When winter approaches, Torino reveals one of its most captivating sides. The city’s elegant boulevards, royal squares and arcaded streets become the backdrop to a unique blend of contemporary art, historic tradition and seasonal celebration. Unlike other Italian destinations that explode with holiday crowds, Torino offers a more refined, authentic Christmas atmosphere, where creative light installations, artisanal markets and centuries-old cafés create a warm contrast to the crisp mountain air drifting down from the Alps.
Between November 2025 and January 2026, travellers will find a city alive with culture: from the internationally renowned Luci d’Artista festival to enchanting Christmas villages, family-friendly fairs and special winter events. And thanks to the City Sightseeing Torino Luci d’Artista Tour, exploring all the illuminated corners of the city becomes not only effortless, but a highlight in itself.
1) The spectacular “Luci d’Artista” light-festival by bus
One of the crown jewels of Torino’s winter is the “Luci d’Artista” festival: luminous outdoor installations by Italian and international artists, transforming the city into an open air art gallery. For the 28th edition, the electric display runs from 1 November 2025 to 6 January 2026.
The perfect way to experience it is aboard the City Sightseeing “Luci d’Artista City Tour” bus: a guided bus ride (in Italian, English and French) that passes through key illuminated spots.
This gives visitors a comfortable, panoramic way to see the lights after dusk, when they are at their most magical.
2) Christmas markets & festive villages
Torino offers a number of charming markets and festive installations:
- The “Villaggio di Natale” in Piazza Solferino, complete with a skating rink, runs from 8 December 2025 to 6 January 2026.
- The “Natalè Reale” event at the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi (in Nichelino) takes place 29 Nov – 14 Dec 2025.
- More generally, the region-wide list of Christmas markets in Piemonte includes many events from mid-November through December.
These markets are ideal for gift-hunting: artisan ornaments, local food specialties (gianduiotti, nougat, etc.), mulled wine, and cosy stalls.
3) Fun & family friendly: “Natale in Giostra” and skating
For families and playful souls, the “Natale in Giostra 2025” (funfair / amusement rides) opens at the Parco Dora area from 22 November 2025 to 6 January 2026.
Also, the skating rink and festive installations in Piazza Solferino (see above) provide winter fun in a central setting.
4) Historic centre, panoramic vantage points & evening walks
Late afternoon and evening walks around Torino take on a special charm: the historic cafés light up, the lights from Luci d’Artista reflect off façades, and neighbourhoods like the riverside or the “Quadrilatero” (centre) feel magical. Pair that with a bus tour to move easily between points of interest without dealing with cold or parking.
5) New Year’s and post-holiday calm
As December turns into January, Torino doesn’t completely fade after Christmas: the lights continue, the skating rink remains active until early January, and there’s a quieter, more relaxed ambience after the peak days. Great for travellers who prefer fewer crowds but still want the festive feel.
Why the hop-on-hop-off bus (City Sightseeing Torino) is a must this season
If you’re organising tours or recommending experiences for visitors, one of the most efficient and enjoyable mobility options in winter is the City Sightseeing Torino bus.
Key advantages:
- Flexibility: Guests can board at a convenient stop, disembark to explore a market or stall, then hop back on when ready.
- Comfort: Cold or damp winter days make indoor/outdoor transport via bus much more comfortable.
- Orientation: For guests new to Torino or visiting only a few days, the bus provides a quick overview of major sights while also giving access to festive installations.
- Evening light experience: The bus enables a “lights” tour after dusk — especially ideal for the Luci d’Artista installations.
- Audio-guide commentary: Adds value for tourists by explaining historical sites, festive traditions and local stories.
