Tucked between the majestic Alps and the rolling hills of northern Italy, Piedmont offers one of Europe’s most underrated road trip experiences. I discovered this gem last spring, driving through vineyard-covered landscapes that reminded me of Tuscany but with fewer tourists and more authenticity.
A 7-day Piedmont road trip gives you the perfect balance of wine tasting, alpine adventures, and royal history without the rushed feeling of many Italian itineraries.
The best time for this journey is between late April and October, when the region truly comes alive. During my week exploring Turin’s elegant boulevards and the medieval villages dotting Langhe’s wine country, I was constantly amazed by the food scene.
From world-famous Alba truffles to Barolo wine tastings at family-run vineyards, Piedmont’s culinary offerings alone justify the trip.
What makes this itinerary special is how it blends Italy’s natural beauty with cultural experiences. One day you’re wandering through Turin’s royal palaces and museums, the next you’re climbing gentle hills covered in vineyards, and then suddenly you’re gazing at snow-capped Alps from charming mountain towns. My Piedmont adventure offered all the romance of Italian travel without the crowds of Tuscany or the tourist prices of the Amalfi Coast.
Unlocking Piedmont: Your 7-Day Journey Begins
Piedmont offers an incredible mix of Alpine scenery, royal heritage, and world-class wine regions that deserve a proper exploration. My carefully crafted route will take you through the region’s most impressive landmarks while allowing time to savor local experiences.
Day 1: Turin – Gateway to the Alps
I arrived in Turin on a crisp morning, immediately struck by the elegant porticoed streets and grand piazzas. The city’s regal atmosphere makes sense—it was once the capital of the Savoy dynasty and the first capital of unified Italy.
My first stop was the iconic Mole Antonelliana, housing the National Cinema Museum. The panoramic elevator ride to the top provided breathtaking views of the city with the Alps creating a stunning backdrop.
For lunch, I ducked into a historic café on Via Po for my first taste of proper Piedmontese cuisine—tajarin pasta with a rich ragu.
The afternoon called for exploring the Egyptian Museum, second only to Cairo’s in its collection.
As evening approached, I joined locals for aperitivo in Piazza Castello, sipping a Bicerin—Turin’s famous coffee, chocolate and cream drink—while watching the sunset paint the Alps in golden hues.
Day 2: The Royal Majesty of Venaria Reale
Just 10 kilometers from Turin sits the breathtaking Reggia di Venaria Reale, a UNESCO World Heritage palace that rivals Versailles in grandeur. I arrived early to avoid crowds and was rewarded with the morning light streaming through the Hall of Diana’s massive windows.
The gardens took my breath away—meticulously designed with geometric patterns and stunning fountains. I spent hours wandering through the Great Gallery and admiring the intricate ceiling frescoes depicting the Savoy family history.
For lunch, I tried a local trattoria in the borgo adjacent to the palace, sampling regional specialties including vitello tonnato (veal with tuna sauce).
The afternoon offered a perfect opportunity to explore the La Mandria Park, once the royal hunting grounds. Walking these paths gave me a sense of how the royal court enjoyed their countryside retreats and connected me to centuries of Piedmont’s royal history.
Savoring Piedmont’s Elixir: Vineyards and Vintages
Piedmont’s wine regions offer some of Italy’s most spectacular vineyard landscapes and finest wines. The rolling hills draped with neatly arranged vines create a tapestry that changes with the seasons.
Day 3: The Wine Landscapes of Langhe
My journey through Langhe revealed why this region earned UNESCO World Heritage status. The vineyards here stretch across endless hills, creating a breathtaking panorama that’s best enjoyed by car.
I recommend starting in Alba, famous for its white truffles and serving as the perfect base for exploring nearby wine villages.
From Villa Favorita just outside Alba, I enjoyed wonderful views while savoring traditional breakfasts that prepared me for a day of wine adventures.
La Morra offered the most spectacular viewpoint – from here, I could see the entire Langhe region spread before me like a green and golden quilt. Many vineyards offer tours where you’ll learn about the region’s traditional winemaking methods passed down through generations.
