GemmaTurin, Italy, often dances under the radar when travelers think about Italian cities. Rome, Florence, Venice—they get all the limelight. But Turin? It’s a hidden gem brimming with elegance, history, and charm. From majestic Baroque architecture to serene piazzas and winding cobbled streets, Turin Old Town offers a sensory feast that will leave you enchanted.
Whether you’re an avid history buff, a casual stroller, or someone who just loves to discover new corners, these 12 scenic walks in Turin Old Town are the perfect way to experience the city. From my own personal experience, wandering these streets can make you feel like you’ve stepped into a living museum while sipping on the city’s vibrant modern energy.
Let’s lace up our walking shoes and dive into these unforgettable strolls.
1. Via Roma – The Heart of Elegance
Starting your journey in Turin Old Town with Via Roma is like opening a grand novel with a golden cover. This long, elegant street is lined with arcades, luxury boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings. Walking here, you’ll notice the mix of Baroque and neoclassical architecture, giving the street a refined, timeless feel.
Take your time to admire the porticoes. They’re not just beautiful—they were built to protect pedestrians from the sun and rain, which shows how Turin combines practicality with beauty. Stop for a coffee at a historic café. Sip slowly. Watch the world go by. There’s a certain rhythm here that instantly makes you feel like a local.
2. Piazza San Carlo – The Living Room of Turin
Next, wander over to Piazza San Carlo, affectionately known as Turin’s living room. This square is perfect for people-watching, enjoying street performances, or just soaking in the majestic twin churches at either end.
From my own personal experience, sitting on one of the benches with a gelato in hand feels like you’ve been given the city’s secret key. Notice the equestrian statue of Emanuele Filiberto in the center. It’s a symbol of Turin’s proud history, yet the square is always alive with a casual, everyday charm that makes you feel grounded.
3. Via Garibaldi – Shopping and Stories
If your idea of exploration includes window-shopping and uncovering local life, Via Garibaldi is your street. One of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, it stretches through the Old Town, offering a mix of high street shops, artisan stores, and cafés.
Walking here, you’ll catch glimpses of street art, charming doorways, and local markets that bring the past and present together. Pause in the smaller alleys off the main road. They often hide tiny courtyards and historic fountains that are like whispered secrets from centuries past.
4. Quadrilatero Romano – Ancient and Alive
The Quadrilatero Romano is the oldest part of Turin and walking its streets feels like stepping back in time. Narrow lanes, medieval buildings, and hidden squares create an intimate, almost storybook-like atmosphere.
Here, you’ll encounter small shops, artisanal bakeries, and quiet cafes that invite you to linger. From my own personal experience, wandering without a map is the best approach. You’ll stumble across unexpected treasures—like an old statue tucked in a corner or a centuries-old fountain with water that has flowed through generations.
5. Via Po – River Views and Arcades
Via Po stretches from Piazza Castello all the way to the river Po, offering a scenic walk with a mix of urban buzz and serene riverside views. The street itself is covered by arcades, giving it a sense of continuity and elegance.
Take your time to stop in the cafes or small boutiques. Look up and admire the architecture. When you reach the river, pause and enjoy the calm water reflecting the city’s skyline. It’s a subtle reminder that sometimes the simplest walks leave the strongest impressions.
6. Piazza Castello – Where History Lives
No trip to Turin Old Town is complete without exploring Piazza Castello. This central square is surrounded by important historic buildings like Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama. Walking here feels like tracing the veins of Turin’s history.
From my own personal experience, visiting early in the morning or late in the evening gives you a different perspective than the busy midday crowd. The light dances differently on the facades, and the square feels almost magical.
7. Via San Tommaso – Hidden Gems
For a quieter, less touristy stroll, Via San Tommaso is a delight. This narrow street hides boutique shops, quaint cafes, and historical details you might miss on more popular routes.
Walking here encourages you to slow down. Stop and peek into courtyards. Notice the decorative balconies. From my own personal experience, some of the most charming Turin moments happen here when you least expect them—like stumbling across a tiny gelato shop with flavors you’ve never seen before.
8. Borgo Dora – Markets and Local Life
If you want to experience Turin’s everyday life, head to Borgo Dora. This district blends historic charm with vibrant market activity. The area is famous for the Porta Palazzo market, one of Europe’s largest open-air markets.
Walking through Borgo Dora is a feast for the senses. Fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods line the streets. You’ll hear a mix of chatter, bargaining, and laughter. From my own personal experience, even if you don’t buy anything, the energy of this neighborhood makes the walk worthwhile.
9. Via Pietro Micca – Stories of the Past
Via Pietro Micca is a street where history whispers from the walls. Named after a local hero, this street runs through the heart of Old Town and features fascinating architecture and historic sites.
Take time to notice the plaques and statues. They tell stories of Turin’s past—wars, celebrations, and everyday life centuries ago. Walking here is both educational and scenic, a combination that never fails to leave a lasting impression.
10. Piazza Carignano – Baroque Beauty
Piazza Carignano is a true gem of Baroque architecture. The square is home to the Carignano Palace and a number of historic buildings with elaborate facades. Walking here, you’ll feel like you’re on the set of a historical film.
Pause to admire the details—the carved stone, the ornate windows, the symmetry of the layout. From my own personal experience, visiting during late afternoon offers the best light for photographs and a peaceful atmosphere when most tourists have moved on.
11. Via Accademia Albertina – Artistic Stroll
For those who love art and culture, Via Accademia Albertina is a perfect route. This street leads you to the Accademia Albertina di Belle Arti, Turin’s historic art academy. The area is calm, inspiring, and brimming with creative energy.
Walking here, you’ll notice small galleries, sculptural details, and even artists sketching in the streets. It’s a reminder that Turin’s Old Town isn’t just about history—it’s a living canvas.
12. Lungodora Firenze – Riverside Serenity
Finally, conclude your scenic walks with Lungodora Firenze, a peaceful riverside path along the Dora Riparia river. This walk contrasts with the bustling streets of the city center and offers a quiet escape.
The gentle sound of the river, the green spaces, and the occasional local fisherman create a serene backdrop. From my own personal experience, ending a day in Turin here is the perfect way to reflect on your explorations and soak in the city’s charm one last time.
Tips for Exploring Turin Old Town
- Wear comfortable shoes – cobblestones are beautiful but can be unforgiving.
- Take your time – the charm of Turin is in the details. Don’t rush.
- Mix planned walks with spontaneous exploration – some of the best discoveries happen when you wander aimlessly.
- Try local treats along the way – a bicerin (coffee-chocolate drink) or a fresh pastry makes any walk more memorable.
- Use a map but trust your instincts – Turin is compact, and getting lost often leads to the most picturesque corners.
Turin Old Town isn’t just a city center—it’s a living tapestry of history, culture, and everyday life. Each street, square, and alleyway tells a story waiting to be discovered. From my own personal experience, there’s no better way to understand Turin than by walking it, letting the architecture, markets, and riverside views guide your journey.
By exploring these 12 scenic walks, you’ll see the city in layers—from its grand historical landmarks to its hidden gems. You’ll truly appreciate why Turin, though often overshadowed by Italy’s more famous cities, has a charm all its own.
Take your time, breathe it in, and let Turin Old Town surprise you at every turn.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.