Avigliana​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
Avigliana is a lakeside town situated around 30 minutes from the centre of Turin (by car or train).

The main attractions of the town are its two lakes, Lago Grande and Lago Piccolo (big lake and small lake), while also of note close by is the famous religious complex of the Sacra di San Michele. which is just 10 kilometres away.

What People Ask About Avigliana

Is Avigliana worth visiting?
Yes, Avigliana is a historic town in the Susa Valley, known for its medieval centre, natural parks, and the scenic Avigliana Lakes. It offers a mix of culture and outdoor activities close to Turin.
What can you do in Avigliana?
You can walk through the old town, visit the ruins of the Avigliana Castle, and explore the Avigliana Lakes Nature Park. The area is also good for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
How do you get to Avigliana?
Avigliana has its own train station with regular services from Turin, around 30 minutes away. It is also accessible by car via the A32 motorway and is close to the entrance of the Susa Valley.
What is Avigliana known for?
Avigliana is known for its medieval architecture, twin lakes, and position near the Sacra di San Michele. It's a gateway to nature and history in the Piedmontese Alps.
When is the best time to visit Avigliana?
Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit, with good weather for exploring the lakes, walking trails, and nearby alpine routes. Summer is popular for outdoor sports and day trips.
Related links

Discover

Discover Avigliana
Avigliana, located in the Piedmont region, is a small town with a rich historical backdrop and an inviting atmosphere. Set between the Susa Valley and the stunning Alps, it offers a combination of scenic views and cultural heritage. The town is known for its proximity to the picturesque Lago di Avigliana, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery and ideal for outdoor activities. The streets are lined with charming historic buildings, adding to the town's character, making it a great spot for those interested in both nature and history.
​
Home to several significant landmarks, one of the most striking is the Sacra di San Michele, a medieval abbey perched on a hilltop, offering sweeping views over the town and the surrounding countryside. The Castello di Avigliana, a historic castle that once guarded the region, is another important site. Nature lovers can enjoy a range of activities, from walking and cycling along the lake to exploring nearby hiking trails in the foothills of the Alps. With its blend of outdoor experiences and historical landmarks, this town is an excellent base for those wishing to discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Piedmont region.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Avigliana
  • Centro Storico di Avigliana is a well-preserved medieval old town with cobbled streets, arcaded houses, and Gothic and Renaissance façades. Notable landmarks include the Torre dell’Orologio and ancient town gates. The layout reflects Avigliana’s role as a strategic stop between Turin and the Alpine passes. Small shops and cafés are found throughout the centre.
  • Chiesa di San Giovanni is a Romanesque-Gothic church built in the 13th century, located near the heart of the old town. It features a carved portal, frescoes, and a large rose window. The interior includes medieval paintings and side chapels. The church was an important centre for the Augustinian order in the Middle Ages.
  • Castello di Avigliana stands in ruins on a hill above the town and dates back to at least the 10th century. Once a key stronghold for the Counts of Savoy, it was destroyed by French troops in the 17th century. Today, its remaining walls and towers offer panoramic views of the valley and lakes. It can be reached via a short uphill walk.
  • Laghi di Avigliana (Avigliana Lakes) are two glacial lakes located just outside the town, surrounded by parkland and nature trails. The larger lake is suitable for swimming and boating, while the smaller one is a protected natural reserve. Both are popular for walking, birdwatching and summer recreation. Facilities include beaches and picnic areas.
  • Sacra di San Michele is not in Avigliana itself but lies just a few kilometres away and is visible from the town. Perched on Mount Pirchiriano, this monumental abbey is one of the region’s most famous religious sites. It inspired Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose. It can be visited by car or via hiking trails from the surrounding area.
Avigliana Tours and Activities
Comune di Avigliana
Province: Metropolitan City of Turin

Region: Piedmont

Population: 12,228​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 23 km²

​Elevation: 383 metres​

Close by: ​Rivoli, Susa, Venaria Reale, Palazzina di Stupinigi​

Recommended accommodation: Certosa 1515
Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont

1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. ​Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. ​Barolo

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.
To book one of our private transfers you can contact us via the [email protected] mailbox or use the Whatsapp button above for live chat and general advice about your upcoming trip to Italy. 

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone. 
Chat with us on WhatsApp