In Turin a walking tour between art and wine tasting

Discovering Turin: Art, History, and a Toast to the Past

This walking tour in Turin offers a unique blend of cultural discovery and wine tasting, led by guide Armanda Celebrano. What makes it stand out is its intimate setting—small groups limited to just eight participants—and the focus on hidden gems you probably wouldn’t stumble upon alone. Starting in the pedestrian-friendly Piazza Corpus Domini, the experience marries the city’s architectural beauty with stories from Roman times to today, all while enjoying two glasses of local and ancient wines.

Two key aspects immediately catch my eye: the opportunity to explore Turin’s secret corners alongside engaging storytelling, and the chance to taste an ancient Roman wine recreated with a spicy flavor, sitting in an archaeological park. I love that this isn’t a typical wine tasting in a cellar but an immersive journey grounded in history and local culture. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for curious travelers eager for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

A potential point to consider is the duration—just two hours—meaning it’s a quick but dense dive into Turin’s history and flavors. If you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth tour, this might feel a little brisk. Still, for those with limited time or who prefer concise experiences packed with stories and tastings, it’s an excellent choice.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique blend of art, history, and wine makes this tour stand out in Turin’s array of activities.
• The small group size (maximum 8 people) guarantees an intimate and engaging experience.
• Hidden gems and secret corners reveal themselves only with a knowledgeable guide like Armanda.
• The tour offers a taste of ancient Roman wine, recreated in the city’s historic settings—something you won’t find elsewhere in Turin.
• You’ll learn about how wine evolved through Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance periods, making it as educational as it is pleasurable.
• The experience ends in a Renaissance palace, offering stunning views and a fitting backdrop to the second wine tasting.
• For kids or those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, soft drinks are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
• As a bonus, you’ll receive a glass with a holder or a shopping bag—small tokens that make good souvenirs.

A walk through history and hidden corners

The tour kicks off in Piazza Corpus Domini, a quiet, pedestrian area that feels removed from the busier streets of Turin. From here, Armanda guides you through hidden corners and noble palaces, sharing stories and curiosities that breathe life into the city’s walls. I love the way she seamlessly weaves history with local lore, making each building and alleyway feel like part of an unfolding story.

The guided walk lasts about 70 minutes, revealing secret spots you probably wouldn’t find on your own. Soria, one of the reviewers, praised Armanda for her clear and dedicated storytelling, especially her ability to highlight beautiful buildings and intriguing details. Her passion makes the tour lively and engaging, perfect for those who love learning as they walk.

The Roman-inspired wine tasting in historic settings

Following the walk, the experience takes a delightful turn with a wine tasting session in a historic setting. Here, you’ll sample two glasses of wine—one of which is an ancient Roman wine recreated by following a traditional recipe, infused with a spicy flavor. Sitting in the archaeological park, you feel connected to the past, tasting a drink that ancient Romans might have enjoyed, if only they had our palate for spice.

Bjorn, another participant, appreciated how this added a special touch to their day in Turin. He noted that the tour complemented their sightseeing already done in the city, adding engaging stories and a relaxed pace. The tasting is only about 15 minutes, but it’s enough to savor the flavors and understand the historical significance.

Visiting a Renaissance palace and second tasting

The tour concludes at Via Stampatori, where you’ll see one of Turin’s most beautiful Renaissance palaces. This setting provides a stunning backdrop for the second wine tasting, where you’ll likely enjoy more local wines and perhaps breadsticks, a Turin staple. The experience is designed to be enjoyable and educational, offering insight into local food customs like the creation of grissini (breadsticks), which originated in Turin and are now ubiquitous across Italy.

Practicalities and value

The tour lasts just two hours, making it a perfect addition if you’re short on time but want a meaningful, fun activity. The price includes guide information, two glasses of wine, breadsticks, and small gifts—a glass holder pocket or a shopping bag—adding to the overall value.

Since the tour is bilingual (Italian and English), it accommodates travelers from different backgrounds comfortably. The small group size means you’re less likely to feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and the personal attention from Armanda ensures that questions and curiosity are well catered to.

The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth noting if accessibility is a concern. Also, the soft drinks option makes it inclusive for minors or those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience suits art and history lovers who enjoy blending cultural exploration with tasting local flavors. It’s especially appealing for foodies eager to discover regional specialties and ancient recipes. The small-group format makes it ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a more personal, in-depth look at Turin.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning views, storytelling, and authentic local experiences, this tour is a fantastic choice. However, if you prefer a more extended or leisurely exploration, you might find the two-hour format a bit brisk.

The Sum Up: A charming, authentic slice of Turin

This walking tour offers a rare chance to combine the artistic charm and historic secrets of Turin with a taste of ancient Roman wine. It’s a well-balanced experience—informative, intimate, and fun—that’s perfect for curious travelers who don’t just want to see sights but want to experience the city’s soul.

The guide Armanda’s passion and knowledge shine through, making each stop memorable. The hidden corners and stunning views add to its appeal, elevating this beyond a typical city tour. The inclusion of a Roman wine recreation and local food stories enriches the experience, making it stand out.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, small-group adventure that offers both cultural insights and a taste of history, this tour in Turin is a worthwhile choice. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy a storytelling approach, authentic experiences, and a touch of Italy’s ancient past, all wrapped into just two hours of discovery.

FAQ

How long is the walking tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including the guided walk and wine tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza Corpus Domini and ends at Via Stampatori, with the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children or minors?
Yes, minors or those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks can enjoy soft drinks during the tasting.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a guide, two glasses of wine (including an ancient Roman wine), breadsticks, and a small gift such as a glass holder pocket or shopping bag.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, it can be conducted in both Italian and English, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.