5 Days / 4 nights
Moderate fitness
Maximum 10 guests
local experiences
Piedmont Fall Tour Highlights
Celebrated Piemontese food and wine • Beautiful Royal Turin • Local market and cheese tasting • White truffle fair, truffle hunt and pasta making • Barolo wine tasting • Italy’s most beautiful towns
Fall Piedmont Tour Overview
Crisp air and gorgeous seasonal colors mean that fall is the perfect time to visit the prestigious Piedmont food and wine region. Join us on a trip of discovery through this romantic and royal region, famed for the most exclusive drops and matching delicacies. Piedmont hides in plain sight, just a short trip from Milan, and offers some of the most delicious tasting experiences and prettiest towns in all of Italy.
Our Fall (or Autumn!) Piedmont itinerary is an immersive food lover’s trip starting in elegant Turin and continuing to the heart of Piedmont’s UNESCO-listed wine region, Le Langhe. Visit Royal castles, the famous Barolo region and evocative hilltop towns, where you’ll enjoy gastronomic experiences including visiting the white truffle festival, going on a hunt for the delicious morsels themselves, cheese tasting, winery visits, and pasta making.
Fall is harvest time in Piedmont and when the leave of the vines that the region is so famous turn shades of orange, yellow and red. The hills and countryside are bursting with the colors of the season and it’s the perfect time to try hearty seasonal dishes like bagna cauda – a garlicky sauce to dip vegetables in – or tajarin – pasta with truffles.
Autumn is also peak truffle season in Piedmont, home of the famous white truffle. At this time, buyers from around the world come to the annual Truffle Fair to sample and purchase this prized delicacy.
The grape harvest is also underway. It’s an important time for the Barolo and Barbaresco wine makers of the region and there’s no better season to enjoy these full bodied, hearty red wines. So why not join us as we taste our way through beautiful Piedmont, enjoying the romantic sights along the way.
Untold Piedmont Fall Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Turin
Welcome to regal, beautiful Turin!
Did you know it was the first capital of Italy and home to the Royal family of Savoy?
Arrive ‘con calma’ (the Italian way of doing things calmly, you’re on vacation after all!) and check in at your hotel in the heart of the city in the early afternoon.
Once you are settled in, meet with the rest of your group and your host Olivia to indulge in a favourite Italian past-time – aperitivo!
Day One continued
Do as the Torinese do and get to know the group over a glass of homemade vermut (vermouth) with a delicious local sandwich called a tramezzino at one of the city’s beautifully ornate and historic cafés. Dinner tonight features traditional Piemontese dishes at one of the locals’ favourite restaurants.
Day 1 Inclusions:
- Hotel: Luxury 4 Star hotel in the heart of Turin
- Meals: Evening welcome aperitivo, Dinner with wine
Day 2: Chocolate, cheese and the story of Turin
Visiting the Porta Palazzo produce market is our first activity for today. The market is one of the largest open air markets in Europe and it’s where you’ll find the very best local delicacies.
We’ll stop for a special tasting of traditional Piemontese cheeses at the historic cheesemonger shop in the oldest part of town.
Then you are free to explore the city for a few hours on your own. Consider visiting one of Turin’s excellent museums (the Cinema Museum or Egyptian Museum), the Royal Palace, climb the landmark Mole, or enjoy lunch at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants.
Day two continued...
We’re exploring Turin in the afternoon, with a guided walking tour to see the city’s higlights including the Royal Palace, where we stop to explore the gardens.
After seeing the Duomo, and strolling through the oldest part of the town, it’s time to visit a renowned chocolate shop and stop for a bicerin (Piemontese hot chocolate and coffee drink) and hear more stories and the history of this regal city.
Have some time to freshen up and relax after our walk back at the hotel. Dinner tonight is at a Michelin guide restaurant renowned for its slightly modern take on the classics and phenomenal wine list.
Day 2 Inclusions:
- Tours and activities: Guided walking tour of Turin with expert local guide, cheese tasting and local market
- Meals: Breakfast, Afternoon Bicerin aperitivo, Dinner with matching wines
- Hotel: 4 star luxury hotel in central Turin
Day 3: Truffles and the wine region
Today we leave Turin and head to Piedmont’s UNESCO heritage listed wine region, Le Langhe, best known for the Barolo and Barbaresco varieties.
Our day starts driving through the endless vineyards lining the hills towards the picturesque town of La Morra.
We arrive for a very special truffle hunting experience in the forest with trained dogs and our private expert local trifolau (truffle hunter) in search of delicious white truffles.
Day three continued...
White truffles are famous throughout the world and those from Alba are particularly prized. They have a delicate aromatic smell and are only found during the Autumn months until around December. The short season means they’re even more of a delicacy and come with a matching price tag.
We’ll definitely build up an appetite on our hunt and hopefully are brimming with excitement after finding our very first white truffle. Our hosts have a delicious light lunch waiting including some specialties of the Langhe region and, of course, you’ll taste three of the estate’s wines (including Barolo of course!)
After lunch we check into our charming country hotel and have some time to relax before we’re back on the road.
