tour of asti

The 15 Best Things to Do in Asti, Italy

Asti, Italy is a medium-sized city situated between two hills, Monferrato and Langhe, and covered in vineyards. Located in the heart of Italy's northwestern province of Piedmont (Piedmonte) a mere 40-minute drive from Turin and an hour drive from Milan, Asti makes for a great day trip from either city. But if you have more time to spare, there is so much to explore in this city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy.

Inhabited since the Neolithic period, Asti became a Roman encampment sometime around 124 BC, later becoming an economic and political powerhouse in the Middle Ages, and it continued flourishing, falling, and rising again several times over the city's long and remarkable history. Today, Asti is best known for its exceptional food, the standout sparkling wines Asti Spumante and Moscato d'Asti, and for the Palio di Ast—a bareback horse race through town.

If you're traveling to the Piedmont region and are planning a stop at this ancient city, here is our list of the top things to do in Asti, Italy. Note that most of the attractions listed here are administered by the city, and links are to the city's website.

Spend an Afternoon Sipping on Asti's Famous Wines

Credit: Filippo Maria Bianchi /Getty Images 

Asti is the main commercial center of Piedmont's wine area, with the vineyards surrounding the city producing a whopping 40 percent of the region's wines, including its most famous varietal Asti Spumante. The best way to experience Asti's wines is on a tasting tour through the hills (which are also a UNESCO World Heritage site), stopping at several vineyards along the way to sip sparkling whites and robust reds.

See Works of Art at Asti Cathedral

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The beautiful and impressive Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, also known as the Duomo, is a must-see attraction, especially for first-time visitors to Asti. The first iteration cathedral is estimated to date back to the 5th or 6th centuries and has been built and rebuilt several times during its long history. The current structure was completed in the 13th century, with additions dating through the 1800s.

It is one of the largest churches in the region of Piedmont and is a shining example of Lombard Gothic-style architecture. The structure features a soaring belfry (bell tower) dating back to 1266, a brick facade marked by three rose windows, and an interior covered with delicate carvings, frescoes, and works by Piedmont Renaissance painter Gandolfino d'Asti. Don't forget to check out the presbytery which has an intricate mosaic floor that was part of the remains of a primitive ancient church buried below. 

Tour the Collegiate Church of Saint Secundus

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Among the oldest Gothic churches in Asti (it was built between the 13th and 15th centuries), Collegiata di San Secondo sits adjacent to the Palazzo Civico (town hall) and overlooks Piazza San Secondo, a lovely town square. The church facade has three notable Gothic portals, and the interior holds works by Gandolfino d'Asti, including an important polyptych (a painting on a hinged wood panel). Built on the spot where San Secondo was beheaded, the 6th-century crypt now preserves the bones of the martyred saint. The church is open to visitors every day, but only when mass isn't in session, and visits to the crypt must be arranged through the sacristan.

Cheer on Horses and Riders at the Palio

It may not be as famous a horse race as the Palio di Siena, but the Palio di Asti was first staged in 1273, making it one of the oldest races of its kind in Italy. Taking place on the first Sunday in September, festivities begin with a parade with over a thousand costumed participants marching through town before ending at Piazza Alfieri. Afte the parade, 21 representatives of the town's ancient boroughs compete in three thrilling heats on horseback. And did we mention that the jockeys are riding bareback? A traditional flag-throwing demonstration takes place at intermission, followed by the final race in which the winner is awarded the coveted banner: "Palio di Asti." Check the Palio's official website for specific dates and start times.

Enjoy an Afternoon People-Watching on Piazza Alfieri

Damien Simonis/Getty Images 

Take a leisurely stroll through this lively, triangle-shaped piazza named for one of Italy's most renowned 18th-century poets, Vittorio Alfieri. Located on the edge of the old town, this piazza is an excellent example of 19th-century urban-architectural planning—it's lined by porticoed buildings and contains the marble and granite Vittorio Alfieri Monument by Giuseppe Dini. Besides hosting the famed Palio di Asti each year, it's home to a weekly food market. On your visit, consider grabbing some food and admire the architecture before settling in for some people-watching.

Admire Traditional and Contemporary Art at Palazzo Mazzetti

incola/Wikimedia Commons 

Once the residence of a noble family, the stately Palazzo Mazzetti is now the city's civic art museum. Its galleries exhibit a fascinating collection of Italian paintings from the 17th through 19th centuries, along with an impressive array of more contemporary works of art—including pieces by Michelangelo Pittatore. The museum's collection also included clothes, historical clothing, and wooden sculptures. Spend a few hours at this user-friendly museum, with interactive touchscreen tables, an educational room, a library, and a coffee bar.

Gat a Birdseye View of the City Atop Troyana Tower

Wikimedia Commons

The area of Asti between the medieval center and the cathedral is teeming with palaces and wealthy merchants' houses. Many of these houses once featured lofty towers—in fact, Asti is nicknamed the "the city of 100 towers," though only 15 towers are still standing. The tallest among those surviving is Troyana Tower (Torre Troyana). Located on Piazza Medici and extending 144 feet into the air, a climb to the top promises breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding countryside.

Explore the Crypt and Museum of Sant'Anastasio

The Romanesque Cripta e Museo di Sant'Anastasio serves as both a museum and an archaeological site. Located steps from the Asti Cathedral, the site houses the remains of four ancient churches—all of which once belonged to the Benedictine monastery of Sant'Anastasio. Inside the museum, you'll see the sandstone capitals (the top of a column) from the second church (from the 12th century), as well as remains of the Gothic church of Maddalena (13th-15th centuries). Being able to see the masonry up close gives visitors a chance to truly admire the skills of ancient Roman masons. You can also take a tour of the beautiful crypt beneath the museum/

Learn About the History of the Palio di Asti

Courtesy of Visit Asti

If you can't make it to Asti in September in time for the race, check out the Palio di Asti Museum (Museo del Palio di Asti) housed in the 15th-century Renaissance-style Palazzo Mazzola. The museum documents the history of the Palio, displaying vintage posters, ancient drapes of the "Palio," old parade costumes, and interactive multimedia workstations.

Walk Along Remnants of Roman Walls

Because Asti was a Roman-controlled city, it has a number of ancient ruins that are still remaining today. Despite the well-known ancient history of the city, remants of a Roman wall weren't discovered until the late 20th century when construction work on a building on the north side of the city exposed the ruins. There are several sections of wall spread around the city. Remains of a first-century Roman amphitheater were also discovered during a 1987 construction project. Located in the basement of Gallizzi Fur Shop, guests can visit the sit by making an appointment.

