When friends tell me they want to take a day trip to Turin, I panic a little.
Why?
Because there is so much to see and I want them to see it all (which is impossible… but we try 😂).
But don’t worry. This 24-hour Turin itinerary will leave you satisfied, well-fed, and able to say you’ve experienced some of the best of the city.
Let me just say this now:
Turin is royal, historic, and arguably one of the best food cities in Italy.
Don’t argue with me… I said what I said.
Before You Start
If you only have 24 hours and:
- you’re not trying to enter every museum
- you’re happy to walk (a lot… like a lot)
- you want to eat and drink well
Then this itinerary is for you.
You’ll be walking through elegant porticoes, discovering hidden corners, and stopping for some of the best local food along the way.
Before you go, check out my guide on 5 Drinks You Must Try When You Visit Turin (perfect for your aperitivo later).
And if you’re curious about the city beyond a day trip, have a look at Best Areas to Live in Turin, Italy (Expat Guide 2026).
Morning: The Royal Welcome & Roman Roots
9:00 AM – Start at Porta Nuova
Torino Porta Nuova is the perfect starting point.
From here, head straight down Via Roma, and just like that, you’re under Turin’s famous porticoes.
These covered walkways were designed to keep royalty dry during rainstorms practical and elegant (very on brand for Turin).
Walk through:
- Piazza San Carlo (also known as Turin’s “drawing room”)
- admire the twin churches
- then continue toward Piazza Castello
Take your time here. Look up. Turin is all about the details.
10:30 AM – The Historic Coffee Ritual
Now we get serious… coffee time.
Make your way into the Quadrilatero Romano, the oldest part of the city. Medieval buildings, Roman foundations this area has layers.
Head to:
Piazza della Consolata
and find Caffè Al Bicerin
This place has been serving locals since 1763.
What to order:
Bicerin Turin’s iconic drink made of:
- espresso
- hot chocolate
- cold cream
(You’ll also see this in my 5 Drinks You Must Try When You Visit Turin guide.)
Local tip (very important ):
Do NOT stir it.
The magic is in the layers:
- hot
- cold
- bitter
- sweet
Trust the process.
Sit outside if the weather is nice, enjoy the atmosphere, and do a bit of people-watching. There’s a church right opposite feel free to pop your head in after.
Afternoon: Views & Casual Local Food
12:30 PM – A Clever, Comfort Lunch
Skip the heavy, multi-course lunch.
Instead, try something quick but very satisfying:
They serve massive, fluffy jacket potatoes stuffed with local ingredients.
(Important note for my fellow Brits:
No baked beans, butter, and cheddar here… I know, I know 😭)
Look for fillings with:
- stracciatella
- local cheeses
- fresh herbs
Alternatively:
Grab something from a panetteria or focacceria near Piazza 4 Marzo for a quick slice of fresh, crispy bread.
Simple. Local. Perfect.
Evening: Aperitivo & Italian Dinner Culture
5:30 PM – Aperitivo Time
Now you’re entering one of the best parts of Italian culture.
Head to:
- Piazza Vittorio Veneto
- or back to the Quadrilatero Romano
Turin is the birthplace of vermouth, so this is not optional.
Order:
- a cocktail
- or a local wine
And enjoy the small plates that come with your drink.
If you’re not sure what to order, check my guide: 5 Drinks You Must Try When You Visit Turin.
8:00 PM – A Proper Piedmontese Dinner
Finish your day at a traditional piola (local tavern).
This is where you slow down and eat properly.
What to order:
- Agnolotti del Plin
Small, delicate pasta filled and served with butter and sage - Tajarin
Rich egg pasta, often with truffle or butter - Tomini
Soft local cheeses, sometimes served with bagnet verd (a garlic and parsley sauce)
A Quick Note About Italian Dining
Dinner is not rushed.
You’ll sit, eat, talk… and before you know it, it’s 10:30 or even 11:00 PM.
And honestly? That’s part of the experience.
End of Your 24 Hours in Turin
After a full day of walking, eating, and exploring, it’s time to head back to your hotel.
You’ll be tired but in a good way.
24 hours in Turin is not enough.
But it is enough to fall in love with the city.
And once you do… you’ll be back.
I hope you found this guide useful.
If you have any suggestions, feel free to leave a comment.
See you in the next post