This time it’s just a short distance to reach the world renowned village of Barolo, which shares the same name as the famous wine it produces from the nebbiolo grape. Here you have time to wander the streets, stop for a tasting at one of the many wine shops (and do some wine shopping), or simply wander with a gelato.
Tonight, we head to another village in Le Langhe for dinner at a traditional trattoria. Sit back as we wine and dine you in the gorgeous village of Verduno!
Day 3 Inclusions:
- Tours and activities: Truffle hunt and wine tasting
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with matching wines
- Hotel: 4 star luxury country house hotel in Le Langhe
Day 4: Pasta Making and the Capital of Le Langhe Wine Region
After a leisurely breakfast, this morning, we are donning an apron and rolling up our sleeves as we step into a local Piemontese kitchen and learn the secrets of the cuisine, which, of course, includes traditional pasta making – tajarin or agnolotti del plin!
We’ll reap the rewards of our morning lesson with a four course lunch and three different glasses of the estate’s organic wines. All enjoyed against the backdrop of the majestic green rolling hills in the Langhe of course!
Day four continued...
In the afternoon, relax or explore La Morra. Perhaps you want to take in the views from the beautiful panoramic terrace that looks out across the entire region, stock up on wine, wander the historic town, or go for a walk through the vineyards in search of the Barolo chapel.
This evening, we’re headed to the official capital of Langhe – Alba and the International White Truffle Festival. You will have a chance to leisurely peruse the stalls, taste some wine, and buy some truffles or truffle infused products to take home. You are free to stay on at the fair for a little longer, enjoy dinner or an aperitivo.(armed with our very best suggestions of course).
Day 4 Inclusions:
- Tours and activities: Cooking class, Guided tour of Alba and visit to the International White Truffle Fair
- Meals: Breakfast, 4 course lunch with matching wine
- Hotel: 4 star luxury country house hotel in Le Langhe
Day 5: Castles, Wineries and Italy’s prettiest towns
We give you a day to remember forever during our final hours in the elegant, food paradise region of Piedmont.
This morning, we set off to explore the Castle Grinzane Cavour. This fairytale castle, nestled amongst the vines, was constructed during the 11th century. Don’t forget your camera! The views of the surrounding countryside bursting with season colors are jaw-dropping.
Day five continued...
When in Piedmont, we do as the locals do, so of course that means stopping in at a final prestigious winery in the area. Say ‘salute’ (cheers!) as we take a tour around the vineyards and then enjoy a degustation of three delicious organic wines.
Our final stop before heading back to Turin is in one of the borghi più belli d’Italia (the most beautiful villages in Italy) – and let us tell you, it really is gorgeous!
After a walk through town we reach our destination for a delicious farewell lunch. We will try some of the classic dishes of the region you’ve yet to discover, as well as other favorites you’ve discovered during the week.
Satisfied after a long, relaxing final lunch we head back on our private bus towards Turin where we say our farewells and you continue on your Italian journey, dreams of Piedmont.
Day 5 Inclusions:
- Tours and activities: Castle visit and wine tasting
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch with wine
Accommodation
We’ve hand selected two beautiful properties that showcase the romance and beauty of this special region.
Our tour is full of exciting experiences so we’ve made sure you have time rest and recuperate in comfortable surroundings in the heart of Turin and Le Langhe in beautiful Piemonte.
- Turin: NH Collection Torino
- Le Langhe: Corte Gondina
In the unlikely event that chosen hotels are not available, accommodations will be of a similar or higher standard.
Meet Your Host
Olivia Windsor
Tour leader
Olivia is an Australian woman living in Piedmont, with a huge love for the land of la dolce vita, cooking, food and wine. She has spent the last few years learning the language (not to mention some Piemontese dialect!), immersing herself in the culture, and working on organic farms, wineries and agriturismi.
FAQs
Fall Piedmont Tour FAQs
Are the tour prices quoted per person?
Yes. Prices are per person, in US dollars. Please inquire if you wish to pay in another currency
Are flights included in the tour price?
No, Untold Italy tour prices do not include airfares or ground transportation to the tour departure point. You will need to make your own flight and travel arrangements.
What does the price of this tour include?
We have strived to make our Piedmont tour as all inclusive as possible with no hidden surprises. Included in your tour are:
- 4 nights in charming luxury 4 star accommodation (based on double occupancy). A single supplement of $USD 550 applies
- 2 guided walking tours with expert local guides
- Unique experiences: 2 premium wine tastings, truffle hunt, cooking class, castle visit, cheese tasting, Alba White Truffle Festival
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 aperitivo and 3 dinners as specified in the itinerary, wine and bottled water is included with meals other than breakfast
- Luxury air-conditioned mini-bus
- Tips and gratuities for drivers and guides
- Group departure transfers
Where only 2 meals are included per day, either lunch or dinner is extremely substantial and usually guests prefer a small snack for the other meal. We can recommend excellent restaurants and snack bars at each location should you require them. All meals include wine and bottled water. Should you prefer other beverages, they are not included in the cost of the tour.
What isn't included in the Piedmont tour price?
