Discover Turin by camper van: Complete Guide
Important information:
This town is not one of the cities we visited during our road trip, but it will be a stop to consider in the future. This article aims to prepare our stay there and to share the information we collected about this destination.
Don’t hesitate to share your tips for this destination with us, either by email or in comments.
Introduction
Welcome, fellow travellers! Fancy a jaunt to Turin, Italy? You’re in for a treat. We’re about to unfold the map on this Italian gem, guiding you through its storied past and pinpointing its spot on the globe. Don’t fret about the journey – we’ve got the lowdown on getting there without a hitch.
Now, for you van-dwellers out there, we haven’t forgotten you. We’ll dish out the goods on where to rest your head, park up for free (yes, free!), and even where to tackle that mountain of laundry. (Because fresh socks make happy travellers, right?)
But what’s a trip without some sightseeing? We’ll point you towards Turin’s must-visit spots and the eateries that’ll make your taste buds sing. And because we know you’re watching those pennies, we’ll help you stretch your budget without missing out on the good stuff.
So, buckle up, dear reader. Turin’s waiting, and it’s time to hit the road for an adventure you won’t soon forget. Ready to roll?
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What’s Turin, Italy?
The History of Turin
History buffs, listen up! Turin’s got stories that’ll knock your socks off. Often overshadowed by its flashy Italian siblings, this city’s got more layers than a proper lasagna.
Wander its streets, and you’ll feel two millennia of drama beneath your feet. Named after the Taurini, some Gallo-Celtic folks, Turin’s seen it all. From being the big cheese of the Duchy of Savoy to briefly wearing the crown as Italy’s first capital in 1861. Talk about a city with cred!
Grab a gianduiotto (trust me, it’s heavenly) while you soak in the history etched in every brick.
Turin’s been through more transformations than a chameleon. Napoleon turned this Sleeping Beauty into a bustling hub, and then FIAT roared in, revving up the industrial era. It’s like the city’s got one foot in a Roman sandal and one in a racing shoe.
Where on Earth is Turin?
Picture this: An Italian city flexing at the foot of the Alps, snow-capped peaks photobombing every selfie. Pretty sweet, right? Milan’s just a stone’s throw away (less than 100 km), and charming Aosta’s nestled nearby in the mountains.
Nature-wise, you’ve got the Po River snaking through the plains, and if you’re feeling the heat, Lake Como and its cool cousins are there to chill you out. (Pro tip: Don’t forget your swimsuit!)
How to Get to Turin?
To get to Turin by camper from the closest Italian cities, here are the main routes to take:
- From Milan: take the A4 highway towards Turin. Follow the signs indicating “Torino” until you reach your destination.
- From Genoa: take the A26 highway towards Alessandria, then continue on the A21 highway towards Tortona. Then, follow the signs to join the A21 highway towards Turin.
- From Turin: you can also start from other places in Italy, like Venice or Florence, for instance. In this case, follow the main roads that will lead you to the A4 highway towards Turin.
To get to Turin from Rome by train, you need to take the high-speed line. First, catch a train from Rome to Milan. From there, hop on another train to Turin. This option is quick and convenient, with frequent and comfortable trains. Make sure to check the schedules and prices before you leave. The train journey from Rome to Turin also offers beautiful landscapes to admire along the way. Enjoy your train trip to explore Italy in all its glory. Have a great trip!
If you’re planning a trip from Rome to Turin, taking the train is a fantastic option. It’s efficient and allows you to relax and enjoy the stunning Italian scenery. Make sure to plan ahead and book your tickets early to secure the best prices. Traveling by train is a great way to experience the beauty of Italy while avoiding the stress of driving. So sit back, relax, and let the train take you on a picturesque journey from Rome to Turin!
To get to Turin by plane, the closest airports are the Turin-Caselle International Airport, located about 16 kilometers from the city center, and the Milan-Malpensa International Airport, located about 140 kilometers away.
