Not only is Turin fashionably elegant and seductive, but the capital of Piedmont also enjoys an enviable location for exploring northwest Italy with ease.
When the joys of sightseeing or summer in the Savoy city begin to wane, there are a myriad of destinations nearby perfect for a day trip. Whether you’re seeking vineyards, palace gardens, mountain pastures, or alpine peaks, Turin’s excellent transport connections can satisfy your desire for a bucolic change of scene.
Here are six of the top day trips from Turin, each reachable within a couple of hours by e-bike, bus, train, or car.
1. Head to Via Lattea for Alpine Thrills
It is hard to resist the allure of the Alps in Turin; their enticing, snow-capped peaks are visible from many shopping streets and viewpoints in the city. During winter weekends, locals head out of town to ski resorts in the massive Via Lattea ski area, warming up with mugs of vin brulé (mulled wine). In summer, the same alpine pastures, now dotted with wildflowers, attract walkers, nature lovers, and fun-loving families seeking respite from the city’s summer heat.
Opt to explore the region either by car or on foot. Start your journey early in the morning to Pian del Colle (4740 ft/1445 m), a tiny hamlet near the French border. From Pian del Colle, take a forest trail uphill towards Les Granges de la Vallée Étroite. At an altitude of 5800 ft (1768 m), indulge in a hearty lunch of cheesy polenta topped with sausage ragù, paired with a satisfying beer at Rifugio I Re Magi.
Travel Tips: Trains depart every hour from Torino Porta Nuova station to Bardonecchia (90 minutes, €15/$15.75 round trip). From Bardonecchia, free buses shuttle travelers to Melezet, and Pian del Colle is a 25-minute walk from there. By car, expect a drive of about one hour and 40 minutes from Turin to Les Granges de la Vallée Étroite.
2. Experience the Splendor of Reggia di Venaria Reale
Originally built as a 17th-century hunting lodge, the Unesco-listed Reggia di Venaria Reale was once the grand residence of the Savoy royal family. This impressive estate features 150 acres of meticulously manicured grounds and a colossal baroque palace that dazzles visitors with its royal apartments, salons, and numerous rooms adorned with frescoes and stucco. The estate also boasts the largest vegetable patch and kitchen garden in Italy.
Indulging in lunch at the Michelin-starred restaurant Dolce Stil Novo, perched on a lovely terrace overlooking the palatial lawns, is a romantic experience you won’t want to miss. Highlights include its Museum of Theater and Magnificence and seasonal water features.
Travel Tips: Rent a public-sharing bike in Turin and cycle 10 km to Venaria Reale along the Corona Verde Stura route, which connects several royal residences in Piedmont. Alternatively, take a bus that takes 30 minutes for a round trip costing €4 ($4.20) or opt for the Venaria Express bus shuttle from various city points.
3. Explore Bra and the Slow Food Movement
The charming town of Bra in Piedmont is a must-visit for food lovers. This quaint location is where the global Slow Food movement took root in 1986, celebrating naturally produced and locally sourced gastronomic delights. As you wander around the historic center, you’ll find family-run shops filled with organic products, handcrafted chocolates, and seasonal produce that embody the spirit of sustainability and green thinking.
For lunch, head to Osteria del Boccondivino, the backstreet HQ of Slow Food, where you can relish local specialties such as salsiccia di Bra (spicy local sausage) and veal tripe.
In the afternoon, visit the Banca del Vino, located in the nearby village of Pollenzo, to sample unique vintages at the wine cellar connected to Slow Food’s University of Gastronomic Sciences.
Travel Tips: Regular daily trains connect Torino Porta Susa station and Bra (45 minutes, €9.60/$10.10 round trip), with bus connections linking Bra train station to Pollenzo.
4. Discover Langhe Wine Country
South of Turin lies the famous Langhe wine region, celebrated for its exceptional reds, particularly Barolo made from 100% nebbiolo grapes. The nearby village of La Morra, with its picturesque historic core, is set atop sprawling vineyards. Experience a beautiful hike through these vineyards leading you to the unique Cappella delle Brunate, a chapel created by American artist Sol LeWitt. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at Osteria More e Macine, known for its delectable local dish, tajarin, paired with a robust glass of local red wine.
Travel Tips: Trains depart hourly from Torino Porta Susa to Alba (90 minutes, €11.80/$12.40 round trip). Buses on line 66 continue to La Morra (30 minutes).
5. Explore Sacra di San Michele
Perched atop Monte Pirchiriano, Sacra di San Michele is a stunning abbey dating back to 987 CE, offering breathtaking views of the Susa Valley below. Initially established as a Benedictine monastery and later taken over by the Savoy family in the 19th century, the abbey draws visitors for both its historical significance and panoramic vistas.
After visiting the abbey, stop by the nearby Birrificio San Michele for a tasting of craft beers along with local salumi.
Travel Tips: Trains depart hourly from Torino Porta Nuova to Avigliana (30 minutes, €6.20/$6.50 round trip), followed by a 90-minute hike uphill. A seasonal bus service is available from Avigliana train station to the abbey.
6. Discover Milan: Fashion and Culture
Urbanites visiting Turin often want to explore Milan, a fast-paced, fashionable city known for its design-centric vibe. Famous landmarks include the stunning pink-marble cathedral and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Immerse yourself in Milan’s cultural scene, from art museums to theatrical performances at the legendary La Scala. For an unforgettable day, consider lingering a bit longer to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife and exquisite dining options.
Travel Tips: Regular train connections between Torino Porta Nuova and Milano Centrale operate every 15 minutes or so, with journey times ranging from one to two hours and fares ranging from €12.45 to €36 ($13.45–$37.85).
