In the heart of Northwestern Italy lies the picturesque region of Piedmont. Piedmont is home to some of the most iconic wineries and wine varieties (does Barolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, and Moscato d’Asti ring any bell!). If you’re anything like us—a lover of good wine, great food, and picturesque landscapes—Piedmont should be at the top of your must-visit wine regions.

 

Located at the foot of the Alps, this famed region offers world-class wines, jaw-dropping scenery (obviously!), and a deep-rooted culinary tradition. After just one trip, you’ll be hooked on everything Piedmont has to offer. We are sure of that!

 

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through some of the best wine tours in Piedmont—from half-day tastings for beginners to full-on, multi-day experiences for the wine enthusiast. We’ll also share our picks for the best places to stay, where to eat, and what else you should do while visiting this stunning region. So grab a glass of wine (Barolo, preferably), and let’s get started!

Top Wine Tours in Piedmont: Our Honest Take

Now, there are countless wine tours available in Piedmont, and honestly, not all wine tours are good. Some cater to tourists in large groups and rush you through the vineyards, while others are intimate, personal experiences led by knowledgeable sommeliers or even winemakers themselves.

 

For this guide, we’ve chosen wine tours that reflect what we value most in a wine-tasting experience: authenticity, education, and, of course, high-quality wines. These tours offer a good balance of guided tastings, scenic vineyard walks, and deeper insights. We’re all about building a genuine connection with the places we visit, and we’ve found that the smaller, almost personalized wine tours often provide the best experiences. Let’s uncover the tours, broken down into categories to suit all types of travelers and their preferences!

Best Half-Day Wine Tours in Piedmont

1. Barolo & Barbaresco Wine Tour with a Sommelier
   • Duration: Approx. 7 hours 30 minutes
   • Price: From approx. $459
   • Operated by: Amanda’s Wine Adventures
   • Overview: This is a fantastic intro to Piedmont’s iconic Barolo and Barbaresco wines. The tour kicks off in Neive, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, where you’ll grab a coffee and get a crash course on the region. You’ll then visit two boutique wineries to taste their best vintages and meet the winemakers.
   • What we loved: The guide, a certified sommelier, is super informative. Plus, the scenery between Neive and Barolo is breathtaking.
2. Langhe Wine Tour and Tasting – One Day with a Sommelier
   • Duration: Approx. 6 to 7 hours
   • Price: From approx. $384
   • Operated by: Oneonthehill – One day with a Sommelier
   • Overview: This private tour is perfect for those who want to get deeper into Langhe wines. You’ll get a customized itinerary, private transportation in a Tesla (eco-friendly, anyone?), and an expert sommelier guiding you through exclusive cellar visits.
   • What we loved: The flexibility! You can shape the day around your personal wine preferences. The tour also includes a stop at a local eatery, though meals aren’t included.

Full-Day Wine Tours in Piedmont

 

1. Full-Day Barolo & Barbaresco Wine Tour from Milan
   • Duration: Approx. 9 hours
   • Price: From approx. $833
   • Operated by: Langa Wine Tour
   • Overview: Start your day with a scenic drive from Milan, and prepare for a whirlwind tour of two of the most prestigious wine regions in Italy. This tour includes visits to on-site wineries and tasting of both Barolo and Barbaresco, with a local winemaker explaining the magic behind each glass.
   • What we loved: The deep dive into the famed Piedmont region, and the opportunity to sample wines directly from the producers.
2. Private Barolo Wine Tour with a Winemaker
   • Duration: Approx. 8 hours
   • Price: From approx. $667.11
   • Operated by: Amanda’s Wine Adventures
   • Overview: This one’s for the wine geek! You’ll join a winemaker on a full-day journey through Barolo and Barbaresco hills in Langhe wine region. Expect detailed insights into terroir, the aging process, and the nuances between different wines.
   • What we loved: The one-on-one time with a winemaker who really knows their stuff.

Best Wine Tours for Wine Enthusiasts

1. Private Barolo & Barbaresco Wine Tours and Tastings
   • Duration: Approx. 4 to 8 hours
   • Price: From approx. $392
   • Operated by: Langaround – Piedmont Wine Tours
   • Overview: This tour offers a deep dive into the heart of Langhe, allowing you to customize the experience based on your preferences. The guide is an expert sommelier who will take you to the top cellars in the region, and you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and savor the wines.
   • What we loved: It’s a customizable experience, you’ll get what you want out of this tour.
2. Truffle Hunt and Barolo Wine Tasting
   • Duration: Approx. 4 hours
   • Price: From approx. $333
   • Operated by: Meet Piemonte
   • Overview: This tour combines two of Piedmont’s greatest treasures—truffles and wine. You’ll join a truffle hunter and their dog to sniff out some of these rare delicacies, and then head to a local winery for a Barolo tasting.
   • What we loved: It’s a great mix of activities, and the truffle hunt is both fun and educational. Plus, there’s nothing quite like pairing a Barolo with a truffle-based dish!

