The Best Parks in Turin

Watching the sunset from Parco Europa in Turin

Every city in Italy has wonderful parks - even Venice has some great parks, would you believe! Parks in Turin though are the best parks in Italy. We were lucky enough to live near two wonderful ones during our ten years in the city...

The parks were always a welcome escape from the traffic, noise, and pressures of city life. On many a weekend, Maria, our son William, and I would spend the day picnicking in one of the parks.

Often on summer evenings, on returning from another day of stress at the office, I would put William in the pram and stroll down to the park to listen to one of the free jazz concerts often held there.

There are the three parks in Turin we particularly enjoy; they are...

The Pellerina/Parco Carrara

The Parco Carrara, known by locals as the Pellerina, is the largest of all parks in Turin and the largest urban park in Italy, extending over 83 hectares. The local name comes from an old farmhouse located in the center of the park. Of all Turin's parks, this has always been my favorite. Big old trees, leafy lanes alongside rivers and brooks, and lots of grassy open space meant this was always the park we chose for our weekend picnics.

Once you are in the heart of the park, you are hard pressed to believe that you are still in the city, particularly during the week when few people are around. Sit on one of the many benches near the ponds, the river Dora, or the wetlands, and you could well imagine yourself deep in the Italian countryside.

The park is so vast that the best way to explore properly is by bike. Bikes can be hired in the park too during the summer, so there is really no excuse not to get a bit of exercise.

Much else can be found within the confines of the park, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, play areas for children, and a fenced-off and dedicated area for dogs to run free.

I love the park in autumn/fall in particular when the leaves turn red or golden, but it is wonderful all year round. Even in winter, the crisp air and stunning scenery make for an inspiring setting for a brisk walk or jog.

Parco della Tesoriera

Much smaller than the Pellerina, this park is a beautifully maintained escape from the busy Corso Francia and Monte Grappa roads alongside it. On one side of the park, just when you come in, there is a little merry go-round and play area. When my son William was little, I spent a whole lot of time in this play area, so I know it only too well.

Tree-lined paths run around the park, making it a pleasant place to enjoy a stroll or to take a little break on one of the many benches. They used to have a lovely little rose garden too, but that seems to have become neglected over the years.

Pride of place in the park goes to the magnificent 18th-century villa in the center of the park. Once the home of some of Turin's most noble families, the villa is now one of the leading music libraries in Italy.

In summer, free evening concerts are often held in the park; these bring together all the locals, and the park is a hive of excitement with children running everywhere while younger adults enjoy the music, and the many old people, who would not miss these evenings for the world, grumble about the loud music.

Parco del Valentino

The oldest and probably best known of the parks in Turin, not as big as the Pellerina but a sizeable great park nonetheless. The park is a very pleasant place to spend an afternoon and is situated right on the river Po at the end of Corso Vittoria Emmanuale.

Apart from the popular nightclub on the edge of the park, which I am now a little too old to appreciate, one of the highlights of the park is the botanical garden, which is rated as one of the best in all of Italy and is of international significance.

There is a beautiful fountain in the botanical park section; it is surrounded by roses and is called the Fountain of 12 Months (Fontana dei Dodici Mesi). Some rate it as beautiful as the Trevi Fountain, and not being surrounded by thousands of tourists means that you often get to appreciate its beauty in peace and quiet, surrounded only by the beautiful gardens.

Now comes the weirdest of all the park's attractions: a medieval walled village built in the 19th century. Okay, since it was built in 1884, it obviously isn't a real medieval village, but it is a very good copy designed by Alfredo d'Andrade, one of the leading experts of medieval Piedmont.

The village is a lovely place to wander around, with little artisan shops within the castle walls, and next door there is a very good restaurant, the San Giorgio. Boat trips along the Po leave from just in front of the restaurant.

Other Parks in Turin

While the Pellerina, Tesoriera, and Valentino parks are well-known, there are many other hidden gems worth discovering.

Parco del Meisino

Situated along the Po River, Parco del Meisino offers an expansive, tranquil retreat from the bustle of city life. This protected natural area is perfect for those who love birdwatching, as it's home to a variety of bird species. The park’s vast green meadows and riverbank paths provide a peaceful escape where you can take long walks or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

Parco Europa

For breathtaking views of the city, Parco Europa is the place to be. Located in the hills south of Turin, this park offers panoramic vistas that stretch across the entire cityscape, with the majestic Alps in the distance. Its terraced layout and peaceful pathways make it a perfect spot for a quiet afternoon stroll, or to simply sit and take in the best sunset views in all of Turin from one of the many benches scattered throughout.

Parco Colonnetti

Parco Colonnetti, in the southern part of the city, is ideal for families. With large open spaces for games and picnics, Parco Colonnetti also features well-maintained walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and sports fields. 

Giardini Reali (Royal Gardens)

Adjacent to the Palazzo Reale, the Giardini Reali offer a touch of elegance and history in the heart of Turin. These historic gardens, which date back to the 17th century, feature manicured lawns, fountains, and statues, making them a peaceful retreat within the city center. While smaller than some of Turin's other parks, their charm lies in their royal connection and stunning architecture.

Parco Ruffini

Located in the western part of the city, Parco Ruffini is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts. It’s known for its jogging paths, open spaces for sports, and even a dedicated fitness trail. Whether you’re looking to exercise or relax under the shade of its many trees, Parco Ruffini provides plenty of options for a more active day outdoors.

Bosco del Vaj

For nature lovers seeking a more immersive experience, Bosco del Vaj offers a wooded retreat just outside Turin. This forested area is part of a protected natural reserve and provides hiking trails that wind through dense woods and meadows. It’s a haven for wildlife and an ideal spot for anyone who enjoys a more rugged, natural environment without straying too far from the city.