Our travel clients venture to Piemonte, Italy, when they are searching for true Italian elegance, tradition, and charm. This region in northern Italy has remained under the radar for most travelers, but it’s worth your attention.
Piemonte Italy has a royal history (see the stunning Palazzo Reale), some of the most celebrated wines, and breathtaking natural scenery (hello, Isola Bella, Monviso, and Sacro Monte). Oh, and it’s no slouch in the food department, with prized cattle, top-notch Alpine cheese, and major foodie cred, as it is the birthplace of Slow Food.
I was introduced to Piemonte via Barbera wine. As a faithful Sangiovese wine drinker, I didn’t think anything could top a glass of Chianti. But my first encounter with Piemonte wine encouraged me to dive deep. Through my WSET sommelier certification, I studied the wines, land, people, and culture of the region.
Later, as an Italian resident for over 12 years, Piemonte became where I turned to escape the crowds in Florence. I have always enjoyed visiting this area, and now I’m happy to share that with you through this article and my work planning Italy travel itineraries. Read on to get to know Piemonte, Italy, must-see towns, things to do, and for some insider tips!
Get to Know Piemonte Italy
Piemonte Italy is nicknamed the “royal heart of Italy” because it was where the Royal House of Savoy, and the first king of Italy, had their seat of power. This royal influence adds something special to the region, but it’s not the only draw. This is also the region of the uber-famous Barolo wine, prized truffles, snow-capped mountains, architectural masterpieces, and picturesque villages.
Tucked away in northwestern Italy, Piemonte Italy borders France and Switzerland, as well as the Italian regions of Lombardy, Liguria, Valle d’Aosta, and Emilia-Romagna. The result is a level of cultural diversity that is uncommon in other parts of Italy. It’s also a region that is bordered on three sides by the Alps, explaining the name “Piemonte” which translates to “at the foot of the mountains.”
Although Milan, Lake Como, and Lake Garda often grab the spotlight in Northern Italy, Piedmont offers an equally beautiful experience. Thanks to its stunning glacial lakes, the cosmopolitan city of Turin, and its bucolic countryside, it has major appeal.
Where to Go In Piemonte Italy
You’ve probably heard of Turin, the major city in Piedmont, but there are also a constellation of smaller towns and destinations that are worth discovering. Here are places in Piedmont that you shouldn’t miss:
Turin
The capital city of Turin is increasingly on travelers’ radars thanks to its walkable historic center, its massive market, and its café culture that rivals Vienna or Paris. Also known as Torino in Italian, the city blends rich royal history with a vibrant food scene, serving as the birthplace of Italy’s unification and home to iconic culinary traditions like gianduja chocolate and vermouth.
The Langhe Hills
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Langhe is a paradise for wine and cheese lovers. Endless vineyards, hilltop towns like La Morra and Neive, and Michelin-star restaurants make this area of Piedmont an indulgent escape. This area is also home to renowned wines like Barolo, Barbaresco, and Dolcetto, among other notable varieties.
Monferrato
Monferrato spans the provinces of Asti and Alessandria, and is a stunning wine-producing region. It’s known for its medieval villages and charming chapels scattered throughout the landscape. History enthusiasts will enjoy learning that it was once an independent marquisate, the Marquisate of Monferrato, in the Middle Ages, and has a long history that stretches back to Roman times.
Sacra di San Michele
I discovered Sacra di San Michele while studying Italian literature at the University of Florence. Our professor told us that it was a place we had to visit once in our lives, and he wasn’t wrong. This striking abbey, perched high on Mount Pirchiriano, inspired the famous Italian author Umberto Eco’s book, The Name of the Rose.
Bonus tip: If you love places like Sacra di San Michele, consider visiting all the Sacri Monti, a collection of nine sacred mountains that are home to chapels, churches, and buildings throughout the Piemonte Italy.
