With stunning Baroque architecture, a string of world-class museums and a thriving café scene, Turin is one of Italy’s great underrated destinations. Often overshadowed by its northern rival Milan, it’s a good year-round destination, offering sights and activities for every season.
There are no hard and fast tourist seasons, but as a general rule, spring and early fall are the best times to visit, both in terms of weather and cultural events.
Spring (March to May) is the best time for cultural events and Easter festivities
Turin blossoms in the spring. Towards the end of March, the days begin to lengthen and temperatures begin to climb, eventually reaching around 20°C (68°F). Rain is still likely, so be prepared for spring showers.
Traditional celebrations take place at Easter while a busy calendar of events means there is always something going on. Note, however, that late spring is one of the city’s most popular times with accommodation prices skyrocketing during major events.
Summer (June to August) is the best time for outdoor concerts
Summer is hot and humid in Turin, which makes sightseeing difficult. Expect temperatures of 80°F (26.5°C) and higher, as well as occasional thunderstorms, usually in the late afternoon or evening.
It’s the season to explore the city’s parks, enjoy the Po River bar scene and catch an outdoor concert. Concerts aside, August is a quiet month, so look for accommodation deals as hoteliers try to attract visitors to the city.
Fall (September to November) is the best time for earthy colors and sweet treats
September and October are the best months to visit Turin. The weather is nice and the city looks great in its fall colors. For culture vultures, there are plenty of events, concerts and exhibitions to discover, while foodies can feast on autumn specialties such as freshly dug truffles.
September and October are considered high season, but prices drop in November when it’s usually quite cold and wet.
Winter (December to February) is the best time to dress up and hunt
There is no denying that Turin gets very cold in the winter. On the other hand, it does not rain much and if you are lucky you may be able to enjoy the winter sun. It’s usually pretty quiet in town, but head to the nearby alpine resorts and you’ll find that ski season is in full swing.
Christmas sees exciting light shows and Carnival brings a flurry of fancy dress. If not, it’s time to explore crowd-free venues and hunt for bargains during the winter sales.
Enjoy hot chocolate and winter bargains in January
Winter sets in as New Year celebrations fade. The days are cold, regularly dipping below zero at night, but you might catch some sun or even snow. Warm up with a traditional Turinese hot chocolate, a bicerin and look for bargains during the winter sales.
The key events: Winter sales
Costume Carnival in February
The great carnival jinks brighten up the cold February winter days. Children wear fancy dress and fun-loving adults enjoy theme nights and costume parties. Outside the city, skiers flock to the slopes of popular alpine resorts in Piedmont.
Key events: Seeyousound; ski season
Explore Museums in March
March often brings changeable weather, so while it’s usually a little warmer, there’s a greater chance of rain. Crowds are still rare on the ground, making it an ideal month to explore the royal palaces and marvelous museums of the city.
The key events: Biennale Democrazia; Giornate FAI from Primavera
Market products and sacred music in April
April is a great month to visit with longer and warmer days, beautiful colors and markets bursting with ripe seasonal produce. Settimana Santa (Holy Week) and Easter see religious celebrations and concerts in the town’s historic churches.
The key events: Automotoretrò & Automotoracing; Lovers Film Festival
Discover lively bars and cultural events in May
May is a busy month, as well as the wettest in Turin. By now it’s usually warm enough to sit outside and the city’s outdoor bars and sidewalk cafes are buzzing. A number of high-profile events, including Italy’s premier book fair, guarantee crowds and prizes in high season.
The key events: Salone Internazionale del Libro; CinemaAmbiente Festival; INTERPLAY International Contemporary Dance Festival
Holy festivals and contemporary dance in June
Summer has arrived and with it hot and humid weather and school holidays. Turin celebrates its patron saint on the evening of the 23rd with fireworks and a giant bonfire in Piazza Castello while contemporary performances take place in theaters across the city.
Main events: Festa di San Giovanni; Torinesi Hills Festival
Sales and summer sounds in July
Torino’s sweltering temperatures as hot summer temperatures make sightseeing an endurance activity. Step into the shade of the city’s porticoes to unearth bargains from the summer sales before a rocking evening at an open-air concert.
The key events: Kappa FuturFestival; Flower Festival; Sonic Park Stupingi
Search hotel deals in August
Residents are fleeing the city for their summer holidays and many businesses closed around August 15. Look for hotel deals and concerts at the popular TOdays festival. Cool down with a fabulous ice cream.
The key events: Today Festival
Perfect weather and top events in September
As the summer heat recedes, children return to school and locals return to work. But it’s peak time for visitors with great weather and fabulous events on the calendar. High season rates apply.
The key events: MITO Settembre Musica; Torinodanza Festival; Terra Madre – Salone del Gusto; Torino Jazz Festival
Feast on truffles and chocolate in October
Turin’s flamboyant autumn foliage is the perfect setting for decadent treats, ranging from earthy truffles and rich red wine to Turin’s famous chocolate. Temperatures are starting to drop, so this could be your last chance to dine al fresco.
The key events: Cioccolato
Discover cinema and contemporary art in November
It’s cold and wet outside, so it’s time to head inside. In addition to blockbuster museums, you can enjoy film screenings, contemporary art exhibitions and spectacular light installations. Expect few tourists and low season prices.
The key events: C2C festival; Contemporary Art Torino Piemonte; Lucia d’Artista; Torino Film Festival
Christmas markets in December
Seasonal joy cuts through freezing winter temperatures as you approach Natale – Christmas lights come on, churches chime to classical concerts and festive markets spring up across town.
The key events: Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8); Christmas markets