Turin Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts for 2025
Pressed for time? Here are the essential details for planning your Milan to Turin day trip. Get the key info you need to start your adventure right away!
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Milan | ~145 km (90 miles) |
| Fastest Travel Time | ~1 hour by high-speed train |
| Average Cost (Per Person) | €70 – €120 (transport, food, 1-2 attractions) |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (April-June) & Fall (September-October) |
Is a Day Trip to Turin from Milan Worth It?
Absolutely, yes! While many travelers flock to Italy’s more famous cities, Turin (Torino) remains an elegant, underrated gem just waiting to be discovered. Often overlooked, this grand city was the first capital of a unified Italy and the historic home of the House of Savoy, the country’s former royal family. The result is a city of regal charm, with sprawling Baroque piazzas, magnificent palaces, and wide, arcaded boulevards that feel distinctly Parisian.
But Turin’s appeal goes far beyond its royal history. It’s a paradise for culture vultures, boasting the world’s most important Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo and the whimsical National Museum of Cinema housed in its iconic Mole Antonelliana. For foodies, it’s a dream destination—the birthplace of gianduja (the original hazelnut chocolate spread), the decadent Bicerin coffee drink, and the city that perfected the art of the aperitivo. Best of all, its compact and walkable city center makes it perfectly manageable for a single day of exploration. If you’re looking for a day trip from Milan that combines sophistication, world-class sights, and incredible food, Turin is an unbeatable choice.
How to Get From Milan to Turin
Covering the distance from Milan to Turin is incredibly straightforward, with several convenient options to suit every budget and travel style. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to make the journey.
By Train: The Fastest and Easiest Option
We highly recommend traveling by train. It’s fast, efficient, and drops you right in the heart of the city, ready to explore. You’ll depart from Milan’s main stations (Milano Centrale or Porta Garibaldi) and arrive at Turin’s (Torino Porta Nuova or Porta Susa), both of which are centrally located.
| Train Type | Travel Time | Average Cost (One-Way) | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frecciarossa (High-Speed) | ~1 hour | €25 – €50+ | Travelers seeking speed, comfort, and convenience. |
| Regionale Veloce (Regional) | ~1 hour 50 minutes | ~€12.70 (fixed price) | Budget travelers who don’t mind a longer journey. |
Pro-Tip: For the best prices on the high-speed Frecciarossa trains, book your tickets a few weeks in advance on the Trenitalia or Italo websites. Prices can increase significantly closer to the date of travel.
By Car: For Flexibility
Driving from Milan to Turin takes about 1.5 to 2 hours without traffic via the A4 motorway. While it offers flexibility, it comes with significant downsides. Tolls will cost approximately €12 each way, and parking in central Turin is a major challenge. The city has a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato or Limited Traffic Zone) that restricts non-resident vehicle access. Finding parking is difficult and expensive, often costing around €2.50 per hour in garages. This option is only recommended if you plan to explore the wider Piedmont region beyond Turin.
By Bus: The Budget Choice
For those on the tightest of budgets, services like Flixbus offer a very cheap way to travel between the two cities. Fares can be as low as €5, but the journey is the longest, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours. It’s a viable option, but the train offers a much better balance of cost and time for a day trip.
Top 5 Things to Do on a Turin Day Trip
With just one day, you’ll want to focus on the highlights. This curated list covers the absolute must-see attractions that are easily achievable on a day tour from Milan to Torino.
- Visit the Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio)
Prepare to be astonished. This is not just any museum; it’s the world’s most significant collection of Egyptian antiquities outside of Cairo. Home to over 30,000 artifacts, including monumental statues, sarcophagi, and the stunning Tomb of Kha, it’s an immersive journey back in time.
- Location: Via Accademia delle Scienze, 6
- Price: €18
- Pro-Tip: This is Turin’s most popular attraction. You must book tickets online at least a week in advance to avoid disappointment and skip the notoriously long queues.
- Ascend the Mole Antonelliana
The undisputed symbol of Turin, this towering 19th-century structure with its striking spire dominates the city skyline. Inside, it hosts the fascinating National Museum of Cinema. The real highlight, however, is the panoramic glass lift that whisks you to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps.