Day 4: Barolo and Barbaresco – Nebbiolo’s Nobility
The villages of Barolo and Barbaresco produce what many consider Italy’s most prestigious wines, both made from the Nebbiolo grape. These aren’t just places – they’re pilgrimages for wine lovers.
In Barolo, I visited several family-run wineries for tastings. The wine here is bold and complex, often described as “the king of wines.”
Don’t miss Grinzane Cavour’s castle, which houses a wine museum and enoteca where you can sample various vintages.
Barbaresco offered a more intimate experience with smaller producers. The wine is slightly more approachable than Barolo but equally impressive. In Serralunga d’Alba, medieval architecture provides a stunning backdrop for wine tasting experiences.
Pro tip: Book tastings in advance, especially during harvest season (September-October). Most wineries charge €15-25 for tastings, often waived with bottle purchases.
The Culinary Heart: Truffles, Cheese, and Chocolate
Piedmont’s food scene rivals its stunning landscapes, with delicacies that have made this region Italy’s gastronomic powerhouse. The treasured white truffle, artisanal cheeses, and rich chocolate traditions create an unforgettable culinary journey through the region.
Day 5: Alba and the International White Truffle Fair
Alba transforms each fall into a foodie paradise with its famous White Truffle Fair. I spent a magical morning following a trifolau (truffle hunter) and his trained dog through hazelnut groves as they searched for the prized white truffle. The experience taught me why these fragrant fungi can cost up to €3,000 per kilogram!
At the fair itself, I wandered through stalls where truffle vendors offered samples on tiny pieces of bread. The earthy aroma filled the medieval streets.
For lunch, I tried tajarin pasta with shaved truffle at a local trattoria – simple but unforgettable.
Don’t miss trying a slice of torta di nocciole (hazelnut cake) made with local Piedmont hazelnuts, considered the world’s finest. The sweet-nutty flavor pairs perfectly with a glass of Moscato d’Asti.
Day 6: Bra, Birthplace of the Slow Food Movement
In Bra, I discovered the origins of the global Slow Food movement founded by Carlo Petrini in 1986. This small town takes its food heritage seriously!
The Cheese Bank (Banca del Formaggio) houses aging rooms where I saw hundreds of wheels of local varieties maturing to perfection.
I joined a guided tasting of regional cheeses including:
- Castelmagno – a crumbly blue-veined mountain cheese
- Robiola di Roccaverano – a soft goat cheese with tangy notes
- Toma Piemontese – a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese
Afterward, I visited a historic chocolate shop where I learned about Piedmont’s chocolate-making tradition. The region invented gianduja, that heavenly chocolate-hazelnut blend that inspired Nutella. I sampled handcrafted gianduiotti – small, boat-shaped chocolates that melted instantly on my tongue.
Exploring Piedmont’s Hidden Jewels and Outdoor Marvels
Piedmont’s countryside offers some of Italy’s most captivating landscapes and authentic experiences. The region balances natural beauty with cultural richness, providing travelers with unforgettable moments away from typical tourist routes.
Day 7: Asti and Monferrato – A Toast to Traditions
My final day in Piedmont took me to the enchanting areas of Asti and Monferrato. I started in Asti’s Old Town, where medieval towers and baroque churches create a picturesque setting.
The morning market was bustling with locals buying fresh produce. It was a perfect place to gather picnic supplies!
After exploring Asti, I ventured into the rolling hills of Monferrato. This wine region offers breathtaking views at every turn.
I rented a bike from a local shop and spent hours cycling through vineyards and quaint villages. The gentle terrain makes it ideal for casual riders.
For lunch, I stopped at a family-run agriturismo. The owner served regional specialties paired with their homemade wines. The relaxed pace and warm hospitality made me feel like part of the family.
The afternoon offered a choice between more biking or hiking along marked trails. I chose a moderate walking path that led to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the entire valley. The views were absolutely worth the climb!
I ended my Piedmont adventure with a sunset swim in my accommodation’s outdoor pool. Floating in the water while gazing at the golden hills of Monferrato was the perfect farewell to this incredible region.
