Day Trips in the Langhe: 10 Villages to Discover | 4 Slow Itineraries for a Perfect Day Out

ALBA – The perfect base for your Langhe day trips

Often considered the heart—the “capital”—of the Langhe. Alba is a welcoming medieval town, famous for truffles and also for Nutella (yes, it was born right here!). It’s a town made for strolling: along its main streets you’ll find quality shops, traditional trattorias, wine bars, cafés, and pastry shops—all sharing one common factor: great food and excellent wine.

On Saturday mornings, the market fills the city center. You’ll find both local quality products and a few random stalls, but the atmosphere is lively and joyfully chaotic. A couple of tips for food shopping: Piazza San Giovanni hosts the “Mercato della Terra”, and Piazza del Mercato Nuovo is where you’ll find the farmers’ market (sometimes with chicks for sale… for anyone dreaming of fresh eggs back home!).

Let’s start from Via Maestra

Via Maestra—officially Via Vittorio Emanuele—takes you from Piazza del Duomo (Piazza Risorgimento) to Piazza Savona (which is actually Piazza Michele Ferrero!). Around here, street names follow their own mysterious logic.

Along Via Maestra you’ll find VinCafè, the outstanding gelato at Gelateria Sacchero, and Gastronomia Ratti—an excellent stop if you’re looking to buy truffles.

Then just wander—also with your eyes up—to spot historic buildings and churches: the Town Hall, the Cathedral, the Church of San Domenico, the Eusebio Museum… and of course, the many towers that still define Alba’s skyline.

Alba is enjoyable all year round, but a few events make it truly special: VINUM (late April, dedicated to wine) and the internationally famous Alba White Truffle Fair in October and November. I’ll talk about these soon in the section on local events.

To explore Alba, taste it, and really enjoy it, consider a Saturday morning food & wine tour in Alba.

Want to go deeper? Then head to What to see in Alba for lots more tips and curiosities.

Barolo: the village that gave its name to an outstanding wine

No Langhe day trip would be complete without a stop in this small village, famous worldwide for the DOCG wine that shares its name.

Barolo rests gently among the hills of the Langhe. Vineyard rows frame the village, while the wines produced in its cellars seem to perfume the air itself. The surrounding area offers beautiful walking routes, and the village’s medieval origins make it well worth a visit.

Don’t miss the Corkscrew Museum and the WiMu (Wine Museum, dedicated to wine culture).

The WiMu is located inside the Falletti Castle. The castle is undoubtedly of great historical interest and dominates the village skyline. The Falletti Marquises, its former owners, were a powerful noble family who, in feudal times, acquired the Castle of Barolo from the town of Alba and went on to control a significant portion of Piedmontese territory.

From them was born the wine that made the village famous around the world: Barolo.

Over the years, Barolo has also become home to a unique cultural event, Collisioni. I’ll talk about it in the section dedicated to local events, as it deserves an article of its own.

If you’d like to explore Barolo’s history and its deep connection with Barolo wine, I recommend reading
Barolo: a town shaped by wine.

Castiglione Falletto: a Langhe gem of history and sweeping views

Castiglione Falletto is a small Langhe village perched on a hill, overlooking the surrounding landscape like a precious medieval jewel. The Castle of Castiglione Falletto, the village’s unmistakable landmark, tells a story that spans more than a thousand years. The earliest written records date back to 1001, though the castle is believed to be even older, likely built in the 11th century.

Constructed by Bertoldo Falletti, the castle has undergone numerous changes and restorations over the centuries, evolving into what we see today: an imposing structure with three circular towers and a majestic central keep. Walking along its walls feels like stepping back in time, with every stone whispering tales of knights and noble families.

Panoramic views over the Langhe

From the castle and the village’s scenic viewpoints, you can enjoy breathtaking views across the UNESCO-listed Langhe hills. Each season offers a different spectacle: lush green vineyards in summer, warm reds and golds in autumn, and the quiet charm of winter. Castiglione Falletto is well worth including in your Langhe day trips if you love photography or if you’re looking for peaceful, welcoming atmospheres.

An immersive way to explore Castiglione Falletto

Castiglione Falletto naturally invites slow exploration. Wandering through its medieval lanes, ancient walls, and panoramic viewpoints is a rewarding experience in itself. This village is ideal for travelers who enjoy discovering places step by step, observing details, and soaking in the quiet atmosphere that still defines much of the Langhe.

La Morra: its Belvedere, the colorful chapel, and the Cedar of Lebanon

Perched on the top of a hill overlooking the Po Valley, La Morra and its Belvedere enjoy one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Langhe. The name comes from “Murra,” a medieval term used to indicate an enclosure for livestock. Considering what La Morra has become today, it has certainly come a long way. The Falletti family also played a role in the history of this village, and around the year 1400 the municipal records mention, for the first time, the Nebbiolo grape variety.