- Location: Via Montebello, 20
- Price: Museum €12, Panoramic Lift €8, Combined €17
- Pro-Tip: The queue for the lift can be long. If you’re short on time, prioritize the lift for the incredible views.
- Explore the Royal Heart of Turin (Piazza Castello)
This is the grand central square where Turin’s royal past comes to life. It’s flanked by two magnificent palaces: the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) and the Palazzo Madama. You don’t need to go inside to appreciate the grandeur; simply strolling through the piazza, admiring the architecture, and soaking in the atmosphere is an essential Turin experience.
- Location: Piazza Castello
- Price: Free to explore the square
- Pro-Tip: Grab a gelato from a nearby shop and enjoy it on a bench while people-watching in this historic square.
- Savor a Historic Drink at a Caffè
Turin is famous for its elegant, old-world cafés. You cannot leave without trying a Bicerin, a heavenly layered drink of espresso, hot chocolate, and thick cream, served in a small glass. The best place to have it is at its birthplace, the tiny and atmospheric Caffè al Bicerin, which has been serving it since 1763.
- Location: Piazza della Consolata, 5
- Price: A Bicerin costs around €6-€8
- Pro-Tip: Be prepared to wait for a table at Caffè al Bicerin, especially on weekends. It’s a small, historic institution, and the experience is worth it.
- Experience Aperitivo Culture
Before heading back to Milan, immerse yourself in a cherished local ritual: the aperitivo. In Turin, this is more than just a pre-dinner drink; it’s a feast. Order a cocktail or glass of wine, and you’ll often get access to an extensive buffet of delicious snacks, from cheeses and cured meats to pasta salads and small pizzas.
- Location: Quadrilatero Romano district
- Price: €10-€15 per drink (includes food)
- Pro-Tip: Head to the lively Quadrilatero Romano (Roman Quarter) district, where the narrow streets are packed with fantastic bars offering generous aperitivo spreads. It can easily serve as a light, affordable dinner.
Sample 1-Day Turin Itinerary from Milan
Here’s a step-by-step plan to help you make the most of your day trip, balancing major sights with moments of relaxation.
- 8:00 AM: Catch a high-speed Frecciarossa train from Milano Centrale. Grab a coffee and pastry for the journey.
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Torino Porta Nuova station. Take a 15-minute walk through the arcaded streets towards the city center.
- 10:00 AM: Begin your pre-booked visit to the magnificent Egyptian Museum. Allow at least 2.5 hours to do it justice.
- 1:00 PM: Time for lunch! Find a traditional piola (a casual Piedmontese trattoria) for some Agnolotti del Plin, or grab a quick and delicious piadina near Piazza Castello.
- 2:30 PM: Explore Piazza Castello and then make your way to the Mole Antonelliana. Take the panoramic lift to the top for unforgettable views.
- 5:00 PM: It’s time for a well-deserved break. Indulge in a historic Bicerin at Caffè al Bicerin or simply wander through the elegant shopping arcades of Via Roma.
- 6:30 PM: Dive into local culture with a classic Turin aperitivo in the vibrant Quadrilatero Romano district.
- 8:00 PM: Stroll back to Porta Nuova station to catch your evening train back to Milan, filled with memories of Italy’s royal city.
Where to Eat in Turin: From Bicerin to Barolo
Turin’s culinary scene is a highlight of any visit. The Piedmont region is renowned for its rich cuisine, fine wines, and, of course, chocolate!
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Bicerin: The iconic layered drink of coffee, chocolate, and cream.
- Gianduiotto: Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth hazelnut chocolates shaped like an upturned boat.
- Agnolotti del Plin: Tiny, hand-pinched pasta parcels typically stuffed with meat and served with a simple butter and sage sauce.
- Vitello Tonnato: A regional classic of thinly sliced veal covered in a creamy tuna and caper sauce.