Best Wine Tours in Piedmont for First-Time Visitors

If you’re visiting Piedmont for the first time, you’ll want a tour that offers a broad overview of the region and its wines. Here’s are our top picks:

 

1. Full-Day Barolo & Barbaresco Wine Tour from Turin
   • Duration: Approx. 10 hours
   • Price: From approx. $642
   • Operated by: Langa Wine Tour
   • Overview: This tour is perfect for first-timers because it covers all the basics of the region, including a visit to family-run wineries in both Barolo and Barbaresco. Your guide is a local winemaker.
   • What we loved: The personal touch. The winemaker guide made the whole day feel like you were visiting a friend’s vineyards.

Where to Stay in Piedmont

 

Piedmont offers a range of accommodations, from rustic farm stays to luxurious boutique hotels. Here are our favorites:

 

• Relais San Maurizio (Santo Stefano Belbo): A luxurious spa hotel in a former monastery.
• Palás Cerequio (La Morra): A Barolo lover’s dream with rooms overlooking the vineyards.
• Villa d’Amelia (Benevello): A five-star country house offering gourmet dining and scenic views.
• Cascina Baràc (Alba): A cozy agriturismo with its own vineyard and wine cellar.
• Antica Corte Pallavicina (Polesine Parmense): A historic castle turned luxury hotel.
• Relais Villa Pattono (Costigliole d’Asti): A boutique hotel surrounded by vineyards and hills.
• Albergo Cantine Ascheri (Bra): A modern hotel attached to a working winery.
• Casa Pavesi (Grinzane Cavour): An intimate B&B located near the Grinzane Cavour Castle.
• Hotel Castello di Sinio (Sinio): A beautifully restored 12th-century castle hotel.
• Locanda del Pilone (Alba): An elegant country estate with a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Where to Eat in Piedmont

Piedmont is a food lover’s paradise, and whether you’re into Michelin-starred dining or rustic trattorias, this region has it all. Here are some of our favorite restaurants in Piedmont:

 

• Piazza Duomo (Alba): A Michelin 3-star restaurant offering an avant-garde take on traditional Piedmontese cuisine.
• Antica Corona Reale (Cervere): Classic Piedmontese dishes served in a historic setting.
• La Ciau del Tornavento (Treiso): Has one of the most impressive wine cellars in Italy.
• Osteria dell’Arco (Alba): A casual spot for traditional Piedmontese fare.
• Trattoria della Posta (Monforte d’Alba): A charming trattoria with an excellent wine list.

The Perfect Day in Piedmont: Our Itinerary!

If you’ve only got one day in Piedmont, don’t worry—you can still experience the essence of this incredible region! Here’s our go-to itinerary for a day that captures the heart of Piedmont’s food, wine, and beauty.

 

Start your day in the town of Barolo. Begin with a visit to the Corkscrew Museum, a quirky yet fascinating look at the history of wine tools. From there, head to the WiMu (Wine Museum) located in the stunning Barolo Castle. It’s an immersive, interactive experience that explores the history, art, and science of wine.

 

By late morning, it’s time to head to your first winery visit. I recommend stopping at Marchesi di Barolo, one of the region’s most historic wineries. They offer comprehensive tours that give you insight into Barolo wine production, and of course, a tasting of their renowned wines is included.

 

For lunch, I’d head to Locanda Fontanazza in La Morra. They serve simple, locally sourced dishes like plin (tiny, hand-pinched ravioli) and risotto made with local ingredients. After lunch, spend some time exploring La Morra itself. Take a leisurely walk through the town and stop at the La Morra Belvedere for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. This is one of the best spots for a picture-perfect view of the Langhe region.

 

In the afternoon, make your way to the nearby town of Alba. If it’s autumn, you’re in luck—this is the prime season for white truffles, and Alba hosts an annual truffle festival. Even outside of truffle season, the town is worth visiting for its charming streets and excellent shopping opportunities. End your day with dinner at Piazza Duomo in Alba (if you’re ready to splurge) or at Osteria dell’Arco for a more traditional yet equally delicious meal. Either way, finish your day with a glass of Barolo and toast to a perfect day in Piedmont.

