Alba
Alba is one of the most important cities in the Langhe, renowned for the International White Truffle Fair and its rich winemaking tradition. Its historic center has preserved a medieval layout, featuring towers, noble palaces, and ancient churches, while the surrounding hills—covered in vineyards—produce some of Piedmont’s finest wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco.
Beyond its gastronomic excellence, Alba also offers a wealth of history and culture. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll discover traces of its Roman and medieval past, as well as historic shops and traditional eateries where you can taste the region’s authentic flavors.
Summary
What to See in Alba
Historic Center and Medieval Towers
Alba is famous for its towers, though only a few of the most important ones remain today. In the Middle Ages, these towers were symbols of power and prestige for noble families. Some of the most notable ones include:
- Torre Bonino
- Torre Astesiano
- Torre Sineo
Walking through the streets of the historic center, you can also admire elegant medieval and Renaissance palaces, such as Palazzo Comunale and Palazzo Belli, before reaching Piazza Risorgimento, the city’s main square.
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
Built in red brick, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is one of Alba’s most iconic landmarks. Originally medieval, it features an imposing Gothic façade and houses valuable frescoes and artworks. Inside, visitors can explore a fascinating crypt and admire a precious wooden choir.
Underground Alba
A hidden but fascinating aspect of the city lies beneath its streets. The Underground Alba tour allows visitors to explore ancient Roman and medieval ruins buried under the modern city. Guided tours lead through the remains of public buildings, mosaics, and ancient Roman walls, offering a unique perspective on Alba’s history.
Ferrero Museum
Alba is also the birthplace of Ferrero, the company behind Nutella. The Ferrero Museum hosts temporary exhibitions and tells the story of the brand’s heritage and innovation.
What to Do in Alba
International White Truffle Fair
The most important event of the year is the International White Truffle Fair, held every autumn from October to November. During the fair, the World Truffle Market gathers truffle vendors from across the region, while show cooking events, tastings, and auctions attract food lovers from all over the world.
Truffle Hunting Experience
Beyond tasting truffles in restaurants, visitors can join a truffle hunting experience, guided by expert trifolau (truffle hunters) and their trained dogs. These excursions take you into the forests around Alba, where you can explore the land and learn the secrets of this centuries-old tradition.
Wine Tastings and Winery Tours
Alba is surrounded by some of Italy’s most renowned wine regions. From here, you can easily reach Barolo, Barbaresco, and La Morra, where numerous wineries offer tours and tastings of Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto. Many vineyards provide guided visits, allowing guests to see the winemaking process firsthand and taste wines directly from the barrels.
Scenic Walks Through the Vineyards
The hills around Alba are crisscrossed with picturesque hiking trails through the vineyards of the Langhe. Some recommended routes include:
- Bar to Bar Trail: A scenic route connecting Alba, Barolo, and Barbaresco, passing through rolling vineyard-covered hills.
- Nebbiolo Trail: A shorter path, perfect for those who want a relaxed walk among the vines, enjoying the rural landscape.
Alba in Every Season
Spring and Summer
These months are perfect for exploring the Langhe hills, visiting wineries, and taking part in the first food and wine events of the season.
Autumn
Autumn is the most anticipated time of the year: harvest season brings the vineyards to life, and the White Truffle Fair attracts visitors from around the world. The cool climate makes it ideal for wine tastings and scenic walks.
Winter
Even in the colder months, Alba retains its charm. It’s the perfect time to savor Piedmontese cuisine in traditional restaurants and visit wineries without the crowds of autumn.
Wheather in Alba
What’s the weather like in Alba?
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How to Get to Alba
- By Car: Alba is located along the A33 Asti-Cuneo highway, well connected to Turin and Milan.
- By Train: The Alba railway station is served by regional trains with connections to Asti and Turin.
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Turin Caselle, about an hour away.
Where to Stay in Alba
Staying in Alba means immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the Langhe, with the comfort of welcoming accommodations and breathtaking views over the rolling hills. We’ve selected the most charming hotels and unique places to stay, offering you a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery in the heart of this extraordinary region.
Where to Eat in Alba
The Best Traditional Restaurants
Alba is a gastronomic paradise, known for its refined Piedmontese cuisine and high-quality local ingredients. From truffle-based specialties to traditional handmade pasta and fine wines, the city’s restaurants offer an authentic taste of the Langhe region.