Take in a Performance at Teatro Vittorio Alfieri

De Agostini/C. Sappa/Getty Images 

Built in 1860 in the classic opera house style, Teatro Vittorio Alfieri is located in the city's historic section close to the town hall.  As the most important theater in Asti, it presents theatrical, musical, and lyrical performances of the highest caliber. Since 1979, the theater has undergone extensive renovations, rendering it modern and functional but retaining its historical authenticity.

Discover Fossils at the Paleontological Museum

Phrexian / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Set in a former 16th-century monastery, the Paleontological Museum of Asti (Museo Paleontologico Territoriale dell'Astigiano) is a family-friendly destination. The museum is split into two sections; the first lays out geo-paleontological events of the last 25 million years and the other displays pre-historic fossil skeletal remains of Asti cetaceans (aquatic mammals) from a time when the Po Valley was under the sea.

Visit the Church of San Martino

Overlooking a square in the San Martino-San Rocco district, Chiesa di San Martino dates back to at least the 9th century. The original Gothic facade was eventually demolished and rebuilt in the Baroque style around 1738. Considered the third most important church after the Cathedral and San Secondo, it contains remarkable works by Gian Carlo Aliberti and Michelangelo Pittatore. The sacristy's rich walnut furnishings were added in the 18th century.

Savor a Local Food Festival

Andrea Marchisio/Wikimedia Commons

Foodies traveling to Asti won't want to miss the Festival delle Sagre. Held every year in September, this event celebrates the culinary customs and traditions of Asti. The popular fair begins on a Saturday and runs through the weekend, and these days it attracts nearly 200,000 visitors to Piazza Campo del Palio. You'll be able to dine on classic dishes before washing them down with glasses of local wine while enjoying a historical costumed parade (corteo).

Splash Around at Astilido Water Park

For a day of family fun at a waterpark, you only need to take an 8-minute drive from the city center. Astilido Water Park is a 4,000-square-meter playground with a series of exciting water slides, a lagoon with a beach, as well as swimming, diving, and kids' pools. There are also picnic areas, bar service, a restaurant, and free parking. A visit to Astilido is a great way to spend a day of family fun in the sun. But it's open seasonally, from late spring to early fall.

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Asti Guided Tour

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• Free cancellation up to 4 days before

One of Italy's most stunning Baroque palaces, medieval towers, and Roman tales await on our Asti Guided Tour. On this tour, you'll take a journey through time from the Roman Empire to the present day. 

At 9 am, we'll meet at Piazza Campo del Palio to begin our guided tour of Asti. During the tour, we'll walk through the old quarter of this Piedmontese town, which is famous for its medieval-style horseracing . Let's go!

As we walk through the town's historic centre, we'll consider what life was like here during the Roman Empire . We'll see the remains of city walls from this period as we travel back in time to Asti's Golden Age . We'll also admire the façades of its medieval palaces and towers as we discuss the economic importance that this town, at one point known as 'the city of bankers', once held. 

We'll continue our tour by strolling through narrow alleys until we arrive at the 13th century Collegiate Church of San Secondo. We'll step inside this religious building and visit its crypt, where the relics of Asti's patron saint are kept. 

Afterwards, we'll visit the Palazzo Mazzetti, a true jewel of Baroque architecture. We'll walk through the rooms inside and admire the exquisite decoration before we head to the Asti Cathedral. This cathedral, which boasts incredible frescoes, is Piedmont's most impressive Romanesque-Gothic monument. 

Once we've seen Asti's main charms, we'll end our guided tour between 1 pm and 1:30 pm in Piazza Alfieri.

Free cancellation

We currently don’t have any scheduled dates for this activity.

Meeting point

Piazza Campo del Palio

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The 16th Annual Asti Tour de Vine Is October 12th 2024

We Are Getting Ready for The 16th Annual Asti Tour de Vine Saturday October 12th ~ We Will See You There!

Join your hosts, the Cloverdale Rotary Club for the 16th Annual Asti Tour de Vine on October 12th 2004, a 25k, 50k, 100k, 100m (century) bicycle tour . The tour takes place in Northern Sonoma County, California’s breathtaking wine country. October is the perfect season for a bike tour in the beautiful Alexander Valley. Ride on uncrowded routes through charming rural valleys, past autumn-hued vineyards, alongside the meandering Russian River, and on pathways overlooking Lake Sonoma. We have many rides to choose from, including the easy carefree 25k for the beginner rider and our extreme 100 mile challenge we call the Rockpile Rumble. Along the way, enjoy our harvest-themed rest stops and healthy foods and snacks which are included with your registration, SAG support too. At the end of your ride, a bountiful luncheon, prepared by the Cloverdale Rotary Club and served with Wine, will await you at the Historic Asti Winery. This delicious lunch is included in each riders paid registration. Additional lunches can be purchased for $35.00 for family and friends during the online registration process. Food service will be subject to Sonoma County Health Department guidelines at the time of the event.

Why not spend the weekend? For listings of lovely bed and breakfast inns, vacation rentals, and lodging facilities, close to wineries, shops, recreation and fine dining visit Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce .

Check out our sponsors for some great referrals! Special rates may apply so be sure to mention the Asti Tour de Vine. This bicycle tour is a fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Cloverdale. We will be using the proceeds from this event for local scholarships for students, and support for many local and international projects. So take this opportunity to ride in a “de Vine” autumn day of cycling, food and fun in Sonoma County’s Wine Country!

Opening times, tickets, services How and when to visit us

OPENING TIMES

Monday-Sunday

10:00-19:00 (last admission 18.00)

Regular opening every day, holidays included. For the International Museum Day on 18th May: 10:00-22:00 (last admission 21.00).

“ Caravaggio’s  Basket . Secrets and enigmas of still life ”

Temporary exhibition in Mazzetti’s Palace (C.so Alfieri, 357)

Guided tour of Mazzetti’s Palace

On 2nd and 16th October you can take part in 1-hour guided tour of Mazzetti’s Palace and its civic collections .

At 11:00 a.m. Price: 5 € (entrance + guided tour)

Phone: +39 0141 530403

Mobile: +39 388 1640915

[email protected]

Reservations are required exclusively for guided tours, groups, schools, educational activities for children; for the entry of individuals it is sufficient to show up at the ticket office during the opening days and times

Opening times for public holidays 2023

Monday 1st May:

Special opening 10:00 am – 7:00 pm (last entrance 6:00 pm)

Tuesday 2nd May:

Regular opening 10:00 am – 7:00 pm (last entrance 6:00 pm)

Opening times for public holidays 2024

On Sunday 31th March and Monday 1st April :

SingleTicket Office for the Smarticket: Palazzo Mazzetti, C.so Vittorio Alfieri, 357

The museums included in the Smarticket are:

• Palazzo Mazzetti
• Crypt and Museum of S. Anastasio
• Palazzo Alfieri
• Guglielminetti Museum
• Domus Romana
• Troyana Tower
• Complex of S. Pietro in Consavia (currently closed for restoration works)

For the Paleontological Museum: Michelerio, C.so Vittorio Alfieri 381.