2-Day in Piedmont: Our Itinerary

With two days in Piedmont, you’ve got enough time to dive deeper into both the wine and the culture of the region. Here’s a well-balanced itinerary that will give you a fuller experience.

Day 1: Exploring Barolo and Barbaresco

Start your first day in the town of Barolo. Visit the WiMu (Wine Museum) in the Barolo Castle to get a great introduction to the history of winemaking in the region. From there, you can head to your first winery visit—Marchesi di Barolo or G.D. Vajra are great choices.

 

After your morning winery tour, head to Locanda Fontanazza in La Morra for lunch. The food here is simple, delicious, and perfect for pairing with a local Nebbiolo or Barbera. Spend the afternoon exploring La Morra and taking in the stunning views from the Belvedere, one of the best vantage points in the region. Afterward, visit another winery in the afternoon—Elvio Cogno or Cordero di Montezemolo offer excellent tours and tastings.

 

For dinner, head back to Alba and dine at Osteria La Libera. You’ll have the opportunity to try classic Piedmontese dishes like vitello tonnato and agnolotti del plin, paired with a well-curated selection of local wines.

Day 2: White Truffles and Barbaresco

Start your second day with a visit to the nearby town of Barbaresco. This is the home of the other great Nebbiolo-based wine of Piedmont. I recommend visiting Gaja, one of the most iconic producers in the region. They offer guided tastings that give you a deep understanding of Barbaresco wine.

 

For lunch, head to Antine in Barbaresco. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an inventive take on traditional Piedmontese cuisine, and their wine list is, of course, exceptional. After lunch, head to Alba, where you can spend the afternoon wandering the streets of this charming town. If it’s autumn, you must stop by the Alba Truffle Market, where you can try the region’s famed white truffles. Even if it’s not truffle season, Alba is full of delightful shops and cafes to explore.

 

For your final dinner, make a reservation at Piazza Duomo in Alba. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience, and it’s the perfect way to end your two-day exploration of Piedmont.

3-Days in Piedmont: Our Itinerary

With three days in Piedmont, you can really take your time to enjoy the food, wine, and stunning landscapes. Here’s our recommended itinerary for a perfect three-day trip.

Day 1: Barolo and La Morra

Start your trip in Barolo, visiting the WiMu (Wine Museum) and the Corkscrew Museum to get a good introduction to the region. Afterward, visit a winery like Marchesi di Barolo or G.D. Vajra for a tour and tasting.

 

For lunch, head to Locanda Fontanazza in La Morra, where you can enjoy a simple yet delicious meal paired with a local wine. Afterward, spend the afternoon exploring La Morra and taking in the panoramic views from the Belvedere. Visit another winery in the afternoon—Elvio Cogno or Cordero di Montezemolo offer excellent tours. End your day with dinner at Osteria La Libera in Alba, where you can try classic Piedmontese dishes.

Day 2: Barbaresco and Alba

Spend your second day in Barbaresco, visiting top producers like Gaja or Produttori del Barbaresco. After your winery visit, head to Antine for a Michelin-starred lunch that offers inventive takes on traditional dishes.

 

In the afternoon, explore Alba and visit the Alba Truffle Market if you’re there during truffle season. If not, wander through the charming streets, stopping at local cafes and shops. End your day with dinner at Piazza Duomo, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Alba. It’s a splurge, but worth every penny for the incredible food and wine pairings.

Day 3: Asti and Nizza Monferrato

On your final day, explore the towns of Asti and Nizza Monferrato, which are known for their sparkling wines and rich food traditions. Start in Asti, where you can visit a local producer like Contratto, famous for its sparkling wines.

 

For lunch, head to Cascina Faletta in Casale Monferrato, where you can enjoy a relaxed meal in a beautiful setting. After lunch, head to Nizza Monferrato to visit a Barbera producer like Braida di Giacomo Bologna. Barbera from Nizza is some of the best in Italy, and this visit will give you a deeper appreciation for this often-underappreciated grape.

 

End your day with a more casual dinner in Nizza or head back to Alba for one last meal before you depart. Either way, enjoy a final glass of Piedmontese wine and toast to your perfect three days in Piedmont.

