I visited Turin in July, in the middle of Italy’s sweltering summer. Temperatures in the high 30s, however, don’t dim the grandeur and style of this cultural and historical gem of a city! There are many attractions in Turin, which is known known as Italy’s royal city, and, nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, it offers an array of architectural marvels, historical sites, and delicious cuisine that attract visitors year round. If you’re planning a trip to Turin, here are five must-see attractions that capture the essence of this beautiful city. Its location near the Alps also helped it to host the 2006 Winter Olympics.

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There are flights to Turin, but they aren’t as plentiful or as cheap as flights to Milan’s two airports. Traveling to Milan and then connecting to Turin by train or coach might be a good option if the flight schedules to Turin don’t suit you. Turin is also close to the border of France, so train and coach connections to France, Switzerland are also possible.

It is a lovely city to walk around with-it shady colonnades. I particularly recommend a walk along the river, which offers some lovely views and a bit of serenity. There’s not much shade in some piazzas in central Turin, however, so be sure to bring a shady umbrella with you. Public seating isn’t all that plentiful either. 

Hotels in Turin are reasonable and even at the height of the tourist season, I found a pleasant hotel at a very reasonable price close to the train station. 

You can take guided tours of the city, but if you’d rather explore for yourself, here are some attractions I recommend.

1. The Mole Antonelliana and the National Cinema Museum**

The Mole Antonelliana is Turin’s iconic landmark, originally conceived as a synagogue and completed in 1889. Standing at 167 meters, this towering structure offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Alps. Inside, the Mole houses the National Cinema Museum, one of the best in the world, celebrating Italy’s cinematic legacy. Visitors can explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, which highlight everything from early cinema equipment to the stories behind famous films. A glass elevator takes you to the top, where the breathtaking views of Turin and the nearby Alps make the experience unforgettable.

2. Piazza Castello and the Royal Palace of Turin

At the heart of Turin lies Piazza Castello, surrounded by historical buildings that tell tales of the city’s royal past. The Royal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most famous of these. Once home to the powerful House of Savoy, it showcases opulent interiors, majestic halls, and the incredible Royal Armoury. Art and history enthusiasts will find the Royal Library particularly interesting, as it holds sketches by Leonardo da Vinci, including his iconic “Self-portrait.” Piazza Castello itself is a great spot to relax, enjoy a coffee, and absorb the lively atmosphere of Turin.

3. The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Turin is second only to Cairo’s in its collection and importance and is one of the many attractions in Turin. This museum holds over 30,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, statues, and manuscripts that span centuries of history. Among the highlights are the Tomb of Kha, a well-preserved burial site with original artifacts, and statues of Ramses II and other Egyptian gods. History buffs can easily spend hours exploring the halls, making it a must-visit for anyone intrigued by ancient civilizations.

4. Parco del Valentino and the Medieval Village

Parco del Valentino, along the Po River, is Turin’s most popular park and an ideal place for a leisurely afternoon. The park features scenic walking paths, fountains, and gardens, making it a green oasis within the city. One of its unique attractions is the Borgo Medievale, or Medieval Village, built for the 1884 Turin Exhibition. This charming recreation of a medieval village includes replicas of castles, houses, and artisan workshops, giving visitors a glimpse into medieval life in Italy. The peaceful setting makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

5. The Shroud of Turin at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

For a spiritual experience, visit the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, home to the legendary Shroud of Turin, one of the most famous of the attractions in Turin. The shroud itself is rarely on display, although I heard it would be shown in 2025. The shroud, believed by some to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ, attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Although the original shroud is kept securely in the cathedral’s Chapel of the Holy Shroud and not always on display, a replica is available for viewing. You can visit the Museum of the Holy Shroud (Museo della Sindone, 28, via San Domenico, Turin). When I went there, however, it was closed, with a phone number to ring on the front door. I rang the number, but there was no answer. The cathedral itself is an architectural gem, combining Renaissance elegance with historical significance.

There is much to do and see in Turin, not least of all the wonderful shopping opportunities and excellent restaurants, cafes and gelaterias, and it is a city you should not miss.