Today La Morra is lively and much loved by visitors, many of them international. You’ll often see people strolling through the village or sitting along the main street, enjoying a glass of wine or tasting an ice cream… flavored with Moscato or even Barolo.

A local event that fills La Morra with visitors is the Mangialonga.

Around 2,000 people gather in the village and the surrounding vineyards for a walk whose main goal is a progressive, outdoor lunch. Participants come from many countries, including Finland, Sweden, Norway, the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, and beyond.

A true source of pride—and a “postcard of the Langhe”—is the Barolo Chapel. In the summer of 1999, two artists, the American Sol LeWitt and the British David Tremlett, reinterpreted the Chapel of the Most Holy Madonna of Grace in a completely unique way. The project was commissioned by the Ceretto family. Today, the chapel is an almost essential stop for anyone walking or cycling through these hills. It really is something to see.

In the photo, one of the symbols of the Langhe: the Cedar of Lebanon, a wedding gift. Many of my Langhe day trips pass right by here!

To learn more about La Morra, follow me and I’ll share the reasons why it’s so easy to fall in love with this village.

Monforte d’Alba, the southernmost village of the Barolo area

This small village traces its origins back to Roman times. Its castle was once surrounded by walls and known as Mons Fortis—hence the name Monforte. Today the castle is a private residence owned by the Scarampi marquises, built around the old fortress in the early 1700s.

The village is a sequence of gentle ups and downs and serves as the starting point for numerous walking trails through vineyards and scenic natural terraces. Just outside Monforte you’ll find the rural Chapel of Santo Stefano. Originally built in the 12th century and rebuilt around 1730, it still preserves frescoes and figures inside.

Monforte is especially appreciated in summer and autumn, when tourists mingle with jazz lovers. During the warmer months, the village hosts a renowned summer jazz festival, featuring internationally acclaimed artists. Many performances end with a shared glass of excellent local wine—a perfect way to fully embrace the spirit of this remarkable place.

Novello: a charming village between history and wine

A castle that tells the story of the past

Novello, perched on one of the most evocative hills of the Langhe, is a village where history seems to come alive at every step. The Castle of Novello, the village’s focal point, dominates the landscape with its imposing presence and lines shaped by centuries of events. The houses align harmoniously along the hillside, almost as if paying tribute to the castle, a witness to distant eras.

Novello’s history runs deep, dating back well before the year 1100. Valued for its strategic and easily defensible position, it was an important stronghold during medieval times. Even today, walking through its narrow streets, you can still feel this ancient atmosphere, highlighted by the medieval entrance gate and the distinctive Clock Tower, symbols of its historic identity.

The revival of Nascetta: Novello’s signature wine

Novello is not only about history and views—it is also home to a unique wine: Nascetta. This native grape variety, once nearly forgotten, has been rediscovered and enhanced thanks to the dedication of local winemakers. Today, Nascetta stands as a symbol of authenticity and renewal, perfectly reflecting the soul of the village.

Nascetta is known for its elegant, aromatic profile, with notes of exotic fruit and white flowers. Ideal with traditional Piedmontese dishes such as local cheeses or tajarin with butter, it offers a sensory experience not to be missed during a visit to Novello. Tasting it means savoring the history and passion of this land.

During our Langhe wine tastings, if you wish, you can also include a Nascetta tasting—just let us know when you book your wine tour.

A strategic base for exploring the Langhe

Located just a few kilometers from Barolo and Alba, Novello is an ideal stop for travelers eager to explore the Langhe. Its central position makes it a perfect base for discovering the surrounding landscapes, visiting other wineries, and immersing yourself in the region’s food and wine culture.

Novello is a place where history, tradition, and natural beauty come together to offer an authentic and memorable experience. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind, Novello welcomes you with its unique charm.

Roddi and its castle

Set in a panoramic position just a few minutes from Alba, Roddi is a medieval village reached via a circular road.

Located in the heart of the Barolo area, this small village has taken important steps to become increasingly welcoming for visitors.

Thoughtful restoration projects have enhanced Roddi’s charm, and the village will surprise you with its Path of Poetry. The road leading up to the castle is decorated with panels featuring short poems. Take your time and walk it—it’s part of the experience.

Verduno: panoramic views, history, and Pelaverga wine

A commanding position in the heart of the Langhe

Verduno, nestled between Roddi and La Morra, is a village well worth a stop when exploring the Barolo area. Set among the rolling Langhe hills, it offers sweeping views over neatly ordered vineyards, small villages, and historic farmhouses, with the Alps rising on the horizon.

