Susa
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Latest page update: 23 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Susa
Susa offers a modest but well-reviewed selection of established hotels, supported by its Roman heritage, Alpine setting and convenient road and rail links through the valley. The best options focus on comfort, practicality and easy access to the historic centre, mountain routes and nearby passes.
Hotel Susa & Stazione, opposite the station, is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its welcoming hospitality, comfortable rooms and excellent position for exploring the town on foot (€€). Hotel Napoleon, near the centre, provides a practical alternative with modern interiors, friendly service and easy access to cafés, shops and local landmarks (€€). For those seeking a quieter base in the surrounding area, Casa per Ferie Centro Beato Rosaz in Cesana Torinese offers a peaceful setting and a convenient location for combining valley visits with excursions into the mountains (€€).
Hotel Susa & Stazione, opposite the station, is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its welcoming hospitality, comfortable rooms and excellent position for exploring the town on foot (€€). Hotel Napoleon, near the centre, provides a practical alternative with modern interiors, friendly service and easy access to cafés, shops and local landmarks (€€). For those seeking a quieter base in the surrounding area, Casa per Ferie Centro Beato Rosaz in Cesana Torinese offers a peaceful setting and a convenient location for combining valley visits with excursions into the mountains (€€).
Where is
Where is Susa?
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The historic town of Susa is situated within the Metropolitan City of Turin province and has a population of around 6,000 residents.
Standing at an elevation of 503 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 57 kilometres west of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont. Lying on the River Dora Riparia, Susa's highlights include the Porta Savoia, Susa Cathedral and the Arch of Augustus. |
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Comune di Susa
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Province: Metropolitan City of Turin
Region: Piedmont Population: 5,905 (in 2024 - source) Total size: 11 km² Elevation: 503 metres Highlights: Porta Savoia, Arch of Augustus, Susa Cathedral Close by: Val di Susa, Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, Avigliana |
What People Ask About Susa
What is Susa known for?
Is Susa worth visiting?
What can you see in Susa?
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What is the Arch of Augustus in Susa?
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Discover
Discover Susa
Ancient trading post
In the first century BC Susa was an important trading post in the region of Gaul before ceding control to the empirical Romans. This transfer of power is marked by one of the town's leading monuments: the Arch of Augustus which was inaugurated by the emperor himself.
The monumental archway lies to the west of the city centre, just outside the city walls and next to an archaeological area of Roman artefacts. You can perform the not so notable task of breaching the city walls via the Porta Savoia. The iconic structure with its circular turrets leads into Piazza San Giusto which in turn provides the entrance to Susa Cathedral. This is one of the prettiest areas of the town and the 11th century Cattedrale di San Giusto merits its own exploration.
The monumental archway lies to the west of the city centre, just outside the city walls and next to an archaeological area of Roman artefacts. You can perform the not so notable task of breaching the city walls via the Porta Savoia. The iconic structure with its circular turrets leads into Piazza San Giusto which in turn provides the entrance to Susa Cathedral. This is one of the prettiest areas of the town and the 11th century Cattedrale di San Giusto merits its own exploration.
Exploring the historic centre
Heading east of Piazza San Giusto along Via Francesco Rolando shortly brings you to the bustling town centre where the views of Piazza IV Novembre are given extra lustre by the sight of the church museum (Museo Diocesano) on the opposite bank of the river. The museum apart, the sense of historic splendour gradually thins out north of the river with further monuments back on the southern side including the Castello Contessa Adelaide and another bell tower: the Campanile Chiesa Santa Maria Maggiore.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Susa
- Arco di Augusto is a Roman triumphal arch built in 8 BC to commemorate the alliance between Emperor Augustus and the local Segusini tribe. Made from white marble, the arch stands at the eastern entrance to the town and is decorated with symbolic reliefs. It marks the start of the ancient Via delle Gallie. The arch is one of the oldest and best-preserved monuments in Piedmont.
- Amphitheatre of Susa dates from the 1st century AD and once hosted gladiator games and public events. Built into a natural slope, it could hold around 3,000 spectators and still retains part of its original stone seating. The site is used today for summer performances and guided tours. It forms part of a wider Roman archaeological area.
- Cathedral of San Giusto is a Romanesque-Gothic structure built in the 11th century on the site of a former monastery. The cathedral’s bell tower features Lombard bands and arched windows, while the interior includes Baroque chapels and a crypt with early Christian relics. It is located near Piazza Savoia, forming a focal point of religious life in the town. A museum beside the church displays sacred art and liturgical items.
- Castle of the Marquises of Susa occupies a strategic position overlooking the historic centre. Originally built as a Roman gate, it was later transformed into a fortress and noble residence. The castle’s present form includes medieval towers, Renaissance windows and a small garden. Although not always open to the public, it can be admired from surrounding viewpoints and paths.
- Porta Savoia is the best-preserved of Susa’s ancient city gates, dating from Roman times and integrated into the medieval town walls. Twin towers flank the central arch, which was used as a customs checkpoint for those entering the town. The gate leads directly to the Cathedral of San Giusto and is still a main point of access for visitors. Its layered architecture reflects centuries of reuse and adaptation.
