Piedmont Trips
Self-guided walking holidays in Piedmont, from the Via Francigena to the shores of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore.
Piedmont sits in the northwest of Italy, where the Alps come down to the Po Valley and the great northern lakes. The walking here traces that landscape: the Via Francigena, the old pilgrim road to Rome, heads south across the Po Valley to Pavia, while lakeside trails link Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. The routes are self-guided, and they come with the food and wine this corner of Italy is known for.
10Adventures Piedmont Trips
Displaying 2 of 2 tours
Displaying 2 of 2 tours
Via Francigena
Via Francigena: Ivrea to Pavia
The Via Francigena is a historic pilgrimage route that once guided countless travelers from Canterbury to Rome, the Holy Land, and Santiago de Compostela, symbolizing a quest for spiritual fulfillment. It emerged as a vital European thoroughfare over seven centuries, traversed by sovereigns, clergymen, and commoners. Originating in the Western Alps and winding southward through the Po Valley and Apennines to Rome, the route embodies the desire for unity in medieval Europe. Today, rediscovering this path reveals not only its spiritual and cultural heritage but also scenic landscapes like flooded rice fields, the Sesia and Ticino rivers, and the artistic richness of cities like Pavia. The journey offers a taste of regional cuisine, with specialties like Panissa, local meats, and traditional desserts passed down through generations.
Italian Lakes
Walking Tour of Lake Como & Lake Maggiore
The Lake Como & Lake Maggiore Walking Tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring two of Italy’s most stunning lakes. This self-guided hiking tour takes you through picturesque towns, lush botanical gardens, and breathtaking trails that wind around the shores of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of northern Italy as you walk along panoramic paths, visit historic villas, and enjoy charming lakeside villages.
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Chat With UsPlanning your trip to Piedmont in 2026
Where to go in Piedmont
Very different landscapes meet in this corner of the northwest. The Via Francigena, the old pilgrim road to Rome, runs south from Ivrea in the Alpine foothills, across the Po Valley with its flooded rice fields and the Sesia and Ticino rivers, down to the art city of Pavia. To the northeast, lakeside trails link the towns, botanical gardens and grand villas around Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, two of the great northern Italian lakes. Turin and Milan are the usual gateways.
What to do in Piedmont
Walking is the focus here, and it is mostly self-guided: you follow a set route at your own pace, with bags moved ahead and accommodation booked in advance. The big draw is the Via Francigena, the historic pilgrim road to Rome walked for over a thousand years, with long-distance sections crossing the Po Valley, part of 10Adventures’ pilgrimage tours and the wider walking tours. Gentler going is found on the lakeside and hillside paths around Como and Maggiore. Either way, the days tend to end with the food and wine the region is famous for.
When to go to Piedmont
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. From around March the weather turns mild and the lakeside gardens come into bloom, while September and October bring cooler air and quieter trails. Summer is hot and humid, especially down in the Po Valley, and the higher, more exposed ground is far better either side of it. Winter is cold and wet, and the long routes go quiet.
What to expect on a self-guided walk here
Self-guided here means you walk independently but with everything arranged: detailed route notes and maps or GPS, luggage moved between stops, and hand-picked accommodation, from agriturismos to lakeside hotels. You set your own pace and your own days, with local support a phone call away if you need it. It is a relaxed way to take on a long-distance route like the Via Francigena, or to link the lakes without the logistics, and it sits within 10Adventures’ wider Self-Guided Italy tours.
Top walks in Piedmont
Self-guided walks on offer in the region include:
- Self-Guided Via Francigena: Ivrea to Pavia 8 days on the historic pilgrim route across the Po Valley to Pavia.
- Self-Guided Walking Tour of Lake Como & Lake Maggiore 8 gentler days between two of Italy’s great northern lakes.
FAQ for Piedmont Tours
How widely is English spoken in Piedmont?
English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas such as Turin, but less commonly in rural villages. Basic Italian phrases are helpful when traveling through smaller towns and countryside areas.
How long should I go to Piedmont?
A stay of 4–7 days allows enough time to explore key wine regions, historic towns, and natural landscapes. Longer trips of 10 days or more are ideal for combining food, culture, and outdoor activities.
Should I bring euros to Piedmont or use a credit card?
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and restaurants throughout Piedmont. Carrying some euros is useful for small shops, cafés, markets, and rural areas.
Can I book a bike tour in Piedmont?
Yes, bike tours are widely available in Piedmont, especially in the Langhe and Monferrato wine regions. Routes often feature quiet country roads, rolling vineyards, and scenic hilltop villages.
Can I book a hiking tour in Piedmont?
Yes, hiking tours are offered throughout Piedmont, ranging from gentle vineyard walks to more challenging mountain trails in the Alps. These routes showcase a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and regional gastronomy.
Can I book a self-guided tour in Piedmont?
Yes, self-guided tours are easy to book and ideal for travelers who prefer exploring at their own pace. Tour operators typically provide maps, route notes, and logistical support.
Can I book a guided tour in Piedmont?
Yes, guided tours are available and led by knowledgeable locals who share insights into the region’s food, wine, and history. These tours are well-suited for travelers seeking expert guidance and a more curated experience.
Is Piedmont family-friendly?
Yes, Piedmont is very family-friendly, offering easy nature walks, castles, interactive museums, and welcoming accommodations. Many food and cultural experiences are enjoyable for travelers of all ages.
What’s the best way to get around Piedmont?
A rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring wine regions and small villages. Trains and local buses are convenient for major cities like Turin, Asti, and Alba.
What are the accommodation types in Piedmont?
Accommodations range from boutique hotels and agriturismos to vineyard estates and charming B&Bs. Many stays highlight local hospitality, regional cuisine, and beautiful countryside settings.
What is the time zone in Piedmont?
Piedmont operates on Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving.
Can I do a self-guided tour in Piedmont?
Yes, self-guided tours are popular for travelers exploring food, wine, and outdoor routes at their own pace. Maps, route notes, and logistical support are typically provided.
Can I do guided tours in Piedmont?
Yes, guided tours are available, including wine tastings, cultural walks, and food-focused experiences led by local experts. Guided options help travelers gain deeper insight into Piedmont’s heritage and culinary traditions.
How to get to Piedmont?
Piedmont is easily reached via Turin Airport, Milan’s airports, and high-speed trains from major Italian cities. Road connections also make driving a convenient option.
What are the major towns in Piedmont?
Major towns include Turin, Alba, Asti, Cuneo, and Novara. Each offers its own blend of culture, food traditions, and architectural charm.
What are some must-visit attractions in Piedmont?
Top attractions include the Royal Palace of Turin, the Langhe wine hills, Lake Orta, Sacra di San Michele, and historic hilltop towns. UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes are a highlight for many visitors.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Piedmont?
Piedmont offers hiking, cycling, wine-country walks, and lake activities. Mountain areas such as the Alps provide opportunities for more adventurous trekking and winter sports.
What is Piedmontese cuisine known for?
Piedmontese cuisine is famous for truffles, hazelnuts, artisan cheeses, and rich dishes like tajarin pasta and vitello tonnato. The region is also renowned for world-class wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco.
Are there any cultural events or festivals in Piedmont?
Yes, Piedmont hosts numerous festivals, including the Alba White Truffle Fair, chocolate festivals, and historic reenactments. Seasonal food and wine celebrations are common throughout the region.
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