Move Over Tuscany: Why Piedmont is Italy’s Most Authentic Wine & Food Escape

The Underground Cathedrals of Canelli: Tour the massive subterranean wine cellars of Contratto, where sparkling wine ages in architectural marvels carved directly into the hills.

The Egyptian Museum in Turin: You have to see the world’s oldest Egyptian museum—it houses an insane collection of artifacts and statues that rival anything outside of Cairo.

The “Way of Silence” on Isola San Giulio: Take a quick boat across Lake Orta to this tiny, medieval island and walk the meditative path circling the ancient Benedictine monastery.

The Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore: Visit Isola Bella to explore the over-the-top Palazzo Borromeo and its incredible ten-tiered gardens that look right out of a movie set.

Private truffle hunting: Head into the woods with a professional trifolau and their dog to hunt for the legendary Alba White Truffle, followed by a tasting of your finds.

Royal Palace tour (Palazzo Reale): Step inside the Italian ‘Buckingham Palace’ to witness the opulent lifestyle of the Savoy dynasty in the heart of Turin.

Tapestry weaving at Arazzeria Scassa: Visit this historic workshop in Asti to see the ancient art of tapestry making using traditional looms and techniques.

Villa La Madonna (Monastero Bormida): The dining experience here is world-class, featuring private wine tastings in their 16th-century cellar and slow-food dinners overlooking the Bormida Valley.

Caffè Al Bicerin (Turin): You can’t leave Turin without stopping at this historic 18th-century café for a Bicerin—a decadent, layered mix of espresso, chocolate, and milk.

Circolo dei Lettori (Turin): Located in a stunning 17th-century palace, this is the perfect spot for a sophisticated lunch surrounded by frescoes and literary history.

Ristorantino ‘n Ca’ ‘d Basan (Canelli): A cozy, authentic spot perfect for tasting traditional Monferrato dishes like Agnolotti del Plin paired with local Barbera wine.

Turin food tour favorites: Sample local delicacies like Ravioles, Castelmagno, and Toma cheeses, which represent the true mountain-to-table flavors of the region.

Traditional Zabajone tasting: As highlighted in the region’s culinary heritage, try this rich, whipped egg custard flavored with Marsala at a historic Turin pasticceria.

Vermouth tasting in Turin: Sample the globally famous Turin vermouth at a historic bar to understand why this city is the birthplace of the modern aperitivo.