car or bus. Saluzzo is located approximately 35 miles from Turin, and the most convenient way to reach it is by car via the autostrada.
If driving isn’t an option, Saluzzo is also connected to Turin directly by train but you’ll need to connect since there are no direct routes. If you go by public transportation, it’ll be difficult to reach the Castello della Manta and the Staffarda Abbey outside of the town.
12. Genoa
The capital city of the region of Liguria and the gateway to the Italian Riviera, Genoa (Genova in Italian) is often overlooked in favor of more popular places in Italy. It’s a pity because even though Genoa has a bit of a gritty reputation, it’s scrubbing off this stereotypical perception.
And while you still might be a bit hesitant to dedicate too many precious days of your northern Italian itinerary to this port city, a day trip from Turin is a great introduction. Plus, it’s not every day you can say you went from views of the Alps to the breezes of the Mediterranean Sea in a single day!
Genoa’s seaport promenade is redone with replica historic ships, a famous aquarium, an Eataly location, and a Renzo Piano-designed Biosphere and Panoramic lift. Move inward to the historic caruggi, the city’s labyrinth-like alleyways, and you’ll find local markets, tucked-away churches, and mouthwatering foccacia.
Combine all of this with Genoa’s UNESCO-recognized noble palaces, shimmering piazzas, Royal Palace, and the characteristic Cathedral of San Lorenzo and there’s plenty to see and do in Genoa for a day. Not to mention, the chance to have a dish of pasta deliciously coated with classic pesto Genovese!
While you’re there, I also recommend taking the cliffside lifts into the Genovese hills. The city is shaped like an amphitheater and when you venture up to higher sections like the Spianata Castelletto area with its panoramic terrace, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the city and the sea.
How to Get There
Direct high-speed trains connect Turin and Genoa in 1 hour and 40 minutes. Trains depart at different intervals from Porta Nuova. For this day trip, I recommend making it a full day. Start early and plan to take a later train back to Turin.
You can also drive from Turin to Genoa in about 2 hours. If you choose to drive, there are several parking areas along the seaport. For a reference point, I like to navigate to the “Parcheggio Acquario di Genova.” If you miss it, there are several other “parcheggios” along the same road.
My best local tip for this day trip, though, is to take the train. I think you’ll appreciate not having to drive in Genoa, as well as being able to rest on the way back after a full day of sightseeing.
What about Milan?
Italy’s fashion and finance capital certainly needs no introduction. It’s famous for top sights like the Duomo and Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper painting. So you might be surprised to see that it’s not on this list of Turin day trips!
That’s because, although it’s technically possible, I don’t truly recommend taking a day trip to Milan (or a day trip from Milan to Turin). Both Turin and Milan have so many things to see and do and they’re each deserving of at least a couple of days. (And, even if you have just 1 day for Turin, I still recommend staying the night.)
In an absolute pinch, you could take the high-speed train between these 2 northern Italy cities in just an hour and trains do run frequently throughout the day. But if you can, you’ll want to dedicate more than a day trip to Milan (and Turin).
Ready to Plan your Day Trips from Turin?
Turin is an excellent starting point for countless adventures in northern Italy. I put together this list to highlight the best day trips from Turin.
Whether you’re drawn to history, food, or cultural experiences from the rolling Monferrato hills to the Alps and the Mediterranean coast, these day trips offer a fantastic opportunity to create a northern Italy trip all your own!
So, what are your questions about planning a day trip from Turin?
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