Lake Maggiore
Lago Maggiore, straddling the border between Piedmont and Lombardy, is the region’s largest lake and a historic retreat for the nobility. It is celebrated for its opulent villas, lush gardens, and a food culture that fuses Alpine and Mediterranean influences.
Lake Orta
Often overshadowed by its bigger neighboring lakes, Lake Orta is a quiet, perfectly romantic destination. The town of Orta San Giulio is adorable, and while you’re there, consider taking a water taxi to the middle of the lake, where the island of Isola San Giulio features a peaceful monastery and a winding path for strolling.
Val di Susa
Perfect for hikers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts, the Susa Valley is home to ancient Roman ruins, Alpine trails, and dramatic mountain scenery. The town of Susa itself boasts a Roman amphitheater and aqueduct, while nearby ski resorts offer winter sports for adventure lovers.
Alta Via dei Monti Liguri
This high-altitude trail, which skirts the southern edge of the Piedmont and dips into Liguria, is unbeatable— but only recommended for serious backpackers. It offers incredible views and remote stretches of nature and is ideal for those wanting a more off-the-beaten-path experience. My Italian brother-in-law is an avid outdoorsman, and even he admits this one is not for the weak of mind, body, or spirit, so consider yourself warned!
Things To Do in Piedmont
Piemonte, Italy, has a mix of things to do — wine tasting, medieval towns, deep history, and stunning outdoors — many of which are on Italy travelers’ bucket lists. But things are quieter and less touristy than the more well-worn parts of the country. When we plan a custom itinerary, we always tailor it to the traveler, but these are just a few of the not-to-be-missed activities.
Explore Wine Country
Visit world-renowned wine regions like Barolo, Barbaresco, and Roero for tastings and vineyard tours.
Experience Slow Food Culture
Visit Bra, the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, and dine at local osterie that champion regional, seasonal ingredients.
Go Truffle Hunting
Join a guided truffle hunt with trained dogs in Langhe or Monferrato, during the white truffle season (October–December).
Savor Piedmontese Cuisine
Visit traditional markets, enjoy fine dining, and try Piedmont food and regional specialties, such as vitello tonnato, tajarin pasta, bagna cauda, and bonet.
Discover Turin
Sip a historic bicerin at Caffè Al Bicerin and browse the city’s landmark chocolate and vermouth producers. Tour the Royal Residences, the Egyptian Museum, and the Mole Antonelliana, or visit the original FIAT factory.
Visit Alpine and Lake Towns
Enjoy lakeside relaxation and gardens at two of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, Lago Maggiore and Lago d’Orta, while visiting towns like Stresa and Orta San Giulio. Or, go on an adventure and hike or ski in the Val di Susa or Val d’Aosta regions.
Take a Scenic Drive or E-Bike Tour
Ride through the vineyard-lined hills of the Langhe-Roero-Monferrato UNESCO landscapes, with stops in hilltop villages like La Morra, Neive, and Barbaresco.
When to Go To Piemonte Italy
Piedmont is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary depending on when you visit. Here’s what each season offers, and a few trade-offs to consider:
Spring (April–June 15)
Why Visit Piedmont In Spring: The countryside comes alive with blossoms, vineyards start to green, and crowds are minimal. It’s a lovely time for hiking, wine tasting, and strolling through cities like Turin or smaller towns without big crowds
Pro: Fewer tourists, pleasant temperatures, colorful landscapes
Con: Truffles are out of season, and some restaurants or wineries may be closed until summer
Summer (June 16–August)
Why Visit Piedmont In Summer: Alpine escapes are perfect this time of year when the cities are stiflingly hot, and lakes like Orta and Maggiore become an oasis. Cities like Turin can get hot, but that doesn’t stop the many events and outdoor festivals that take place in full swing during the summer.