Tips for Planning a Wine Tour in Piedmont

Planning a wine tour in Piedmont is a bit different than other regions in Italy, and we’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make it smoother. Here are our top tips:

 

• Book in advance: Many wineries in Piedmont require reservations for tastings and tours, especially the more prestigious producers. Plan your visits ahead of time to ensure you get a spot.
• Limit your visits: Don’t try to pack too many wineries into one day. We recommend visiting no more than three wineries in a day—any more, and you’ll get palate fatigue and won’t fully enjoy the experience.
• Hire a driver: Piedmont’s roads can be winding and tricky, especially after a few glasses of wine. If you’re planning to visit multiple wineries, consider hiring a driver or booking a tour so you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving.
• Don’t forget lunch: Many wineries don’t offer food, so make sure to plan for a proper lunch. Piedmont’s food is as important as its wine, so take the time to enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the region’s excellent restaurants or trattorias.
• Focus on regions: Piedmont is a big area, and it’s best to focus on one or two subregions per day. For example, spend one day in Barolo and La Morra, and another day in Barbaresco and Neive. This way, you can fully appreciate the differences between the wines and the landscapes.
• Visit in the fall: If you can, visit during the fall harvest season. The vineyards are beautiful, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the winemaking process. Plus, autumn is truffle season, so you can combine your wine tour with some incredible food experiences.
• Don’t overlook Barbera and Dolcetto: While Barolo and Barbaresco get most of the attention, Piedmont is also home to excellent Barbera and Dolcetto wines. These wines are more affordable and often more approachable for everyday drinking.

Best Wineries to Visit in Piedmont

 

Piedmont is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in the world. Here are a few of our personal favorites:

 

• Marchesi di Barolo: Located in the heart of Barolo, this historic winery offers a comprehensive tour that covers the history and production of Barolo wine. Their tastings include a range of wines, from classic Barolos to more modern expressions.
• G.D. Vajra: This family-run winery in Barolo produces wines with a focus on elegance and balance. The Vajra family is incredibly welcoming, and their tastings offer a great insight into the diversity of Nebbiolo.
• Gaja: If you’re serious about wine, a visit to Gaja in Barbaresco is a must. Angelo Gaja is one of the most influential winemakers in Italy, and his wines are renowned worldwide. The tasting experience here is more formal, but the quality of the wines makes it worth it.
• Elvio Cogno: Located in Novello, this winery offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards along with excellent wines. Their Barolos are particularly impressive, and the winery itself is beautiful.
• Cordero di Montezemolo: This winery in La Morra has been family-owned for over 19 generations. They produce some of the best Barolos in the region, and the vineyard views are breathtaking.
• Braida di Giacomo Bologna: If you’re interested in Barbera, this is the place to visit. Located in Nizza Monferrato, Braida produces some of the best Barbera wines in Italy, with a focus on elegance and aging potential.
• Contratto: If you’re a fan of sparkling wines, Contratto in Canelli is a must-visit. They produce traditional method sparkling wines (similar to Champagne), and their historic cellars are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What to do in Piedmont

Beyond wine and food, Piedmont offers plenty to see and do. Here are some of my top recommendations for making the most of your time in the region:

 

• Visit the Wine Museums: Piedmont has some excellent wine museums, like the WiMu (Wine Museum) in Barolo and the Regional Enoteca of Barbaresco. These museums offer a deeper understanding of the region’s winemaking history and culture.
• Explore the Towns: Towns like Barolo, La Morra, and Alba are full of charm and history. Spend some time wandering through the narrow streets, visiting local shops, and enjoying a coffee or gelato in one of the town squares.
• Truffle Hunting: If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the opportunity to go truffle hunting. Several local guides offer truffle hunting experiences where you can learn about these prized fungi and even take home a fresh truffle.
• Hike through the Vineyards: The Langhe and Roero regions are crisscrossed with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the vineyards and villages. It’s a great way to see the region up close and work off some of that wine and food!
• Visit Castles: Piedmont is dotted with beautiful castles, many of which offer tours. The Barolo Castle and Grinzane Cavour Castle are two of the most impressive, and both offer insight into the region’s history and winemaking traditions.
• Relax at a Spa: After a few days of wine tasting, you might want to unwind with a visit to one of the region’s spas. Acqui Terme is famous for its thermal baths and offers a range of treatments to help you relax.
• Attend a Festival: Piedmont is home to several food and wine festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the Alba White Truffle Fair in the fall. It’s a great way to experience the region’s food culture and pick up some local delicacies.

Final Thought

It’s obvious that wine is more than just a drink in Piedmont. It is a symbol of local identity and culture and plays a significant role in social gatherings, celebrations, and religious ceremonies. The wine tours we have chosen are among the best in Piedmont. They provide insight into the significance of wine production in Piedmont’s culture over the centuries and how it has shaped the region’s traditions and customs.

 

PS. If you need more details, or recommendations or want to help book any of these tours, feel free to reach out!