- Pinerolo was the historical residence of the Princes of Achaea, a branch of the House of Savoy, who established a significant court here in the 14th century.
- The city became infamous in the 17th century as the site of the fortress where the legendary 'Man in the Iron Mask' was imprisoned.
- Pinerolo maintains a strong tradition of horse riding and cavalry culture, stemming from the prestigious Cavalry School that operated in the city for over a century.
- The city was a major transit point on the historical trade routes connecting the Po Valley with the Dauphiné region of France via the Alpine passes.
- Pinerolo hosted the curling events during the 2006 Winter Olympics, significantly upgrading its local infrastructure for international sports.
About Pinerolo
Pinerolo serves as a historical gateway to the Chisone and Pellice valleys in the Piedmont region of Italy, uniquely defined by its long-standing identity as a center for Italian cavalry. The city balances its military heritage, showcased at the Museo Storico dell'Arma di Cavalleria [184687], with tranquil green spaces like the Giardino De Amicis [145230]. Architectural landmarks such as the Church of Saint Maurice [237998] dominate the hilltop skyline, reflecting centuries of religious and regional influence. Beyond its urban core, residents and visitors frequently head to Zoom Torino [32393] for an immersive experience with wildlife.
Highlights of Pinerolo
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Zoos
This bio-park features immersive animal habitats designed to resemble natural African and Asian landscapes.
Museums
It houses an extensive collection of artifacts documenting the history and evolution of the Italian mounted forces.
Temples
This church features an elevated position offering panoramic views across the valley toward the Alps.
Parks
An ideal location for a quiet stroll, this public garden provides a leafy escape within the urban layout.
Temples
Serving as the main religious site of the city, its facade remains a primary example of local ecclesiastical architecture.
Parks
A dedicated green space that offers a peaceful environment for outdoor relaxation.
Top things to do in Pinerolo
The 283 highest-rated places in Pinerolo, ranked by travellers.
1
Zoos
Zoom Torino is an immersive zoological park that replaces traditional cages with wide-open, barrier-free habitats design...
2
Historical places
Fenestrelle Fortress is the largest alpine fortification in Europe, sprawling across 1.3 million square meters in the Ch...
3
Parks
The Parc naturel régional du Queyras is a high-altitude protected area in the French Alps, bordering Italy and spanning...
4
Natural attractions
Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè is a protected alpine wilderness covering approximately 11,000 hectares in the Cottian...
5
Places of interest
Col Agnel is a high mountain pass in the Cottian Alps reaching an elevation of 2,744 meters. It serves as a natural bord...
6
Historical places
Forte di Exilles is a strategic fortification perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Susa Valley in the Piedmont region...
7
Places of interest
The Arco di Augusto in Susa, Italy, is a Roman triumphal arch dating back to 9-8 BC. It was erected to commemorate the p...
8
Museums
The Ecomuseo delle Miniere e della Val Germanasca is an industrial heritage site located in the Italian Alps, offering t...
9
Parks
Parco acquatico Atlantis is a dedicated outdoor aquatic center located in San Secondo di Pinerolo. The facility features...
10
Parks
Parco Naturale del Gran Bosco di Salbertrand is a protected wilderness area in the Susa Valley, defined by its massive a...
11
Parks
Lago Orfù, often referred to as Laghetto di Gad, is a small alpine lake located in the Susa Valley near the town of Oulx...
12
Temples
The Cathedral of Saint Donatus, or Cattedrale di San Donato, serves as the seat of the Bishop of Pinerolo. The current s...
13
Temples
The Church of Saint Maurice occupies a commanding position on the hill of San Maurizio, overlooking the historic center...
14
Temples
The Santuario Grotta di Nostra Signora di Lourdes is a devotional site located in the Sangone Valley in the Italian Alps...
15
Parks
The Parco Naturale della Rocca di Cavour is a protected natural area centered on a monolithic granite hill that rises ab...
16
Temples
Founded in 726 AD, Novalesa Abbey is a Benedictine monastery located at the foot of the Mont Cenis pass in the Susa Vall...
17
Historical places
The Roman Amphitheatre of Susa, constructed in the 2nd century AD, is one of the best-preserved examples of Roman civic...
18
Places of interest
Valle Argentera is a high-altitude alpine valley located in the Cottian Alps near the border between Italy and France. T...
19
Natural attractions
Monviso, also known as Monte Viso, is the highest peak in the Cottian Alps, reaching an elevation of 3,841 meters. Locat...
20
Museums
21
Places of interest
22
Museums
23
Temples
24
Places of interest
25
Temples
26
Parks
27
Parks
28
Venues
29
Historical places
30
Places of interest
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Pinerolo on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Pinerolo
May to June or September, when the Alpine foothills offer mild temperatures ideal for both urban exploration and outdoor valley excursions.
2 days, which provides sufficient time to tour the historical upper town, the cavalry museum, and one regional attraction like the nearby zoological park.
The historic center is compact and walkable, while regional buses connect the town to the surrounding mountain valleys and the wider Piedmont rail network.
Staying near the historic center or the upper town (Città Alta) places visitors within walking distance of the primary churches and architectural sites.
Mid-range; the city offers a variety of locally-run guesthouses and restaurants that are generally more affordable than those in nearby Turin.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 283 curated attractions in and around Pinerolo, ranked by traveller ratings.
Zoom Torino is the highest-rated place to visit in Pinerolo right now.
The largest category is temples, with 86 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Rome, Milan, Galatina.
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