Things To Do
in Avigliana
Avigliana is a charming town located in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is known for its beautiful historic buildings, including the Sacra di San Michele, a stunning Romanesque abbey perched on a hill overlooking the town. The town is surrounded by the gorgeous scenery of the Italian Alps, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
Avigliana also boasts a quaint old town area with narrow cobbled streets, shops, cafes, and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the beautiful Parco Naturale dei Laghi di Avigliana. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
After lunch, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lakes, observing local wildlife. Don’t forget to take some photos of the picturesque scenery!
Wind down with dinner at a local trattoria, savoring traditional Piedmontese dishes. Unwind while watching the sunset over the lakes.
Begin your day by exploring the Castello di Avigliana, a medieval castle with captivating history. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding landscape.
Visit the Centro Storico for a glimpse of Avigliana’s charming architecture and boutiques. Enjoy lunch at a café in the square.
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a hidden gem in the old town. After dinner, take a relaxing walk through the illuminated streets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with stunning views of the Alps and surrounding natural parks.
- Rich historical significance with medieval architecture and ancient ruins.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Cultural activities and events, including local festivals and art exhibitions.
- Proximity to Turin, offering access to urban amenities while maintaining a small-town feel.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for young professionals.
- Tourist influx in peak seasons can lead to crowded attractions and higher prices.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Some areas may have a lack of modern amenities or services.
Best Activities in Avigliana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails around the Avigliana Lakes, offering scenic views and a variety of walking paths suitable for all skill levels.
Take advantage of the local limestone cliffs for rock climbing. There are various routes available for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Cycle along parts of the historic Via Francigena, which passes through Avigliana, offering picturesque landscapes and a taste of history.
Visit the Avigliana Lakes to observe various bird species in their natural habitat, especially during migration seasons.
Explore the ruins of the ancient castle that overlooks Avigliana, where you can enjoy panoramic views and learn about the area's history.
Enjoy a relaxing day by the lake with a picnic. There are designated areas for picnics with beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Avigliana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Avigliana
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene lake surrounded by mountains offering picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Ideal for capturing reflections and nature shots.
The historic castle on the hill provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the lakes below. Perfect for architectural photography and breathtaking scenery.
A natural park that includes both lakes and forests, offering diverse photo opportunities ranging from wildlife to stunning natural landscapes.
The mountain overlooking Avigliana provides hiking trails with unobstructed views of the town and lakes. Great for aerial shots and wide-angle photography.
A charming street in the old town with beautiful architecture and local shops, perfect for street photography and capturing the essence of Avigliana.
Food in Avigliana
Avigliana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These small, stuffed pasta parcels are a must-try, traditionally filled with a mix of meats and served with a flavorsome sauce. For an authentic experience, head to Trattoria La Greppia or Trattoria del Borgo Vecchio.
Must-Try!
A classic Piedmontese dish, Bagna Cauda is a warm, flavorful dip made from anchovies, garlic, and olive oil, best enjoyed with fresh vegetables. Look for this dish at Osteria Vecchio Mulino or La Taverna del Conte Rudy.
This dish features a delightful assortment of fried seafood and vegetables, offering a crispy and flavorful indulgence. Visit Ristorante L'Antica Sosta or Osteria Il Contadino for a delectable rendition of Fritto Misto.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Avigliana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Avigliana Market, held every Tuesday, to discover a vibrant array of fresh local produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Enjoy street food specialties like panini, arancini, and porchetta while sampling the market's lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Avigliana, it's customary to greet people with a warm 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is a common form of greeting, and it's polite to maintain eye contact.
When dining in a local restaurant, it’s respectful to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. It’s also appreciated to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to say 'Buon appetito' before starting your meal.
Italians tend to dress elegantly, especially in social settings. When visiting churches or cultural sites, it's important to dress modestly; for women, this means wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Avigliana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Avigliana
Ensure a smooth experience
In Avigliana, as in much of Italy, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Typically, a tip of 5-10% is considered sufficient if service is not included in the bill. However, in many establishments, a 'coperto' (cover charge) is included, which may affect the need for additional tipping.
Payment practices in Avigliana generally include cash and card options. While cash is widely accepted, many places, especially hotels and larger restaurants, also accept credit and debit cards. It is advisable to check beforehand as some smaller establishments may prefer cash. Contactless payments are increasingly popular, especially post-pandemic.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Avigliana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Avigliana. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. You can witness the blooming of flowers and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains. Various local festivals may also take place during this season.
Summer (June to August) offers warm weather with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This is peak tourist season, and visitors can expect vibrant outdoor cafes, swimming in lakes, and numerous cultural events. However, it can be crowded, and accommodations may be pricier.
Autumn (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Temperatures generally range from 10°C to 20°C. This season is ideal for wine tasting tours and exploring local markets showcasing seasonal products.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. While not as popular for sightseeing, this season offers opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountains. Visitors can also experience local holiday festivities and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the town.
Avigliana at Night
Hiking in Avigliana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring scenic lakes and surrounding woodlands, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A popular hiking destination with panoramic views of the Susa Valley, crowned by the historic Sacra di San Michele.
A well-marked trail leading to the summit of Monte Cavo, offering stunning views and diverse flora.
This valley provides numerous trails suitable for all skill levels, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Hiking up the rocky outcrop offers not only challenging paths but also rich history and sweeping views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Avigliana through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Avigliana by plane.
Turin Airport, also known as Sandro Pertini Airport, is located about 40 kilometers from Avigliana and serves international and domestic flights.
Milan Malpensa Airport is approximately 150 kilometers from Avigliana and is one of Italy's main airports, serving numerous international destinations.
Milan Linate Airport, situated roughly 150 kilometers from Avigliana, primarily handles domestic flights and a few international routes.
Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport is about 130 kilometers from Avigliana and serves both domestic and low-cost international flights.
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is approximately 170 kilometers from Avigliana and caters to both domestic and international air traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, consisting of citizens born in Italy and those with Italian ancestry.
Individuals from various countries who have moved to Avigliana, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A significant portion of the demographic, with a growing number of residents aged 65 and older.
Children and teenagers, representing a vital segment of the community, often involved in local schools and activities.
Individuals aged between 18 and 64, forming the backbone of the workforce in Avigliana.
The Soul of Avigliana
Discover the essence of Avigliana through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played widely in Avigliana, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.
Given the scenic landscapes, cycling is a favored recreational and competitive sport among residents.
Basketball enjoys popularity in schools and local clubs, with various community events held throughout the year.
Running is a common sport among locals, with trails and parks providing great venues for both casual runners and competitors.
Tennis is enjoyed at local clubs, and there are facilities available for both recreational and competitive players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Avigliana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Avigliana offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options ranging from fresh salads to flavorful vegetable-based pasta dishes. Inform the staff about your preferences, and they will be happy to accommodate.
Individuals with gluten intolerances can find suitable alternatives at various dining establishments in Avigliana. Look for dishes made with polenta, risotto, or gluten-free pasta, and inquire about gluten-free bread options at local bakeries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Avigliana with these cultural adventures.