Restaurant & Café Recommendations
| Name | Vibe / Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Caffè al Bicerin | Historic & Tiny / The Original Bicerin | €€ |
| Cianci Piola Caffè | Buzzing & Traditional / Piedmontese Classics | € |
| Porto di Savona | Historic Trattoria / Under the arcades | €€ |
| Smile Tree | Lively Bar / Excellent Aperitivo | €€ |
Insider Tips for a Perfect Day Trip
Follow this advice to ensure your day in Turin is smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
- Book Everything in Advance: This is the most critical tip! Book your high-speed train tickets and your entry to the Egyptian Museum online well ahead of your visit to save money and avoid wasting precious time in queues.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking! Turin’s center is best explored on foot, and its elegant arcades will tempt you to wander for hours.
- Check Museum Hours: Be aware that many museums across Italy, including some in Turin, are closed on Mondays. Always double-check opening times on the official website before you go.
- Consider the Torino+Piemonte Card: If you’re an ambitious sightseer and plan to visit 3 or more museums or attractions, this city card could offer great value. Do the math before you buy.
- Don’t Skip Aperitivo: We can’t stress this enough! It’s not just a happy hour; it’s an essential cultural experience and a fantastic way to sample local flavors affordably.
What to Pack for a Day in Turin
Travel light, but be prepared with these day trip essentials:
- ✅ Comfortable walking shoes
- ✅ A portable power bank to keep your phone charged
- ✅ A reusable water bottle (you can refill at public fountains)
- ✅ Your camera or smartphone for photos
- ✅ A light jacket or small umbrella, as the weather can change
- ✅ Digital or printed copies of all your tickets and reservations
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Here’s a sample breakdown to help you budget for your day trip from Milan. Costs are estimates and can vary.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return Train Ticket | ~ €26 (Regional) | ~ €50 (Frecciarossa booked early) | ~ €100+ (Flexible Frecciarossa) |
| Lunch & Snacks | €15 (Pizza/Piadina) | €30 (Trattoria) | €60+ (Fine dining) |
| Attractions (1-2) | €17 (Mole Lift + Free Sights) | €35 (Egyptian Museum + Mole) | €50+ (Multiple Museums/Card) |
| Aperitivo/Drinks | €10 (One drink) | €15 (Full aperitivo) | €25+ (Historic café + aperitivo) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~ €68 | ~ €130 | ~ €235+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Turin a good day trip from Milan?
Yes, absolutely. Its proximity (only an hour by fast train), world-class museums, beautiful architecture, and unique food scene make it one of the best and most rewarding day trips from Milan.
Is Turin worth visiting for a day?
Yes. While you can’t see everything, one day is more than enough time to explore the historic center, visit a major museum like the Egyptian Museum or the Mole Antonelliana, enjoy the local café culture, and experience a classic aperitivo before heading home.
Where to go for a day trip from Milan?
Turin is an excellent choice, along with other popular destinations like Lake Como, Bergamo, and Verona. Turin stands out for its grand, royal atmosphere and rich urban feel, offering a different experience from the lakeside or smaller historic towns.
Is the train from Milan to Turin scenic?
The high-speed train journey is not particularly scenic. It primarily crosses the flat, agricultural plains of the Po Valley. The true beauty of this trip lies in the destination, not the journey itself.
Can you see the Shroud of Turin?
The actual Holy Shroud is kept in a climate-controlled case within the Turin Cathedral (Duomo di San Giovanni Battista) and is not on public display. It is only exhibited on very rare occasions, known as “expositions,” which are announced by the Vatican years in advance. You can, however, visit the Chapel of the Holy Shroud where it is housed.
TLDR: Your Milan to Turin Day Trip in a Nutshell
Pressed for time? Here’s the ultra-quick guide. Take the high-speed train (~1 hour) for the best experience. Once you arrive, visit the Egyptian Museum (book tickets in advance!), then ascend the Mole Antonelliana for epic views. Walk through Piazza Castello, treat yourself to a Bicerin coffee at a historic café, and end your day with a classic Turin aperitivo in the Quadrilatero Romano before catching your train back to Milan. Enjoy!