- Milan: Milan-Malpensa International Airport (about 140 km)
- Genoa: Genoa-Cristoforo Colombo Airport (about 220 km)
- Florence: Florence-Peretola Airport (about 385 km)
- Bologna: Bologna-Guglielmo Marconi Airport (about 430 km)
- Venice: Venice-Marco Polo Airport (about 480 km)
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During our last Italian road trip, we noticed road quality varies wildly by region. Lombardy and Piedmont have pretty rough national and provincial roads. But head to Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, and you’ll find much smoother rides.
Here’s a tip for you road trippers: always check the road conditions before you set off. It’s not just about comfort – it’s about safety too. (Better safe than sorry, right?)
Got any similar experiences from your travels? It’s always good to know what you’re in for before you hit the road. Different countries, even different regions, can throw up some real surprises when it comes to road quality.
Remember, sometimes the journey is as important as the destination – even if that journey involves dodging a pothole or two!
So, what’s your take? Ever had any unexpected road adventures? I’d love to hear about them. After all, sharing is caring when it comes to travel tips!
Weather: When to Visit Turin in a Motorhome?
Hey there, planning a road trip to Turin in your motorhome? Here’s a breakdown of the weather throughout the year:
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) (°F) | Rainfall (mm) (in) | Weather | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2°/5° (35.6 F°/41 F°) | 53mm (2.1 in) | ❄️ | Not recommended |
| February | 2°/6° (35.6 F°/42.8 F°) | 50mm (2 in) | ❄️ | Not recommended |
| March | 3°/8° (37.4 F°/46.4 F°) | 53mm (2.1 in) | 🌧️ | Not recommended |
| April | 5°/11° (41 F°/51.8 F°) | 39mm (1.5 in) | 🌦️ | Not recommended |
| May | 8°/14° (46.4 F°/57.2 F°) | 53mm (2.1 in) | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| June | 11°/16° (51.8 F°/60.8 F°) | 62mm (2.4 in) | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| July | 13°/18° (55.4 F°/64.4 F°) | 79mm (3.1 in) | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| August | 11°/17° (51.8 F°/62.6 F°) | 78mm (3.1 in) | 🌦️ | Favorable |
| September | 9°/16° (48.2 F°/60.8 F°) | 58mm (2.3 in) | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| October | 7°/12° (44.6 F°/53.6 F°) | 60mm (2.4 in) | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| November | 5°/8° (41 F°/46.4 F°) | 52mm (2 in) | 🌧️ | Not recommended |
| December | 2°/5° (35.6 F°/41 F°) | 52mm (2 in) | ❄️ | Not recommended |
You might want to avoid the winter months if you’re not a fan of cold weather. Summer in August could be your best bet for a motorhome adventure in Turin!
Here’s a tip: visit Turin in spring or fall. The weather’s perfect – sunny and mild. You’ll enjoy lush parks, lively cafés, and stunning architecture without summer heat or crowds. It’s ideal for exploring the city’s treasures comfortably.
Think about it: isn’t it lovely to stroll through uncrowded streets? (Pack those comfy shoes!) Ready to be charmed by this Italian gem?
Key Stops for Vans and Campervans in Turin
Hey there, road trippers! Planning a trip around Turin in your van or campervan? Here’s a list of important spots you won’t want to miss.
Let’s dive right in and discover the best places to visit in and around Turin for an unforgettable adventure on wheels.