If you do not receive your ticket, please contact mazzetti’s ticket office at [email protected] or call +39 0141 530403, +39 388 1640915, full ticket, full ticket for only one museum, € 5,00 .

(Entry to only one Museum)

Reduced ticket

€ 8,00 .

(over 65, under 18, students with University Card)

Reduced ticket for Asti and Province residents

(entry to all the Museums included in the Smarticket)

Reduced ticket for Groups entry to all the Museums included in the Smarticket

(Groups of at least 15 participants)

Groups Reduced Ticket for only one Museum

Schools reduced ticket, € 3,00 .

(Entry to only one Museum; exclusively for Palazzo Alfieri it includes a free guided tour)

(Entry to only one Museum including guided tour)

(Entry to only one Museum including guided tour + workshop)

(under 6, disabled visitors with assistant, tour guides, accredited journalists, 1 tour leader per group, 2 teachers per class group)

• Coupon Crasti
• Abbonamento Musei
• Torino+Piemonte card

Guided tours (by reservation only)

• PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR (1 HOUR): 60,00 € (up to a maximum of 6 participants)
• PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR (2 HOURS): 120,00 €  (up to a maximum of 6 participants)
• GUIDED TOUR FOR GROUPS TO A SINGLE SITE € 8,00/person (groups of at least 15 participants, admission ticket not included)

Educational workshops

• REDUCED EXTRA SCHOOL ACTIVITY: € 8.00
• MUSEUM EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY: 25,00 € (3 appointments course)

Palazzo Mazzetti aderisce a "Nati con la cultura"

Info and booking:

Phone: +39 0141 530403 – Mobile: +39 388 1640915

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]   (for schools and educational workshops)

Museums Map

Do you want to stay updated on all the initiatives of the Museums of Asti?

Our museums, transparent foundation.

Asti Musei Foundation

C.so Vittorio Alfieri n.357 – 14100 Asti (AT)

Tax Code.  92061250053 – VAT NUMBER  92061250053

Electronic Invoicing Code: SUBM70N

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Asti and a good glass of red wine. A warm and full-bodied welcome, like the atmosphere that reigns in the restaurants and wine bars in the streets of the historic center. An important structure , outlined by the vertical lines of its medieval Gothic architecture. Soft , reclining among the hills of Astesana, Monferrato, and Langa. With an intense flavor, like the thrill of attending the oldest Palio in Italy, when the excitement of jockeys and horses with the rope precedes the start. A firm and balanced attitude, of those who proudly express the tradition of the most authentic Italian province. Asti knows, how to make you feel good.

Not to Be Missed

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10 must see attractions in Asti

Itineraries.

Discover all the itineraries we have designed for you. Three thematic itineraries that trace the eras that most influenced the history and architecture of Asti and a path that winds through the characteristic medieval towers that can be admired from strategic viewpoints of the city.

Not satisfied yet? Browse the Art and Culture and Events and Lifestyle sections and be inspired by all that Asti has to offer. Create your own itinerary based on your interests and needs.

Because in Asti, there is an emotion for everyone.

Medieval route

Renaissance route

Roman route

Route of the towers

Discover asti.

Around Asti

Langhe, Roero and Monferrato

10 places to visit nearby

Useful information to make the most of asti.

How to get here

Whether by car , train , or bus , reaching Asti has never been easier. Here you find all the information you need to organize your trip.

Tourist services

Find out where to find the Tourist Office Infopoint upon your arrival, where to buy tickets and the Smarticket for the Museums and how to get around the city through public transport and private services.

Useful numbers

Local emergency contacts and tourist contacts. All the numbers you may need during your holiday in Asti, just a click away.

The words of Asti

Stay up to date on Asti events

Municipality of Asti

Piazza San Secondo 1 – 14100 Asti (AT) P. IVA 00072360050 [email protected]

Piazza San Secondo 1  14100 Asti (AT) P. IVA 00072360050 [email protected]

• Castiglione Falletto
• Diano D’Alba
• Grinzane Cavour
• Monforte D’Alba
• Serralunga D’Alba
• Magliano Alfieri
• Agliano Terme
• Camagna Monferrato
• Cella Monte
• Castelnuovo Calcea
• Frassinello Monferrato
• Mombercelli
• Montegrosso D’Asti
• Nizza Monferrato
• Santo Stefano Belbo
• Vaglio Serra
• Asti Truffle Hunting
• Alba Truffle Hunting
• Barolo Truffle Hunting
• Barolo Truffle Hunting (Milan)
• Barbaresco Truffle Hunting
• La Morra Truffle Hunting
• Moncalvo Truffle Hunting
• Roddi Truffle Hunting
• Turin Truffle Hunting
• Langhe Wine Tour
• Alba Wineries Tour
• Asti Wine Tour
• Barolo Barbaresco Tour
• Barolo Wine Tour
• Canelli Wine Tour
• Castagnole delle Lanze Tour
• Gran Barolo Wine Tour
• Grinzane Cavour Wine Tour
• La Morra Wine Tour
• Mombercelli Wine Tour
• Monforte D’Alba Wine Tour
• Moscato Wine Tour
• Neive Wine Tour
• Nizza Monferrato Wine Tour
• Ruchè Wine Tour
• Serralunga d’Alba Wine Tour
• Turin Wine Tour
• Monferrato E-bike Tour
• Infernot E-bike Tour
• Asti City Tour
• Langhe Horse Riding
• Piedmont Cooking Class
• Rv Park Camper Area
• Team Building in Langhe
• Conference venues Asti
• Airport Taxi Service
• Alba Taxi Service
• Asti Taxi Service
• Barolo Taxi Service
• Langhe Taxi Service
• Turin Taxi Service

Destination

Asti city travel guide, tourist information.

Are you looking for book an online holiday or a weekend in Asti Town? Would you like to travel Monferrato Valley but you need a Travel Guide for discover the best place, tours, activities and place to be? Here you can find all the information about the city of Asti, Wine Tasting Tours, Truffle Hunting Experience, Cooking Lesson, Where to Sleep and what to do for a romantic week end in Asti. Our private taxi service will pick you up from Bergamo, Milan, Turin , Verona and other cities. Don’t forget to review us on Google or Tripadvisor.

Asti is the fourth largest town in the region by population and is located in the Valle river Tanaro which, after receiving the tributaries Borbore Valbrenta and Versa, delimits the town to the south.

