I get lots of Girl’s Gotta Drink readers and guests doing Turin day trips for our Barolo wine tours. But I’m not sure if travelers realize just how convenient the city is as a home base for northern Italy travel. I’m excited to share our picks for the best day trips from Turin!
Y’all, I adore Turin. It’s one of my favorite cities in Italy. And, I absolutely LOVE the Torino Porta Susa railway station. Not just because being there signifies adventure – whether it be a day in the city or the start of a trip. I love the station’s design and symmetry. But I’ll share more on that below. Let me first explain why day trips from Turin make so much sense.
You see, the train system is a tad more rural up north, meaning train travel requires more navigating. Multiple regional and intercity train changes are the norm, which slows travel a lot. Connections via Torino Porta Susa and Torino Porta Nuova railway stations get you quickly to some great spots. Even better, Trenitalia and Italo trains both service Porta Susa, giving more options for schedule and price.
Let’s start mapping out your Turin day trips!
The Girl’s Gotta Drink list takes you from mountains to sea; each showcasing a rich diversity of Northern Italy travel through sights, tastes, culture.
- Explore the Monferrato with an exciting e-bike adventure or discover the rich historical heritage of Asti, the Monferrato region’s capital.
- Explore the fairytale village of Stresa and the stunning beauty of Lake Maggiore. After soaking in the island experiences, indulge in some local cuisine at one of the lakeside restaurants.
- Immerse yourself in nature of Valle Maira and Valle Varaita, nestled in the province of Cuneo in Piedmont, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Don’t miss the noble nebbiolo grape in Barolo wine country and add in some medieval charm in the area’s wine city of Alba, known for its truffles and as the birthplace of Nutella.
- Take in monuments beyond Turin’s historic center, like the mystical Sacra di San Michele and the Royal Palace of Venaria, the grand palace of House of Savoy.
- Head to the seaside in the vibrant city of Genoa, Europe’s second largest historical center. Explore the city streets, learn to make pesto, and indulge in Liguria’s legendary focaccia.
How to go Beyond Turin’s city limits
Travel beyond Turin’s city limits offers a myriad of opportunities for the traveler who can’t sit still. Travel by train, bus, or car to reach neighboring destinations and sites. For public transit, bus travel is quite easy as well as trains, departing from the two main stations.
- Torino Porta Nuova Railway Station, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 58, 10121 Torino TO: The Torino Porta Nuova Railway Station is Italy’s 3rd busiest station by passenger flow behind the teeming Italy travel hubs of Rome Termini and Milano Centrale. The station sees about 192000 journeys a day and some 70 million travelers a year – that’s about 350 trains a day! The historic station dates back to 1864; save for recent renovations, it remains largely the same as when it opened.
- Torino Porta Susa Railway Station, Piazza XXVIII Dicembre 8, 10138 Torino TO: Located in Turin’s western city center, Porta Susa is the city’s second busiest train station, after Torino Porta Nuova. The station was fully renovated in 2006 from its original 1886 building with a contemporary glass and steel structure reaching 386 meters / 1266 feet long and 19 meters / 62 feet high creating a modern structure that pours with lights. The station’s vaulted roof is made with a system of solar panels that cover all the structure’s electricity needs.
For live train updates delays and the best route recommendations, try Moovit – accessible from the web or via app. Don’t just use it for your Turin day trips, but all your time in the city.
Our Picks for the Best Turin Day Trips
Day trip to Asti and the Monferrato region
A Turin day trip to the Monferrato promises charming villages, vineyards, and majestic rolling hills. Explore this breathtaking landscape on an exhilarating guided e-bike tour, designed to provide an immersive and unforgettable experiences like a Monferrato bike tour or time exploring the ancient city of Asti.
Monferrato Bike Tour: We offer a fantastic full day guided tour that takes you from Barbaresco to the Monferrato, then back to Barbaresco. The excursion follows scenic viewpoints starting with a village tour where you pedal through narrow alleys, medieval buildings, and a captivating culture of old. The experience includes a lunch break to savor traditional Piedmont cuisine and pairing of area wines.
Explore Asti: Asti is the Monferrato region’s capital city, renowned for the annual “Palio” horse race, which dates back to the 13th century. The city is also celebrated for its sparkling wine of Asti Spumante, so make sure to try a glass!
Asti’s history dates back to Roman times, as found in the city’s mesmerizing architecture. Asti is home to numerous medieval towers, including the iconic Torre Troyana, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. And, don”t miss the Gothic-style Asti Cathedral with its stunning rose-tinted window,and the Romanesque Church of San Secondo.
Getting to Asti from Turin:
Arrive into Asti from Turin by direct train from the Torino Porta Nuova Station. Trains run at least once per hour at 30 minutes past the hour, starting from 5:30 with a 35-minute travel time. For return, trains run 54 minutes past the hour with the last train at departing at 22:54 (10:54 p.m.)
