Torino

Torino (Turin) is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and, of course, the nearby mountains that offer some lovely hiking opportunities. Let’s make the most of your two days!

Day 1: Exploring Torino

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious Italian breakfast. Head to a local café like Caffè Al Bicerin, famous for its hot chocolate and coffee. Enjoy a pastry while soaking in the ambiance.

• Visit the Mole Antonelliana: After breakfast, take a stroll to the iconic Mole Antonelliana. You can go up to the panoramic terrace for stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to get your bearings!

Midday:

• Lunch in the Quadrilatero Romano: This charming neighborhood is filled with quaint restaurants and cafes. Try some local specialties like agnolotti (stuffed pasta) or a classic pizza.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Royal Palace of Turin: After lunch, visit the Royal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The gardens are lovely for a leisurely walk, and the palace itself is filled with opulent rooms and fascinating history.

• Stroll through Parco del Valentino: Head to this beautiful park along the Po River. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, and you can even check out the medieval village replica within the park.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Traditional Trattoria: For dinner, find a cozy trattoria in the city center. Enjoy some local wine and dishes like vitello tonnato (veal with tuna sauce) or bagna cauda (a warm dip made with garlic and anchovies).

• Gelato for Dessert: No trip to Italy is complete without gelato! Grab a scoop (or two) from a nearby gelateria to end your day on a sweet note.

Day 2: Hiking in the Mountains

Morning:

• Early Breakfast and Departure: Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café. Then, head to the train station to catch a train to Susa Valley or the nearby mountains. The train ride offers beautiful views and takes about an hour.

• Start Your Hike: Once you arrive, choose a simple hiking trail. The Colle del Sestriere area is a great option for beginners, with stunning views and well-marked paths. The hike can take a couple of hours, depending on how far you want to go.

Midday:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab some local snacks before you head out. Enjoy your lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery.

Afternoon:

• Continue Hiking or Explore: If you’re feeling adventurous, continue exploring the trails. Alternatively, you can visit a nearby village like Cesana Torinese, where you can wander around and enjoy the alpine charm.

Evening:

• Return to Torino: Head back to Torino in the late afternoon. Once you’re back, you might want to relax a bit at your hotel or a local café.

• Dinner and Evening Stroll: For your final dinner, try a restaurant that specializes in Piedmont cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the city, perhaps along the Po River, to soak in the evening atmosphere.

And there you have it! A delightful two-day itinerary that balances the urban charm of Torino with the natural beauty of the nearby mountains. Enjoy your trip! 🌄🍝