italian-region-guide-piedmont

Visit Piedmont

From the grand boulevards of Turin (Torino) to the rolling vineyards of the Langhe hills, Piedmont is a region where sophistication, tradition, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony.

Stroll through the stately arcades and cafés of Turin, Italy’s first capital, where baroque palaces, the sweeping Piazza Vittorio Veneto, and views of the Alps create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Beyond the city, the landscape unfolds into a painter’s dream, gentle hills lined with vineyards, chestnut forests, and castles that watch over valleys rich in history and flavour. Here, the rhythm of life slows to the scent of Barolo wine, white truffles from Alba, and the warmth of local hospitality.

Piedmont Region

Wander the cobbled streets of Asti, famous for its sparkling wines and medieval towers, or explore Garessio, a mountain village where ancient stone houses meet clear alpine air. The shimmering shores of Lake Maggiore beckon from Stresa, with grand villas and botanical gardens overlooking the water, while the hilltop towns of Barbaresco and Neive invite you to linger over a glass of wine as the sun dips behind the vines. Whether you’re tracing royal history through Turin’s Savoy residences, skiing in the western Alps, or savouring fine cuisine in a quiet trattoria, Piedmont offers a refined yet welcoming escape into the heart of Italy’s rich heritage.

Garessio

Garessio, a picturesque medieval town in southern Piedmont, offers a true taste of authentic mountain charm.

Nestled at the foot of the Ligurian Alps and surrounded by forests and rolling hills, it is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, outdoor adventure, and a taste of genuine Italian heritage.

The town’s historic centre, with its stone archways, cobbled streets, and elegant palazzi, tells centuries of stories from its time as a strategic stop along the ancient Salt Road. Here you can explore the atmospheric Porta Rose, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and the narrow lanes that reveal Garessio’s timeless character.

Nature lovers will find endless opportunities nearby, from hiking and cycling trails through the Parco Naturale delle Alpi Liguri to skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The surrounding mountains also offer panoramic viewpoints and peaceful picnic spots.

Local restaurants and trattorias serve traditional Piedmontese and Ligurian dishes, celebrating the region’s culinary crossroads where you can indulge in handmade pasta and local cheeses to fine wines and seasonal specialties.

With its blend of medieval charm, mountain scenery, and warm hospitality, Garessio is a destination that captures the true essence of Italy’s alpine spirit all year round.

Orta-San-Giulio

Orta San Giulio, one of northern Italy’s most enchanting lakeside towns, captivates visitors with its romantic atmosphere, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views over Lake Orta. Often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, it offers a peaceful escape where history, art, and nature come together in perfect harmony.

The heart of the town is Piazza Motta, a lively square overlooking the shimmering lake, from which boats depart to the tiny Isola San Giulio, home to a centuries-old basilica and a serene monastery. Strolling through Orta’s narrow lanes, you can admire elegant façades, artisan shops, and panoramic terraces that capture the timeless charm of the Italian lakes.

Above the town rises the Sacred Mount of Orta (Sacro Monte di Orta), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by tranquil woodland and chapels dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. It’s a place of beauty and reflection, offering sweeping views across the lake and surrounding hills.

Visitors can enjoy lakeside dining with fresh local fish and fine regional wines, or simply relax by the water as the sunset paints the sky in soft hues.

With its gentle pace, artistic spirit, and stunning natural setting, Orta San Giulio invites you to slow down, explore, and fall in love with the magic of Lake Orta.

Stresa

Stresa, gracefully set on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, is one of Piedmont’s most elegant and well-loved destinations. Known for its beautiful lakeside promenade, grand hotels, and views of the Borromean Islands, Stresa combines natural beauty with timeless sophistication.

The town’s historic centre is a delight to explore, with tree-lined streets, charming cafés, and boutiques that reflect its long tradition as a refined resort. From the lakeside, you can take boat trips to Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori, each offering a unique blend of history, gardens, and culture.

Above Stresa, the Mottarone mountain offers panoramic views stretching from Lake Maggiore to the Alps and the Po Valley, as well as opportunities for hiking, cycling, and winter sports.

Stresa also hosts cultural events throughout the year, including concerts and exhibitions that highlight its artistic heritage.

Local cuisine celebrates both the lake and the land, featuring dishes with fresh fish, regional cheeses, and fine Piedmontese wines served in welcoming restaurants.

Elegant, scenic, and full of character, where nature, culture, and relaxation come together to create a truly memorable lakeside getaway.

Turin

Turin, the elegant capital of Italy’s Piedmont region, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty framed by the snow-capped Alps.

Renowned for its refined architecture, leafy boulevards, and rich artistic heritage, Turin is a city where baroque palaces, grand piazzas, and contemporary design coexist in perfect harmony. From leisurely strolls along the Po River to scenic views from the Mole Antonelliana, every corner reveals a new perspective of this timeless city.

Steeped in royal tradition, Turin boasts magnificent squares, historic cafés, and arcaded streets that echo centuries of Savoy history. Museums, galleries, and theatres celebrate its deep cultural roots, while nearby vineyards and mountain landscapes invite exploration just beyond the city’s edge.

Visitors can savor the flavors of Piedmontese cuisine, indulging in handmade pasta, rich chocolate, and world-class wines, or enjoy a classic aperitivo in one of the city’s elegant cafés.

Turin is the perfect destination for those seeking a refined yet relaxed escape, where art, history, and gastronomy come together against a backdrop of alpine majesty.

Verbania

Verbania, the “Garden on Lake Maggiore,” is a picturesque lakeside town that perfectly blends natural beauty, culture, and relaxation. Set against the backdrop of the Alps, it offers stunning views, elegant gardens, and a serene atmosphere that attracts visitors all year round.