- 📍Grinto Campsite: Corso Trieste, 94, 10024 Moncalieri TO, Italy • Rating: 4.2 • Coordinates (45.00933120000001 – 7.672245899999999)
- 📍Torino Mill Park Campsite: Via Molino, 29, 10040 Caselette TO, Italy • Rating: 4.2 • Coordinates (45.1018295 – 7.481247400000001)
- 📍Bella Torino Campsite: Via Grange, 71, 10044 Pianezza TO, Italy • Rating: 4.5 • Coordinates (45.12555 – 7.55745)
- 📍Camper Stop Area: Corso Trattati di Roma, 10141 Torino TO, Italy • Rating: 2.8 • Coordinates (45.0567241 – 7.631491100000001)
- 📍steee’s house: Piazza Stampalia, 10148 Torino TO, Italy • Rating: – • Coordinates (45.1119588 – 7.6585168)
-📍Speed Queen Laundry: Via Giordano Bruno, 200, 10134 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 4.4 • Coordinates (45.0312568 – 7.6555187)
-📍Turin Wash Laundry: Corso Palestro, 22D, 10122 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 4.2 • Coordinates (45.07291619999999 – 7.6715141)
-📍Self-Service Speed Queen Laundry: Largo Maresciallo Rosario Berardi, 4, 10153 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 4.3 • Coordinates (45.0709137 – 7.7026408)
- 📍Camper Rest Area: Corso Trattati di Roma, 10141 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 2.8 • Coordinates (45.0567241 – 7.631491100000001)
- 📍Camper Loading and Unloading Area: Corso Unità d’Italia, 233a, 10126 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 2.7 • Coordinates (45.0171194 – 7.669029599999999)
- 📍Municipal Services for Campers: Str. del Cimitero di Sassi, 1, 10132 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 3.5 • Coordinates (45.0809089 – 7.729684400000001)
- 📍Regio Parking: Corso Regio Parco, 39, 10152 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: 3.8 • Coordinates (45.0785733 – 7.697869499999999)
- 📍Parking Lot: Via Vittorio Andreis, 18/25, 10152 Turin TO, Italy • Rating: – • Coordinates (45.0806777 – 7.6824939)
- 📍Parking Area: 10132 Turin, Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy • Rating: 3.7 • Coordinates (45.0700231 – 7.7237038)
Among these spots, the one that seems to get the best reviews is Camping Bella Torino. Located in Pianezza, just a few kilometers (a few miles) from Turin, the campsite offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
For the Americans and Brits: it’s as if you’d find a hidden gem in a suburban area, yet feel like you’re miles away from the everyday hustle and bustle. It’s ideal for a tranquil getaway. The scenic beauty is something that you’d thoroughly enjoy.
Where and What to Eat in Turin?
Here’s a list of traditional and typical restaurants in the city of Turin, along with the specialties you should try to fully immerse yourself in the local gastronomy.
Restaurants in Turin
- 🍽️ Ristorante Il Giglio • Rating: 4.6 • A traditional restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine with tasty dishes and attentive service.
- 🍽️ Tre Galline • Rating: 4.4 • A historic restaurant renowned for its traditional Piedmontese dishes and warm atmosphere.
- 🍽️ La Taverna Dei Mercanti • Rating: 4.7 • A refined restaurant offering modern Italian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and elegant presentation.
- 🍽️ Ristorante Da Mauro • Rating: 4.3 • A family-run establishment serving classic Italian dishes and seafood specialties in a friendly atmosphere.
- 🍽️ Goustò • Rating: 4.5 • A modern restaurant offering creative Italian cuisine and innovative cocktails in an elegant, contemporary setting.
Turin Specialties
Once you’ve chosen your restaurant, here’s an overview of the classic dishes served in the area. Savor the delicious bagna càuda, dive your fork into a rich risotto al Barolo, and let yourself be tempted by the delicate agnolotti piemontesi.
As soon as we go to Turin in our RV, we won’t hesitate to share our reviews on the little spots to eat!
Budget Travel for a Road Trip to Turin
The currency used in Italy is the Euro (EUR). The cost of living in Italy is about 5% higher than in England and the local purchasing power is about 3% lower. When traveling, plan a budget of at least 100€ per day and per person on site (i.e. $112 or £85).
