Expert Recommendations for Amazing Itineraries

The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is Alba’s stunning cathedral, a serene centerpiece of the city’s historic heart. Its elegant facade and soaring bell tower hint at the treasures inside, including beautiful frescoes, intricate stained glass, and a richly decorated altar. Dedicated to Saint Lawrence, the cathedral blends centuries of architectural styles, reflecting Alba’s long and vibrant history. A peaceful place for reflection, it’s also a must-see landmark for visitors wandering the charming streets of this Piedmontese town.

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, towering proudly over Montepulciano, is a breathtaking testament to Gothic and Renaissance architecture. As the heart of the city, the Piazza Grande unfurls before the cathedral, offering a picturesque setting steeped in history and charm. Flanked by ancient palaces and adorned with a timeless well, the piazza serves as a lively gathering place, where locals and visitors alike converge to soak in the atmosphere and marvel at the cathedral’s beauty.

If you are lucky enough to be in Bra, Italy for the Slow Food Movement’s CHEESE festival, you must not pass it up. The Comune of Bra and the Slow Food organizers host the festival in September, every other year — on odd years. We went in 2025. We tried cheese from every country in Europe plus some in the Americas and elsewhere. There is so much to see (and taste!). We recommend one day for the festival but it does go on for a full weekend. Each stall has samples to try, and you are able to buy any of it that you like. They have seminars, talks, and more on the Slow Food Movement. There is a food truck area where you can get food other than cheese, there are booths with all sorts of food items; jams, honeys, meats, cheese, oils, vinegars, etc. There are wine and beer vendors plus other type of food available to eat on the spot. The festival is all through the streets of Bra and you can wander around for hours! It was a very fun day!

Enjoyed a quiet aperitivo here in their warm and welcoming dining room. Inside the Palazzo Chigi Saracini. they have a lovely patio, in the center of a beautiful ancient courtyard, but alas today’s weather sent me inside. The rooms are decorated with art, most interestingly a grand (and very old looking) family tree. The staff was warm and kind. I enjoyed a delicious glass of Brunello and the highlight of my visit was a potato pie with truffle sitting on a pecorino fondue. It was a warm and cozy treat for an early afternoon visit.

With a Michelin star, you won’t be surprised by the absolute white linen tablecloth experience at this restaurant. From start to finish, the meal was exquisite. We were treated to a small glass of local white wine when we sat down along with some delicious breads. We had to order the two iconic risottos; the carbonara and the condensed sartoriale with coffee and beer. Both were delicious. We also had a pork entree that was cooked to perfection with a lovely light jus and steamed greens. For dessert, we tried the classic Zabaglione and a perfect chocolate cake. We dined here for lunch since we had to take the train from Alba but it was a lovely lunch and the dining room was not at all crowded. It almost felt like we had the place to ourselves for a private meal! Absolutely recommend stopping here if you are in Piedmont. After lunch, we walked back to the train station to see a little of the town of Vercelli.

Listed as one of “i borghi più belli d’Italia” (“The most beautiful villages of Italy”), this walled town is a so picturesque that when you look at your photos, you’ll have to tell friends “this is a real place!” When we arrived by car, we parked in a small parking lot at the base of the hill. We boarded a city bus that drops you up at the top. Keep in mind that the walk to the Civita is long and steep and may not be suitable for all travelers, but I promise that it is worth every drop of sweat to get there. Inside the city walls, you’ll find the typical piazze and churches. Not large at all, this is a the perfect stop if you are in Tuscany and are heading to Rome or south. Don’t miss it…

This cute shop is a great place to get some authentic Italian goods for your favorite coffee lover. They have moka pots and many cute cups, saucers, etc.

This hotel on the edge of the Monti neighborhood is a great central spot that is not in the more touristy area. I stayed there when arriving in Rome via the Train at Termini because it’s close by. But be forewarned, Monti means Hills (plural) and the walk with a roller suitcase is not a good idea. I regretted my choices almost immediately!

The city of Alba is easily accessible by train from Turin and it is absolutely a great stop in Piedmont. Alba is known for white truffles and Nebbiolo wine. The food is exceptional from lovely small trattorias to 15 Michelin starred restaurants. The town is very walkable, full of lovely people and great access to wine country. It has warm, sunny summers and cool, crisp winters, with occasional snow in the coldest months. The climate stays generally comfortable in spring and fall, perfect for exploring vineyards, tasting wines, and enjoying seasonal truffles.

The village of Barolo is a little harder to get to, but well worth a visit, especially if you are a wine lover. We decided to take a 3€ bus from Alba which takes about 40 minutes, is airconditioned and quite comfortable. The village is very hilly so be prepared for some uphill walking, which makes the views exceptional.