Famous for its botanical parks and lush green spaces, Verbania is home to the magnificent Villa Taranto Gardens, known worldwide for their extraordinary variety of plants and flowers. The town’s lakefront promenades, charming historic center, and nearby mountain trails make it ideal for leisurely walks, cycling, and outdoor adventures.

From Verbania, you can easily explore the enchanting Borromean Islands, take scenic boat trips across Lake Maggiore, or enjoy excursions into the surrounding valleys and nature reserves.

Local restaurants and cafés invite you to experience authentic Piedmontese flavors, from fresh lake fish and handmade pasta to artisanal cheeses and regional wines.

Visit Verbania for a perfect for a peaceful lakeside getaway, a base for exploring the Italian Lakes region, and a destination rich in culture and nature.

Novara

Novara city offers history, culture, and gastronomic delights. Surrounded by rice fields and framed by distant Alpine peaks, Novara offers a unique blend of urban charm and countryside tranquility.

At the heart of the city stands the majestic Basilica of San Gaudenzio, crowned by its striking dome designed by Alessandro Antonelli, one of Italy’s most remarkable architectural landmarks.

Strolling through the historic center, you can admire elegant piazzas, arcaded streets, and lively cafés that reflect Novara’s rich heritage and welcoming spirit.

Novara is also a gateway to discovery: explore local museums, attend cultural festivals, or venture into the surrounding wine hills and rice plains that define the region’s landscape.

Food lovers will delight in Novara’s authentic cuisine from creamy risottos made with local rice to fine cheeses, cured meats, and renowned DOC wines.

Whether for a weekend getaway or a cultural journey, Novara offers an inviting atmosphere where art, history, and culinary excellence meet, making it a memorable destination in the heart of Piedmont.

Flights and getting around

The best way to discover Piedmont is by renting a car, allowing you the freedom to explore its diverse landscapes, from the rolling vineyards of Langhe and Monferrato to the tranquil lakes of Maggiore and Orta, and the majestic Alpine valleys near Cuneo and Biella. With a car, you can easily visit medieval hilltop villages, elegant towns, and scenic countryside routes at your own pace.

Public transportation is reliable and connects major cities such as Turin, Novara, Alessandria, and Asti. Trains and regional buses also reach many smaller towns, though some of the most beautiful rural areas and wine routes are best explored by car.

Taxis are available in larger urban centers, and in cities like Turin, walking is a pleasant way to enjoy its grand boulevards, historic squares, and lively café culture.

Flights from the UK: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (to Turin Airport).

Nearest airport: Turin-Caselle Airport (TRN) — centrally located for easy access to destinations across Piedmont, including the wine regions, lakes, and mountains.

The airport is served by major airlines offering convenient connections from the UK and across Europe to the heart of northwestern Italy.

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Weather

Piedmont enjoys a varied climate that reflects its rich geography, from snow-capped Alpine peaks to rolling vineyard hills and serene lake shores. This diversity makes it a year-round destination for travelers seeking both outdoor adventure and cultural discovery.

Summer in Piedmont is warm and sunny, ideal for exploring wine country, mountain trails, and charming historic towns. Temperatures typically range from 22–30°C, with cooler air in the Alpine areas and pleasant warmth across the plains and lakes. It’s the perfect time for hiking, cycling, and open-air dining surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Spring and autumn are mild and beautifully atmospheric, with average temperatures between 15–24°C. These seasons bring blossoming hillsides, colorful vineyards, and vibrant local festivals. They’re also the best times for wine tasting, countryside drives, and leisurely walks through medieval villages and market squares.

Winter transforms Piedmont’s mountain regions into a haven for snow sports. Temperatures in the Alps range from -3 to 8°C, offering excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy evenings in traditional mountain lodges. Meanwhile, the lower regions enjoy crisp, clear days, ideal for visiting Turin’s museums, cafés, and festive Christmas markets.

With its changing seasons and diverse landscapes, Piedmont offers something special in every month of the year, from the freshness of spring vineyards to the sparkling snows of the Alps.

Top ten attractions in Piedmont…

Turin Cathedral and the Shroud of Turin – The city’s main cathedral, home to the famous Shroud of Turin.
Mole Antonelliana and National Cinema Museum (Museo Nazionale del Cinema, Turin) – The museum inside is one of the world’s most unique cinema museums, with paid entry and interactive exhibits.
Palazzo Reale di Torino (Royal Palace of Turin) – Explore this UNESCO-listed palace with lavish state rooms, royal apartments, and art collections.
Sacra di San Michele – Perched atop Mount Pirchiriano, this medieval abbey inspired Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose. Entry is free, but guided tours are available to explore the crypts and cloisters.
Langhe Wine Region – Famous for Barolo and Barbaresco wines, this hilly area offers vineyard tours and tastings at prestigious wineries.
Lake Orta and Orta San Giulio – A peaceful alternative to Lake Maggiore, this charming lakeside town features narrow streets, cafes, and the island of San Giulio.
Venaria Reale (Royal Palace of Venaria) – A grand Baroque palace with stunning gardens and fountains, often compared to Versailles.
Stresa and the Borromean Islands – Located on Lake Maggiore, Stresa serves as the gateway to Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
Valle d’Aosta Excursions from Piedmont – Northern Piedmont provides easy access to the Alps, with guided tours available for skiing and hiking.
Cuneo and the Cheese Route – Discover the gastronomic heart of Piedmont with visits to artisan cheese producers, local markets, and tasting tours focusing on regional specialties like Castelmagno.