Piedmont is Italy’s second largest region. On this page we tell you more about this region in the north of Italy and about the capital Turin. And, of course, we share with you our tips for an unforgettable vacation in Piedmont.
The literal translation of Piedmont is “at the foot of the mountain. And that is exactly where this region is located, in the northwestern part of Italy, on the southern side of the French and Swiss Alps. Wherever you are in Piedmont, the mountains are always a beautiful backdrop against the rolling hills.
Piedmont has a total area of 25,399 m2 and the landscape can be divided into three parts: in the west and north you will find the Alpine region, with the highest peaks being the Grenzgipfel (4,618m, in the Monte Rosa massif). and the Gran Paradiso (4,061 m, in the Gran Paradiso massif), the Po plain with the major cities and the hilly landscape in the southeast.
Alessandria is an elegant city in Piedmont, strategically located between Turin, Milan and Genoa. The city is known for its rich history, charming squares and impressive citadel. Alessandria is also an excellent starting point to explore the surrounding wine regions and hills of Piedmont.
Located in the heart of Piedmont, Asti is world-famous for its sparkling wine Asti Spumante. The city has a medieval character with beautiful towers, historic churches and atmospheric squares. Every year, the spectacular Palio di Asti, one of Italy's oldest horse races, attracts thousands of visitors.
Alba is a charming city in the Langhe region, famous worldwide for its precious white truffle. The city combines medieval charm with a vibrant gastronomic culture. During the annual truffle fair, gourmets from all over the world flock to Alba to discover the flavors of Piedmont.
Bra is an atmospheric city in Piedmont and is known as the birthplace of the international Slow Food movement. In the historic center you will find elegant buildings, cozy squares and excellent restaurants. Thanks to its location near the Langhe region, Bra is also a perfect base for gastronomy and wine.
Bergolo is one of the smallest and most characteristic villages in Piedmont. The village is known as the "stone village" because of its traditional architecture with natural stone. Thanks to its hilltop location, you can enjoy impressive views of the vineyards and valleys here.
Turin is the elegant capital of Piedmont and one of Italy's most stylish cities. The city is known for its baroque architecture, impressive museums and wide boulevards with arcades. In addition, Turin is famous for chocolate, vermouth and its iconic Fiat history.
A small but iconic village in the hills of the Langhe region, Barolo is known worldwide for its prestigious Barolo wine. The village is surrounded by vineyards and offers stunning panoramic views. Visitors come here for wine tastings, culinary experiences and the authentic Piedmont feel.
Cherasco is an elegant town with a rich historical past. The town is known for its baroque palaces, wide avenues and charming squares. In addition, Cherasco is famous for its gastronomy, especially snails and chocolate, which you can taste in several local restaurants.
Also called the "village of roses," Bossolasco is located high in the Langhe. In summer, hundreds of roses bloom along the streets and squares. The small village has a quiet, charming atmosphere and offers beautiful views of the rolling green hills of Piedmont and the surrounding valleys.
Located in the green hills of Alta Langa, Cortemilia is best known for the production of hazelnuts of exceptional quality. The historic center with medieval bridges and towers breathes history. The town is a perfect destination for lovers of nature, gastronomy and tranquility.
Piedmont is a true paradise for lovers of good food and good wine. The star of the cuisine, of course, is the truffle. When the trees begin to lose their leaves and autumn arrives, truffle hunters head out with their faithful four-legged friends. The white truffle is the rarest; it is also called the white gold. Everywhere in Piedmont you will find dishes with black truffle on the menu. The taste is heavenly if you ask me and is somewhere between a mushroom and earthy. In Alba at the end of October you will find the annual truffle festival Fiera Nazionale del Tartufo Bianco, very nice to visit if you are in Piedmont around this time.
But the region is also known for its delicious wines such as the Barolo and Barbaresco. The grape Nebbiolo plays the main role in both wines. But the Nizza, Barbera d’Asti and Barbera d’Alba are also delicious and are made from the Barbera grape.
In southern ven Piedmont lies Casa Vecchia, a more than 200-year-old farmhouse now owned by Michel and Ingrid. Enjoy the peace, space and hospitality in this beautiful part of Italy.
The Piedmont region also has a number of lakes, including Lake Maggiore with the beautiful town of Cannobio. Isola Bella is a small island in Lake Maggiore and is part of the Borromean archipelago.
In 1630, the island was bought by the wealthy and powerful Count Carlo III Borromeo. He named it after his wife Isabella. Later the name was shortened so it is now called Isola Bella, which means beautiful island. Carlo had a Baroque-style castle built along with a large garden. The garden consists of ten terraces that are stepped. In the gardens of Villa Borromeo, which are filled with antique statues, a number of white peacocks traditionally walk. In the 20th century, the archipelago was opened to the public, but Isola Bella and Isola Madre remain mostly private property and are still inhabited by the Borromeo family during certain times of the year.
Are you going to Tuscany soon and have questions about the region? Or are you looking for fine places to stay or tasty restaurants? Let me know. I’m happy to give you the tips you need. Do you prefer if I actively think with you to plan your journey? That is also possible. I am happy to help you. Please contact me here.
