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Italy
Piedmont Road Trip: From Turin to the UNESCO Hills of Langhe and Monferrato in 9 Days
A unique experience among noble wines, white truffles, and World Heritage sites in the heart of Piedmont.
≈ 10
Days
377
Km
9
Stops
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Piedmont, where Turin's Baroque elegance meets the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Langhe and Monferrato. This 9-day itinerary takes you through enchanting medieval villages, centuries-old wine cellars, and sacred sanctuaries for a total immersion in the culture, gastronomy, and wines of this extraordinary Italian region.
- Turin, the elegant capital with the iconic Mole Antonelliana and Egyptian Museum
- Barolo and La Morra, wine paradise among UNESCO vineyards
- Alba, world capital of white truffle and gastronomic city
- Neive, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy
- Casale Monferrato and its extraordinary Baroque synagogue
- Sacro Monte di Varallo, devotional masterpiece with 800 statues
Your day-by-day itinerary
1
Day
4 photos
Discover
1
Be enchanted by the Mole Antonelliana, the iconic symbol of Turin that towers over the rooftops of the historic center with its 170-meter height. Designed by architect Alessandro Antonelli as a synagogue, it now houses the National Museum of Cinema, one of the most important in the world. Take the spectacular panoramic elevator to the dome and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Alps.
2
Explore the Egyptian Museum, Turin's most important cultural gem and one of the richest Egyptian collections in the world, second only to Cairo's. Among mummies, sarcophagi, papyri, and monumental statues, you'll experience a fascinating journey through the civilization of the pharaohs via artifacts of inestimable historical and artistic value.
3
Admire the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, a Baroque masterpiece designed by Guarino Guarini and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which houses the sacred cloth bearing the image that Christians identify as the deposed Christ. The black marble architecture and spiral dome represent an absolute pinnacle of Italian creative genius.
4
Stroll beneath the 18 kilometers of arcades that form a great pedestrian ring connecting the city's main squares. From Piazza San Carlo, nicknamed Turin's drawing room, to Piazza Castello with the Royal Palace and Teatro Regio, you'll discover the Baroque and Neoclassical elegance of Italy's first capital.
Activities
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Treat yourself to a break in one of Turin's historic cafés, temples of taste where the bicerin was born and where the famous gianduiotti chocolates have been made since 1852. Establishments like Caffè Fiorio, Caffè San Carlo, or Caffè Mulassano have preserved their Belle Époque décor and old-world atmosphere intact.
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Visit the Reggia di Venaria, a UNESCO World Heritage royal residence located just 10 km from the center, featuring frescoes, sculptures, original furnishings, and lush gardens. Once the Savoy family's summer residence for hunting expeditions, it's an Italian version of the Palace of Versailles.
Next stop
Distance:
55 km
Travel time:
1h
2
Day
2 photos
Discover
1
Explore the medieval historic center of Saluzzo, one of the best preserved in Italy, dominated by Monviso. The former capital of the Marquisate, this town was the birthplace of illustrious figures such as Silvio Pellico, General Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, and typographer Giambattista Bodoni, inventor of the famous typeface.
2
Visit La Castiglia, the Marquis's fortress built in 1200 with four towers, bastions, drawbridge, and moat. After serving as a prison in the 19th century, it now houses the city museums and offers panoramic views over the plain and the Alps.
3
Admire the Church of San Giovanni, one of the oldest in Saluzzo dating from the late 1200s, the former seat of the Dominicans. Notable is the funerary chapel of the marquises in the apse, while in the cloister you'll find the wonderful Cappella Cavassa with Renaissance frescoes.
4
Climb the Civic Tower of the Ancient Palazzo Comunale to enjoy an exceptional panorama from the plain to the Alps. Inside the palace, you can visit the Hall of Congregations with its coffered ceiling from the 1400s and the Picture Gallery dedicated to Occitan painter Matteo Olivero.
Activities
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Stroll through the Porti Scur, the characteristic low arcades where light barely filters through and where the traditional Marcà d'le fomne market is held, where hillside peasant women sell their seasonal produce.
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Visit the House-Museum of Silvio Pellico in the piazzetta dei Mondagli, where the author of My Prisons was born on June 25, 1789. A dive into Italian Risorgimento history in a building that preserves relics and documents of the patriot writer.
3
Day
5 photos
Discover
1
Explore the Castello Falletti di Barolo, a majestic 13th-century fortress overlooking the village that now houses WiMu - the Wine Museum. This multimedia and sensory journey will immerse you in the peasant world of wine, descending room after room through the seasons of the vine, harvest sounds, and cellar stories.
2
Visit the Regional Enoteca of Barolo inside the castle, where you can taste over one hundred labels to understand the styles, vintages, and crus of what is considered the king of Italian wines. An unmissable experience for wine enthusiasts.
