Things to do at night in Turin to experience the city like a local

Turin is one of Italy's biggest cities and has been the industrial heart of the country ever since Italian unification in the 19th century. The city's history reflects this industrial heritage and is still home to the headquarters of automotive giant Fiat to this day.

But don't make the mistake of thinking that Turin is only a place to do business. This big and bustling city has the same rich history and cultural attractions as you'd expect to find in any Italian city. From the Turin Egyptian Museum, where you can enjoy an incredible selection of ancient art while visiting Turin, to the Museo Nazionale del Cinema, Italy's National Cinema Museum that tells the story of the country's impressive contributions to the art of film, there's plenty to do here.

Along with these cultural attractions, you can sample the traditional Italian dishes of the Piedmont region on a food tour through the city, or soak up the atmosphere in the historic streets around Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo.

While visiting Turin, though, you definitely shouldn't miss out on its nightlife. As the sun sets, the city center comes to life with locals and visitors both enjoying aperitivo in the many cocktail bars of the city or heading out to the clubs. Alternatively, a relaxing stroll along the river Po or a bike tour through the city can be a fantastic way to spend an evening here.

What to do in Turin at night if you’re looking for…

Turin combines historical grandeur with a modern vibrancy. Known for its baroque architecture, world-class museums (learning about ancient Egypt in Turin is a little unexpected!), and rich automotive history, Turin offers a variety of ways to enjoy the city after dark. Here’s how to experience Turin by night based on your preferences.

A romantic evening

For a romantic night in Turin, start with a sunset walk around the charming piazzas of the city center, surrounded by Turin’s baroque architecture and elegant buildings. Piazza San Carlo, often called the “living room” of Turin, is a wonderful place to begin, with its graceful arcades, chic boutiques, and open-air cafes.

Pro tip: Stop at one of the outdoor cafes in Piazza San Carlo for an aperitivo before moving on. The square’s soft evening lighting and lively ambiance make it a picturesque spot to enjoy a glass of Italian wine.

Next, head to San Lorenzo Church, a baroque masterpiece famous for its unique dome architecture. Although it may be closed in the evening, the exterior is worth admiring under the evening lights, creating a romantic backdrop for an evening stroll.

For a truly memorable experience, consider a private evening visit to the Royal Library within the Royal Palace complex. The library houses precious artifacts and art collections, including sketches by Leonardo da Vinci. Special tours are sometimes available in the evenings, allowing couples to explore its treasures in a quiet, intimate setting.

Pro tip: Finish your evening with a walk to the Gran Madre di Dio, a church with a staircase leading up to one of the best views of the city. It’s a romantic spot where you can look out over Turin’s cityscape and the Po River, an ideal place to end the night together.

A wholesome night out

For a wholesome and culturally enriching night, start with a visit to the National Museum of Cinema in the iconic Mole Antonelliana. This unique museum features immersive exhibits of Italian and international cinema, with interactive displays that appeal to all ages. Fans of the classic movie The Italian Job will appreciate seeing Turin’s cinematic history come to life.

Pro tip: Take the panoramic elevator up to the top of Mole Antonelliana for breathtaking views of the city at night.

Next, head to Valentino Park, a wonderful place to enjoy nature in the city. At night, the paths around Castello del Valentino, a stunning 17th-century castle, are quiet and charming, perfect for a peaceful stroll under the stars. The surrounding gardens and the riverfront make it an enchanting nighttime escape.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting in summer, check for open-air cinema events in Valentino Park, a fun way to enjoy a film in the tranquil park setting.

Soak up the culture without the baggage

Large bags aren't allowed inside the museum, and you certainly don't want to be dragging them around the park with you either. Leave your things behind with a Bounce luggage storage in Turin so you can make the most of your night out in the city.

An easy-going night out

For a laid-back night that blends sightseeing with relaxation, start with an evening food tour in the city center. Turin is known for its incredible cuisine which is quite different from that of southern Italy, so treat yourself to samples of Piedmontese dishes like vitello tonnato, agnolotti, and chocolate-based treats like gianduiotto. Many food tours offer stops at local eateries and traditional cafes, allowing you to experience the city’s culinary heritage at a leisurely pace.

Pro tip: Try a bicerin, a local specialty coffee drink layered with chocolate and cream, at one of the historic cafes. It’s a delicious and warming choice for the evening.

After your tour, head to the Royal Palace to admire its beautiful façade illuminated at night. This palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by picturesque squares and statues, creating a peaceful atmosphere where you can take in the grandeur of Turin’s royal past.

Pro tip: The Royal Library is also located within the palace complex and is home to rare manuscripts and artwork, including sketches by Leonardo da Vinci. If you’re interested, check for any special evening exhibitions that might be on.

A refreshing night out

If you’re looking to recharge in Turin’s beauty, head to the scenic Valentino Park for a relaxing evening surrounded by nature. The park’s paths along the Po River are ideal for a refreshing walk or bike ride. With views of the river and the beautiful Castello del Valentino, it’s one of the city’s most peaceful spots at night.

Pro tip: Bring a blanket and find a quiet place to sit and watch the lights of Turin reflecting on the river. It’s a perfect setting for unwinding and soaking in the beauty of the city.

For another unique experience, head to the Museo dell’Automobile to explore Turin’s rich car industry heritage. Many tours here include insights into Italy’s automotive innovation, showcasing classic Italian cars and their impact on the world stage.

Pro tip: Some tours or exhibitions may feature exclusive cars or concepts from brands like Fiat and Ferrari, making it a must for car enthusiasts and a refreshing look at Italy’s contribution to design and engineering.

An energetic night out

For a night filled with activity, start with a bus tour that takes you around Turin’s major landmarks, beautifully lit against the night sky. Many tours showcase the city’s famous baroque architecture, including highlights like Castello del Valentino and the Royal Palace, giving you a taste of Turin’s historical elegance in a lively way.

Pro tip: Some bus tours offer a stop at Piazza Vittorio Veneto, known for its vibrant nightlife. From here, you can continue your night at one of the area’s bars or clubs, popular for dancing and socializing.

If you’re traveling with sports fans, consider visiting the Allianz Stadium, home of Juventus, for a behind-the-scenes night tour if available. Here, you’ll get an up-close look at Turin’s passion for football, or explore the Juventus Museum for an extra treat. If you're really lucky, you might be able to score tickets for a match to enjoy an unrivaled atmosphere, but even if you don't, the stadium is still worth a visit to appreciate its cultural importance.

Pro tip: For an Italian football night, find a bar nearby to catch a live match. The locals’ enthusiasm is infectious, especially if you’re in the heart of Juventus territory.

Don't get caught carrying more than you need to

Large bags are not allowed in the stadium during a game for security reasons. Drop off your belongings at a Bounce luggage storage so that you don't get into trouble with security staff.

Enjoying Turin’s lively energy, exploring its historical gems, or taking a quiet riverside stroll is all the easier if you leave the heavy bags behind. Plus, there's no denying that the city’s charm really comes to life after dark. With a blend of rich culture, beautiful architecture, and romantic spots, Turin has something to offer every kind of traveler for a memorable evening. Leave your shopping or your luggage behind so you can sample some of the best things to do at night in Turin.