One day trip from Turin: 10 places non to be missed

Turin, the capital of Piedmont, is a city rich in history and culture, but its surroundings offer just as many wonders to explore, perfect if you want to venture out for day trips from Turin.

If you are planning a one day trip from Turin for a break from the city heat, here is a list of ten easily accessible destinations, each with its own special characteristics and charm to offer you.

Start by visiting a small town located in the Susa Valley, famous for its Roman remains. We recommend visiting the Arch of Augustus, an imposing triumphal arch erected in 9 BC, and the Roman Amphitheater, where shows and gladiatorial combats were held.

Strolling through the streets of the historic center, you will come across the Castle of Countess Adelaide, a medieval fortress that offers a panoramic view of the valley. The town of Susa is also a gateway to the Cottian Alps, perfect for those who love mountain hiking.

Head towards one of the most renowned Alpine locations in Piedmont, perfect for a summer trip away from the heat. During the summer, but not only, Bardonecchia turns into a true paradise for hikers and cyclists.

You can hike along the numerous trails that wind through the woods and mountains, or enjoy a relaxing walk along the stream. For adrenaline lovers, there is also the possibility to practice sports such as climbing and rafting.

A must-see recommendation, do not forget to visit the historic center with its picturesque stone and wood houses, in order to experience a carefree weekend and continue your journey through day trips from Turin.

Well arrived at this point, you could continue towards the Sacra di San Michele, an abbey located on Mount Pirchiriano, about 40 km from Turin.

It represents an imposing medieval monastery and is one of the symbols of Piedmont famous for inspiring the novel "The Name of the Rose" by Italian author Umberto Eco. A visit to the Sacra not only offers a lesson in history and art, but also a breathtaking view of the Susa Valley and the surrounding Alps.

To reach it, there is a designated panoramic path that starts from the village of Sant'Ambrogio, and is recommended for hiking enthusiasts.

A curiosity about the Abbey is that it is one of the 7 sanctuaries created by the sword of the Archangel Michael that form a straight line: Skellig Michael (Ireland), St Michael's Mount (Great Britain), Mont Saint Michel (France), the Sacra di San Michele (Piedmont), San Michele (Puglia), the Monastery of San Michele (Greece) and the Monastery of Mount Carmel (Israel).

According to legend, this sacred line was drawn by the sword strike that St. Michael inflicted on the Devil to send him to hell.

Stop in this land of hills covered with vineyards, the Langhe, are a must-visit destination for food and wine lovers, in fact here you can visit some of the most renowned wineries in Italy and taste famous wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco.

In addition to the vineyards, the Langhe offer picturesque medieval villages like Barolo, La Morra, and Monforte d'Alba, where you can stroll through ancient streets and ancient castles. 

If you're wondering what are the best day trips from Turin to enjoy the Piedmontese culinary tradition, the Langhe are the answer.

Proceed towards the Avigliana Lakes, located a few kilometers from Turin, offering an oasis of tranquility immersed in nature. The natural park of the Avigliana Lakes includes two lakes, the Lago Grande and the Lago Piccolo, surrounded by forests and green meadows.

Here you can do activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing, or simply relax and have a picnic on the shores of the lakes. For a cultural outing, visit the medieval village of Avigliana with its castle and historic churches.

The Tumpi of Bobbio Pellice are spectacular natural pools located in the Valdesi Valleys, about 70 km from Turin. These pools are formed by the Pellice river flowing through the rocks, creating a series of waterfalls and crystal clear pools.

During the summer, the Tumpi are an ideal place to cool off and take a bath immersed in untouched nature. This hidden paradise is perfect for picnics and walks in the surrounding woods.

If you're choosing between different day trips from Turin for a nature-immersed and refreshing experience, Bobbio Pellice is the ideal destination.

Change area and experience the Zoom in Turin, a biopark located in Cumiana, about 30 km from Turin. This park offers a unique experience of contact with the fauna from different continents, without the classic barriers of traditional zoos.

You can observe closely animals such as giraffes, lions, tigers, and hippos, and participate in educational and conservation programs. Zoom is a perfect destination for families with children, but also for anyone who loves nature and animals.

The Natural Park of Lake Candia is a protected area located to the east of Turin, which includes a glacial lake and a variety of natural habitats. The park is an ideal place for birdwatching, with numerous species of birds living in its marshes and forests.

You can go hiking or biking along the park's trails, or rent a boat to explore the lake. Its calm waters are perfect for rowing and swimming. Among the best day trips from Turin, Lake Candia is an excellent choice, where the key words are relaxation and nature.

Now head towards the Fenestrelle Fort, one of the largest fortifications in Europe, located in the Chisone and Germanasca valleys. This imposing military complex, built by the Savoys in the 18th century, extends for over three kilometers along the mountainside.

You can explore its numerous towers, bastions, and underground galleries with guided tours that tell the history and architecture of the fort. The view from the walls is simply breathtaking. A visit to the Fenestrelle Fort is a journey back in time, perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Do you know the Hunting Lodge of Stupinigi? It is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, located in Nichelino, near Turin. This elegant palace, built in the 18th century for the Savoy family, was used as a hunting residence and leisure place.

Today, you can visit its magnificent halls, decorated with frescoes and period furniture, and stroll through its vast Italian gardens.

Stupinigi also hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions, attracting many visitors from all over the world. It has become a versatile destination for a trip from Turin, where now there is the possibility to get married. Just last month, a couple of young influencers, Raissa Russi e Momo, said the fateful "Yes" at the Hunting Lodge, making their marriage unforgettable.

If you have different options to choose from for the best day trips from Turin among culture, exhibitions and events, Stupinigi is the perfect destination.