– Meal in a mid-range restaurant: 30€ (36.60$ / 27.10£) (+10% compared to 🇬🇧 / 🇺🇸)
– Fast food menu: 8€ (9.76$ / 7.25£) (+5% compared to 🇬🇧 / 🇺🇸)
– Local beer (50 cl draft): 5€ (6.13$ / 4.54£) (+10% compared to 🇬🇧 / 🇺🇸)
- Single ride on public transport: 1.5 € (That’s about €1.70 or £1.45 for you lot across the Channel)
- Monthly public transport pass: 35 € (A steal at €39.70 or £34, if you ask me)
- Unleaded petrol (1 litre): 1.6 € (Roughly €1.80 or £1.53 – ouch!)
– Budget hotel (double room): 60€ (+5% compared to 🇬🇧 / +5% compared to 🇺🇸)
– Mid-range hotel (double room): 90€ (+10% compared to 🇬🇧 / +10% compared to 🇺🇸)
– Luxury hotel (double room): 150€ (-20% compared to 🇬🇧 / -20% compared to 🇺🇸)
- Paire de jeans (Levis 501 or equivalent): 70€ ($77.19, £59.55) (+5% compared to 🇬🇧)
- Summer dress in a large chain store (Zara, H&M..): 30€ ($33.06, £25.42) (-10% compared to 🇬🇧)
- Pair of athletic shoes: 80€ ($88.15, £67.16) (+10% compared to 🇬🇧)
Travelers on a budget, both from the UK and the US, should plan their expenses wisely to make their trip worthwhile. If you’re thinking of dining out, a meal in a mid-range restaurant will set you back around 30€ (36.60$ / 27.10£), which is about 10% pricier compared to back home. However, fast food is more budget-friendly at 8€ (9.76$ / 7.25£), only 5% more expensive. Enjoying a local beer? Expect to pay 5€ (6.13$ / 4.54£).
Getting around is manageable: a single public transport ticket costs 1.5€, while a monthly pass is 35€, keeping travel costs low. For accommodation, a budget hotel stay is around 60€, a slight 5% rise. Mid-range hotels are 90€, and you might find luxury hotels a bargain at 150€—20% cheaper than in the UK and US.
Clothing-wise, expect to pay a bit more for jeans and athletic shoes, but summer dresses are a steal. Traveling smart can make your euros stretch further!
What activities to do in Turin?
Hey folks, if you’re wondering what to do in Turin, here are a few activities you might enjoy based on your tastes and preferences:
Let’s dive in and discover the best things to do in this charming city!
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- Hand-in-hand strolls through Turin’s picturesque streets
- Cozy boat ride along the Po River (Don’t forget to steal a kiss!)
- Getting blissfully lost in the Royal Palace gardens
- Candlelit dinner at a gourmet restaurant (Turin’s got plenty!)
- Egyptian Museum – It’s not just old stuff, it’s cool old stuff!
- Chapel of the Holy Shroud – Those frescoes? Mind-blowing, I tell ya.
- Automobile Museum – Car nuts, you’re in for a treat! (Prepare to drool)
- Teatro Regio – Fancy an opera? It’s posh, but worth every penny.
- Po River – Fancy a stroll or a bike ride? This spot’s got you covered.
- Juventus Stadium – Footie fans, rejoice! (Don’t forget your team scarf!)
- Nearby mountains – Ski bunnies, it’s your time to shine.
- Natural parks – Hikers, lace up those boots!
- San Giovanni festival (June) – Trust me, it’s a total blast!
- Cinema Festival (Fall) – Calling all film fanatics! (Don’t forget the popcorn!)
- Christmas market (December) – Get ready for some serious holiday cheer.
- Easter “Turinèisa” – It’s quirky, it’s cool, it’s uniquely Turin.
Conclusion: Why Visit or Return to Turin?
To wrap things up, Turin is way more than just another tourist spot. It’s a city that gets your senses buzzing, tells its rich history with gusto, and gives you a genuine vibe at every turn. From its history, packed with centuries of conquests and progressions, to its mouth-watering culinary specialties, not to mention its architectural jewels and lively cultural scene, Turin never stops surprising and charming. So, let yourself be captivated by this Piedmont gem and set off to uncover its wonders – you won’t be disappointed. Buon viaggio a tutti!
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