Tours and Activities
Susa Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Susa
- Ristorante La Locanda del Mulino: Located near the historic centre of Susa, La Locanda del Mulino offers a refined dining experience focused on traditional Piemontese cuisine. Known for its rich pastas like agnolotti, risotto with saffron, and grilled meats, the restaurant combines local ingredients with a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. The attentive service and charming decor make it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Al Ponte: Situated along the river in Susa, Ristorante Al Ponte offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on regional Italian and Piemontese dishes. The menu includes options such as risotto with mushrooms, homemade pasta, and braised meats. The peaceful setting and high-quality ingredients make it a great place for a special occasion or a quiet dinner. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Il Giardino: A family-run trattoria just outside the town centre, Trattoria Il Giardino offers a friendly and casual atmosphere with a focus on traditional Piemontese dishes. The menu includes hearty options like roast meats, local cheeses, and homemade pastas, with a selection of wines from the region. The rustic charm and generous portions make it a great choice for a laid-back meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante La Trattoria del Castello: For a more upscale experience, La Trattoria del Castello offers refined Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The menu features dishes like risotto with truffle, grilled meats, and a variety of seasonal vegetables. The elegant interior, combined with exceptional service, makes it an excellent spot for a memorable dining experience. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Cantuccio: Known for its traditional Italian fare, Ristorante Il Cantuccio offers a cosy and intimate atmosphere with a menu that includes local Piemontese dishes such as agnolotti, roast lamb, and risotto. The warm service and rustic decor create a relaxed environment perfect for enjoying classic Italian flavours. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
Photo Gallery
Susa Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Susa
The area around Susa is colloquially-known as the Via Lattea - the Milky Way. This terminology relates to two valley regions: the Valle di Chisone and the Val di Susa. The town of Susa is directly to the west of Turin, no more than a 50 minute dart along the A32 motorway (called the E70 on Google Maps).
Directly to the south of the town is the Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, a mountainous parkland that for all the world looks as though it provides easy access to the pretty cluster of towns to the south around Usseaux. However, don't be fooled by the map overview as this is a really difficult road to drive along. The views at the top of the road are spectacular on a clear day but liable to fog which makes the onward descent quite hazardous.
That being the case, the points of interest directly to the east and west of Susa are the easiest to reach. Among those are the imposing Sacra di San Michele on the road to Turin, while heading in the opposite direction, west towards the French border are a umber of ski resorts including Bardonecchia and Sauze d'Oulx.
If you have time for a scenic drive, you can follow the road round, south of Oulx towards the ski resort of Sestriere. This section of the road affords some spectacular mountain scenery including the smaller resort of Pragelato. You can continue east towards Pinerolo with a recommended stop at the mural town of Usseaux and the little village of Laux just off the opposite side of the road. Also worthy of some exploration along this route is the imposing mountain fortress: Forte di Fenestrelle.
Directly to the south of the town is the Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, a mountainous parkland that for all the world looks as though it provides easy access to the pretty cluster of towns to the south around Usseaux. However, don't be fooled by the map overview as this is a really difficult road to drive along. The views at the top of the road are spectacular on a clear day but liable to fog which makes the onward descent quite hazardous.
That being the case, the points of interest directly to the east and west of Susa are the easiest to reach. Among those are the imposing Sacra di San Michele on the road to Turin, while heading in the opposite direction, west towards the French border are a umber of ski resorts including Bardonecchia and Sauze d'Oulx.
If you have time for a scenic drive, you can follow the road round, south of Oulx towards the ski resort of Sestriere. This section of the road affords some spectacular mountain scenery including the smaller resort of Pragelato. You can continue east towards Pinerolo with a recommended stop at the mural town of Usseaux and the little village of Laux just off the opposite side of the road. Also worthy of some exploration along this route is the imposing mountain fortress: Forte di Fenestrelle.
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
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
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Susa
By Rail: The train service in operation from Susa is effective and worthwhile: it's a one hour and 8 minute journey from here to Turin Porta Nuova Station from where you can take faster trains to the major cities of Italy.
By Road: Susa is approximately 50 km from Turin, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the A32 motorway. The town is also about 60 km from Cesana Torinese, and the drive takes about 1 hour. There are several car parks near the town centre, though parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports: The nearest international airport to Susa is Turin Airport (Aeroporto di Torino-Caselle), located about 80 km away. The drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Susa, or alternatively, you can take a train to Turin and then transfer to a regional train to Susa.
Another alternative is Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Malpensa), about 180 km away. The drive takes roughly 2 hours. From Milan, you can take a train to Turin and then transfer to a local train to Susa.
Additional Transport Options: There are also local buses that connect Susa to nearby towns such as Cesana Torinese, Oulx, and Turin, offering a convenient and affordable way to travel in the region.
By Road: Susa is approximately 50 km from Turin, and the drive takes around 1 hour via the A32 motorway. The town is also about 60 km from Cesana Torinese, and the drive takes about 1 hour. There are several car parks near the town centre, though parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Nearest International Airports: The nearest international airport to Susa is Turin Airport (Aeroporto di Torino-Caselle), located about 80 km away. The drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Susa, or alternatively, you can take a train to Turin and then transfer to a regional train to Susa.
Another alternative is Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Malpensa), about 180 km away. The drive takes roughly 2 hours. From Milan, you can take a train to Turin and then transfer to a local train to Susa.
Additional Transport Options: There are also local buses that connect Susa to nearby towns such as Cesana Torinese, Oulx, and Turin, offering a convenient and affordable way to travel in the region.
Private Transfers
Susa Private Transfers
A private transfer is an efficient way to reach Susa, particularly useful if you're travelling through the Alps or connecting with airports and cities beyond the local rail network. You’ll be picked up directly from your location and driven in comfort to your destination without the need to change trains or hire a car.
From Susa, the drive to Turin Airport takes about 1 hour (approx. 65 kilometres), while Milan Malpensa Airport is around 2 hours 15 minutes away (approx. 190 kilometres). Transfers to Turin, Bardonecchia, or Oulx typically take between 40 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply fill out the short form below.
From Susa, the drive to Turin Airport takes about 1 hour (approx. 65 kilometres), while Milan Malpensa Airport is around 2 hours 15 minutes away (approx. 190 kilometres). Transfers to Turin, Bardonecchia, or Oulx typically take between 40 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply fill out the short form below.
