Citalia’s Guide to Piedmont

Where to go in Piedmont

Turin

Turin is a city of grand history and culture. Once the first capital of a unified Italy in the 19th century, it still carries a regal air, with pretty boulevards, elegant piazzas and stately palaces that once belonged to the royal House of Savoy. Today, Turin offers everything from world-class museums to cutting-edge galleries and charming cafés. Be sure to try a bicerin, the city’s signature drink made with layers of espresso, hot chocolate and cream. 

Lake Maggiore

Stretching into Switzerland, Lake Maggiore is the most dramatic of Piedmont’s lakes. Known for its tranquil beauty, it’s dotted with elegant villas, botanical gardens and traditional towns along the shoreline. From the lakeside town of Stresa, you can take a boat to explore the Borromean Islands, home to ornate palaces and landscaped gardens. 

Lake Orta

Smaller and more secluded than its neighbour, Lake Orta is one of Italy’s hidden treasures. The town of Orta San Giulio sits on a small peninsula jutting into the lake, with narrow cobbled streets, painted houses and views across the water to Isola San Giulio, a peaceful island home to a Benedictine monastery. It's a place to slow down and soak up the atmosphere, whether you’re sitting by the water with a glass of wine, walking along lakeside paths or exploring small artisan shops 

The Piedmont Countryside

Beyond the cities and lakes, Piedmont’s countryside offers some of the most scenic and delicious experiences in Italy. The gently rolling hills of Langhe are covered with vineyards, hazelnut groves and medieval villages. This is wine country at its finest, with prestigious labels like Barolo and Barbaresco produced in family-run estates. The area is also known for its truffles, especially around Alba, where the famous white truffle fair is held each year. 

Things to do in Piedmont

What to eat in Sorrento

 

Piedmont’s cuisine is hearty, seasonal and full of bold, comforting flavours. One of the region’s most distinctive dishes is bagna cauda, a warm dip made with anchovies, garlic and olive oil, traditionally served with raw or cooked vegetables, think of it as Italy’s answer to fondue. You’ll also find tajarin, thin golden ribbons of egg pasta often served simply with butter and shavings of white truffle during the autumn harvest. Another local favourite is agnolotti, small, pinched pasta parcels filled with meat or vegetables and served with sage butter or a rich meat sauce. 

This is also a region famous for its truffles and wines, especially the prized white truffles of Alba and robust reds like Barolo and Barbaresco. For something sweet, Turin is the birthplace of gianduja, a smooth blend of chocolate and hazelnut that inspired the creation of Nutella. Whether you’re sipping wine in the countryside or enjoying chocolate in a historic café, Piedmont offers an indulgent taste of northern Italy.

Where to stay in Piedmont

 

Ready to Experience Piedmont?

Whether you are here for the food, the wine, the scenery, or all three, Piedmont promises an authentic Italian experience far from the crowds.  

If you’re ready to start planning your trip to Piedmont, book online or get in touch with one of our Italy Experts who will help you create your dream getaway.