3
Discover the curious Corkscrew Museum in Piazza Mazzocchi, a small but fascinating collection of over 500 corkscrews from the 18th century to today that tells the story of the ritual of opening bottles through the centuries.
Activities
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Wander through the vineyards surrounding the village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014 as part of the Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont. The rolling hills covered with rows of Nebbiolo offer unforgettable photographic views, especially during the golden hours of sunset.
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Reach the Cappella del Barolo in the Brunate vineyards, just minutes from Barolo. This small deconsecrated church, transformed into a contemporary artwork by artists Sol LeWitt and David Tremlett in 1999, has become one of the most photographed symbols of the Langhe.
Next stop
Distance:
5 km
Travel time:
10min
4
Day
2 photos
Discover
1
Admire the viewpoint at Piazza Castello, the most famous panoramic terrace in the Langhe offering a 360-degree view over vineyards dotted with villages and castles. On clear days, the gaze extends to the Alps, offering one of Piedmont's most breathtaking natural spectacles.
2
Climb the 31-meter-high Bell Tower, built in 1710, to enjoy an even wider view of the surrounding hills. Near the viewpoint stands the monument to the winegrower, a bronze statue paying tribute to those who work the vines and produce Barolo.
3
Visit the Church of San Martino, an elegant Baroque building with a brick façade and interiors decorated with precious frescoes. It's one of the most representative churches in the area and houses artworks of great value.
Activities
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Seek out the giant benches of the Big Bench Community Project scattered around La Morra. These colorful installations, created to enhance the landscape of the Langhe, allow you to enjoy spectacular views of the vineyard-covered hills from an unusual and fun perspective.
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Join a tasting at the historic cellars of La Morra, one of the most important areas for Barolo DOCG production. Cantina Mascarello, Cantina Marcarini, and Cantina Oddero offer guided tours with tastings and vineyard walks.
Next stop
Distance:
12 km
Travel time:
18min
5
Day
2 photos
Discover
1
Visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Piazza Risorgimento, a 15th-century Gothic building that represents the religious heart of Alba. The three-nave interior, in gold and blue colors, elegantly contrasts with the exterior of red brick typical of Piedmontese architecture.
2
Admire the three medieval towers visible from Piazza Duomo: Torre Bonino, Torre Astesiano, and Torre Sineo, all dating from the 12th century. These stone sentinels bear witness to the turbulent past of a city frequently under attack and therefore heavily defended.
3
Discover Underground Alba with a fascinating guided tour led by an archaeologist through the city's underground spaces. From the ancient Roman temple to the theater, to the now-vanished medieval towers, an adventure through time to discover the oldest roots of this ancient city.
4
Explore the Church of the Maddalena on Via Vittorio Emanuele, a jewel of Piedmontese Baroque from the second half of the 18th century by Bernardo Antonio Vittone. The wooden portal on the façade is decorated with three crossed arrows, symbol of Blessed Margaret of Savoy.
Activities
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Immerse yourself in the gastronomic tradition of Alba, a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy since 2017. Taste the tajarin with butter and truffle, raviolini al plin, Alba-style raw beef, and the famous bonet, accompanied by local wines like Dolcetto d'Alba.
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If you visit Alba in autumn, don't miss the International White Truffle Fair, an event that for over 90 years has celebrated the precious tuber of the Langhe with tastings, auctions, and shows in the world capital of truffles.
Next stop
Distance:
15 km
Travel time:
20min
6
Day
6 photos
Discover
1
Stroll through the medieval historic center of Neive, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, entering through the Porta di San Rocco next to the 15th-century chapel of the same name. The stone houses and cobblestone streets climbing to the hilltop have preserved the atmosphere of the past intact.
2
Admire Piazza Italia with the Casa dell'Orologio, a splendid example of Piedmontese Rococo style from the 16th century that once housed the Town Hall. Opposite stands Palazzo Borgese, in whose cellars you'll find La Bottega dei Quattro Vini for excellent wine tastings.
3
Visit the Archconfraternity of San Michele, a Baroque church from the second half of the 18th century designed by architect Antonio Borgese. Inside, noteworthy features include the Renaissance organ, a wooden statue of Archangel Michael, and a painting also dedicated to the Saint.
4
Explore the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul, dating from the 12th century but rebuilt in the 18th and expanded in the 19th. Inside you can appreciate numerous 18th-century works including statues, the altarpiece, and a precious inlaid choir.
Activities
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Stop at the Romano Levi Distillery to discover the legendary Grappa della Donna Selvatica, one of the most famous and prized labels in Italy. You can visit the distillery for free and purchase bottles with the iconic hand-painted labels.
Next stop
Distance:
65 km
Travel time:
1h10
7
Day
3 photos
Discover
1
Admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Piazza Risorgimento, an imposing 15th-century Gothic building that represents one of Asti's most important monuments. The three-nave interior, decorated in gold and blue colors, contrasts magnificently with the exterior of characteristic Piedmontese red brick.