Our tour prices do not include your international roundtrip airfare or internal flight to Turin, travel insurance, your arrival transfer to our first hotel, activities not included in the trip itinerary; additional hotel charges such as room service, hotel bar tabs and laundry; and food and beverages not included in our itinerary. Gratuity for your tour leader is also not included.
What is the cancelation policy for this tour?
The $200 hold deposit to secure your place on the tour is fully refundable if we cancel the trip for reasons beyond our control or if we do not meet the minimum number of guests for the trip to go ahead. If we cancel the trip before this time, a full refund of the hold deposit will be issued minus any bank charges. Should you change your mind and decide not to come on the tour, this deposit is non-refundable.
Once your first deposit is due, all payments are non-refundable, and the initial hold deposit will be put towards your final balance. We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance as we are not able to make exceptions to this policy (see our Tour Terms and Conditions for full details).
Where does the tour start and end?
Turin is the start and end point for our tour and has excellent connections through to Milan, Venice, Florence and Rome.
Turin’s main Porta Nuova train station is a 15 minute walk or short taxi ride from our first hotel.
Why is the Fall Piedmont tour more expensive than the Spring tour
Simply, it is white truffle season. These are one of the world’s most delicious delicacies and we simply wouldn’t want you to miss out on trying them. They do come with a price tag however. This is also a busy time in the region and accommodation costs are also higher than in Spring.
Is this tour suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
We can cater for vegetarians (although please be advised that Piedmont cuisine is generally quite meat heavy). Unfortunately we are unable to cater for vegans on this trip as Piemontese cuisine is focused on meat and dairy products.
I don’t drink wine. Is this tour right for me?
You are more than welcome to join us however please be advised that wine is a big focus of our culinary tour as Piedmont is one of the most renowned wine regions in Italy. This tour includes 2 winery visits and tastings, as well as wine offered with all included meals.
What level of fitness is needed for the Piedmont tour?
You need a moderate level of fitness for this tour as there is a decent amount of walking involved. We will do a three hour walking tour of Turin and the same in Alba. There will be walking involved during our castle visit, to the market in Turin, and to all dining locations in Turin. Additionally, we will be doing a lot of walking through the forest during our truffle hunt.
Is this tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
Whilst we will be doing a lot of wining and dining, please be advised that there is a decent amount of walking involved on this tour. We will do a three hour walking tour of Turin and also in Alba. There will be walking involved during our castle visit, to the market in Turin, and to all dining locations in Turin. Additionally, we will be on our feet walking through the forest during our truffle hunt.
What should I bring on tour?
We will provide a packing list outlining suggested clothing and other items to bring with you once your tour is confirmed
How can I prepare for the Piedmont tour?
Prior to departure we will provide a list of online and written resources to start your immersion in Piedmont.
Will there be any formal dinners on tour?
No. While we will be enjoying an exceptional standard of food and wine on our tour there is no need to dress formally.
General FAQs
What travel documents are required for Italy?
All travelers to Italy must have a valid passport with 6 months remaining until expiry on departure from Italy.
US, Canadian, UK, Australian and New Zealand citizens are currently not required to have a visa for stays in Italy of under 90 days. Citizens of other countries should check with the Italian embassy or consulate for information and requirements relating to their citizenship and residency.
Covid requirements must be checked regularly as they change often. This Italian government site has relevant information and our Italy Travel Planning covid group is the place where travelers meet to discuss the latest requirements.
Do I need travel insurance?
Because refunds are not available once your first deposit has been made, and we are unable to make exceptions for any reason, including weather, injury/illness, or personal emergencies, we require all guests to take out comprehensive travel insurance to compensate in case of unexpected cancellations. Insurance should cover you for both travel cancelations, and medical emergencies in the country of your tour.
The unexpected can occur and getting sick in a foreign country is a very daunting experience, we require guests take insurance with international evacuation coverage for all trips. You should book a policy as soon as the trip has been confirmed. We can provide a list of recommended providers on request. We will request your travel and medical insurance details no later than 30 days before departure.
Please see our full terms and conditions for further details.
What happens if our trip cannot go ahead due to covid restrictions in Italy?
If the tour has to be postponed based on border closures or restrictions in Italy, a credit for your deposit will be issued to be used for the postponement date of the same trip. If the tour happens as scheduled, but a guest decides not to attend based on any other reason than a country’s border closure, then the regular cancelation policy will be maintained.
If Italy only closes its borders to citizens from certain countries, and the tour goes ahead, the regular cancelation policy will be maintained, and your travel insurance is where you will seek compensation. Please see our full terms and conditions for further details.
What is your covid vaccination policy?
Your health is our priority and Italy currently has tight restrictions on unvaccinated people which means they cannot actively take part in the tour. Therefore we require all staff and tour participants to be fully vaccinated for Covid19. Please see our full terms and conditions for further details.
Are children and teenagers allowed on your tours?
Our tours are focused on food, wine and cultural experiences and have been designed with adults in mind. Please contact us if you would like your older teenagers 16+ to join us tour. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate children younger than 16. Note also that the legal age for drinking alcohol in Italy is 18 years.
Can I bring my pet on tour?
Whilst we love our furry friends, we have a strict no pets allowed policy – thanks for understanding.