Italy’s first capital pairs baroque royal palaces with the country’s best chocolate tradition and a surprising claim to hold the Shroud of Turin.
Why Visit Turin
Turin often gets overlooked by visitors rushing between Milan and the rest of Italy, but the city was Italy’s first capital and its royal palaces and grand arcaded streets reflect that history. As the historic capital of chocolate making in Italy, Turin gave the world gianduja and remains one of the best cities in the country for hot chocolate and pastries. The Shroud of Turin, one of Christianity’s most debated relics, is housed in the city’s cathedral.
Top Experiences
- Mole Antonelliana: a striking tower now home to the National Museum of Cinema, with an elevator to a rooftop viewpoint.
- Royal Palace of Turin: a UNESCO listed baroque palace, once home to the Savoy royal family.
- Turin Cathedral: home to the Shroud of Turin, a relic said to bear the image of Christ.
- Egyptian Museum: the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities outside of Cairo.
- Piazza Castello: the grand baroque square at the heart of Turin’s historic center.
Book Turin Tours & Activities
Explore Turin’s royal palaces and chocolate shops, or take a day trip into the Piedmont wine region with guided tours from the city.
Discover Langhe wines with private tour and expert sommelier
Private tour: discover Langhe wines with expert sommelier
With Edo - The Forgotten Wine Roads of Piedmont · From Turin
Hands-On Turin Cooking Class with Gnocchi, Wine & Chocolate
Practical Tips
- Bicerin, a Turin specialty drink layering coffee, chocolate, and cream, is worth seeking out in a historic cafe.
- The Shroud of Turin is only displayed to the public periodically, but a faithful replica is on view in the cathedral.
- Turin is a good base for day trips into the Piedmont wine region, known for Barolo and Barbaresco wines.
- The Egyptian Museum requires at least two to three hours to appreciate fully.
FAQ
Is Turin worth visiting?
Yes, its royal palaces, chocolate tradition, and world class Egyptian antiquities collection make it one of Italy’s most underrated cities.
Why is Turin associated with chocolate?
Turin is considered the historic capital of Italian chocolate making, having invented gianduja and maintained a strong chocolate cafe culture for centuries.
Final Thoughts
Turin’s royal history, chocolate tradition, and access to Piedmont’s wine country make it one of Italy’s most rewarding cities for travelers willing to look past Rome, Florence, and Venice.
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