The Reggia di Venaria and the Surroundings of Torino: Day Trips Not to Miss

Torino is surrounded by an exceptionally rich territory that deserves at least a day of exploration. From the Savoy residences to the Alpine valleys, from the wine hills to the lakes, the city's surroundings offer experiences for every taste. The Reggia di Venaria Reale is the first must-see stop. Just 10 kilometres from the centre, this "Italian Versailles" has been magnificently restored and today hosts international-level temporary exhibitions in addition to its permanent collection. The Galleria Grande, with its 80 metres of length and huge windows, is a spectacle of light. The Royal Gardens cover 60 hectares and include the Potager Royal, the Garden of Fluid Sculptures and the Temple of Diana. An e-bike trip from Venaria to Val Sangone lets you combine the visit to the Reggia with a ride through vineyards and local flavours. The Sacra di San Michele, a thousand-year-old abbey perched on Monte Pirchiriano at the entrance to Val di Susa, is the symbolic monument of Piedmont. Its imposing silhouette inspired Umberto Eco for "The Name of the Rose". The climb up the Scalone dei Morti and the view from the terrace are unforgettable experiences. The Basilica di Superga, reachable via the historic rack railway, offers the widest panorama of the city and the Alpine arc. The kings of Sardinia rest here, and a plaque commemorates the air tragedy of the Grande Torino in 1949. For nature lovers, the Valli di Lanzo to the north and Val di Susa to the west offer Alpine hikes within easy reach, with trailheads less than an hour from the city centre.