Turin Noir: The Darkest Walking Tour

If you’re after a different way to experience Turin, this Turin Noir walking tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises an evening filled with hidden corners, eerie tales, and exclusive access to some of the city’s lesser-seen spots. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a compelling option for those curious about the city’s mysterious past.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the chance to see Turin from a rooftop of the historic Bell Tower—that panoramic view at night is pretty hard to beat. Plus, the tour’s focus on dark stories and secret openings gives it a unique twist compared to standard city walks. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that it’s only available in Italian, which could be a hurdle for non-Italian speakers.

This tour is likely best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of the spooky. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a good story and are comfortable climbing stairs and exploring at night. If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with friends interested in the darker side of history, this could be a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to secret sites and openings not available during the day
• Breathtaking panoramic views from the Bell Tower rooftop
• Dark stories and legends about witches, criminals, and ghosts in Turin
• Climb 200 steps for an unforgettable cityscape experience
• In-depth guided tour led by a licensed expert (in Italian)
• Cost-effective price at $36 per person for a 2.5-hour adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to blend history, mystery, and spectacular views into a compact 2.5-hour walk through Turin’s city center. Starting at St. John’s Dome on Via XX Settembre, you’ll meet your guide and head out into the night, discovering sites that are often hidden from casual visitors.

The real highlight is the climb up to the Bell Tower, where you’ll ascend 200 stairs to reach the top. From there, the views of illuminated Turin are genuinely stunning—imagine gazing over the city with the lights flickering below you, all under the dark night sky. This moment alone makes the climb worthwhile, especially if you love cityscapes.

The tour also includes a special visit to the Church of Misericordia, which is only open during exclusive hours for this experience. It’s a chance to see a historic religious site with fewer crowds and more atmosphere. Along the way, your guide will share tales of witchcraft, crimes, and ghosts, creating a spooky ambiance that many find adds depth to the experience.

The Dark Stories and Legends

One of the main draws of this tour is the mysterious stories that unfold as you move from site to site. Turin’s history isn’t all noble palaces and elegant piazzas—it’s also filled with darker episodes involving witches, criminals, and law courts that once served as the city’s old justice system. Tour guides weave these stories with enthusiasm, making the dark history come alive.

According to reviews, the stories about witches and ghosts tend to be quite captivating. Travelers have enjoyed hearing about the city’s haunted spots and the legends that have persisted for centuries. One reviewer mentioned that the guide was “molto coinvolgente e preparata” — very engaging and well-prepared — which makes a difference when listening to spooky tales meant to send shivers down your spine.

The Unique Aspects of This Tour

What sets this experience apart is the exclusive access that it offers. Many sites are only open to this tour, which means you’ll get a rare chance to peek behind the scenes or step into places normally closed to the public. The visit to the Bell Tower at night is a particular highlight—those breathtaking views of Turin are a real treat and worth the climb.

Another aspect that gets praise from travelers is the entertainment factor. The guide’s storytelling skills turn history into an engaging narrative, helping you imagine the darker side of Turin’s past with vivid detail. One review noted that the overall experience was “molto interessante,” very interesting, with a slight wish for a bit more involvement from actors or storytellers to increase the thrill.

Practical Details and Considerations

For those thinking about signing up, it’s important to note that the tour is only in Italian. If you don’t speak the language, you might find it harder to fully appreciate the stories and explanations. Also, be prepared for a 200-step climb—comfortable shoes are recommended, and those with mobility issues or who dislike stairs might want to consider this carefully.

The tour begins at St. John’s Dome and ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward. It’s priced at $36 per person, which seems fair considering the exclusive access and stunning views you get. The duration of 2.5 hours is enough to soak in the dark tales and enjoy the cityscape without feeling rushed.

A helpful note from reviews is the flexibility of the booking—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind if your plans change.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience from Reviews

Feedback paints a pretty positive picture overall. One traveler called the guide “molto coinvolgente e preparata,” emphasizing the storytelling quality. Another appreciated the “suggestivi” (suggestive) locations visited during the tour. While some wished for a tad more storytelling from actors, the overall sentiment is that this is a worthwhile experience if you enjoy dark history and panoramic views.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an evening adventure that combines hidden sites, chilling stories, and stunning vistas, Turin Noir offers a memorable experience. The exclusive openings and the chance to stand atop the Bell Tower make it stand out compared to more typical city tours. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who like stories that send a chill down your spine and enjoy exploring cities beyond their usual daytime facades.

While the language limitation (Italian only) might restrict some visitors, the overall value lies in the combination of atmospheric storytelling and breathtaking views. If you’re curious about Turin’s darker history or simply looking for a unique way to see the city at night, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-Italian speakers?
The tour is only available in Italian, so a non-Italian speaker might find it challenging to understand the stories and explanations unless they speak the language. If you’re comfortable with basic Italian or have a translator app, you could still enjoy it.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is enough time to explore several sites, enjoy the views, and hear intriguing stories without feeling rushed.

What are the start and end points?
The tour begins in front of St. John’s Dome on Via XX Settembre and ends back at the same spot.

How many steps will I climb?
You’ll need to climb 200 steps to reach the top of the Bell Tower—be prepared for a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views are well worth it.

Is it family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-oriented, the main considerations are the stairs and dark stories. Kids comfortable with stair climbing and an interest in spooky tales should be fine.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Since the tour takes place at night, bring a small flashlight if you like, but it’s not a requirement.

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

Is there an age limit?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the dark themes and stairs, younger children might find it less suitable.

Is the tour kid-friendly or suitable for wheelchair users?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to stairs, and no specific mention is made about children, so use your discretion based on your family’s comfort level.

If you’re into stories of ghosts and legends, and want a fresh perspective on Turin, Turin Noir might just surprise you with its blend of history, thrill, and incredible city views.

You can check availability for your dates here: