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Turin Travel Guide Pre-Trip Checklist

Turin Travel Guide Pre-Trip Checklist

Liguria Piedmont And Valle Daosta, Italy

Essential Preparations

Start planning well in advance, especially for international travel, to avoid last-minute rushes.

Chronological Planning

What to do 3 months, 1 month, 1 week before.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Passport validity for at least six months beyond return date. Research Schengen visa for Italy, begin application immediately.

Flights & Insurance

Book international and domestic flights well in advance. Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Health Consult

Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations. Discuss managing medical conditions and necessary doctor's notes.

2

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Finalize accommodation reservations. Plan itinerary and book major tours/attractions online.

Driving & Banking

Arrange International Driving Permit (if needed). Notify bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Language Prep

Start learning basic Italian phrases daily to enhance your experience.

3

Week Before

Confirm & Pack

Confirm all bookings. Pack Adapter, Power bank, clothing, medications, First aid kit.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps and translation apps (Italian language pack).

Document Copies & Contacts

Make physical and digital copies of essential documents. Create an emergency contact list.

Required Advance Bookings

For Turin, book the following in advance, especially during peak seasons or major events:

Reservations

  • Flights (international and domestic)
  • Accommodation (hotels, B&Bs, apartments)
  • High-speed train tickets (intercity travel)
  • Entry tickets for popular museums (Egyptian Museum, National Cinema Museum)

Pre-Trip Research

Enhance your visit with informed preparations.

Research Recommendations

  • Read about Turin's rich history and its role in Italian unification.
  • Familiarize yourself with Piedmontese cuisine and the Slow Food movement.
  • Understand Turin's public transport system for efficient navigation.
  • Look up current events or festivals that might coincide with your visit.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure.

Home Security

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Set alarms.
  • Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Ensure pets have a sitter or are boarded.
  • Plants are watered or cared for.

Emergency Contacts

  • Let a family member or friend know your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contact information.

Important Document Copies

Create physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, and insurance. Store these separately from originals.

Arrival Checklist

Your first few hours in Turin are important for a smooth transition.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear immigration and customs

    Have your passport and any required visa or travel authorization ready.

  • 2
    Locate airport transport

    Identify your chosen transfer method from Turin Airport to the city (train, bus, or taxi).

  • 3
    Consider purchasing a local SIM card

    If you have an Unlocked phone, purchase a local SIM card at the airport or a phone shop.

Orientation & Initial Needs

  • Locate your accommodation:

    Use your downloaded maps or an app to find your hotel or apartment.

  • Find the nearest ATM:

    Withdraw some Euros for immediate cash needs if you have not already done so.

  • Identify nearest public transport stops:

    Locate the closest metro station, bus, or tram stop to your accommodation.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Currency Exchange

Withdraw Euros from an ATM upon arrival at the airport or once in the city center.

Avoid currency exchange booths at the airport, as their rates are often unfavorable.

Stay Hydrated

Purchase a Reusable water bottle to refill from Turin's safe tap water and public fountains.

This reduces plastic waste.

Transport Tickets

Get a daily or multi-day public transport ticket from a newsstand (tabaccheria) or GTT point.

Validate your ticket upon first use.

Smooth Transition

Upon arrival, prioritize locating your accommodation and identifying transport links to begin your Turin exploration.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a comfortable journey home.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • If you bought large or fragile souvenirs (e.g., wine, ceramics, art), check airline luggage restrictions.
  • Inquire with the shop about shipping services if items are too large or heavy for luggage.
  • Pack delicate items carefully in your checked luggage.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

  • For non-EU residents, you may be eligible for a VAT refund on purchases over a certain amount from "Tax Free" shops.
  • Keep all your receipts and ensure the shop provides the correct tax-free forms.
  • At the airport, locate the customs office to have your forms stamped and present the items.
  • Follow the specific instructions provided on the forms for the refund process.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time to reach Turin Airport or the train station.

Timing Breakdown

  • Factor in potential traffic
  • International flight (non-Schengen)2-3 hours before
  • Schengen flight1.5-2 hours before
  • Domestic trains15-30 minutes before

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your flight or train details the day before departure.
  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding passes) are easily accessible.
  • Pack any last-minute items, ensure liquids comply with security regulations.
  • Empty your Reusable water bottle before airport security.

Final Checks

Always check for any schedule changes or delays for your flight or train.

For international trains, arrive 30-45 minutes before for any passport checks.