A – Z Guide to Piedmont: For a Perfect Holiday in Piedmont

Planning a holiday in Piedmont? Here’s everything you need to know in our A-Z Guide to Piedmont, Italy.

Alba

A haven for foodies, Alba is gastronomic heaven! Most famous for the truffle festival held each autumn but also full of charm and authentic Piedmont experiences all year round. Wander the winding alleys which ooze history and classic Italian culture or treat yourself to an evening at Piazza Duomo – Alba’s iconic Michelin starred restaurant. What’s more Alba’s unique position, almost equidistant from the magnificent northern Italian mountains and the azure Mediterranean sea, makes it a perfect location for a holiday in Piedmont.

The city itself is characterised by collection of medieval towers which once served as part of its defences. While this is no longer the case, the towers still give Alba a feeling of grand importance amongst the backdrop of the lush Piedmont countryside. To get the most out of the historic centre, we recommend joining a walking tour with a local guide. Book your tickets in advance here. Alternatively, head out of the city for a truly unique experience on your holiday in Piedmont and go truffle hunting. Join an expert ‘hunter’ and their dogs and take the chance to find your very own much prized Alba truffles. Places are limited so book your spot in advance here.

Looking for somewhere to stay for you holiday in Piedmont? Explore our Piedmont villas here.

Barolo and Barbaresco

You probably don’t need us to tell you that these two wine-producing towns are home to some of Italy’s finest red wines. Despite this, they are still often overshadowed by the more famous vineyards of Tuscany. As a result, we always make the recommendation to visit this region during the grape harvest in September and October. At this time of year, whole region is alive with festivity, as families come together to work hard and literally celebrate the fruits of their labour.

However, at anytime of year, we would recommend joining a tour of a vineyard. These always include tastings and a wonderful insight into the history of age-old traditions in wine-making. The town of Barbaresco itself, is small but perfectly formed. Like many Piedmont towns and villages, it seems to literally crop up amongst the rolling hills of the UNESCO world heritage classified Langhe vineyards. From almost anywhere there are spectacular views. Take them in while enjoying something to eat in one of the town’s much acclaimed restaurants.

Barolo is perhaps even smaller but yet again is a real gem. The town’s wine museum is well worth a visit and again you will eat like a king or queen in the traditional Italian trattorias and restaurants. This is area is a really good option for a holiday in Piedmont. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning vineyards and surrounding countryside.

Castles

In a region so rich with history, it will come as no surprise to read that Piedmont is home to some magnificent castles. These of course once served as fortifications in this much fought for corner or Europe. Here at Bookings For You, we actually think you could have an entire holiday in Piedmont just visiting castles! However, with so many to choose from we thought it would be best to share a shortlist of our favourite castles for you to visit on your holiday in Piedmont.

Castello di Grinzane Cavour

Dating back to the 11th century, this castle was originally a watch tower. However, as the threat of invasions from both the mountains to the north and the sea to the south increased as did the fortifications. As a result the castle was built. After several changes of ownership, by the middle of the 16th century the castle was was in the hands of a local diplomat, Pietrino Belli.

Soon after, he chose it as the venue for his wedding and set to work on creating a magnificent hall with an impressive wooden ceiling. What’s more, he had the incredible reception room decorated with 156 ‘masks’ (paintings of faces). The hall of masks is still open to visit today as part of a tour of the castle. It is also still used for council meetings along with weddings and events such as the Alba white truffle world auction.

Rocca di Arona

On a less grand scale, but equally steeped in history, Rocca di Arona clings to the hills above Arona and the sparkling water of Lake Maggiore. This fortress dates back to the 900s but during his reign Napoleon sadly destroyed much of the ancient architecture. That said, there is still plenty to explore today and the ruins are set in a beautiful park. It’s about a 20 minute walk up to the castle from the wonderful lakeside town of Arona.

Along with some magnificent views of the lake, you can also see another castle on it’s eastern shore. Although technically in Lombardy, a visit to Rocca di Angera is also recommended as part of a holiday in Piedmont.

Looking for accommodation on Lake Maggiore? Explore our Lake Maggiore villas and apartments here.

Castello di Serralunga d’Alba

This 14th century castle is a magnificent and even imposing feature of the region’s skyline. Interestingly, unlike many of the castles in Piedmont, Castello di Serralunga d’Alba has not had any of the military importance of the regions other fortresses. As a result, the original structure has been preserved and is largely unaltered.

The highlight is probably the hidden parapet on the third floor. From this vantage point, there are magnificent views of the surrounding Langhe vineyards with the spectacular backdrop of the snow-capped alps. On a clear day this view can take your breath away and really can be a highlight of a holiday in Piedmont.

Domodossola

Often referred to as the gateway to the Val Grande National Park, Domodossola is also the starting point of the Centovalli Railway. However, the town of Domodossola itself is often overlooked. While we accept that many people will just ‘pass through’ as part of their holiday in Piedmont, do take time to stop at the town’s main square, Piazza del Mercato for a bite to eat. Or spend some time wandering the central arcades filled with authentic shops and bakeries which have both an Italian and Swiss influence.

Beyond the centre, visitors can explore the Sacro Monte di Domodossola, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with chapels and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. More adventurous travellers can discover the Val Vigezzo and Alpe Veglia-Devero Natural Parks. Here there ae almost endless opportunities for hiking and adventure sports.

However, probably the reason most tourists head to Domodossola is as their starting point on the Centovalli Railway. As one of Europe’s most visually spectacular train journeys we think this is an essential activity on any holiday in Piedmont or trip to the Italian Lakes. Once aboard, in no time at all you will be staring in awe out of your carriage at the jaw-dropping landscape. Not only does this journey take you through two different countries (Italy and Switzerland) – you will also cross staggering 83 bridges on the 52 km route. However, the highlight of this trip has to be the spectacular tour through the natural gallery of lush valleys, turquoise rivers and picturesque villages. It really is magnificent.

Events and Festivals on your holiday in Piedmont

Piedmont’s events and festivals tend to be mostly focussed on food and drink. One of the highlights is the slow food movement Terra Madre which takes place in Turin – usually in September. Celebrating ‘slow food’ and traditional cooking methods, this event attracts foodies from all over the world. Also in September, visitors to Alba can enjoy the world famous white truffle fair. By November, you may be in need of a sweet treat, so head back to Turin for the annual Cioccolato festival. Join locals and visitors alike in Piedmont’s capital to celebrate the region’s speciality gianduja (speciality hazelnut chocolate) and artisanal chocolates.

Still foodie but perhaps not quite as you’d imagine, head to Ivrea at the end of February (or in 2025 early March) for the Ivrea Carnevale. We think that this has to be Italy’s messiest festival and probably also one of the most sweet-smelling events in Piedmont. Every year you’ll find festival-goers literally pelting each other with oranges, while they parade through the streets in a shower of freshly-smashed orange juice! There’s an interesting story behind the now annual tradition began. Read more about this and and Italy’s other festivals and events here.

Fiat and Automobile History

I think it’s fairly well-known that Italians love their cars. This love of automobiles is almost in their blood and nowhere more so than in Piedmont. It’s capital Turin is the birthplace of Italy’s iconic Fiat cars. It’s also home to the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile, that showcases an impressive collection of vintage and modern cars. Also in Turin, is the Lingotto Building – formerly a huge Fiat factory which has since been converted into a shopping centre. What’s more, fans of the Italian job will know that it’s roof is home to the iconic test track which features in the film. In addition, and a little outside of the centre of the city is the Mirafioi Motor village. Here at Fiat’s historic production site, you can even have your lunch amongst the cars – very Italian!

Away from Turin, in June the town of Monferrato hosts Grand Prix Bordino. Named after the ‘ace’ racing driver Pietro Bordino, this is perhaps one of the best classic car events in Italy. Bringing together a celebration of slow travel, food, wine and of course a love of cars. One of the highlights is the night parade in Casale Monferrato, which is guaranteed to showcase some incredibly well-kept classic cars.

Gastronomy

Piedmont is a real haven for food lovers. In fact, it’s difficult to imagine anyone having a holiday in Piedmont and not to rave about the food. The whole region is punctuated with markets, food festivals and agriturismi, where visitors can experience the most authentic Piedmontese fayre. And, there’s also ample opportunity to experience fine dining in the regions many Michelin starred restaurants.

Some of our favourite dishes include Tajarin – a type of long, thin, hand-cut pasta – often served with a butter and truffle sauce. And Brasato al Barolo – beef braised in local Barolo wine. And for the sweet toothed traveller, it is impossible to visit Piedmont without trying gianduja – a hazelnut chocolate spread and bicerin – a layered drink of espresso, chocolate, and cream.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities on your holiday in Piedmont

Sandwiched between the Alps and the Mediterranean sea, Piedmont’s landscape is diverse and offers endless opportunities for hiking and adventure sports. The Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso is spectacular place to start. While not as well known as the Dolomites, this mountainous area has a plethora of hiking routes to explore. The park is punctuated with magnificent lakes and waterfalls along with some beautiful alpine villages. One of our favourites in Cogne, where you’ll find streets packed with artisan shops and restaurants serving traditional Piedmontese fayre.

Of course there are also some stunning walking trails through the Langhe vineyards. Equally, this is an excellent area to cycle and where better to stop for refreshment than at a vineyard. The north and west of the region also offers a huge selection of winter sports. Sestriere resort is one of the most popular for skiing, having hosted int winter Olympics in 2006.

Finally, if you prefer to get your adrenaline kicks on the water, both Lake Orta and Lake Maggiore make great bases for a holiday in Piedmont. Lake Maggiore has some excellent water sports opportunities. Head to the larger towns of Stressa, Cannobio and Verbania and you’ll be spoiled for choice. Lake Orta is smaller but still has plenty to offer and is breathtakingly picturesque. 

Looking for accommodation in the Italian Lakes? Click here to explore or beautiful collection of Italian Lakes villas and apartments.

Isole Borromee

Translated in English as the Borromean Islands, a trip here is an absolutely necessary part of a holiday in Piedmont. And, it is one of the most popular day trips our Bookings For You guests make while staying in a villa or apartment on Lake Maggiore. There are four islands in total and three of them are open to the public to explore. All of the islands have a rich history and as a bonus they are stunningly beautiful. While you can see the islands from the western shore of the lake, there is no substitute for jumping aboard a boat and actually visiting them for yourself.

Our favourites are probably Isola Madre and Isola Bella. Both of these beautiful islands boast beautifully manicured gardens, that can be enjoyed by the whole family. One of our favourite things about Italy (we have many!) is how welcome children are – everywhere. The Borromean Islands are certainly no exception. Kids will love the freedom in nature and will certainly be wowed when they meet the white peacocks and budgies who call these islands home.

However we mustn’t forget Isola dei Pescatori. While this is the smallest island, its bustling village centre boasts a lively atmosphere, especially in the summer. Therefore this is also where we would recommend stopping for lunch. Narrow streets criss-cross the island giving it a wonderfully charming feel and there are some great fish restaurants to choose from for a fabulous meal.

Our recommendation is to book a ‘hop on hop off’ boat tour to give you the freedom to visit the islands at your leisure. Click here to get your tickets.

Juventus FC

The history of Juventus FC is actually quite interesting. Until the late 19th century Turin was a small town which grew rapidly during the industrial revolution. During this period in history the city began to boom and as a result its wealthy factory owners established Sports-Club Juventus.