2
Explore the medieval towers that dot the historic center, testimony to Asti's glorious past when it was a powerful city-state. Torre Troyana, Torre Comentina, and Torre Rossa are the most famous and offer evocative glimpses among the historic palaces of the center.
3
Visit the Palazzo Comunale in Piazza Risorgimento, which houses precious ancient frescoes from the Church of San Domenico, including a moving 14th-century Pietà and a panel depicting the Virgin and Child by Macrino d'Alba from 1501.
Activities
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Participate in a tasting of the wines that have made Asti famous worldwide: Asti Spumante DOCG and Barbera d'Asti. The area's wineries offer food and wine experiences that pair great wines with traditional Piedmontese cuisine.
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If you're here in September, don't miss the Palio di Asti, one of Italy's oldest horse races held in central Piazza Alfieri. The event is preceded by a magnificent historical parade with over 1,200 participants in medieval costumes.
Next stop
Distance:
30 km
Travel time:
35min
8
Day
Discover
1
Admire the Cathedral of Sant'Evasio, consecrated in 1107, with its grand and rare Narthex that represents a masterpiece of architectural engineering. Inside you can admire a precious 13th-century wooden Crucifix and visit the Cathedral Treasure Museum in the Open Sacristy.
2
Visit the Jewish Complex, one of the most important in Italy, with the extraordinary Baroque Synagogue built in 1595. The interior decorations of surprising richness testify to the prosperity of the Jewish community of Casale. The complex also includes the Silver Museum and the Museum of Lights.
3
Explore the Civic Museum and Bistolfi Plaster Cast Gallery, which in addition to the Picture Gallery houses works by Symbolist sculptor Leonardo Bistolfi and an exhibition dedicated to Carlo Vidua, the traveling count who explored the Far East from the 19th century.
4
Discover the Castle of Monferrato in central Piazza Castello, today home to the Tourist Office, the Regional Enoteca of Monferrato, and cultural events. An unmissable visit to discover the wines and typical products of the territory.
Activities
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Taste the Krumiri Rossi, the symbolic biscuits of Casale Monferrato whose recipe dates back to 1878 by pastry chef Domenico Rossi. This tradition has been carried on since 1953 by the Portinaro Family, guardians of the secret of these unique sweets.
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Reach the Sacro Monte di Crea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in a splendid panoramic position. This devotional complex includes the Sanctuary, 23 chapels, and 5 hermitages built between 1589 and 1612 in a place of ancient Marian worship.
Next stop
Distance:
85 km
Travel time:
1h30
9
Day
2 photos
Discover
1
Climb to the Sacro Monte di Varallo, the oldest and most spectacular in Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. Founded in 1491 by Franciscan friar Bernardino Caimi upon his return from the Holy Land, he wanted to recreate in Valsesia the sacred places of Palestine for pilgrims who couldn't reach Jerusalem.
2
Explore the 45 chapels scattered through the greenery containing over 800 life-size polychrome terracotta statues and about 4,000 frescoed figures. The theatrical effects, such as real hair and beards applied to 500-year-old statues, are truly breathtaking.
3
Visit the Basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary Assumed, built in the 19th century at the summit of the Sacro Monte. The square in front, with its numerous chapels, porticoes, fountain, and palm trees, offers a striking visual effect and mystical atmosphere.
Activities
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Ascend to the Sacro Monte via the cable car reopened in 2003, which departs from the center of Varallo and reaches the summit in just minutes while hugging a rocky cliff. The large windows of the cabin offer spectacular views of the Valsesia valley.
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Descend on foot through the evocative forest path that returns you to Varallo in about 20 minutes. The wide, paved trail passes through a natural environment of great beauty, part of the Special Nature Reserve of the Piedmont Region.
Next stop
Distance:
110 km
Travel time:
1h40
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❓ Frequently asked questions
What weather should you expect?
Spring (April-June): Perfect weather, blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent value, Easter celebrations, ideal touring conditions.
Summer (July-August): Warmest weather, peak tourist season, highest prices, crowded attractions, vibrant atmosphere, beach season, festival time.
Fall (September-October): Excellent weather, harvest season, wine tourism, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, beautiful colors, culinary focus.
Winter (November-March): Mild southern weather, Christmas markets, lowest prices, minimal crowds, cultural focus, cozy atmosphere, indoor attractions.
How many days should I plan?
We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 8 and 12 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.
What to discover in Italy?
Cultural masterpiece with incredible art, cuisine, and historical heritage from Rome to Venice. Experience Renaissance treasures, regional diversity, and authentic Italian lifestyle. The country offers cultural immersion with culinary excellence and artistic heritage. Italy provides complete cultural experiences with historical significance and natural beauty.