About Piedmont
Nestled in northwest Italy against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps and Apennines, Piedmont is a region of refined elegance, world-class gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes. It's the birthplace of the Slow Food movement and Italy's famed white truffle, offering an epicurean paradise centered around its capital, Turin. Travelers are drawn to the regal architecture of Turin's royal palaces, the globally celebrated wine regions of Barolo and Barbaresco in the Langhe hills, and the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore. The region seamlessly blends cultural sophistication—with its historic cafés, the iconic Mole Antonelliana, and the Shroud of Turin—with outdoor adventures in the Alpine valleys of the Gran Paradiso National Park. In winter, the Alps transform into premier ski destinations like Sestriere, part of the Via Lattea. Piedmont's distinct character, shaped by its former role as the seat of the House of Savoy and its French influences, creates a uniquely sophisticated and flavorful Italian experience far from the typical tourist crowds.
Things to do in Piedmont
Private Winery and Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 330
5.0 (34)
Transfer from Rome to Amalfi coast/Sorrento Area and Vice Versa
Rome, Italy
From GHS 4,609
5.0 (30)
Discover Langhe wines with private tour and expert sommelier
Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, Piedmont & Liguria
From GHS 2,436
5.0 (24)
Private tour: discover Langhe wines with expert sommelier
Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, Piedmont & Liguria
From GHS 2,305
5.0 (20)
Transfer Civitavecchia Port
Rome, Italy
From GHS 2,472
5.0 (19)
Classic Hydrospeed Trip
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 988
5.0 (15)
Mini rafts, Sesia river
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 988
5.0 (14)
Malpensa Lake Orta Private Taxi Transfer with David
Lake Maggiore, Italy
From GHS 2,686
5.0 (12)
Unique wine tasting at Winery Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 527
5.0 (9)
Sustainable Farm Tour & Northern Italian Cooking Class in Asti
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 1,910
5.0 (8)
Authentic Piedmont Cooking Class: Fresh Pasta, Desserts & Wine
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 1,699
5.0 (7)
Piemonte Vineyards by Yourself from Turin - Business Car with English Chauffeur
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 4,238
5.0 (5)
The Turin Chocolate Factory Guided Tour & Tasting
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 593
5.0 (5)
2 Hours Guided Tour and Wine Tasting in the Heart of Roero
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From GHS 461
5.0 (4)
Rent a vintage Vespa for a whole day in Alba
Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
Travel Tips for Piedmont
Getting Around
An efficient regional train network (Trenitalia) connects major cities and towns. Turin has a comprehensive metro, tram, and bus system. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato wine country and Alpine valleys. Ride-hailing apps like Uber operate in Turin. Taxis are available at ranks or by phone; ensure they are licensed and use the meter. Popular local apps include 'GTT' for Turin public transport and 'Moovit' for wider transit planning. For scenic travel, consider the historic tramways around Lake Maggiore.
Best Time To Visit
Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal. These periods offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for exploring cities, hiking, and wine tasting. September-October is prime for the wine harvest and the legendary Alba White Truffle Fair. Winter (December-March) is best for skiing in the Alps. Summer (July-August) can be hot and humid in cities, but the Alpine lakes and mountains provide relief, though they are busier.
Local Customs
Piedmontese culture values formality and politeness; a greeting of "Buongiorno" (good day) is expected when entering shops. Dining is a serious affair—meals are lengthy, and it's customary to wait for everyone to be served before eating. Dress is generally smart-casual, especially in cities and fine restaurants. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated; round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service in restaurants. Aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks with snacks) is a cherished ritual, particularly in Turin's historic cafés. Respect local traditions like the truffle hunting rituals in Alba.
Safety Information
Piedmont is generally very safe. Standard precautions against petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) are advised in crowded tourist areas, train stations (like Porta Nuova in Turin), and on public transport. Be vigilant for common scams like fake petitions or 'friendship bracelets' being tied to your wrist for money, particularly near major landmarks. Avoid poorly lit areas at night in larger cities. Driving in the Alpine regions requires caution, especially in winter when snow chains or winter tires may be mandatory. Road conditions in remote mountain areas can be challenging.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Piedmont, especially in Turin, are excellent with modern hospitals (e.g., Città della Salute e della Scienza). EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement (GHIC). Non-EU travelers require comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. Tick-borne encephalitis is a minimal risk in rural/forested areas; consider vaccination if extensive hiking. Tap water is safe to drink. In autumn, those with severe mold allergies should be aware of the truffle-hunting season. Pharmacies ("Farmacia") are widely available for minor ailments.
Languages Spoken
ItalianPiedmonteseOccitan (in some Alpine valleys)French (in border areas)
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Rome +01:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+39
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
4.3 million
Area
25387 km²
Government
Regional government with a President and Regional Council, part of the Italian Republic
ISO Code
IT-21