Things To Do
in Biella

Biella, Italy, is a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Alps, known for its rich textile heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque mountains, it offers a serene escape for travelers seeking both culture and adventure. The town is home to historic architecture, quaint streets, and a vibrant local community.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights, making Biella a hidden gem in northern Italy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Biella Cathedral, marveling at its Gothic architecture and beautiful frescoes. Don't forget to stroll through the surrounding Piazza Duomo.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo del Territorio Biellese to learn about the region's history. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the funicular station and enjoy the ride to the top of the mountain for panoramic views.

evening
:

Dine at a local trattoria, enjoying traditional dishes while soaking in the cozy atmosphere. Finish your evening with a gelato from a nearby gelateria.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the surrounding hills, exploring trails that offer stunning views of the Biella landscape. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy in nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Ricetto di Candelo, a medieval fortification, and explore its charming streets and artisan shops.

evening
:

End your trip with a wine tasting at a local vineyard, sampling regional wines paired with local cheeses and meats.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of local wine$5
🥖Local bread$1
🍽️Dinner at a restaurant$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation may be less frequent
  • Language barrier for non-Italian speakers
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Biella

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza Duomo

The main square is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, making it a perfect spot for capturing the essence of Biella.

Funicolare di Biella

The funicular offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for landscape photography.

Ricetto di Candelo

This medieval village provides a picturesque backdrop with its ancient stone walls and quaint streets.

Culinary Guide

Food in Biella

Biella's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Piedmontese flavors and locally sourced ingredients, offering visitors an authentic taste of northern Italy.

Biella Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Polenta concia

A creamy polenta dish enriched with butter, cheese, and often paired with hearty meats or mushrooms.

Must-Try!

Bollito misto

A traditional boiled meat dish served with a variety of sauces, showcasing the region's artisanal meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Biella

Held weekly, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Biella experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 25°C (77°F), while winters (December to February) can dip below freezing, averaging around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is possible year-round, with summer being the wettest season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to greet shopkeepers when entering.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal and avoid asking for changes to the menu.

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out; casual attire is acceptable but avoid overly casual clothing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Biella is considered a safe destination for travelers. General precautions include safeguarding personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to know the location of nearby hospitals in case of health issues.

Tipping in Biella

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, with a general guideline of 5-10% of the bill if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, ideal for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a great time for hiking and wine tasting.

Winter

Winter can be cold with possible snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Biella at Night

Biella's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, featuring cozy bars and a few nightclubs. Locals often enjoy aperitivo hours, where they socialize over drinks and snacks before dinner. On weekends, some venues host live music, making for a lively atmosphere. The nightlife scene is more relaxed, focusing on enjoying good company rather than partying late into the night.

Hiking in Biella

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Mucrone Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the Biella area and the surrounding Alps, suitable for moderate hikers.

Sentiero degli Alpini

This scenic trail offers a more challenging hike with breathtaking vistas, ideal for experienced hikers seeking adventure.

Airports

How to reach Biella by plane.

Turin Airport (TRN)

Located about 90 km from Biella, Turin Airport serves as the main international gateway, offering flights throughout Europe and connections to other parts of Italy.

Getting Around

Walkability

Biella is a walkable town with a compact city center that allows visitors to explore major attractions on foot. Many streets are pedestrian-friendly, with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites within easy reach. However, some hilly areas may require a moderate level of fitness for comfortable walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Biella is home to a mix of long-time residents and newer arrivals, fostering a diverse community with a strong sense of local identity.

Tourists

The town attracts visitors seeking cultural experiences, nature, and tranquility, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a beloved sport in Biella, with local clubs fostering community spirit and friendly rivalries.

Basketball

Basketball also has a strong following, with local teams competing in regional leagues and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Biella is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car. Public transportation options include buses that connect the town with nearby areas, although schedules may be less frequent on weekends. Walking and cycling are popular for short distances within the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Biella.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications when ordering.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free pasta and bread, but confirm with staff about cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Biella is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals providing medical services. The local hospital, Ospedale degli Infermi, offers a range of services, and pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare services.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide