Asti sits in the Piedmont region of north-west Italy, among rolling vineyard hills. It is less famous than Turin or Milan, but it is a good base for anyone who enjoys wine, food and a slower pace. If you are searching for things to do in Asti Italy, here is a realistic guide to what the town and its surroundings offer.
Things to do in asti italy: getting to Asti
Asti is about 55 kilometres from Turin, with regular regional trains linking the two cities in roughly 30 to 45 minutes. Milan is also reachable by train, usually with a change. The railway station sits a short walk from the historic centre. If you plan to explore the wine villages, renting a car makes things easier, though local taxis and organised tours are alternatives.
The historic centre
The old town is compact and pleasant to walk. Start at Piazza Alfieri, a large triangular square named after the poet Vittorio Alfieri, who was born in Asti. From there, stroll along Corso Vittorio Alfieri, the main street, with its shops and cafés.
Cathedral and churches
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is a large Gothic building with a richly decorated interior. Nearby you will find other medieval churches and towers. Asti once had many tall defensive towers, and a few remain, reminding visitors of its past as an independent city.
Palazzi and museums
The town has several noble palaces, and some have small museums. Opening times vary by season and can be short, so check them locally.
Wine: the main reason many people come
Asti is known for sparkling wines made from Moscato grapes, including Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti. They are lightly sweet and often low in alcohol, and they go well with dessert. The area also produces red wines such as Barbera d’Asti, which is dry and fruity and popular with local food.
You can visit wineries in the surrounding hills. Many require a booking, especially in busy seasons, so contact them beforehand. Local wine shops, called enoteche, also offer tastings by the glass.
Food to try
Piedmont is famous for its kitchen, and Asti is no exception.
- Tajarin: thin egg pasta, often with butter and sage or meat sauce.
- Agnolotti del plin: small pinched pasta filled with meat.
- Bagna cauda: a warm dip of garlic, anchovy and olive oil, served with vegetables, usually in autumn and winter.
- Bollito misto: a mix of boiled meats served with sauces.
- Bonet: a chocolate and amaretti dessert.
In autumn, truffle season brings visitors to the wider region, though the famous white truffle market is in nearby Alba. Prices for truffles are high and vary from year to year.
Festivals
The Palio di Asti, a horse race held in the town in early September, is one of the oldest of its kind in Italy. The event includes a historical parade with costumes from different districts. Another well-known event is the Douja d’Or, a wine festival held around September. If you want to join either, book accommodation well ahead.
Day trips
- Alba: known for truffles and wine, and about 40 minutes by car.
- Turin: a larger city with museums, an Egyptian collection and grand squares.
- Alessandria and Casale Monferrato: smaller towns with their own histories.
- The Langhe, Roero and Monferrato hills: parts of this wine landscape are recognised by UNESCO.
When to visit
Spring and autumn are the best seasons. In spring the hills are green, and in autumn the harvest brings colour, food festivals and misty mornings. Summers are warm, and winter can be cold and foggy but comfortable for hearty meals.
Practical tips
1. Many shops close for a long lunch break, usually between 12:30 and 3:30.
2. Restaurants in Italy often start dinner service late, around 7:30 p.m.
3. Learn a few Italian phrases. They are appreciated, especially outside big tourist areas.
4. If you drive, avoid restricted traffic zones in town centres to prevent fines.
Slowing down in Asti
The best days here are not packed with ticks on a list. Sit on a bench in Piazza Alfieri in the late afternoon, watch people stroll before dinner and order a small glass of local wine. Italians call this the evening passeggiata, and it is a pleasant ritual to join. Stay one night if you can, because the town is quiet after the day trippers leave and the restaurants fill with local families rather than tour groups.
Asti may not have the long list of sights of a big city, but that is its appeal. Spend a day in the centre, another among the vineyards, and you will understand why it is a favourite with food and wine lovers.
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