From Turin: Half-Day Medieval Sacra di San Michele Private Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Depart Turin and journey to the Sacra di San Michele and get ready to experience one of the most beautiful abbeys of the Italian Alps.
Famous worldwide as the inspiration for Umberto Eco’s bestselling novel "The Name of the Rose", the Sacra di San Michele is regarded as one of the most important examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe.
It was founded on the summit of Mount Pirchiriano and overlooks the valley of the Val di Susa with breathtaking views of the Alps. To reach the marble "Doorway of the Zodiac" (Porta dello Zodiaco) visitors must climb 243 steps, but the unique view from the top is worth it.
Discover the whimsical 12th-century "Doorway of the Zodiac". Marvel at the steep stone staircase known as the "Staircase of the Dead" with its 18-meter high pillar that supports the floor of the church and the tower of the "Bell'Alda." Get an astonishing view of the valley and the "Via Francigena" before the return journey to Turin.
Available options
From Turin: Half-Day Medieval Sacra di San Michele Private Tour
What's included
Private transportation
Tour private guide
Skip-the-line entrance tickets
Detailed itinerary
1
Journey to one of the most beautiful abbeys in Europe and discover the inspiration for Umberto Eco's "The Name of the Rose." Enjoy stunning views of the valley and mountains of the Italian Alps from the top of the Sacra di San Michele.
The total duration of 5hrs includes the transfer.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
PT
JA
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
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0
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1★
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
In front of the Alfieri Theatre
About Turin, Piedmont & Liguria
Turin, the elegant capital of Piedmont, is renowned for its refined architecture, rich history, and as the birthplace of the Italian unification. Nearby Liguria offers stunning coastal landscapes, including the famous Cinque Terre. Together, they offer a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Mole Antonelliana
Iconic symbol of Turin, now home to the National Cinema Museum.
Architecture
1-2 hours
€12
Cinque Terre
UNESCO-listed coastal villages with stunning hiking trails and beaches.
Nature
Full day
Free to explore, hiking passes available
Egyptian Museum
One of the world's most important collections of Egyptian artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
€17
Palazzo Reale
Former residence of the Savoy royal family, showcasing opulent interiors and historical artifacts.
Historical
1-2 hours
€12
Aquarium of Genoa
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring a wide variety of marine life.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
€27
Must-Try Local Dishes
Agnolotti del Plin
Small stuffed pasta filled with meat, served with butter and sage sauce.
Dinner
Contains meat
Focaccia
Traditional Ligurian flatbread, often topped with olive oil and salt.
Snack
Vegetarian
Bagna Cauda
Warm dip made from garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, served with vegetables.
Dinner
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cinque Terre
Skiing in the Alps
Spa treatments
Beach lounging
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Boat tours
Swimming in Ligurian beaches
Best Time to Visit
June to August, September to October
Perfect weather for exploring the city and coastal areas. Summer is peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals.
15-30°C (59-86°F)
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Turin and Liguria are generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Turin Airport • 16 km (10 miles) from city center
- Christoforo Colombo Airport • 9 km (5.6 miles) from Genoa city center
By train
Turin Porta Nuova, Genoa Piazza Principe
By bus
Turin Bus Station, Genoa Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and easy to use, covering key tourist spots.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Quadrilatero Romano
San Salvario
Porto Antico
Day trips
Alba
100 km (62 miles) from Turin • Half day to full day
Charming town known for its truffles, wine, and medieval architecture.
Portofino
30 km (19 miles) from Genoa • Full day
Luxurious coastal town with stunning views and high-end shopping.
Alberobello
200 km (124 miles) from Genoa • Full day
Famous for its unique trulli houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Festivals
Turin Film Festival • Late November
Settimana Santa • Holy Week
Pro tips
- Visit the Egyptian Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Take a day trip to Alba for truffle hunting and wine tasting.
- Explore the Cinque Terre villages by hiking for the best views and experiences.
- Try local specialties like agnolotti and focaccia for an authentic taste of the region.
- Use the Torino+Piemonte Card for unlimited public transport and museum access.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
