Turin is in northern Italy and is known for its refined architecture, museums, palaces and churches. Of course, one of the most famous attractions that draws many visitors each year is the Shroud of Turin, with many believing it to be the buriel garment of Jesus Christ.

We only had a couple of days in Turin, so were not able to explore it fully. Even so, we think there is plenty to see there and would encourage you to check out various tourism sites for Turin to ensure you see the main attractions. We stayed in the Best Western Crystal Palace Hotel mainly because it was right next door to the train station of Porto Nuova which we needed for our next destination. However, it was well placed in relation to major tourist attractions which were an easy walk from the hotel.

If you have time we would suggest the following attractions, with some additional ones mentioned below.

  1. The Shroud of Turin – is housed in a relatively humble looking Church, known as the Cathedral of St John the Baptist. The Shroud itself is rarely displayed to the public, and is housed in a purpose built Royal Chapel inside the Cathedral, but there are replicas of the Shroud on display so that you are able to see what the images on the Shroud look like. The Church might look humble on the outside, but it is quite beautiful inside.
  2. Egyptian Museum – many tourists would be surprised to know that Turin hosts the largest Egyptian Museum outside Egypt. This was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon and there were some amazing displays throughout the museum. We would highly recommend a visit here.
  3. Royal Palace of Turin – most royal palaces are never understated, and this one is no exception. If you don’t get time to visit it, the link to the palace website will give you some idea of the grandeur and beauty of this place.

Travel Tips

  • We think Turin is a hidden gem, so if you are planning on stopping here we would suggest a good few days to get a feel of this city.

Travel Alerts

  • We felt perfectly safe in Turin, and also found it less busy than other Italian cities.

Travel Adventures

  • Palazzo Madama – this beautiful building was originally the first Senate of the Italian Kingdom. It now houses the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art. It houses a large collection of paintings, statues, church ornaments, porcelain, and decorative art.
  • Mole Antonelliana Towers – a mole in Italian is a building of monumental proportions. It is a landmark in the city of Turin.
  • Santuario della Consolata – standing as one of the oldest places of worship in Turin this small church is quite beautiful and full of rich features.