After the Second World War, there was a huge movement of young men from the poor southern towns and villages to Turin. At the time, Fiat dominated the employment and production market it Italy. As a result, Turin became the new home of many thousands of southern Italian men in search of steady employment. And, with this migration came a wave of new football fans. For this reason, Juventus quickly became their new team of choice. As these men slowly trickled back to the south, so did their love for Juventus. To this day the club remains one of the most well supported football teams in southern Italy – despite having a home ground in Turin.

Even if you don’t manage to catch a match while on your holiday in Piedmont. Football fans will love the stadium tour. Don’t miss the chance to  visit the locker rooms, the media area and the exclusive zones of this iconic sporting stadium. The ticket also includes entry to the Juventus museum. On match days Turin’s bars are alive with support for their beloved team – our tip is to embrace the spirit and join in with the fun.

Krumiri Biscuits

These almost crescent shaped sweet treats were first made in 1878, the same year that King Vittorio Emanuele II died. Many people believe that their distinct shape was in tribute to the late king’s rather infamous handlebar moustache. First made in Casale Monferrato, the biscuits are made with a simple recipe of flour, butter and sugar and have a very distinctive and equally delicious crumbly texture. To this day, these biscuits are still going strong and you will find them as a staple in most bars and bakeries in Piedmont. They make the perfect pair with a coffee or even a dessert wine.

Lakes

Where shall we begin! Here at Bookings For You we make no secret of our love Italian Lakes. And none more than Lake Maggiore, where Bookings For You all began with our very first villa, all those years ago. While we still absolutely adore Lake Maggiore, Piedmont is also home to Lake Orta – another favourite with our team.

Lake Maggiore

Interestingly, Lake Maggiore actually falls in both Piedmont and Lombardy, with the western shore and towns of Stressa, Verbania and Arona having the privilege of calling Piedmont home. Lake Maggiore is a truly majestic place. From every location there is a stunning 360 panorama of natural beauty. What’s more, there is so much to do on and around the lake during your holiday in Piedmont.  After all, the Borromean Island gardens can rival any of their more famous neighbouring gardens on Lake Como. And the hills and mountains surrounding Lake Maggiore offer almost infinite hiking trails and cycle tracks to explore.

Not only that, Lake Maggiore also has a wealth of choice for parents looking to keep their children entertained. Whether you love water sports, fancy a day at one of the water parks, want to visit a museum or just head to the park – Lake Maggiore is a top choice for a family holiday in Piedmont.

Looking for the perfect accommodation for your holiday in Piedmont? Explore our stunning Lake Maggiore villas and apartments here.

Lake Orta

While Lake Orta is much smaller than the ‘great lakes’ of Italy, it certainly mustn’t be missed. As somewhat of a ‘secret destination’, you’ll find plenty of Italians enjoying long lazy days on the lake’s numerous beaches, as well as visitors wandering the well-preserved ancient alleys of Orta San Giulio.

Guests staying at our Lake Maggiore villas or apartments always rave about day-trips to Lake Orta. Boasting some lovely beaches, it’s the perfect place in Piedmont to enjoy a dip on a hot summer’s day. In fact, we think you’ll find it hard to resist the lure of the crystalline water which acts as a mirror for the surrounding mountains. A couple of our favourites beaches are Explora Beach and the beautiful Lido di Bagnella.

Most visitors also take a trip over to Isola san Giulio. Positioned just 400 metres from the shore, the journey isn’t long but it certainly is beautiful! Measuring just 275 metres long and 140 metres wide, this tiny island is dominated by the stunning Romanesque basilica.

The Italian lakes are the such a wonderful location for a holiday in Piedmont. Read our 7 day Italian Lakes itinerary here and discover all of our lakeside villas and apartments here.

Museums

If you’re looking for Museums on your holiday in Piedmont, then Turin is the place to be. As the region’s capital it will come as no surprise to hear that this also makes it the cultural hub. While there are many museum to choose form, perhaps the star of the show is the Museo Egizio. As one of the finest Egyptian museums in the world (second only to Cairo) historians from all over Europe flock to it’s excellent exhibitions.

