Val di Susa, Italy Travel Guide

Val di Susa: A blend of natural beauty, historical treasures, and vibrant local culture in the heart of the Italian Alps.

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Val di Susa

Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Val di Susa is a scenic valley that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. This picturesque destination is surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and charming villages, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Val di Susa is not just about breathtaking landscapes; it also boasts a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. The valley is home to the Sacra di San Michele, an ancient abbey perched atop a hill that inspired Umberto Eco's famous novel 'The Name of the Rose'. Additionally, the Roman ruins in Susa town provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's past. For those looking to immerse themselves in local traditions, Val di Susa hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from traditional crafts to local cuisine. The valley is also an excellent destination for outdoor activities, offering a range of options from hiking and skiing to mountain biking and climbing.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Val di Susa.

Visit the Sacra di San Michele early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning sunrise views.
Try the local specialty, polenta concia, a hearty dish made with cornmeal and cheese.
If you're visiting in winter, don't miss the chance to ski at the nearby resorts of Sauze d'Oulx and Sestriere.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven, especially when exploring the ancient ruins.
Check the local event calendar to experience traditional festivals and markets.

Destinations in Val di Susa

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Sestriere

Explore Val di Susa: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Val di Susa

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Mole Antonelliana

Explore the majestic Mole Antonelliana, Turin's iconic landmark and home to the National Museum of Cinema, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.

4.6

Borgo Medievale

Explore Borgo Medievale, a captivating open-air museum in Turin that brings the Middle Ages to life through stunning architecture and engaging exhibits.

4.5

Gran Paradiso National Park

Discover the unparalleled beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy's first national park, rich in wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

4.8

Sacra di San Michele

Explore the Sacra di San Michele, a majestic abbey offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a serene spiritual experience in the heart of Piedmont, Italy.

4.7

Best landmarks in Val di Susa

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Fenestrelle

Explore the historic Fenestrelle Fortress in Italy, a majestic 18th-century military stronghold with breathtaking views and rich history.

4.7

The Tibetan Bridge

Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating heights at The Tibetan Bridge in Claviere, a must-visit tourist attraction in the Italian Alps.

4.7

Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, an alpine paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.7

Exilles

Discover the Fortress of Exilles, an iconic historical site in the heart of the Susa Valley, where history meets breathtaking mountain views.

4.5

Best restaurants in Val di Susa

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Feudo San Giorio

Discover the culinary delights and rich history at Feudo San Giorio in scenic San Giorio di Susa – where every meal tells a story.

4.5

Cantine Meana

Discover Cantine Meana: A delightful restaurant in Susa offering authentic Italian cuisine and a remarkable selection of local wines.

4.5

Ristorante della Posta

Discover authentic Piedmontese cuisine at Ristorante della Posta in Novalesa – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.4

Osteria Ristorante della Marchesa - Susa

Experience authentic Italian dining at Osteria Ristorante della Marchesa in Susa - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Best bars in Val di Susa

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Feudo San Giorio

Discover the exquisite flavors and rich history of Feudo San Giorio, a premier dining destination in the scenic Italian Alps.

4.5

Green Beach

Discover the enchanting vibe of Green Beach, a cocktail bar in Avigliana, known for its exquisite drinks and lively atmosphere.

4.3

Excalibur

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local brews at Excalibur, Susa's premier beer hall and social hub.

4.3

Bar The Provencal

Experience authentic Italian espresso and pastries at Bar The Provencal, a charming café in Sant'Antonino di Susa, perfect for every coffee lover.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Val di Susa

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Favola Beach Club

Discover the lively Favola Beach Club in Avigliana, where refreshing cocktails, stunning views, and a vibrant atmosphere await tourists seeking a perfect getaway.

3.8

Kronos The Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Alpignano at Kronos The Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments await.

4.0

Discoteca Première Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Discoteca Première Club in Poirino, where electrifying music and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights.

3.8

MOMO CLUB - Tè & Narghilè

Experience the vibrant nightlife at MOMO CLUB in Turin, where tea meets shisha in an unforgettable club atmosphere.

4.4

Best shops in Val di Susa

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Torino Outlet Village

Explore Torino Outlet Village for an unparalleled shopping experience with designer brands at irresistible prices, set in a charming Italian ambiance.

4.0

Iper Le Baite

Experience the best of shopping at Iper Le Baite in Oulx, Italy, with diverse stores and local flair for an unforgettable visit.

4.1

Lidl

Discover quality and affordability at Lidl, Susa's premier supermarket for fresh local products and international favorites.

4.2

Pasticceria Pietrini

Discover the sweet taste of Italy at Pasticceria Pietrini, where exquisite pastries and local flavors await in the heart of Susa.

4.7

Explore Val di Susa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Val di Susa, mapped for you.