The city, between the Langhe and Monferrato, is located in a favorable location in the heart of the UNESCO site. It was built by the Romans (as Hasta Pompeia) and it was the seat of the Duchy of Asti, the longobardic duchy of Neustria.

Asti, the origin of the Town

Under the Franks it became a bishopric and the Church was directly involved in the administration of the town, so much that, after the collapse of Carolingian Empire, the city survived as independent urban organism.

Free town in the MiddleAges, with the right to “coin money”, it was one of the most important trade centers between XII and XIII century, when its merchants developed trade and diffused the credit throughout Europe.

Where to stay in Asti? Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = 'text/javascript'; s.async = true; s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js');

The history of asti, italy.

In 1531 the County of Asti was ceded to the Savoy by the Emperor Charles V as dowry for her sister, Beatrice of Portugal, who married the Duke Charles III of Savoy. From that moment the city followed the fate of the Savoy.

In 1935 became the capital of the province and during the Second World War, alter the armistice with the Allies signed on September 8 1943, with the Republic of Salo and the Germanic occupation, the city and the Monferrato truly lived the war of Resistance.

lt preserves a rich artistic and architectural heritage, in particular of the low~medievai period, in memory of what once was the most powerful town of Piedmont. There are numerous towers, fortified houses, churches, domus and buildings. The Roman Red Tower, likely vestiges of the western door of the Roman walls, as well as the domus of Via Varrone and the remains of the amphitheater are still visible.

As for the Romanesque period they are of great interest the crypts of Sant’Anastasio (Xl century ) and San Secondo ( Vll century ) which houses the body of the patron saint of the city and the Rotunda of San Pietro in Consavia.

Asti and the Late Medioeval period

The most important properties of the Late MedioevaI period are the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta , one of the most significant Gothic cathedrals of Piedmont and the Collegiata of San Secondo , among the many medieval buildings palazzo Catena , the palace of Podesta ,the Comentina tower , the Torre Troyana are to be noted Palace Malabaila, of the Renaissance period, in the sixteenth century hosted Louis Xll during his stay in the city, for the Baroque period.

Thanks to the influence due to the presence of the architect Benedetto Alfieri, the church of Santa Caterina , the church of St. Paul, the Church of the Consolata and its annexed monastery Cistercian are to be pointed out; palace Ottolenghi, the Town Hall, Palazzo Mazzetti and Palazzo Alfieri are also to be noted.

Barbera D’Asti & Asti Spumante

Asti is internationally known for its wines, particularly for the Barbera D’Asti and the Asti Spumante . Every year from the second weekend to the third Sunday of September, Asti hosts one of the most important wine competition in Italy called the Douja d’Or . Famous is also the Palio di Asti among the oldest public performance in Italy which takes place on the third Sunday of September and culminates with a horses race bareback mounted.

Furthermore also the Festival of Sagre Astigiane has taken a national relevance in the recent years, this is a food and wine event that takes place on the second weekend of September after the Palio of Asti, where more than 40 pro loco of the area offer their specialties in a large open-air restaurant. The place is visited by thousands and thousands of people coming for the occasion from all over Italy.

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Asti Travel Guide 2023: Where to stay, wineries, what to do

Welcome to the 2023 Asti Travel Guide. Nestled in the sun-drenched hills of Piedmont, Northern Italy, the historic city of Asti is an unmissable destination for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies alike. Asti is best known for its fine wines, particularly Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti. But the city offers much more than its renowned vineyards. It’s a place where every street and square whisper tales of a rich and colorful past, and where the cuisine is as much a journey of discovery as the landscape itself. From its roots as an ancient Roman city to its role as an important center during the Middle Ages, Asti is steeped in history. Wander its winding lanes and you’ll come across Romanesque churches, gothic towers, and baroque palaces. Each year, the city steps back in time during the Palio di Asti, a historic horse race that transforms the city into a vibrant spectacle of medieval pageantry.

Asti’s enogastronomic tradition is rich and varied, with many local dishes that are deeply rooted in the territory. The city and its surroundings are renowned for their exceptional produce, including truffles, peaches, and the prized Piedmontese beef. Of course, no trip to Asti would be complete without visiting its celebrated wineries. The region is home to some of Italy’s most prestigious wine producers, many of whom offer tastings and tours that offer a fascinating insight into the art and science of winemaking.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to explore Asti. From the best places to stay and dine, to the must-visit wineries and top attractions, prepare to embark on a memorable journey through one of Italy’s most charming cities.

Wine guide Index

General Information about Asti, Piedmont, Italy

Asti is a city situated in the Piedmont region in the northwest of Italy. It’s known for its rich history and cultural heritage, making it a great destination for those who appreciate these aspects. Asti is also famed for its wine, notably Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti.

With its roots stretching back to pre-Roman times, Asti’s history is woven into its streets and structures. The city flourished in the Middle Ages and was known as the City of 100 Towers, of which some still stand today, providing a glimpse into its grand past. From its Gothic-style Cathedral to its medieval towers and palaces, the city’s architectural landscape is a testament to its historical significance.

Asti’s culinary scene is as robust as its history. The region is well-known for its gastronomy, particularly its white truffles, robust cheeses, and artisanal salumi. Traditional dishes such as “Agnolotti del Plin”, small meat-filled pasta, and “Bagna Càuda”, a warm dip made with garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, are regional staples.

Asti Travel Guide 2023: wineries, what to do

Best Time of Year to Visit Asti

The best time to visit Asti depends on what you’re looking to experience. The wine harvest season , from late September to October, can be a fascinating time to visit if you want to see the winemaking process. However, note that this is a busy time of the year, so you should make your bookings in advance.

Generally, the weather in Asti is most pleasant in spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). During these periods ( September in Astigiano ), temperatures are mild to warm, which is ideal for exploring vineyards and enjoying outdoor activities.

Climate Considerations

Asti has a typically Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The warmest months are July and August, where temperatures can exceed 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), while the winter months (December to February) can be quite cold with temperatures falling around 0 degrees Celsius (32 Fahrenheit).

Rainfall in Asti is significant, with precipitation even during the driest month. The rainiest months are usually April and October. Keep in mind that the weather can affect the wine-growing season and wine-related activities.

Event Considerations

One of the most significant events in Asti is the Palio di Asti, a traditional Italian festival of medieval horse racing that has been held since the 13th century, typically in September. It’s a grand festival that draws visitors from across Italy.

A noteworthy series of events happens in September, known as “Settembre Astigiano” (Asti’s September). This month-long event comprises numerous cultural, food, and wine festivities, including the Douja d’Or Wine Festival , which showcases the finest Piedmontese wines, the Festival delle Sagre , where you can enjoy traditional local food, and the aforementioned Palio di Asti . Remember, events and festivals may change from year to year, so always check the most recent dates and information before planning your trip.