Also in Turin is the Museo Nazionale del Cinema, a haven for film-lovers located in the iconic Mole Antonelliana. Not only does the museum tell some wonderful stories of the history of film and cinema but there are also some brilliant interactive exhibitions. Finally, we also love the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile. Often considered the beating heart of the county’s love of cars, if you’re in Turin this is a must visit attraction – especially if you’re on holiday in Piedmont with children or teenagers.

Turin also has some excellent galleries including the GAM – Galleria Civica d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea. As one of the finest modern art galleries in Italy, there are always works on display from top Italian contemporary artists as well as talent from all over the world.

Nutella and Hazelnuts

Visitors to Piedmont from Europe, will be most familiar with Nutella. However, if you’re travelling from further afield this may be your first introduction to this delicious Italian-born treat! The invention of the founder of the Ferrero chocolate brand, this silky chocolate and hazelnut spread is a staple in any Italian family. Today, you will find Nutella biscuits, gelato, crepes, cannoli, corneti and many more variations right across the country. However its origins are firmly in Piedmont and it was originally made with local hazelnuts known as Tonda Gentile delle Langhe. 

Hazelnuts are celebrated in their own right too. This is especially so in Alba (the birthplace of Michele Ferrero) where the town’s streets are filled with bakeries and artisan chocolate shops offering all kinds of delicious hazelnut based treats. While Alba’s most famous for its truffle festival, the town also hosts a celebration of the hazelnut, usually in the in the first few days of November. What’s more, some scientists now believe that regular consumption of hazelnuts can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. If only this were also true for chocolate!

Orta San Giulio

Lake Orta is a real gem in Piedmont and at its heart is the majestic medieval town of Orta San Guilio. Like many of the region’s magical towns and villages, our recommendation is to take your time and simply enjoy wandering the ancient alleys which characterise Orta San Guio. The centre is focused around the waterfront, with stunning views over to Isola san Giulio. Here there are also plenty of cafes and restaurants which make for a great lunch stop.

The streets are cobbled so wear suitable shoes for walking and make sure you head up one of the ascending streets where there are many little lanes and even better views of the lake and surrounding mountains. We would also recommend visiting the Church of St Mary of Assumption with its most impressive interior artwork.

Discover our Italian Lakes villas and apartments here.

Palaces

Piedmont’s palaces remind us of the richness of the regions regal history along with its commitment to architectural grandeur. Probably the most impressive palaces are in Turin. The city became the capital of what was then known as Piedmont-Sardinia in 1814 after it was reclaimed from the French by Napoleon. Following this promotion, Turin’s architectural capital also boomed and as a result it is still home to some of the Italy’s finest palaces.

Turin

Top of most visitors lists is the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace). Once the royal palace of the House of Savoy, today you can explore the opulent rooms, impressive armoury, and beautifully manicured gardens. As always for major attractions, we recommend booking skip-the-line-tickets to avoid wasting hours of your holiday in Piedmont in a queue! Click here to book yours in advance. Perhaps equally impressive and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palazza Madama should also be on your list. Now home to the Museum of Ancient Art, this is a popular attraction in Turin. While a visit at any time of day is enjoyable, we actually recommend visiting this palace at night. Join a guided tour which will also take you up the iconic tower to enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the city at night. Book your tickets in advance here.

Beyond Turin

Away form Turin Palace of Venaria Reale is actually much more than a palace. While the building itself is considered to one of the greatest Baroque masterpieces in Italy, Venaria Reale is set is set in its own park and even has a Michelin starred restaurant! The Architecture has been exquisitely preserved, not just in the palace but also in the extensive gardens. To get the most out of your visit, we recommend joining a local guide. Book your guided tour in advance here.

What’s more in true Italian style, this palace is also a family friendly day out on your holiday in Piedmont. Not only will children enjoy discovering the vast galleries and gardens, they are also given a  ‘magic pen’ to help guide them around. Kids also love the Fantacasino which is a very clever adaptation of the original Temple of Diana. The structure is filled with animal-themed activities and is in a dedicated area of the park with plenty to keep little ones busy outdoors too.