Pro: Great for mountain hikes, lakeside relaxation, open-air festivals
Con: Cities can be hot, some towns may shut down in August for local holidays, and it’s high season for travel, so prices go up
Fall (September–November)
Why Visit Piedmont in Summer: This is Piedmont’s magic season and my personal favorite. If you love New England fall vibes, Piemonte is like that, only better. The grape harvest, white truffle season, and golden leafed vineyards make early fall one of the best times to experience the region’s food and wine scene. It’s also the season for the town of Alba’s famous Truffle Fair, which draws international crowds (and for good reason).
Pro: Truffle season, wine harvests, stunning fall foliage
Con: Accommodations book up quickly, especially in Alba and Langhe, and prices can rise during the truffle festival
Winter (December–March)
Why go in Winter: Fancy cozying up with a Barolo and in a stone castle? Winter is charming in Piemonte as snow falls and fireplaces beckon. Winter sports enthusiasts will find excellent skiing and stunning mountain resorts in the Alps. Turin instead sparkles with holiday lights and charming Christmas markets, plus the residences of the royal house of Savoy are decorated to the nines.
Pro: Great skiing, hearty winter cuisine, fewer tourists in non-ski areas, Christmas markets
Con: Cold weather (especially in rural areas), and snow can make mountain driving tricky
Things To Consider Before Your Travel To Piemonte
Before heading to Piedmont, it’s worth considering a few things to make the most of your trip:
Seasonal Timing
Why it matters: Due to its geographic location, Piedmont’s climate changes drastically with the seasons. Be sure to match your travel dates with your interests!
Transportation and Mobility
Why it matters: Piedmont is a mix of cities, remote vineyards, and mountainous villages, and not all of it is super accessible by public transport. Cities like Turin are well-connected by train, but the wine regions and small towns are best explored by car. If you’re going by car, be sure to brush up on our tips for driving in Italy.
Food and Wine Culture
Why it matters: Piedmont is a food and wine paradise, but picky eaters may find the cuisine challenging, with dishes like beef tartare, truffle pasta, or an anchovy and olive oil dip known as Bagna Cauda. This is the region for Slow Food, and meals are often leisurely and multi-course, featuring various local ingredients from Piedmont, but potentially exotic to you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Piemonte Italy
Piemonte (or Piedmont) is located in northwestern Italy, bordering France and Switzerland. It's known for its world-class wines, such as Barolo and Barbaresco, truffles from Alba, refined cuisine, elegant architecture, and stunning alpine scenery. The capital city is Turin, a sophisticated city with royal heritage, chocolate, and the famous Mole Antonelliana.
Absolutely. Piemonte is considered one of Italy’s top regions for gastronomy. It’s the birthplace of the Slow Food movement and offers specialties like white truffles, agnolotti del plin, vitello tonnato, and gianduja chocolate. Its wine scene is equally renowned, home to iconic reds like Barolo, Barbaresco, and Dolcetto, as well as sweet sparkling wines like Moscato d’Asti.
Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November) are the best times to visit. Spring offers mild weather and blooming vineyards, while fall brings truffle festivals, grape harvests, and colorful landscapes. Winter is ideal for alpine sports, and summer is great for lake visits, although it can get hot in the cities and valleys.
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Luxury Hotels In Piedmont
Now that you know what to do, you’re likely wondering where to stay in Piemonte, Italy. In that case, you’ll want to check out our curated list of luxury hotels in Piedmont. We’re sharing nine unforgettable properties across Lake Orta, Lake Maggiore, and the countryside.
Classic Piedmontese Recipes
Want to cook up some flavors of Piedmont? Here are a few of our readers’ favorite classic Italian recipes:
Piedmont Travel Guide
Are you considering traveling to Turin and the Piedmont region in real life? Check out our free Piedmont Travel Guide for our best travel tips, recipes, and articles on Italy.
Have Us Plan Your Piedmont Italy Trip
Depending on how you arrange it, traveling during an Italian holiday can be a super enjoyable (or frustrating) way to experience the country. If you want help making all your Italy travel come true, contact us for a travel consultation with one of our expert Italy planners!
