Piedmont is a treasure trove of history, wine, and scenic beauty. From Turin’s regal architecture to Alba’s truffle-infused atmosphere, this journey weaves through Italy’s finest wines, charming villages, and scenic lakes. Here’s the perfect guide to exploring Piedmont, filled with longer descriptions of sights that will make this road trip unforgettable!

Stops along the Piedmont Road Trip

Turin (2-3 days)

Turin, the capital of Piedmont, blends aristocratic charm with a contemporary cultural vibe. Known for its refined squares, Baroque architecture, and a backdrop of the majestic Alps, Turin is a city with a grand heritage and a lively atmosphere. Wander through its elegant streets, visit renowned museums, and soak in the city’s rich coffee culture.

Sights

• Mole Antonelliana: Initially constructed as a synagogue, the Mole Antonelliana is Turin’s most iconic structure, housing the National Museum of Cinema. Its towering spire offers breathtaking views of the city, and the panoramic lift ride up is a memorable experience in itself.
• Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace): This UNESCO World Heritage site was once home to the powerful House of Savoy. The palace's stunning interiors, including the grand staircase and ballroom, are adorned with intricate frescoes, and the royal armory holds an impressive collection of weaponry.
• Egyptian Museum: With over 30,000 artifacts, this museum is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by ancient Egypt. Highlights include statues, mummies, and the famous Tomb of Kha, making it the second-largest Egyptian collection in the world.
• Piazza Castello: The heart of Turin, this expansive square is lined with historic palaces and bustling cafes. It’s perfect for people-watching, admiring statues, and enjoying the majestic architecture surrounding the area.

Alba (1 day)

Alba, known for its medieval towers and annual truffle fair, is the quintessential Piedmont town. Surrounded by the vineyards of Langhe, Alba’s cobbled streets and gourmet shops make it a favorite among food and wine lovers.

Sights

• Alba Cathedral (Duomo di Alba): This Gothic cathedral features a striking red-brick facade and a beautiful bell tower. Inside, you’ll find stunning frescoes and a serene atmosphere that transports you to another time.
• Truffle Market: Held each autumn, this famous market offers the rare and prized white truffles of Alba. Visitors can experience tastings, truffle hunts, and a true immersion into Alba’s truffle culture.
• Langhe Hills: A UNESCO World Heritage site, these rolling vineyards are home to some of Italy’s finest wines. Driving or walking through the hills provides stunning views and the opportunity to visit numerous wineries for tastings.
• Palazzo Comunale: Located in the heart of Alba, this historic town hall houses artwork and frescoes that give insight into the area’s medieval heritage, adding a cultural touch to any visit.

Barolo (1 day)

The charming village of Barolo, encircled by vineyards, is synonymous with its world-famous red wine. With its rustic stone buildings, cobblestone streets, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, Barolo embodies the soul of Italian wine country.

Sights

• Castello di Barolo: Perched on a hill, this castle houses the Wine Museum, offering interactive exhibits about the history of winemaking. The castle’s terrace provides panoramic views of the rolling vineyards below.
• Enoteca Regionale del Barolo: This wine shop inside a former chapel is a must-visit for tasting Barolo wines. Experts guide visitors through tastings, and you can purchase wines straight from the producers.
• Corkscrew Museum: Quirky yet fascinating, this museum boasts a collection of corkscrews from around the world, revealing the art and evolution of wine-opening tools.
• Wine Tasting Tours: Embark on guided tastings at family-owned wineries, where you’ll not only sample some of the world’s best wines but also learn about the intricate process behind every bottle.

Asti (1 day)

Asti is a city rich in medieval heritage and renowned for its sparkling wines. With a fascinating blend of history, wine culture, and annual festivals, it offers a beautiful glimpse into traditional Piedmontese life.

Sights

• Asti Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta): Known for its Gothic architecture, this cathedral features intricate frescoes and beautiful stained-glass windows. The peaceful interior and historic carvings make it a spiritual highlight of the city.
• Museo Palio di Asti: Delve into Asti’s historic Palio festival with fascinating exhibits, costumes, and banners that illustrate this centuries-old horse race tradition.
• Arazzeria Scassa: A tapestry museum showcasing the intricate artistry of hand-woven tapestries. Each piece tells a story, and visitors can learn about the detailed craft behind these impressive works.
• Palazzo Mazzetti: This stunning Baroque palace serves as a museum with an extensive collection of art, ranging from medieval sculptures to modern pieces. Its frescoed rooms and elegant design are worth a visit on their own.

