Things To Do
in Asti
Asti is a picturesque town located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Known for its beautiful historic architecture, including the Asti Cathedral and Torre Troyana, it is a charming destination for history enthusiasts. Asti is also famous for its sparkling wine, Asti Spumante, and hosts an annual wine festival called the Palio di Asti.
The town boasts a lively atmosphere with bustling markets, quaint cafes, and inviting piazzas that make it a delightful place to visit.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Cathedral of Asti. Grab a coffee at a local cafĂŠ while you admire the architecture.
Wander through the charming streets, stopping by quaint shops and discovering local artisan crafts. Don't miss the Palazzo Mazzetti, which often hosts interesting exhibitions.
Enjoy a traditional Piedmont dinner at a local trattoria, savoring fresh pasta and regional wines. Stroll through the illuminated streets and enjoy the local nightlife.
Head out to the nearby hills for a scenic hike, offering panoramic views of the vineyards. Breathe in fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Visit a local winery for a tour and tasting session of Asti's famous wines, including Asti Spumante. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the breathtaking vineyard views.
Return to Asti and dine at a cozy restaurant that specializes in local dishes. End the night with a gelato while enjoying a sunset walk.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including beautiful architecture and museums.
- Famous for its wine production, especially Asti Spumante.
- Charming countryside and picturesque vineyards in the surrounding areas.
- Vibrant local festivals and events celebrating traditions and cuisine.
- Accessibility to other major Italian cities like Turin and Milan.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Can be less cosmopolitan and lively than bigger urban centers.
- Tourist season can lead to overcrowding in popular areas.
- Economic opportunities may be more limited in comparison to larger cities.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
Best Activities in Asti
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque vineyards and wineries of Asti, which is renowned for its wine production, and enjoy wine tasting tours to sample the local varieties.
Enjoy scenic hikes in the beautiful hills and countryside surrounding Asti, with various trails offering stunning views and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region.
Discover the charming rural landscapes around Asti by cycling along designated routes that provide a mix of scenic beauty and cultural exploration.
Savor the local cuisine and enjoy outdoor dining experiences in the charming piazzas and traditional trattorias, immersing yourself in the authentic flavors of Asti.
Tours
Uncover the best of Asti with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Asti
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Cathedral of Asti and surrounding historic buildings.
Provides panoramic views of the city and countryside, as well as a picturesque spot for capturing the sunset.
Climbing to the top of the bell tower rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Asti and the surrounding area.
Food in Asti
Asti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Agnolotti del Plin is a type of filled pasta with a minced meat and vegetable filling. It is a must-try dish in Asti and can be enjoyed at Osteria dellâArco, a renowned local restaurant known for its delicious agnolotti.
Must-Try!
Bagna Cauda is a warm dip made from garlic, anchovies, olive oil, and butter, traditionally served with fresh vegetables. To savor this dish, visit Trattoria La Corte, a well-regarded eatery in Asti.
Gnocchi alla Piemontese is a classic potato gnocchi dish typically served with a rich cheese sauce. For an authentic taste, visit Ristorante Il Cascinalenuovo, a local favorite for this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Asti better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Mercato Coperto di Asti is a bustling food market offering an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and traditional specialties. Visitors can explore the vibrant market and indulge in street food delicacies like panino con salame, a savory sandwich with locally-cured salami.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Asti, it is common to greet people with a handshake for men and a kiss on the cheek for women. This is a sign of respect and friendliness.
It's important to respect meal traditions in Asti, such as not ordering a cappuccino after a meal, as it is typically consumed only in the morning.
When visiting churches or other religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees, especially for women.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Asti with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Asti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Asti, Italy, is not a common practice as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, leaving a small amount of change or rounding up the bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service is appreciated.
In Asti, Italy, cash is widely accepted for most transactions, especially in small businesses and local markets. Major credit and debit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and to inquire about card acceptance before making a payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Asti.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Asti, Italy, as the weather begins to warm up and the city's beautiful gardens and parks come to life. You can expect pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant festivals such as the Palio di Asti.
Summer is a popular time to visit Asti, with warm weather perfect for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Summer in Asti also brings festivals, outdoor concerts, and delicious seasonal produce at local markets.
Autumn is a great time to visit Asti, as the weather starts to cool down and the surrounding countryside transforms into a picturesque display of autumn colors. Visitors can enjoy wine harvest festivals, truffle fairs, and the famous Douja d'Or wine competition.
Winter in Asti is a quieter time, perfect for cozying up in cafes and tasting local wines. The city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and visitors can experience traditional Christmas markets and seasonal culinary delights.
Asti at Night
Hiking in Asti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park offering various hiking trails with stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for picnicking and enjoying nature.
A scenic trail that showcases the diverse flowering plants of the region, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Part of the Beigua Geopark, this mountain offers multiple hiking routes with breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea and the surrounding hills.
A park with a network of hiking paths leading through picturesque landscapes, ideal for families and casual hikers.
A wine-themed hiking trail through vineyards and wineries, providing a unique blend of outdoor activity and wine tasting opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Asti through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Asti by plane.
The main airport serving Turin, located approximately 58 km northwest of Asti. It offers both domestic and international flights.
An international airport located about 130 km southeast of Asti, serving the city of Genoa and nearby regions.
Milan's largest international airport, located approximately 150 km to the northwest of Asti. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 175 km southeast of Asti, this airport serves the city of Bologna and offers a range of international flights.
Located about 160 km northwest of Asti, this airport primarily handles domestic and European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, consisting of citizens of Italy, predominantly of Italian ethnicity.
Includes various groups from Eastern Europe, North Africa, and other regions who have settled in Asti.
A significant portion of the population, reflecting an aging demographic trend.
A vital demographic, including university students from local institutions.
Representing combined family units which contribute a diverse fabric to the community.
The Soul of Asti
Discover the essence of Asti through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is extremely popular in Asti, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting the sport at both amateur and professional levels.
Basketball has a strong following in Asti, with clubs competing in regional leagues and a focus on youth development programs.
Cycling is a favored outdoor activity in Asti, thanks to its scenic landscapes. The region often hosts cycling events and is a popular area for cycling enthusiasts.
Rugby has been growing in popularity in Asti, with several clubs that promote and develop the sport among youth and adults.
Handball is played in Asti at both recreational and competitive levels, especially among schools and local clubs.
Volleyball enjoys a good presence in Asti, with local teams participating in various leagues and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Piedmontese cuisine heavily features meat and dairy, many restaurants in Asti offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes, such as vegan agnolotti and vegetarian-friendly gnocchi. Notable establishments like Ristorante Da Arturo and Osteria i Vini del Pelaverga are known for their diverse and accommodating menus.
For those with gluten sensitivities, there are several restaurants and cafes in Asti that offer gluten-free pasta and bread options, including Ristorante Pizzeria La Tavernetta, where visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine without compromising dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Asti with these cultural adventures.