In summary, Asti offers an experience steeped in winemaking traditions, history, and culture. With its captivating medieval buildings, exceptional wines, and delightful local cuisine, it’s a must-visit destination for any lover of wine and Italian culture. Discover the best museum .

Where to stay Asti Italy, Luxury Hotels

• Description : Located in the heart of Asti’s historical center, this hotel is set in a restored historic building. It offers elegantly decorated rooms that blend modern amenities with traditional charm. The hotel also boasts a lovely garden.
• Description : This 4-star hotel is located near the city center and offers modern amenities, including a fitness center, meeting rooms, and elegantly furnished rooms. The hotel’s restaurant serves local Piedmontese dishes.
• Description : An elegant boutique hotel with a contemporary design. Each room is uniquely decorated, and the hotel is located in a convenient location for exploring the city.
• Description : Though it’s a short drive from Asti, this hotel offers a luxurious countryside experience. Set in a renovated monastery, it boasts a modern spa, an outdoor pool, and gourmet dining options.
• Description : A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, Hotel Lis offers a rooftop terrace with views over the city. It’s conveniently located for both business travelers and tourists.
• Description : Offering a mix of traditional architecture and modern amenities, Casa Tavasso provides a serene environment with its lush gardens and elegant rooms.
• Description : Located in the countryside just outside of Asti, this villa offers a peaceful retreat with its spacious rooms, vineyard views, and warm hospitality.

Remember, while these are some of the luxury options available in and around Asti, the region has many other accommodations that range from boutique bed and breakfasts to countryside agriturismos. Always check the latest reviews and ratings to ensure the quality of your stay. If you’re also interested in exploring the Barolo wine region, consider integrating it into your travel plans, as it’s also in the Piedmont region.

Is Asti worth visiting?

Absolutely, Asti is definitely worth visiting, especially during “Settembre Astigiano”. This period, marking the arrival of autumn, is full of captivating festivals and events. From the grand horse race of the Palio di Asti to the prestigious wine exposition Douja d’Or, there’s a vivid display of Asti’s rich cultural and gastronomic traditions. Not to mention, this time also brings the excitement of truffle hunting , Moscato wine tours , and exclusive tastings of Barbera and Ruchè wines.

In September, Asti truly embraces its historical roots and vibrant culinary scene, making it an enchanting destination for any traveler. Asti is a city located in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. It’s known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in such experiences. Here’s why:

• Historical Significance : Asti was an important city during the Roman Empire and was an independent city-state during the Middle Ages. As a result, it’s home to many historical buildings and sites.
• Architecture : The city is filled with beautiful medieval structures, including churches, towers, and palaces. Highlights include the Cathedral of Asti, one of the most important Gothic buildings in Piedmont, and the Palazzo Mazzetti.
• Festivals : Asti is famous for its festivals, most notably the Palio di Asti, a traditional Italian festival of medieval horse racing that has been held since the 13th century.
• Wine : Asti is in the heart of the Piedmont wine region, known worldwide for its wines, including Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti. The region is a must-visit for wine lovers.
• Food : The cuisine in Asti, like many places in Italy, is noteworthy. The region is particularly known for its truffles and a variety of cheeses and meats.

That being said, the appeal of a city like Asti can depend on individual tastes and interests. It might not be the top choice for those seeking bustling nightlife or modern attractions, but it’s a gem for those interested in history, culture, wine, and Italian cuisine. Always check the most recent travel advisories and reviews before planning your visit. Discover more about the city in Piedmont .

Best restaurant in Asti

When it comes to culinary delights, Asti does not disappoint. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or someone simply seeking an authentic taste of Piedmontese cuisine, there’s a place for you to savor the region’s flavors. Featured in our guide, “ Best Authentic Piedmontese Restaurant in Asti 2023 “, we highlight the top dining spots that will surely enthrall your taste buds. Head over to Alba City Tours for a well-curated list of restaurants that stand out for their exceptional food, charming ambiance, and exceptional service.

Among the must-visit eateries are I Bugianen, the  best restaurant in Asti for a local culinary culture , I bugianes, Campanarò, Il Cavallo Scosso, and Enoteca Pompa Magna. These restaurants share a common theme: passion for maintaining and promoting Piedmont’s culinary heritage. While offering unique, mouthwatering recipes, they also provide an ambiance that complements the dining experience, truly encapsulating the essence of Piedmontese gastronomy.

If your palate desires more refined dining experiences, Piedmont boasts numerous establishments honored with the coveted Michelin stars. “ The best 44 Michelin-Starred Restaurants 2023 in Piedmont, Italy ” guide, also provided by Alba City Tours, offers an incredible selection of gourmet restaurants that will transport you on a gastronomic journey. From the innovative creations of world-class chefs to the cozy, rustic interiors of the region’s hidden gems, Piedmont’s Michelin-starred restaurants promise unforgettable culinary experiences.

Best pizzeria in Asti

In Asti, pizza is another culinary delight that should not be missed. Vicolo Battisti is one of the city’s most loved pizzerias, having received accolades as the best pizzeria in town from 2020 to 2023. Their pizza is renowned for its thin, crispy crust and fresh local ingredients.

Another standout pizzeria is Pizzeria Monterainero . Located on Via Monte Rainero, this pizzeria offers a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas. Despite being in competition with Vicolo Battisti, Monterainero retains its popularity thanks to its cozy atmosphere and excellent pizza.

One More – Pizza Beer Lounge is another excellent option, particularly suited for families due to its ample space. They offer a variety of pizzas, along with a selection of beers.

Il Nuovo Brulè is another notable pizza spot. Situated on Via Francesco Gambini, Il Nuovo Brulè offers a traditional atmosphere and delicious pizza.

Finally, there’s Dai Toscanacci , a trattoria-style restaurant serving pizza and other classic Italian dishes. Located on Corso Vittorio Alfieri, it’s an ideal place for an authentic pizza and Italian culinary experience.

Best Asti Food and wine tours

For a deeper exploration of Asti’s culinary scene, consider joining one of the ‘ Alba City Tours ‘ food and wine tours. These guided tours offer a unique opportunity to sample the best of Asti’s local food and wine while learning about their cultural significance. From visits to local vineyards and wineries to tastings at traditional ‘trattorias’, the tours provide a comprehensive insight into the region’s gastronomy. The knowledgeable guides, coupled with the delicious food and wine, make these tours a must-do for any food and wine enthusiast visiting Asti.

What is Asti known for?

Asti, a city located in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, is renowned for several things as Red and White Wine (Barebera Superiore d’Asti, Ruchè, Moscato d’Asti ), History, architecture, festival delle sagre di Asti, Cuisine and art.