Lake Orta (1-2 days)

Lake Orta is one of Italy’s most romantic and tranquil lakes, surrounded by lush hills and charming villages. Orta San Giulio, the lake’s main town, feels untouched by time, with medieval architecture, narrow streets, and stunning views across the water.

Sights

• Isola San Giulio: This peaceful island is accessible by boat and is home to the Basilica of San Giulio, known for its beautifully preserved frescoes and unique atmosphere.
• Sacro Monte di Orta: A UNESCO World Heritage sanctuary perched above the lake, featuring 20 chapels decorated with frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi. The view from the hilltop is simply breathtaking.
• Piazza Motta: The heart of Orta San Giulio, this piazza is lined with cafes and artisan shops. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a cappuccino with lake views.
• Lake Orta Boat Tour: Take a relaxing boat tour to explore the lake’s secluded coves, charming villages, and historic landmarks from the water.

Stresa (1-2 days)

Stresa is an elegant town on Lake Maggiore, known for its beautiful villas, lush gardens, and the nearby Borromean Islands. This lakeside destination is ideal for both relaxation and exploration, with historic hotels, charming promenades, and boat tours to the scenic islands.

Sights

• Isola Bella: One of the Borromean Islands, Isola Bella is famous for its Baroque palace and stunning terraced gardens. Wandering through the blooming terraces with lake views is a magical experience.
• Villa Pallavicino: This 19th-century villa features a botanical garden and a small zoo. The grounds are filled with exotic plants and flowers, making it a peaceful escape within Stresa.
• Alpinia Botanical Garden: Just above Stresa, this botanical garden offers a wide variety of alpine plants and a panoramic view of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Alps.
• Piazza Marconi: The town’s main square is a lively hub with restaurants, boutiques, and vibrant outdoor seating. It’s a great place to unwind after a day exploring the lakeside.

Good to Know

• Driving Tips: Be prepared for winding roads, especially in the hilly wine regions. GPS can sometimes mislead you on narrow roads, so keep an eye on signs and follow marked routes.
• Wine Tastings: Tasting appointments are often required in smaller, family-owned wineries. A small tasting fee is common and usually redeemable if you purchase a bottle.
• Language: While Italian is the official language, many people in tourist areas speak English. However, learning a few Italian phrases can go a long way in smaller towns.

Getting There

• By Car: A rental car offers the best flexibility, especially for reaching vineyards and small villages. Highways connect major cities, and scenic routes wind through wine regions and lakes.
• By Train: Trains connect larger towns like Turin, Asti, and Stresa, though a car is recommended for exploring more rural areas.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to explore Piedmont is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). Spring offers lush vineyards, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists, while autumn is the peak for wine events, truffle festivals, and colorful foliage. Summer (July-August) can be hot and more crowded, especially near the lakes, while winter (December-February) provides a quiet escape and is ideal for skiing in the nearby Alps.

For Foodies

• Truffles: Try Alba’s white truffle, a rare delicacy often featured in seasonal dishes.
• Tajarin al Tartufo: Thin egg noodles with truffle, an iconic Piedmontese pasta that’s rich and flavorful.
• Agnolotti del Plin: Small ravioli-like pasta with meat or vegetable filling, usually served with a light sauce.
• Hazelnut Delicacies: Enjoy a slice of hazelnut cake or a piece of gianduiotto chocolate, a Turin specialty.
• Barolo Wine: Sample the “King of Wines” in Barolo’s wine cellars, known for its bold flavors and aging potential.

This Piedmont Road Trip encapsulates the essence of northern Italy with world-renowned wines, stunning lakes, and rich history at every turn. Whether exploring Barolo’s vineyards, marveling at Turin’s historic sites, or unwinding by Lake Orta, Piedmont offers a truly authentic Italian experience where food, culture, and landscapes blend harmoniously.