Val di Susa Essentials

Val di Susa is located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. The nearest major airport is Turin-Caselle Airport (TRN), approximately 50 kilometers away. From Turin, you can take a train or a bus to reach various towns in the valley, including Susa, Bussoleno, and Oulx. The train journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, if you're driving, the A32 motorway connects Turin to Val di Susa, providing a scenic route through the mountains.
Public transportation within Val di Susa is well-organized and includes trains, buses, and taxis. Trains operated by Trenitalia connect the major towns in the valley, while local buses provide access to smaller villages and tourist sites. Renting a car is also a popular option, especially for those who wish to explore the more remote areas and enjoy the flexibility of their own schedule. Biking is another great way to explore the valley, particularly during the warmer months.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Val di Susa. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in most towns, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger towns like Susa or Oulx before venturing into more remote areas.
Val di Susa is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and be cautious in crowded places, such as markets and train stations, to avoid pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance (the European emergency number). Hospitals and medical facilities are available in larger towns like Susa and Oulx. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and any adventure activities you might partake in while in the area.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual clothing in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good day) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and wines. Don't rush your meals; Italians take their time to enjoy food.
To experience Val di Susa like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can purchase fresh produce and local products. Engage with locals at cafes and trattorias; they are often friendly and happy to share stories about the valley's history and culture. Don’t miss the Sacra di San Michele, an ancient monastery perched on a hilltop with stunning views. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking or skiing in the nearby Alps offers an authentic experience of the region's natural beauty.

When is the best time to visit Val di Susa?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Val di Susa

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Val di Susa. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-vay-DER-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pair fah-VOH-ray/PREH-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [GRAHTS-ee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusi/Mi dispiace
  [SKOO-zee/Mee dee-SPYAH-cheh]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh. Eh too?]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAR-lee een-GLAY-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [Non kah-PEE-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vor-RAY veh-DAY-ray eel meh-NOO, pair fah-VOH-ray]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [Non MAHN-joh KAR-nay]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-RAY pah-GAH-ray, pair fah-VOH-ray]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
- Go away!Vattene via!
  [VAH-tay-nay VEE-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la Polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-LEE-tsee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doht-TOH-ray]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [Mee SOH-noh PER-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [SOH-noh mah-LAH-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-RAY-ee kom-PRAR-eh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto SOH-loh gwahr-DAN-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAN-toh KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh TROH-poh koh-STOH-zoh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [PWOY ab-BAS-sah-ray eel PRET-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh OH-ray SOH-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezzo
  [DEE-eh-chee eh MEH-tsoh]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REE-joh]
- EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [OHJ-ee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Due
  [DOO-eh]
- 3Tre
  [TREH]
- 4Quattro
  [KWAHT-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [SAY]
- 7Sette
  [SEH-teh]
- 8Otto
  [OHT-toh]
- 9Nove
  [NOH-vay]
- 10Dieci
  [DEE-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova ...?
  [DOH-vay see TROH-vah ...?]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-REET-soh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [PWOY mo-STRAHR-mee (SOOL-lah MAH-pah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAN-doh PAH-sah eel PROH-see-mo (OW-toh-boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ...)
  [oon bee-LYET-toh (per ...)]

History of Val di Susa

Val di Susa, nestled in the Italian Alps, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Originally inhabited by Celtic tribes, the valley became an important passage for the Romans after they conquered the area in 13 BC. The construction of the Via Domitia, a major Roman road, enhanced its strategic significance, facilitating trade and military movements between Italy and Gaul. Remnants of Roman bridges and roads still dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into this ancient past.
During the Middle Ages, Val di Susa was dotted with monasteries and castles that played crucial roles in the region's history. The Sacra di San Michele, an imposing abbey perched on Mount Pirchiriano, was founded around the year 1000 and became a major center of religion and culture. The valley was also under the influence of various feudal lords, and numerous castles, such as the Castle of Avigliana, were built to protect and control the region.
In 773 AD, Charlemagne's army crossed Val di Susa during his campaign to conquer the Lombard Kingdom of Italy. This event is significant not only for its military implications but also for its cultural and political impact on the region. The march through the valley is commemorated in various local legends and historical markers, adding a layer of medieval lore to the area.
The Renaissance period brought economic prosperity and cultural development to Val di Susa. Towns like Susa and Avigliana flourished, becoming centers of trade and craftsmanship. The influence of the House of Savoy, which ruled the region, is evident in the architecture and urban planning of the time. The valley's strategic importance continued through the centuries, especially during the Napoleonic Wars, when it served as a crucial passage for troops and supplies.
Val di Susa's strategic location made it a focal point during both World Wars. The valley saw significant military activity, including the construction of fortifications and bunkers that can still be explored today. In the post-war period, Val di Susa became a symbol of industrial and technological advancement, with the development of the Turin-Lyon high-speed railway project, which has sparked both economic opportunities and local controversies.
Val di Susa is not only rich in history but also in cultural traditions. The region hosts numerous festivals and events that celebrate its heritage. One of the most notable is the Palio di Susa, a medieval festival that includes historical reenactments, parades, and traditional games. The valley is also known for its culinary delights, such as the local cheeses and wines, which are celebrated in various food festivals throughout the year.