Day trip to Valle Maira and Valle Varaita
The pristine beauty of Valle Maira captivates with its lush valleys, rolling hills, crystal-clear rivers, and majestic peaks. For nature lovers, Valle Maira provides the perfect setting for outdoor activities like hiking, mountaineering, or just a leisurely stroll in the crisp mountain air and its magical serenity. Start your day with a trek in Valle Maira, then on your return to Turin, have a hearty mountain feast in Valle Varaita.
Trekking in Valle Maira: Valle Maira’s diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna give nature lovers a chance to spot rare plants and animal species while wandering its forests and meadows. For trekking trails and excursions, find a list on ValleMaira.org or hit us up to include in your Piedmont travel program! Elena, Luca, and I will ALL be fighting to accompany you!
Heading back to Turin, the Maira Valle borders Cuneo’s Varaita valley, offering more alpine exploration.
Gastronomy in Valle Varaita: About 50 minutes by car from Valle Maira, heading towards Turin, sits the Valle Varaita village of Chiot Martin. Here, find the renowned restaurant, REIS Cibo Libero di Montagna headed by Michelin-star Chef Juri Chiotti. Once a famed chef cooking all over Italy and the world, he return to his Alpine roots to open his farmhouse restaurant. In addition to the kitchen, today Chiotti also personally tends to his garden and animals, a nod to his philosophy of honoring the deep connection between agriculture, farming, and cooking.
REIS Cibo Libero di Montagna uses locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage. Chef Juri Chiotti takes inspiration from his native land, incorporating traditional recipes and innovative techniques to create a unique dining experience.
Getting to Valle Maira and Valle Varaita from Turin:
- For this Turin day trip, consider a car rental for the day since it’s in the mountains to hit both locations. Note that Valle Maira is furthest distance and Valle Varaita is on the way down (or up!) Read about Turin car-sharing services that allow easy and cost effective daily car rentals from the city.
- Local buses reach Maira Valley via two lines: Cuneo – Dronero – Roccabruna, Cuneo – Acceglio.
- Hire a guide service and/or transfer service.
Day trip to Lake Maggiore
A day trip from Turin to Lake Maggiore lets you explore some of Northern Italy’s most jaw dropping beauty. Lake Maggiore, located on the border between Italy and Switzerland hypnotizes with charming lakeside towns and stunning panoramic views.
Stresa: Begin your day trip with a comfortable train ride from Turin to Stresa, one of Lake Maggiore’s most popular towns. The train journey itself offers scenic views of the Italian countryside. In Stresa, Lake Maggiore’s azure waters are framed by a majestic mountains backdrop. Stroll the lakeside promenade enjoying the refreshing breeze and admiring the charming architecture of the lakeside villas.
Borromean Islands: One of Stresa’s highlights is the Borromean Islands, a group of small islands just off its shore. Take a boat tour to visit Isola Bella, known for its stunning palazzo and beautifully manicured gardens. Explore the palace adorned with masterful artwork and lavish interiors and wander the meticulously designed terraced gardens. Another island to visit is Isola dei Pescatori, a small fishing village with quaint narrow streets and lively restaurants serving delicious fresh catch.
If time permits, take a cable car ride up to Mount Mottarone for a breathtaking panoram of the lake and surrounding mountains. From the summit, marvel at the extraordinary beauty of Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, and the Italian Alps.
Getting to Stresa from Turin:
The fastest route from Turin to Stresa is about 1hr 42m by train. One or two trains departing hourly starting from 4:54. From the Torino Porta Nuova station, make a change in Milan. For return travel, the last trains leaves at 22:54 / 10:54 p.m.
Day trip to the Langhe region
For wine enthusiasts and food lovers, a day trip to the Langhe region is an absolute must. Located in the heart of Piedmont, this area is famous for its vineyards, truffles, and exquisite cuisine. I get a lot of guests doing Turin day trips to Barolo, which is why you find a lot of content about the train journey on Girl’s Gotta Drink. Read: How to do a Barolo Day Trip from Turin.
Alba: Begin your journey in the charming town of Alba, the wine town directly between Barolo and Barbaresco – and, my home! In Alba’s historic center, explore its medieval streets lined with gourmet shops and traditional trattorias. Don’t miss the Roman wall in Piazza Pertinace!
Barolo tours: Visit a local winery and indulge in wine tastings, savoring the rich flavors of Barolo, Barbaresco, and other renowned wines. Discover the ancient art of truffle hunting and enjoy a culinary experience like no other savoring traditional dishes infused with the earthy aroma of this prized delicacy. The Langhe region is a feast for the senses, offering a perfect blend of gastronomy and enchanting landscapes.
Getting to Alba from Turin:
Alba is an easy – and direct – train ride from the Torino Porta Susa station. Trains run hourly leaving Torino Porta Susa at 35 minutes past the hour, starting from 5:35. The last train back to Turin at at 19:30 / 7:35 p.m. Travel time is about 1h 15m.