• Wine : Asti is famous for its production of high-quality wines, notably Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti. Asti Spumante is a sparkling white wine that’s sweet and low in alcohol, while Moscato d’Asti is a semi-sparkling, sweet white wine.
• History : The city has a rich history dating back to the times of the Romans. It was an important city during the Roman Empire and later served as an independent city-state during the Middle Ages.
• Architecture : Asti is filled with stunning medieval structures, including the Cathedral of Asti, one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Piedmont, and various towers symbolizing the city’s prosperity in the Middle Ages.
• Festivals : The city hosts several traditional events and festivals. One of the most popular is the Palio di Asti, a medieval horse race that takes place every year in September. The city also hosts the Douja d’Or and the Festival delle Sagre in September, showcasing local wines and food.
• Cuisine : Like many Italian cities, Asti has a rich culinary tradition. The region is known for its truffles, cheeses, and meats, which are prominently featured in local dishes.
• Art : Asti is home to several museums and art collections. The Museo Diocesano di Arte Sacra holds a collection of sacred art, while the Palazzo Mazzetti houses a civic art gallery.

These aspects contribute to Asti’s cultural richness and make it a fascinating destination for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, foodies, and art lovers.

Can you drink tap water in Asti Italy?

That said, taste can vary depending on the local water supply system and the pipes in individual buildings. Some people may prefer the taste of bottled water or might choose to drink bottled water if they’re sensitive to the minerals found in tap water.

However, it’s always a good idea to check with your accommodation provider or local authorities for the most recent information, especially if you have specific health concerns or sensitivities.

Is Asti an Italian wine city?

Asti, located in Italy’s Piedmont region, is indeed a significant city in the world of wine. Known for its renowned wines like Asti Spumante and Moscato d’Asti, it’s also near to many picturesque and less explored towns such as Castagnole Lanze, Nizza, Canelli, and Coazzolo. These towns are nestled in the enchanting landscapes of the Monferrato and Langhe areas and offer a more authentic, less touristic experience. Apart from the stunning landscapes and authentic Italian charm, these towns are famous for producing unique wines like Ruché and Barbera d’Asti. Therefore, Asti and its surrounding region can offer a wonderful journey for anyone interested in wine, gastronomy, and culture.

Wine types:

• Ruché : Ruché is a unique red wine, mostly produced in specific municipalities in the province of Asti. It is known for its distinct aromatic profile and unique taste.
• Barbera d’Asti : It’s one of Piedmont’s most famous red wines. Produced in the Asti area, it’s known for its robust and full flavor, with good acidity.

Places to visit near Asti:

• Castagnole Lanze : This town is situated in the Monferrato region, famous for its beautiful vine-covered hills. Although less known than the neighboring Langhe, Castagnole Lanze offers equally charming landscapes and a variety of excellent wines.
• Nizza : Known for producing Barbera d’Asti Superiore, Nizza is a great destination for wine lovers. The city is also famous for its beautiful views and historical architecture.
• Canelli : Located in the heart of the Asti wine region, Canelli is famous for producing Moscato d’Asti and Asti Spumante. The city is also known for its “Underground Cathedrals,” historic cellars dug into the tuff.
• Coazzolo : This small municipality is known for producing Moscato d’Asti. Situated on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

These places are less touristic and more untouched compared to some of the more famous Piedmont tourist destinations like Alba and Barolo, providing a more authentic experience of the region.

ASTI Piemonte Italy : The perfect day trip !

Asti Wine and Related

Asti is typically known for its sweet sparkling wines, most famously Asti Spumante, produced from the Moscato Bianco grape in the Piedmont region of Italy. These wines are well-known for their sweetness, fruity flavors, and low alcohol content. However, if you’re looking for a drier expression from the same region, you might want to try “ Asti Secco ” or “ Dry Asti “. While not as common as the sweet version, Asti Secco offers a drier style of Moscato wine.

Asti Secco still maintains the typical floral and fruity characteristics of Moscato but with less residual sugar , providing a more balanced and less sweet taste. It’s a relatively new style of wine for the region, with the Asti DOCG allowing the production of dry (“secco”) styles only since the mid-2010s. This wine can be a great choice if you’re a fan of the aromatic qualities of Moscato but prefer a wine that isn’t quite as sweet as traditional Asti or Moscato d’Asti. However, it may be a bit harder to find due to its relatively recent introduction and lesser-known status compared to its sweeter counterparts.

Just like traditional Asti, Asti Secco should be served chilled to bring out its aromatic qualities and flavors. It pairs well with a variety of foods, from appetizers to seafood and white meat dishes.

Is there a difference between Asti and Asti Spumante?

Yes, there is a slight difference, but it’s mostly in terms of naming rather than the wine itself. “Asti” and “Asti Spumante” refer to the same style of Italian sparkling wine made from the Moscato Bianco grape in the Piedmont region. The wine is sweet, aromatic, and lower in alcohol, with a fruity profile that often includes notes of peach, apricot, and pear. “Asti Spumante” was the original name for this wine, with “spumante” being the Italian word for sparkling. However, in recent years, the wine industry in the Asti region has moved toward using just “Asti” to denote this wine, in part to differentiate it from other Italian sparkling wines and to emphasize its connection to the Asti region.

If you see a bottle labeled as “Asti” or “Asti Spumante,” it’s essentially the same wine. The name change doesn’t signify a difference in style or quality but is more about marketing and regional identity.

However, it is worth noting that not all sparkling wines from the Asti region are Asti/Asti Spumante. There’s also Moscato d’Asti, which is a frizzante (lightly sparkling) wine that is also sweet but typically has a lower alcohol content than Asti/Asti Spumante.

• Asti : Asti is a city located in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. The city and the surrounding region are well-known for wine production, especially sparkling wines.
• Asti Spumante : Asti Spumante is a type of sparkling wine made in the Asti region. It’s usually sweet and is made from the Moscato Bianco grape, also known as the white Muscat grape. The name “spumante” comes from the Italian word for “sparkling.”

So, in short, Asti is the name of a city (and a region), and Asti Spumante is a sparkling wine produced in that region.

Please note that as of 1993, the name “Asti Spumante” has been shortened to “Asti” to denote the wine, but many people still use the full name out of habit. So, “Asti” could refer to either the city or the sparkling wine, depending on the context. Always ensure to clarify which one is being referred to in a conversation or a text.

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The best things to do in Asti, Italy for independent travelers

June 18, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

One of the most famous towns of Piedmont, Italy has to be Asti. This charming town is world-renown for its wine, however, Asti offers far more things to do than just enjoy wine. This smaller city offers the charm of bigger cities without the crowds, some notable museums, and some beautiful churches. Follow this guide to Asti to discover the best things to do in Asti, Italy!

