Susa was founded over two thousand years ago and was known in ancient times as Segusio. Thanks to its strategic position on an Alpine route connecting Italy with Gaul, the town played an important role in regional trade and military movements. In the 1st century BC, it became part of the Roman Empire. From that period, several impressive landmarks have survived to this day, including the Arch of Augustus, an amphitheater, and an aqueduct.

During the Middle Ages, Susa turned into a fortified town, and under the House of Savoy it gained particular importance as a commercial and military hub. Today, just over 6,000 people live in Susa, and it is precisely this intimate scale that makes the town so appealing.

Susa can only be reached by train from Turin. Trains depart from Porta Nuova station roughly once an hour, and the journey takes about 50 minutes (if you’re lucky and there are no strikes — unlike what happened to me). The ride itself is very scenic, with mountains, green fields, and small villages along the way.

The fastest way to get there is by car: the distance from Turin is about 50 km, and thanks to Italy’s well-maintained roads, the drive takes around 30 minutes. A perfect option for a day trip.

Susa is worth visiting first and foremost for its nature, tranquility, and the feeling of a complete reset. The Alps literally surround the town, and breathtaking views open up from almost anywhere. Truly — almost Switzerland.

In addition to the landscapes, Susa also offers several historical landmarks:

• The Arch of Augustus — a monumental Roman structure standing right in the middle of the town, silently reminding you how many centuries have passed here before us.
• The Amphitheater and Aqueduct — remnants of ancient infrastructure.
• The Cathedral of San Giusto, with its rather dark and austere Romanesque interior.

Walking through Susa’s narrow streets, I kept thinking how unlike typical Italian towns its architecture feels. You can sense traces of the Middle Ages and Romanesque style, and almost all the buildings are made of stone.

And one more detail that really stuck with me: during my 2.5-hour walk around the town, I barely met anyone. Just a couple of fellow adventurous tourists like myself. No crowds, no rush — an absolute detox.

For me, Susa was a true discovery. This is a completely non-touristy side of Italy — a place not everyone reaches and not everyone knows about.

If you love nature and want to escape the crowds for a day, Susa is definitely worth your attention.

I already feel like going back — and next time, not just for a couple of hours, but for a couple of days.