Day trip to Sacra di San Michele
Perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the Susa Valley, find Sacra di San Michele, a place of great spiritual significance and architectural beauty. Known as the “Symbol of Piedmont,” the medieval abbey attracts visitors the world over with its stunning panoramas and rich history. The abbey captivates with its impressive façade and intricate details.
Once inside, explore the chapels, cloisters, and crypts, each offering a glimpse into the abbey – and region’s – layered past. Climb to the top of the bell tower to soak in the sweeping views and peaceful tranquility. The Sacra di San Michele is a place of serenity and contemplation, offering a unique day trip from Turin that is both awe-inspiring and reflective.
After the walk, stop for an artisanal beer at the Birrificio di San Michele, located in a historic building from 1860, embraced by the sources of Mount Pirchiriano, at the foot of the Sacra di San Michele. Next door, the brewery’s restaurant serves up incredible hamburgers made strictly from Piedmontese Fassona beef and homemade desserts. Naturally, the waiters suggest the perfect beer pairings.
Getting to Sacra di San Michele from Turin
Several public transit options exist from the city center. Find the complete list on the Sacra di Michele website.
Day trip to the Royal Palace of Venaria
No visit to Turin would be complete without a day trip to the magnificent Royal Palace of Venaria. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this masterpiece of Baroque architecture is a testament to the grandeur of the House of Savoy. Explore the opulent rooms adorned with frescoes and intricate decor ushering visitors back to the lavish royal lifestyle of a bygone era.
Wander the expansive gardens with its meticulously manicured lawns and elegant fountains, and marvel at the beauty all around. Visit the stables, now transformed into exhibition spaces where you discover the fascinating history of the palace and its inhabitants. The Royal Palace of Venaria is a true gem of Turin’s cultural heritage and a must-see destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Getting to the Royal Palace of Venaria from Turin
The Royal Palace is about 10 km / 6 miles outside of Turin, making it easily accessible by car, train, bus, or even bike. Find a list of transportation options on the Venaria website.
Day Trip to Genoa
Genoa, known in Italian Genova, is the vibrant capital of the Liguria region. During the Middle Ages this major Mediterranean sea port was one of the most powerful maritime republics.
Sights and sounds: The city’s charming old town, Genoa’s Centro Storico is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors explore narrow winding streets, medieval architecture, and picturesque squares, like Piazza De Ferrari. The city is also famous for its ancient port, Porto Antico where you find museums, shops, and restaurants in its revitalized bustling waterfront.
A city of cultural significance, Genoa is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and the home of several art galleries and museums, like the Palazzo Ducale and the Galata Maritime Museum. The city’s magnetic atmosphere comes to life with its annual festivals and events, like the Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare.
Genoa is renowned for its delicious cuisine.
Don’t miss the seafood dishes, focaccia bread, and pesto sauce. Try one of our Genoa walking tours for history, culture, and amazing food. We even have a city center pesto making class!
The Aquarium of Genoa: Don’t miss the city’s famed aquarium, Acquario di Genova, the largest aquarium in Italy. The 33,000-square-foot aquarium is located in Genoa’s Old Harbor area, welcoming more than 1.2 million visitors annually.
Getting to the Genoa from Turin
Genoa is an easy direct train ride from Turin with approximate travel times of about 1hr 56m. Direct trains run from the Torino Lingotto station to Genoa Piazza Principe station in the city’s historic center. Lingotto is a quick train ride from the Torino Porta Nuova station or access by bus from your lodging.
Tips for planning day trips from Turin
When planning your Turin day trip, consider these tips:
- Check the weather forecast for your destination as it may effect your activities and clothing you should pack.
- Research opening hours and any entrance fees for attractions or museums.
- Pack a picnic or plan for meals in advance as some destinations may have limited dining options.
- Find water fountains all over the cities and towns. For sustainable travel, pack a water bottle.
We hope you like our picks for the Best Turin Day Trips!
Exploring beyond Turin’s borders opens up a world of beyond the pulse of the city. From the enchanting castles and picturesque lakes to the rich history and breathtaking landscapes, these destinations leave a lasting impression.
Book your Turin day trips and start planning your Piedmont travel,
CLICK HERE!
Read More:
- An Insider’s Guide to Turin Food and Wine
- Don’t Use Uber in Turin: Insider Tips for Getting Around
- Turin’s Best-Kept Secrets: Historical Landmarks To Architectural Delights
- The Best Turin Day Trips for more Northern Italy Travel
- Renaissance To Modernism: Tracing Turin’s Architectural Tapestry
- Turin Day Tours: Royals to Juventus, Explore the City’s Sports History
- 5 Things to do in Turin for Free
- How to do a Barolo Day Trip from Turin