Verduno Castle and the Burlotto family

The village center is dominated by the imposing Verduno Castle, a place rich in history and charm. Dating back to medieval times, the castle experienced periods of great splendor, particularly during the Middle Ages. Since the early 20th century, it has been owned by the Burlotto family, whose name is deeply intertwined with the history of the village and its wines.

The castle is not only a historical landmark, but also a place of culture and hospitality. Inside, you’ll find spaces dedicated to wine tasting and discovery, making it a must-stop for wine lovers. A restaurant with rooms welcomes guests who wish to spend a few days in this lovely village, true to the Slow spirit.

The Verduno Belvedere: a window over the Langhe

One of the most visited spots in the village is the Verduno Belvedere, offering remarkable panoramic views. Here, time seems to slow down: silence is broken only by rustling leaves and birdsong, while your gaze drifts across endless vineyard-covered hills. It’s the perfect place to relax, take memorable photos, and soak in the tranquility of nature. If you’d like to plan a route between scenic viewpoints, you can follow this article from our blog.

Pelaverga: Verduno’s signature wine

Verduno is not only about beautiful landscapes, but also about an ancient and distinctive native wine: Pelaverga di Verduno. This grape variety, rediscovered and enhanced thanks to the dedication of the Burlotto family, produces a truly unique wine with unmistakable aromas.

Pelaverga stands out for its delicate, spicy bouquet with notes of white pepper and red fruit, and for its fresh, enjoyable taste. It pairs beautifully with traditional Piedmontese dishes, but can also be enjoyed on its own, as an authentic expression of the territory.

Verduno is a small Langhe treasure. I strongly recommend including it in a Barolo-area day trip—you won’t be disappointed.

Serralunga and its castle: ancient and modern history

Serralunga d’Alba, located in the heart of the Langhe, is a wonderfully preserved surprise. This small village, renowned for its vineyards and Barolo wine, is home to a fascinating castle. The Castle of Serralunga d’Alba represents a perfect balance between ancient and later history, offering visitors a truly distinctive experience.

Medieval origins

Built in the 14th century, the Castle of Serralunga d’Alba was commissioned by the noble and influential Falletti family. Construction took place between 1340 and 1357. The medieval structure is an outstanding example of Gothic military architecture, dominated by a tall, robust tower overlooking the surrounding landscape. The castle originally served both defensive and residential purposes.

The Renaissance period

Over the centuries, the castle underwent several transformations. During the Renaissance, structural changes were introduced to adapt it to the residential needs of the nobility. Interior spaces were enriched with frescoes and stucco work, reflecting the refined taste of the era. Despite these changes, the castle has retained its powerful medieval fortress appearance.

Restoration and preservation

In the 20th century, the Castle of Serralunga d’Alba underwent significant restoration work to preserve its integrity. The restorations revealed ancient masonry and recovered interior spaces of great artistic value. Today, the castle is managed by the Direzione regionale Musei Piemonte, which oversees its conservation and public access.

Visits and activities

Families, especially those with children and teenagers, will appreciate the guided visits designed specifically for younger audiences. Visitors can discover who lived here, how daily life unfolded, and even take part in storytelling experiences that bring history to life.

Tickets can be purchased online. Advance booking is required, as visits follow fixed schedules and the number of participants is limited.

A tenth village? Not just one—many small gems to discover

Here’s a short list of small villages you may want to add to your Langhe itinerary. Each one hides corners that are absolutely worth exploring.

• Bergolo: the stone village
• Bossolasco: the village of roses
• Prunetto: the Scarampi Castle
• Serravalle Langhe: panoramic and welcoming

Bonus: Neive, a perfect escape to discover a small hilltop village just a short distance from Alba.

Practical tips: how to enjoy a slow day in the Langhe

Planning a day trip in the Langhe is easy—especially if you choose to move independently and at a relaxed pace, enjoying every view and every stop without rushing. Whether you travel by car, Vespa, or bike, this area lends itself perfectly to slow travel, with winding roads following the hills and gentle ups and downs to be enjoyed with curiosity and wonder.

Arriving by car

The Langhe are easily reached by car from Turin, Milan, and Genoa. Highways and well-marked local roads lead you straight into the heart of the rolling hill landscape.

Arriving by train, then renting

If you prefer traveling by train, Alba is the most convenient station. From there, through SlowDays, you can join a Vespa tour or explore the area by e-bike, and set off on your slow day trip with complete freedom.

Public transportation? Best avoided.
For a single-day trip, public transport is not recommended: connections are infrequent and travel times can be long and impractical. A flexible, self-guided solution is far more enjoyable.

Whatever your means of transport, remember that the true spirit of the Langhe is best savored slowly.

When to visit the Langhe: a seasonal guide

Each season has its own charm: spring for blossoms, summer for lush vineyards, autumn for warm colors and truffles, winter for quiet moments and a glass of wine by the fireplace. Find out when to go in our article: When to visit the Langhe