Quadrilatero Romano

As is the case for many of Italy’s cities, Turin’s roots trace back to Roman times. However, unlike Rome or Verona, this heritage is less obvious when you make a visit to modern day Turin. The Quadrilatero Romana is where Turin all began and the most striking link back to the city’s Roman beginnings is the Porta Palatina – Turin’s only surviving Roman gates. Situated in the north-western corner of the quarter, here you will also find a section of Roman wall along with some ruins.

Today, the Quadrilatero Romano is a lively area with somewhat of a village feel. Visitors can mingle with the locals in the bars and restaurants that line the streets and piazzas. This is also the are with some of the best night life in Turin.

Risotto

A dish enjoyed right across Italy, many people don’t know that the first rice grown in Italy was indeed in Piedmont. While rice was introduced into Italian diets by the Arabs when they landed in Sicily, it was in the 14th century BC that monks grew the first home grown Italian rice in the Piedmont hills.

After many years of evolution, Paniscia has become the risotto speciality of Piedmont. This is a hearty dish, which unlike risotto in other regions contains beans and local meat. It is sometimes also known as Paniscia di Novara, in tribute to the town of Novara where it was fist made. We love Paniscia and it is the perfect fuel if you are planning on spending your holiday in Piedmont hiking in the stunning hills and mountains. You will find it on almost every menu, especially in the mountains.

Also unique to Piedmont, Risotto Barolo is made with red wine – to be more specific Barolo red wine! This is a simple dish and if features as a favourite in many restaurants in and around Barolo and Alba.

Discover our stunning villas in and around Alba here.

Sacri Monti

Translating to ‘Sacred Mountains’ the Sacri Monti are actually a collection of religious buildings perched in the majestic mountains of Piedmont and neighbouring Lombardy. Built between the 15th and 18th centuries, the buildings (mostly chapels) were given UNESCO World Heritage status in 2023. Seven of the nine Sacri Monti are in Piedmont, and while some pilgrims will visit them all, during a holiday in Piedmont we recommend choosing two or three to visit.

If you’re visiting Lake Orta (which you know we recommend!), you will find one of the most unique Sacro Monti on Isola san Giulio. Here you will find a warren of twelve connected chapels with some really special artwork on their walls and ceilings. Guided tours take place on Saturday and Sundays at 10.30am and 2pm. These are free of charge but voluntary donations can be made in the donation box in the first chapel.

Truffle Hunting on holiday in Piedmont

Piedmont is world-famous for its truffles, particularly the rare and much-prized white truffle of Alba. So it’s unsurprising that truffle hunting is a centuries-old tradition, which is an important part of the culture of the region. The finest hunting grounds are in the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato hills, where the unique composition of the soil is perfect for truffles to thrive. Together, trained trifulau (truffle hunters), often accompanied by their expertly trained dogs, scour woodlands, using their skills and intuition to locate these underground treasures.

For visitors, truffle-hunting excursions are a great way to experience this Piedmont pass-time. Our advice is to join a local guide who can offer insights into the delicate ecosystem required for truffles to grow. Many experiences include a visit to a local farm or restaurant, where guests can sample dishes featuring freshly shaved truffles over pasta or risotto. Truffle hunting season runs from September to January, with the highlight of course being the Alba White Truffle Fair. Book your truffle hunting experience here.

Underground Turin

While Turin has plenty above ground to keep you busy on a holiday in Piedmont, there is a also much underground to explore. This myriad of tunnels, crypts, dungeons and even World War 2 shelters, offer a journey through the city’s history beginning in Roman times. A highlight is the Galleria del Sottosuolo. Passages lead deep beneath the city to uncover remnants of Turin’s Roman foundations. Also worth exploring are the underground levels of the Palazzo Madama. Here visitors can see carefully preserved archaeological excavations dating back to the Roman Empire.

