Piedmont is Italian sophistication at its finest due to its position at the "foot of the mountains". This Northern region is the historical seat of the Savoy Dynasty, the royal family that unified Italy. Drive and explore where the high mountain peaks meet elegant vineyard landscapes.
You can navigate by two distinct, superb experiences. To the south, the hills of the Langhe region present endless routes through world famous Barolo and Barbaresco vineyards. Northward, you can drive challenging roads through the western Alps with spectacular views and access to ski resorts. The capital, Turin, preserves the grid layout and grand palaces of the former kingdom.
Piedmont’s cuisine is among Italy’s best with rich butter, slow cooked meats, fine chocolate and the white truffle. It is the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. Taste the powerful Nebbiolo based wines, which are internationally renowned for their complexity. This region is about the elegant and quality culture that served as the engine for modern Italian history with the royalty of true Italian taste.
Piedmont highlights
- Turin The elegant capital of Piedmont is famous for its baroque squares, palaces and museums like the Egyptian Museum and the Mole Antonelliana. Walk along the historic streets and enjoy its cafés and chocolate shops.
- Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi Tour this elegant Royal hunting lodge near Turin. It is a masterpiece of Rococo architecture.
- Langhe and Roero A wine region with elegant hills, vineyards and charming villages. Known for Barolo and Barbaresco wines. It’s perfect for wine tasting and scenic drives.
- Asti and the Monferrato Hills Explore this region known for its sparkling wine (Spumante) and the picturesque vineyards.
- Alba Famous for truffles, particularly the white truffle, and local cuisine. Explore medieval markets and gourmet restaurants.
- Sacra di San Michele An ancient abbey perched on Mount Pirchiriano with panoramic views and rich history dating back to the 10th century.
- Lake Orta A smaller peaceful lake with the picturesque island of San Giulio. Walk along cobbled streets, enjoy local cuisine and admire serene lake views.
- Val Sesia A scenic valley perfect for hiking, rafting and skiing in winter. Small mountain villages provide traditional cuisine and authentic Piedmontese culture.
The local Four
History of Piedmont
This area was essential for controlling the Alpine passes into France and Switzerland, making it strategically vital since Roman times. After periods of feudal control, the region slowly consolidated under the growing power of the House of Savoy. Though originally based across the Alps, the Savoy family moved their capital to Turin.
The Savoy dynasty transformed their domains into the Kingdom of Sardinia and rebuilt Turin as a magnificent Baroque capital. It was characterized by its wide avenues, elegant palaces and royal residences. This period of sophisticated rule fostered a strong sense of unified identity and prepared the region politically and economically for its future destiny as the engine of the Risorgimento.
In the mid 19th century, under King Victor Emmanuel II and Prime Minister Cavour, the Kingdom of Sardinia led the movement to unite all of Italy. Piedmont provided the army, the political leadership and the initial capital for the new nation. Later, the region became the cradle of Italian industry, led by the automotive giant FIAT. Piedmont is the region where you will discover this royal and industrial legacy.