• 1 Discover the city of towers
• 2 Do a wine tasting of Asti DOCG
• 3 Experience Asti’s rich food culture
• 4 Explore Asti’s beautiful churches (and synagogue)
• 5 See Italian art at Palazzo Mazzetti
• 6 Discover its stunning piazzas and picturesque side streets
• 7 Sip coffee at one of Asti’s many charming cafes
• 8 Getting to Asti without a tour
• 9 Have you visited Asti?

Discover the city of towers

Asti was first settled by the Ligurians, however, it was developed as a Roman city (Hasta Pompeia). Asti was one of the first free communes of Italy with the right to print coins, a valuable asset for trade! In the early medieval period, Asti flourished as a center of trade in Italy due to feudal wars (with other cities) and clever political moves.

The wealth of Asti in this period is the reason why it was once known as “the city of Towers” (like a few other cities today). Over time, many of these towers have disappeared as it was a tradition to destroy towers if a family fell as towers were often emblematic of a family’s status and wealth.

This power was largely centered within one wealthy banking family, who ended Asti’s reign as a republic and gave it to the king of Naples as part of an alliance. Various wars meant that Asti often fell into different hands, including the hands of different empires. It eventually fell into Savoy hands in the 1600s although the various wars surrounding the region meant that French or Spanish troops often invaded Asti.

Tired of the troops, the local elite rose against the Savoys only to be executed for insurrection although Napoleon soon conquered the region. Asti followed much of the course of Italian history eventually uniting with Piedmont and the rest of Italy in the 1800s.

Today, there are only a few towers that have stood the test of time. The most famous tower in Asti has to be Torre Troyana , which is a clock tower mostly dating back to the 13th century. (Part of the tower was part of the city gates in an earlier period.)

You’ll find numerous other towers although my personal favorite was Torre Comentina, which is the tallest tower in Piedmont. It takes back to the 13th century and frames one of the main squares of Asti (Piazza Roma). It was once the bell tower of a church that has since disappeared. This tower was also used as one of the command posts for the famous Asti horse race, Palio, which takes place in the city center. It’s just fun discovering these towers as you wander around the beautiful historic center!

Do a wine tasting of Asti DOCG

One of the best reasons to visit Asti is to try the wine. You probably have heard of Asti Spumante, which is one of Italy’s best known white wines. (The vineyards in this region produce a significant portion of Piedmont wine.) Although there was sweet white wine produced historically in this region, many wine experts trace back Asti Spumante to Carlo Gancia.

Carlo Gancia was a Piedmont native who traveled to Champagne to study the wine production techniques. He hoped to create a sparkling wine with the local grapes and ended up using Moscato. (Asti Spumante is was first called Moscato Champagne.) Although I often associate Moscato with pure sweetness, I recommend trying Asti Spumante DOCG, even if you’re not a white wine drinker. (My husband who is not a fan of white wines liked the bite to it, which wasn’t as sickeningly sweet as cheaper versions found abroad.)

In Italy, the system for grading wines is often referred to Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) with DOCG referring to the highest quality wines produced in a traditional manner in the typical region of production. As a result of this, you’ll find Asti DOCG in the Asti region. Asti DOCG must be made with 100% Moscato Bianco grown within the Asti region. We also tried the Moscato d’ Asti DOCG, which is made with the same grapes, but it is fermented only once. It’s technically not a spumante, but it is a local wine worth trying in Asti.

Any restaurant or cafe in Asti worth its salt will carry Asti wine although I warn that it’s not as common to find it by the glass as you want to drink a sparkling wine fresh out of the bottle. I recommend sitting down for a while, ordering a bottle of Asti Spumante, and nibbling on some snacks. If you wish to visit a winery to taste Asti at its source, you can read how to do wine tasting in Piedmont on your own .

Experience Asti’s rich food culture

One of the best (and most expensive!) times of the year to visit Asti is in fall. Piedmont is world-famous for its truffles and there are a few food fairs in the region during this time. One notable one is the Douja D’Or, which is a wine festival focused on Piedmont wine.

If you’re willing to brave the crowds, you’ll have stunning turning leaves in the countryside as well as the Festivale delle Sagre . This food festival in Asti focuses on regional products. It’s quite famous, so if you intend to head to this festival, we heard that you really need to plan ahead as there’s not so much accommodation in Asti during the rest of the year.

Even if you cannot make the festivals, you’ll still need to sample the food of Asti. It’s Italy, so you cannot go wrong with pizza. The special of Asti is a candy called torrone , which is sold at Giordanino.

Explore Asti’s beautiful churches (and synagogue)

One of the main attractions of Asti is the Asti Cathedral, which is one of the most important cathedrals in Piedmont. This 14th-century Cathedral is exquisitely decorated with frescoes and paintings (including one by Gandolfino d’Asti). It’s free to visit and I recommend stepping inside just to admire this beautiful Gothic church.

There are several other churches in Asti worth seeing including the crypt of Saint Anastasio, which looks like a basilica inside Cripta e museo di Sant’Anastasio – Fondazione Asti Musei . This underground museum shows off Roman items found, early tombs, and parts of the medieval church that once stood there. The crypt itself dates back to the 11th century and it is filled with Romanesque art.

The synagogue of Asti is definitely worth visiting for those interested in Judaism. This building from the 1830s was built in the same place as an earlier synagogue. It’s a beautiful example of an Italian synagogue due to its unique layout. It’s possible to visit for a few euros by contacting the Jewish synagogue of Turin who owns the building now.

The Jewish population in Asti has an interesting history as many arrived via France. As a result, Jews had their own language, however, they were subject to repressive laws, including the wearing of Jewish badges for a period. For a period, Jews were kicked out of Asti, but the need for Jewish businesses resulted in the reestablishment of Jews in Asti only to be held in the Jewish Ghetto for more than 50 years (Via Alberti) in the 1700s. Later on, things improved, but few Jews live in Asti today.

See Italian art at Palazzo Mazzetti

Palazzo Mazzetti is the main museum in Asti. This museum within a beautifully restored palace is home to quite a few paintings by famous 18th and 19th century Italian painters, including Michelangelo Pittatore. We ended up skipping the museum, but heard good things about it from the locals.

Discover its stunning piazzas and picturesque side streets

Most of our time of our day in Asti was spent wandering the beautiful streets of Asti! It reminds me of Bologna in the best possible way: charming cobblestone streets with minimal cars, cute little shops, minimal tourists, and cozy cafes with local food. Simply, you can’t go wrong as you discover the beautiful alleyways of Asti. If you love gelato, I recommend getting a cone to-go to enjoy in one of Asti’s beautiful piazzas.