The famous Barolo wine is named after the village of Barolo which existed long before the wine gained fame. When the Nebbiolo grapes from that area were first recognized for producing the “king of wines,” they were labeled Barolo after the village where they were grown. Over time, the name came to define not just the village but the prestigious DOCG wine produced in the surrounding Langhe hills.

The building housing the Comune di Montepulciano stands as a stately symbol of civic pride and heritage in the Piazza Grande. Originally constructed during the medieval period and subsequently renovated in Renaissance style, the Comune di Montepulciano building embodies the enduring spirit of the community. Its halls have witnessed centuries of decision-making and community affairs, making it not just an administrative center but also a living repository of Montepulciano’s collective memory and identity. For a unique perspective, visitors can ascend to the roof for a nominal fee, offering panoramic views of Montepulciano’s enchanting surroundings and a closer look at the architectural details that grace this historic landmark.

Da Felice in Testaccio is one of the most famous Roman restaurants for the Roman Classic “spaghetti cacio e pepe.” You do have to plan in advance for this one as it is hard to get a day-of reservation. The Testaccio neighborhood is a little away from the main tourist attractions and it feels very Roman. There are plenty of shops and gelaterias for after your meal!

“Da Oio a casa mia” in Rome’s Testaccio neighborhood is a true gem of traditional Roman cuisine. From the moment you step in, the warm ambiance and friendly staff make you feel like family. The menu features a delightful array of classic Roman dishes, each bursting with flavor and prepared with care. Whether it’s their perfectly al dente pasta dishes, tender meat courses, or heavenly desserts, every bite is a culinary delight. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients shines through in every dish. With its cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering cuisine, “Da Oio a casa mia” is a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of Rome.

This lovely little enoteca is right on the Piazza San Donato looking at the church and is a wonderful place to people watch while enjoying a delicious meal. There are a few local cats hanging out in the square as well though they don’t seem friendly enough to pet. We enjoyed the polenta bolognese and this delicious contorno of Tuscan beans with toasted bread. Perfetto!

Dar Poeta in Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood is a cozy pizzeria with rustic charm and delicious pizza. The inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable dining experience, while the pizzas, whether classic Margherita or creative specialties, are always fresh and bursting with flavor. With friendly service and reasonable prices, Dar Poeta is a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike for authentic Roman pizza.

De’Ricci Cantina in Montepulciano offers a unique wine tasting experience set within ancient Tuscan caves. Located in the heart of the historic town, these atmospheric caverns provide the perfect backdrop for sampling a curated selection of local wines. As you descend into the cool depths, you’re transported back in time, surrounded by centuries-old stone walls that echo with the stories of generations past. The knowledgeable staff guide you through the tasting, sharing insights into the region’s winemaking traditions and the characteristics of each vintage. With its historic charm and dedication to showcasing the best of Tuscan viticulture, De’Ricci Cantina’s old Tuscan caves offer a truly memorable wine-tasting journey.

Don Nino’s is a chain Italy — you’ll see them in Rome, Florence and other big cities and for a good reason, as they make delicious cannoli for you while you wait. Cannoli should not be filled ahead of time as it makes the shell soggy. Don Nino’s makes your cannoli while you wait and is the perfect place for a sweet treat while touring Florence.

Obviously one of the main tourist sites in Florence, this imposing group of buildings deserve a whole day, if you have it. Do check the tourist information offices found on both sides of the Piazza to make sure the Basilica is open (they don’t allow tourists on Sundays) and if you plan to climb Bruneschelli’s dome or the campanile, you’ll need a timed ticket. The ceiling of the Baptistery is under construction in 2023/2024 but it’s still worth it to see the building and the amazing gold doors. Keep your eye open for scammers and pickpockets in this piazza but don’t miss it.

Duomo di Milano is one of the most iconic landmarks in Italy and one of the largest and most elaborate Gothic cathedrals in the world. Situated in the heart of Milan, on the Piazza del Duomo, it dominates the skyline with its intricate facade, soaring spires, and countless statues. Construction of the cathedral began in 1386 and continued for nearly six centuries, resulting in a structure that reflects a blend of architectural styles, primarily Gothic, with later Renaissance and even neo-Gothic additions. You can purchase tickets to go into the Duomo for 10€ per person, but the better option is to book ahead so you can also visit the Terrace to see the spires and pinnacles up-close as well as an iconic panoramic views of Milan. On a clear day, you can even see the Italian Alps. The terrace is accessible by stairs or an elevator. Tickets to the Terrace do sell out and are an additional €16 per person.

The first stone of the city’s cathedral was laid in 1099 and the construction continued until 1184. The church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We enjoyed touring the inside of the church and it’s magnificent bell tower, known as the Ghirlandina. The carvings on the outside of the church are intricate and unique, well worth the visit alone.