Turin: Underground Tunnels Guided Tour

If you’re looking to see Turin from a different angle, this Underground Tunnels Guided Tour offers a fascinating peek beneath the city’s surface. While most visitors stick to the grand piazzas and historic palaces, this tour takes you into the hidden world that has quietly protected and sheltered locals through centuries of upheaval.

What makes this tour stand out are three key elements: first, the chance to walk through eighteenth-century underground tunnels that are normally off-limits; second, the WWII air raid shelters, which tell stories of resilience and secrecy; and third, the knowledgeable guides who bring these stories to life with passion and detail.

However, it’s not perfect for everyone — mobility impairments are not accommodated, since the tour involves descending to depths of 50 feet. Still, if you’re curious about hidden histories and enjoy immersive experiences, this tour is an authentic way to connect with Turin’s lesser-seen past.

This experience suits travelers eager to explore beyond standard sightseeing, those interested in history’s quieter stories, and families with children over age 6 who can comfortably handle the underground walkways. It’s a unique journey that adds depth to your understanding of Turin’s enduring spirit.

Good To Know

• Unique Access: Explore underground tunnels and WWII shelters rarely open to the public.
• Historical Depth: Learn stories of the city’s underground life and wartime resilience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Spartaco enhance the storytelling with insider details.
• Value for Money: At $65, it offers a memorable, in-depth experience for those interested in history.
• Duration & Flexibility: Lasting 3 hours, with options for small or private groups.
• Accessibility Note: Not suitable for those with mobility challenges due to the descent.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An immersive underground journey into Turin’s past

When you think of Turin, images of baroque architecture, elegant cafes, and grand royal palaces come to mind. But beneath the city’s streets lies a labyrinth of tunnels and shelters that reveal a different layer of history—one of protection, secrecy, and survival. This tour offers just that: a guided walk through the underground, uncovering stories that most travelers never get to see.

Starting at the Pietro Micca Museum, where the guides meet you, the experience is well-organized and accessible. The tour’s length of approximately 3 hours strikes a nice balance—long enough to see meaningful sites without becoming exhausting.

What does the tour include?

Your ticket covers entrance fees and exclusive opening of the underground spaces, plus the expertise of a guide who can speak multiple languages, including English, Italian, German, Spanish, French, and Japanese. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, with Spartaco, one of the guides, noted for sharing stories “not in any school book,” adding a level of authenticity and intimacy.

Exploring the underground tunnels

Descending 50 feet underground transports you to the 18th-century tunnels, built for strategic military purposes. These tunnels are a rare glimpse into how the city prepared for siege and attack, and they’re surprisingly well-preserved. As you walk through, you’ll get a sense of the craftsmanship and foresight of those times. Reviewers mention that these tunnels are “fascinating” and full of “cool and interesting impressions,” giving them a sense of stepping into a secret world.

The tunnels are dark and narrow in places, which adds a real sense of adventure — just be prepared for uneven surfaces and low ceilings, which might be a challenge for some visitors.

WWII air raid shelters

The tour also covers WWII air raid shelters, which tell stories of the city’s darkest hours. These shelters are a stark contrast to the elegance above ground, revealing the brutality of war and the resilience of the citizens who hid there. Visitors report feeling a mix of curiosity and solemnity as they explore these spaces, recalling the bravery of those who sought safety underground.

One reviewer noted that the shelters “tell you about the City Downstairs,” emphasizing their importance as a protective network that often saved lives during turbulent times.

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The guides and storytelling

What makes this tour memorable is the passion and storytelling skill of the guides. Spartaco, in particular, is praised for his storytelling prowess, making history come alive with vivid descriptions and personal insights. The guides are also attentive to questions and eager to share lesser-known facts, elevating this beyond a simple walkthrough.

Practical details: price, group size, and accessibility

At $65 per person, the tour is reasonably priced considering the depth of experience and the exclusive access to sites. Small groups or private tours mean you’ll get a more personalized experience, with fewer distractions and more attention from your guide.

It’s important to note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves descending to underground tunnels and walking through uneven, confined spaces.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, families with children over 6, and anyone curious about the hidden layers of Turin. If you’re interested in wartime stories, military architecture, or underground construction, this tour provides a very engaging look at those themes.

While it’s not a quick glimpse, the three hours fly by as you listen, explore, and imagine life beneath the city that many only see from above.

Final thoughts

This Underground Tunnels Guided Tour is a compelling way to deepen your understanding of Turin’s history. It combines the thrill of discovery with the warmth of expert storytelling, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary focused on authentic, meaningful experiences.

For those who love uncovering secrets and exploring stories hidden beneath the surface, this tour offers a memorable journey into the city’s quieter, yet equally compelling, past. It’s especially valuable for travelers seeking a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path adventure that goes beyond typical sightseeing.

If you’re prepared for some walking and a bit of darkness, you’ll leave with new appreciation for Turin’s resilience and a handful of stories most visitors never hear. Truly, it’s a chance to walk through history—and that’s always a special experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over the age of 6 can participate, making it a family-friendly option. Just keep in mind that the underground spaces can be dark and narrow.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing enough time to explore the tunnels and shelters comfortably.

Are there different languages available?
Yes, the tour can be guided in Italian, English, German, Spanish, French, or Japanese, depending on your preference.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $65 per person, which includes entrance tickets and guided commentary.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the steep descents and uneven underground surfaces.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet your guide in front of the Pietro Micca Museum, a central and convenient location.

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

Embark on this underground adventure to see Turin from a fresh perspective—an exploration that’s as enlightening as it is intriguing.

You can check if your dates are available here: