If you are planning a trip to Piedmont, get ready to discover an area rich in history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. This fascinating region of northern Italy offers a variety of experiences ranging from historic castles to enchanting wine-growing hills, to picturesque villages that tell of centuries of traditions. In this article, we'll explore 10 must-visit places to help you create an unforgettable itinerary. Whether you are a nature lover, an art enthusiast or a foodie looking for local specialties, Piedmont has something special for every type of traveler. Prepare to be surprised!
Fenis Castle: a dive into the Middle Ages
Immersed in the heart of the Aosta Valley, Fenis Castle is one of the most fascinating historical gems of Piedmont. This imposing medieval fortress, built in the 14th century, is a real journey through time, where every stone tells stories of knights and nobles. The castle, with its crenellated towers and evocative frescoes, is an extraordinary example of feudal architecture.
Walking through its corridors, you can admire the beauty of the frescoed rooms, which reveal the daily life of the time. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the internal chapel, a corner of spirituality immersed in an atmosphere of tranquility. The view enjoyed from the top of the towers is breathtaking, with the Alps rising majestically in the background, creating a wonderful contrast.
For photography lovers, the castle offers countless ideas: from the play of light on the stone walls to the panoramic views that capture the heart. Don't forget to explore the surrounding gardens, where local flora blends with historic architecture, providing enchanting scenery.
The visit to Fenis Castle is easily accessible, located a few kilometers from Aosta. It is advisable to book in advance during the high season, as the number of visitors is limited to preserve the beauty of the place. This castle is, without a doubt, an unmissable place for those who want to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Piedmont.
Experiences in Italy
Langhe: the paradise of Barolo wine
The Langhe are not just a territory, but a sensorial experience that enchants every visitor. With their gentle slopes and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, these UNESCO World Heritage hills are the undisputed kingdom of Barolo wine, often referred to as the "king of wines".
Walking among the rows, it's easy to feel transported to another era. Many wineries, such as Marchesi di Barolo and G.D. Vajra, offer tours and tastings that allow you to discover the secrets of winemaking, from traditional techniques to modern innovation. Don't miss the opportunity to savor a glass of Barolo accompanied by a platter of local cured meats and refined cheeses: a combination that tells the story of the area.
But the Langhe is not just wine. Villages such as La Morra and Barolo offer breathtaking panoramic views and an authentic atmosphere. Every year, in autumn, the Alba White Truffle Fair takes place, an unmissable event for gastronomy lovers.
To make your visit even more memorable, consider staying in one of the many farmhouses, where you can experience country life and enjoy dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The Langhe are an invitation to immerse yourself in the Piedmontese food and wine culture, a journey that stimulates all the senses.
Turin: art and culture at every corner
Turin, the capital of Piedmont, is a city that surprises and enchants with its extraordinary combination of art, history and culture. Walking through its elegant streets, you will have the impression of being in an open-air museum, where each building tells a fascinating story.
Don't miss a visit to the Egyptian Museum, one of the most important in the world, which houses an incredible collection of artefacts from ancient Egypt. Here you can admire mummies, sarcophagi and statues that will make you travel back in time. But Turin is not just history: the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli offers a selection of priceless works of art, with a breathtaking view of the city from its roof.
Turin's squares, such as Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo, are perfect places for a coffee break, perhaps savoring a bicerin, the typical local drink based on coffee, chocolate and cream. And if you are a nature lover, don't forget to visit Valentino Park, a green corner where you can relax and enjoy a walk along the Po river.
Finally, if you are looking for events, Turin is always alive with festivals and exhibitions. Check the local calendar to find out what the city has to offer during your visit. With its mix of art, architecture and tradition, Turin is an unmissable stop on your trip to Piedmont.
Sacra di San Michele: spirituality in the clouds
Immersed in the clouds and embraced by the Alps, the Sacra di San Michele is a place that evokes a sense of wonder and spirituality. This imposing monastery, located on a rock at over 1,000 meters above sea level, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and represents a must-see for anyone visiting Piedmont.
From its privileged position, the Sacra offers breathtaking views that range over the valley below and the surrounding peaks. Its majestic facade, enriched with Gothic details, invites visitors to discover the interior, where frescoes and sculptures tell centuries of history and devotion. Walking along the access avenue, you are surrounded by a feeling of peace, almost as if time had stopped.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the route that leads to the Sacra, a panoramic path that offers spectacular views of the surrounding nature. Each step is an invitation to reflect and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
To make your visit even more memorable, consider timing your trip during one of the many spiritual or cultural events taking place here. The Sacra di San Michele is not just a monument, but a journey into the soul of Piedmont, where spirituality and nature blend in an eternal embrace.
Lake Maggiore: lake beauty and historic villas
Discovering Lake Maggiore means immersing yourself in an enchanting landscape, where the crystal clear waters blend with the beauty of the surrounding mountains. This lake, the second largest in Italy, is a place where nature and history intertwine in an extraordinary way. Don't miss a visit to the famous Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, with its majestic palace and Italian gardens, and Isola Madre, famous for its botanical garden, are unmissable.
Walking along the shores of the lake, let yourself be enchanted by the picturesque villages of Stresa and Baveno, where the historic villas tell stories of nobility and summer holidays. The Villa Pallavicino, in Stresa, offers a zoo and English gardens, ideal for a family walk.
For nature lovers, the Val Grande National Park, located nearby, is a paradise for hikers and trekking enthusiasts. Here you can venture along little-traveled paths and discover hidden corners, while the view of the lake will leave you breathless.
To make your visit even more memorable, don't forget to taste the typical dishes of the local cuisine, such as perch risotto, paired with a good local red wine. Lake Maggiore is a place where every corner tells a story, making it an unmissable stop on your trip to Piedmont.
Alba: the heart of the white truffle
When we talk about Alba, we are referring to one of the most precious gems of Piedmont, famous throughout the world for its white truffle. This delicious tuber, celebrated by chefs and gourmet, finds its ideal habitat here, immersed in a hilly landscape that seems to have come out of a painting.
Walking through the streets of the historic center, you will be able to admire the elegant medieval towers and the lively squares, where the artisan workshops and typical restaurants invite you to discover the authentic flavors of the Piedmontese tradition. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the White Truffle Fair, held every autumn, where you can enjoy delicious dishes and participate in events dedicated to this delicacy.
But Alba is not just truffles; it is also the ideal starting point for exploring the Langhe, a world-famous wine region. Here you can taste the renowned Barolo, visit historic cellars and discover the secrets of winemaking.
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, take part in a dinner in the cellar or a cooking workshop, where you can learn the art of preparing typical dishes with fresh and genuine ingredients.
Finally, remember to bring home a gastronomic souvenir: a good white truffle or a bottle of fine wine will make your stay in Alba unforgettable!
Monferrato: villages to discover and fine wines
In the heart of Piedmont, Monferrato is an area that fascinates with its beauty and cultural richness. With its rolling hills, vineyards as far as the eye can see and charming medieval villages, this area is a real gem to explore.
Walking through the streets of Moncalvo, one of the smallest villages in Italy, you can breathe in a timeless atmosphere. Here, the ancient stones tell stories of a glorious past, while the small artisan shops offer typical products such as local jams and cheeses. Don't forget to visit the Church of San Francesco, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.
But Monferrato is not just history and culture; it is also a paradise for wine lovers. This region is famous for Barbera and Moscato, fine wines that tell the unique terroir of the area. The cellars open to the public offer unforgettable tastings, allowing you to taste the wines directly from the producers. Many farmhouses also offer typical lunches paired with the best local wines, offering a complete gastronomic experience.
For nature lovers, Monferrato is dotted with panoramic paths that wind through the vineyards and hills, perfect for hiking or cycling. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this corner of Piedmont, where every village has a story to tell and every glass of wine is an invitation to celebrate the beauty of life.
Gran Paradiso National Park: adventure in nature
Immersed in the majestic beauty of the Graian Alps, the Gran Paradiso National Park is a true paradise for nature and adventure lovers. With over 70,000 hectares of breathtaking landscapes, this park is the oldest in Italy and offers a variety of unique experiences, from scenic trails to more challenging hikes.
Walking through its centuries-old woods, you will be able to admire rich and varied flora and fauna. It is not uncommon to spot ibex, chamois and golden eagles, while the scents of pine and rhododendron envelop your senses. For trekking enthusiasts, there are itineraries suitable for all levels, such as the path that leads to Lake Ceresole, where the crystal clear water reflects the surrounding peaks.
In spring and summer, the park transforms into a riot of colors and sounds, while in winter it offers the possibility of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing among enchanting scenery. Don't forget to stop in the characteristic mountain villages, such as Cogne and Rhemes Notre-Dame, where the local gastronomic tradition, with dishes such as polenta concia, will make you feel the warmth of the Piedmontese welcome.
To visit the Gran Paradiso National Park, the best period is from May to October, when the paths are well signposted and accessible. Remember to bring with you trekking shoes, a detailed map and a desire to explore!
Asti: wine festival and local traditions
Asti is a gem of Piedmont, famous not only for its wine, but also for its lively local traditions that are intertwined with the history and culture of the area. Walking through the streets of this enchanting city, you are surrounded by a festive atmosphere, especially during the period of wine festivals, such as the famous Douja d'Or, which celebrates the excellent local wine production, including the incomparable Asti Spumante.
But Asti is not just wine: it is a place where the past merges with the present. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of Asti, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, and the Palazzo Comunale, an example of medieval art that tells stories of a distant time.
Every year, the city hosts events that attract visitors from all over the world. Among the most anticipated, the Wine Festival and the Palio di Asti, where the districts compete in historic horse races. These events not only showcase winemaking tradition, but also create a deep connection with the local community.
For those who want to savor typical cuisine, don't miss enjoying a plate of agnolotti accompanied by a good glass of Barbera. Asti is an invitation to explore, savor and live an authentic experience in the heart of Piedmont.
Lanzo Valleys: little-known paths and unique panoramas
Immerse yourself in a hidden corner of Piedmont, where nature reigns supreme and time seems to have stopped: the Lanzo Valleys. Here, among imposing peaks and crystalline streams, there are paths that tell ancient stories and panoramas that take your breath away.
Begin your adventure in Ceres, a picturesque village that serves as the gateway to these valleys. From here, you can embark on the Sentiero della Libertà, a route that will take you through centuries-old woods and flowery pastures, perfect for hikers of all levels. Don't forget to stop at the wonderful Chapel of San Giovanni, a small architectural jewel surrounded by greenery.
If you are a culture lover, don't miss the Mountain Museum in Germangnano, where you can discover the history and traditions of this enchanting region. And for those looking for a more adventurous experience, the Lanzo Valleys also offer climbing and mountain biking opportunities, with routes that wind through breathtaking scenery.
Visit the Lanzo Valleys for an authentic experience, far from crowded tourist destinations. Remember to bring a camera with you: the landscapes will leave you speechless. In this corner of Piedmont, every step is a work of art.