Discovering this hidden history of Turin is much more enjoyable with the knowledge of a local guide. Book your place on the tour in advance here.

Vermouth

Dating back as far at the 18th century, vermouth has become an iconic drink in Piedmont. If you’re not familiar with it, its is a fortified wine made with herbs and spices. It is enjoyed as both an aperitivo and digestivo and also features in the iconic negroni cocktail. Today vermouth comes in all kinds of varieties and brands from extra sweet to extra dry and everything in between with brands such as Martni and Carpano being enjoyed right across the globe.

As the birthplace of vermouth, Turin still has has a real connection to this botanical infused drink. We would recommend joining a tour of one of the historic distilleries. Not only will visitors get to learn about the history of vermouth but you can also enjoy tastings and discover the unique blend of herbs and spices that have made this drink an Italian icon. Always look out for the Vermouth di Torino IGP label. This ensures that the the producer has adhered to the time-honoured processes unique to Piedmontese vermouth. Book your distillery tour here.

Winter Sports

Piedmont is a mecca for mountain lovers. At any time of year there are almost endless activities to enjoy in the Italian alps. However, in the winter the offer expands and Piedmont becomes home to some of the best locations for winter sports in Italy. As host to the 2006 winter Olympics, the Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski area is probably the star of the show. The linked resorts of Sestriere, Sauze d’Oulx, Claviere, Cesana and Pragelato offer more than 400km of slopes for skiing and snowboarding along with a huge range of other sporting activities. These are is particularly popular with families as the area is very well priced for a European ski resort.

Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing are also popular in national parks of Gran Paradiso and Alpe Devero. However, if you prefer to relax on holiday, most resorts also have luxurious spas with spectacular mountain views. This is a why a holiday in Piedmont is perfect at any time of year.

Xenia

Always tricky to find a ‘X’ for an A-Z guide! However, Xenia (meaning hospitality in Greek), is the perfect word to describe the welcome you will receive in Piedmont. Like much of Italy, the people of Piedmont are naturally warm and welcoming and we stand by our claim that Italy is the most family-friendly holiday destination. Rooted in Italian culture is their love of sharing food and history and Piedmont is so rich in both of these currencies that it is wonderful location for an authentic holiday in Italy.

If you are planning a family holiday in Piedmont, discover Villa Alba – probably our most family-friendly villa in Piedmont. With a playroom and playground there should be plenty of time for the adults to sit back and relax too.

Yellow Foliage – an autumn holiday in Piedmont

Another tricky letter! However, when we think of Piedmont in the autumn our minds are dominated with the images of the the golden yellow Langhe and Monferrato hills. The region lights-up at this time of year, with all shades of yellow, orange and red. Harvest season is in full flow and it’s a wonderful time to visit Piedmont, as the more intense heat of the summer makes way for the warm glow of autumn.

We recommend that visitors head to Gran Paradiso National Park to explore the hiking trails and also Val Vigezzo (also known as the valley of the painters) to simply drink in the magnificent colours. Even driving or cycling through the Langhe vineyards is a wonderful way to see Piedmont in its autumnal glory.

Zabaione

And finally, dessert! Zabaione is a delicious Piedmont speciality, probably best described as boozy custard! Made form sugar, egg yolks and Moscato wine, this is a real treat. Traditionally zabaione was prepared at the table with much theatrics of whisking egg yolks over a flame. Today, more often prepared in the kitchen, the dessert is still usually served warm, although it is also delicious cold.

Where to stay for a perfect holiday in Piedmont

As you can see, we love Piedmont. Equally, we understand that it can be difficult to choose just one of these wonderful places as a base. At Bookings For You, we have decades of experience in planning holidays in Italy so we’re always here to help you find the perfect place for your holiday in Piedmont. Consider staying in Turin for a couple of nights, then head into to countryside near Alba or over to Lake Maggiore – or even both! Whatever you decide, we know you won’t be disappointed. Discover our beautiful Piedmont villas here and our stunning collection of Lake Maggiore villas and apartments here.