A Perfect Weekend in Italy's Northern Langhe Wine Region

Rent a convertible & drive through the vine-covered hills

There’s no better way to experience the Langhe than from a convertible with the top down, winding through rolling hills and stopping at hilltop villages and vineyard estates. Leave your itinerary open and see where the day takes you.

Visit the majestic hill towns

Explore the postcard-perfect villages of Novello, Barolo, Monforte d’Alba, and Neive (just to name a few). Each town has its own personality: Barolo for its wine fame, Monforte for its cobbled alleys and jazz festivals, Neive for its beauty (named one of Italy’s prettiest villages), and Novello for its quiet charm.

Experience harvest season (late September to early October)

If you visit in autumn, you’ll witness the heart of Langhe’s culture: the grape harvest. Watch as farmers haul overflowing crates of nebbiolo grapes into tractors—and observe the full harvest process firsthand at a local vineyard.

Tour iconic wineries & wine cellars

With hundreds to visit, below are two of my absolute favorites:

• Podere Rocche dei Manzoni: Home to the most awe-inspiring wine cellars I have ever seen. I can only describe it as a ‘shrine to wine.'

• Marchesi di Barolo: One of the oldest and most historic producers, located right in the town where Barolo was born. Take the tour and see wine barrels that have been used for over 200 years.

Truffle season magic (October to November)

Plan your visit during white truffle season. Go truffle-hunting with a local guide and their dog or visit Alba’s famous White Truffle Fair, where chefs and food lovers gather from around the world.

Eat your way through Piedmontese cuisine

From places that feel like Nonna’s kitchen—with local handmade tajarin pasta—to Michelin-starred restaurants, the culinary offerings here are unique to other regions in Italy, and totally unforgettable.

Visit castles & historic sites

Look into the vista and you’ll see little towns, each with its own unique castle at the top. Don’t miss:

• Castello di Grinzane Cavour: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a wine museum and panoramic views.

• Castello di Serralunga d’Alba: One of the best-preserved examples of medieval military architecture in the region.

Take a cooking class or visit a local market

Join a cooking class to learn how to make classic Piedmontese dishes like vitello tonnato or agnolotti del plin. Or visit one of the local markets: Alba Market (on Saturdays) is great for seasonal ingredients, truffles, and local cheeses.

Soak in the views from La Morra at sunset

Visit the panoramic terrace in La Morra, one of the highest villages in the Langhe, for one of the best views of the region. If you have it in you, climb to the top of the clock tower, Torre Campanaria, for an absolutely incredible view where you can see for miles.

Relax & unwind at a vineyard spa

Balance all the eating and exploring with a little indulgence—we all deserve it! Visit any of the hotels recommended above for an exceptional experience.

La Ciau del Tornavento (Treiso)

A long lunch here is a must. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers what I consider to be a surprisingly approachable tasting menu—and one of the most stunning vineyard views in the region. Be sure to ask to see the wine cellar—it holds over 60,000 bottles!

Serralunga Casa Mia (Serralunga d’Alba)

A cozy wine bar that’s perfect for a mid-day break. Choose from one of the curated wine tastings on the menu and a mix of local meats and cheeses while you sit on the terrace and soak up the rolling vineyard views and the charm of this medieval village.

Barololando (Barolo)

A casual and lively spot right in the heart of Barolo that’s perfect for lunch or dinner after tastings. Local pasta dishes like tajarin al ragù and plin stuffed with veal are amazing—especially the truffles when in season.

Osteria Veglio (La Morra)

This osteria is the definition of Piedmontese comfort food. Set in the hills just outside La Morra, it feels like dining in Nonna’s home—but with elevated presentation and a killer wine list.

Caffè della Posta (Monforte d’Alba)

The ideal spot for a relaxed Italian breakfast. Sit outside with a cappuccino and a fresh pastry, watch the town wake up, and feel like a local, all while listening to the church bells ring. It’s also a great casual stop later in the day for an aperitivo.

Ristorante Donna Selvatica (Neive)

In one of Italy’s prettiest villages, this charming spot pairs modern local cuisine with incredible terrace views. Perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion meal.

L’Angolo di Rosina (Novello)

A warm, family run trattoria where the menu changes based on what’s fresh that day (IMO, these are my favorite types of menus). Their agnolotti and braised beef are standouts, and the atmosphere is exactly what you’d want from a countryside meal.

Sunset wine moment: Palás Cerequio or La Morra Panoramic Terrace

Head to Palás Cerequio’s panoramic terrace or skybar for a crisp glass of wine (or even a cocktail) and catch a DJ on some evenings. Ror something simpler, grab a bottle of wine from a local shop and take it to the Belvedere in La Morra, taking in the views and reflecting on your amazing memories you just created during the day.