Sip coffee at one of Asti’s many charming cafes

We stopped off a lot in Asti at little cafes for coffee as there was quite a bit of rain. I was really impressed with the modern decor (for sloth lovers!) and delicious coffee at Sereno Chill Coffee & Co . There’s a cafe on basically every corner, so don’t worry about not getting your caffeine fix.

Getting to Asti without a tour

Asti is actually quite easy to visit without a car and makes for a great base in the Piedmont region! You can take a train from Turin to Asti, which should take less than an hour. Tickets can be purchased directly via TRENITALIA.

If you choose to drive, which is better for seeing the larger Piedmont region, the signs to the city center are very clear. We didn’t have too much difficulty parking within the city although you should check the applicable signs to avoid fines.

Have you visited Asti?

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About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

March 14, 2020 at 5:33 am

Pizza in Asti? Sure, but it is not native to the region. The best pizza is at a restaurant owned and run by (my information may be 15- years old) a NeApolitan native. Pizza was virtually unknown in Piemonte until after WWIII. (My mother, from Castelnuovo Belbo (near Asti and Nizza) didn’t taste pizza until she was in her 50/s. The comparable favorite in her youth is the native belli cauda, made with ground chick peas. (It is now relatively hard to find..

Also, I want to point out that, although there were occasional stretches of maltreatment of Jews, over the course of i[ts history, Piemonte was the most receptive region to Jews. (The Molle Antonelliana was commissioned to be a synagogue.) Lots of Jews in the Piedmont. MAny were assimilated. The original Gado in Italy was almost certainly a converso who arrived in 1502 and settled in Viarigi, probably to be close to the synagogue in Moncalvo. (One wall of which still stands.).

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Food Tour in Asti

Food and wines of Piedmont

The food tour in Asti in an engaging food crawl with five food & wine tastings in selected restaurants and historical food stores of the town center.

Meet our expert tour guide and partake on five food tastings paired with wine that satisfies your lunch needs. The intricate and century-long history of Asti is a remarkable resource of stories and facts strictly connected to the unparalleled culinary tradition of Piedmont.

Get an overview of Asti as your guide explains the evolution of some iconic recipe and the origins of the most peculiar ingredients of the local cuisine.

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• Information
• Five food tastings (equivalent to lunch!)
• Wine pairing with at least two glasses of wine, including Barbera d’Asti
• Tour guide with a background in food and wine
• Small groups up to 12 guests

The food tour in Asti sets off with our local expert who unfolds the ancient origins of many ingredients that are recurring in the cuisine of the Monferrato hills district.

As we walk through the square of the “Palio” horse race and to the elegant church of San Secondo, we get to a local cheese shop that displays the finest products of the region.

We continue through the Jewish ghetto, all the way to a cozy butcher shop for a tasting of locally made veal sausage and the rare steamed salami, an ancient recipe of the Monferrato hills.

Enjoy a break in a wine shop where we learn the peculiarities of Barbera d’Asti wine, including the DOCG appellation “Superiore”, aged in oak, as well as Moscato and sparkling wine “Asti spumante”.

Next stop is a sit-down, refined delicacies shop for a tasting of a couple of traditional starters prepared with ingredients coming from Piedmont and from the nearby Mediterranean coast.

We indulge in the squared ravioli stuffed with roasted meats and we end with a slice of the local chocolate and amaretti flan, known as “bonet”.

Tastings order and recipes can change depending on availability. Any food allergies and dietary restrictions must be communicated at time of booking.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Read here the full  terms and conditions .

Lucienne B. – October 2020

This was our second trip to Piedmont with Meet Piemonte and this time we booked the food tour in Asti. We knew that Marco puts so much effort in his work and we weren’t disappointed. The food tour was actually like a meal served in these cozy offbeat food stores in some of the alleys and back streets of Asti. My favorite was the cheese shop where we got to meet the refiner, a young guy with so much expertise and passion. The selection of starters has some strong flavors like anchovies and garlic so make sure to tell Marco if you don’t like that ahead of time. We were glad to try everything cause that’s what a food tour is supposed to be but for some people could be edgy. Don’t look further, we love this agency.

Asti for foodies

Tyron K. – May 2017

Best food tour we have been on and we usually book a tour like this in every place we visit. Our guide Luigi was awesome, friendly, approachable and so knowledgeable about the history of Asti and what goes into each dish. It was just the two of us so it was totally worth what we pay for and since we couldn’t finish all the cheese and salami it was served on the tour, we got our doggy bag so we had a glass of wine later that night on our balcony. You won’t be disappointed!

Read all reviews on  Tripadvisor  and on  Google

When: every Saturday at  10am

Private tours available from Tuesday to Saturday

Duration:  3 hours  (10am-1pm)

Cancellation: full refund up to  24 hours  before the tour

Participants: up to 12 guests

Kids and family friendly: YES (not alcoholic beverages will be served to anyone under the Italian drinking age of 18)

Food allergies: much be communicated at time of booking

Physical activity: low

Meeting place: Campo del Palio square

In case of rain: the tour runs

Join our Food Tour in Asti

• 89 €  per adult (from 17 y.o.) – with minimum 2 paying guests
• 40 €  per child (from 6 to 16 y.o.) accompanied by minimum 2 adults
• free of charge for infants up to 5 y.o.

The rate includes

• Tour guide up to three hours
• Five food tastings, two glasses of wine and a small bottle of water per person

The rate does not include

• Any entrance fee, additional tastings and anything else not mentioned above in the “the rate includes” field
• Alcohol is not served to anyone under the age of 18 y.o.

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tours in Asti, Italy

Guided sightseeing tours.

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Asti.

Explore Asti in Italy with one of our free walking tours . Click on a marker on the map to get started and view details about the tour. Below is an overview of the sightseeing tours. A total of 2 tours are available in Asti, Italy.

Self-guided Tour #1

• Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta
• Museo Diocesano San Giovanni
• Domus Romana
• Chiesa di Santa Caterina
• Cripta e museo di Sant'Anastasio
• Museo del Risorgimento
• Chiesa di San Martino
• Palazzo del Seminario Vescovile
• Chiesa della Consolata
• Chiesa di San Silvestro
• Chiesa di San Paolo
• Chiesa della Confraternita della Santissima Trinità e Sant'Evasio
• Collegiata di San Secondo
• Teatro Alfieri
• Monumento a Vittorio Alfieri
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova
• Museo archeologico e paleontologico
• Battistero di San Pietro

Self-guided Tour #2

• Santuario della Madonna del Portone
• Chiesa di San Rocco
• Teatro Giraudi (ex chiesa san Giuseppe)

Why Visit Sights? Self-guided sightseeing tours are a free and safe alternative to bus tours. You can explore Asti at your own pace, any time! Do something good for your health by walking.