Things To Do
in Piossasco
Nestled on the rolling Piedmontese hills just south of Turin, Piossasco offers a peaceful glimpse of rural Italy with a touch of medieval heritage. Its skyline is marked by the Castello di Piossasco and narrow lanes bordered by stone houses and terraced vineyards. The town serves as a gateway to nearby wine country in Monferrato and the Langhe’s culinary bounty.
In town, local trattorie and farms invite visitors to slow down and savor seasonal flavors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a leisurely stroll through Piossasco's charming historic center, where cobblestone streets lead you past beautiful medieval architecture. Stop by the local bakery to savor a fresh cornetto and café latte, fueling your explorations. Don't forget to visit the stunning Parish Church of San Giovanni Battista, an architectural gem that showcases the town's rich history.
After a delightful lunch at a cozy trattoria, take a hike in the nearby hills surrounding the town. The panoramic views of the Susa Valley and the majestic Alps will leave you breathless. Enjoy some quiet time in nature, perhaps having a picnic surrounded by the serene landscape.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant known for its Piedmontese cuisine to indulge in gourmet dishes. Engage with the locals over hearty meals and perhaps sample a glass of Barolo wine, experiencing the region's famous viticulture. End the evening with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, taking in the night-lit streets.
Start your day with a visit to the Parco Naturale Laghi di Avigliana, just a short drive from Piossasco. Enjoy a refreshing morning amidst the tranquility of nature, taking a leisurely walk around the beautiful lakes. The natural landscape provides an excellent backdrop for photographs to remember your journey.
After exploring the park, have lunch at a lakeside café where you can enjoy fresh, local ingredients. Spend your afternoon on a rented bike, cycling the scenic paths that surround the lakes, enriching your experience with the sounds of nature. Don't forget to stop by some of the viewpoints for stunning vistas of the region.
Return to Piossasco as the day winds down and find a family-run pizzeria to immerse yourself in the local flavors. Try authentic wood-fired pizza paired with fresh salads for a wonderful dinner experience. Wind down the evening by enjoying a gelato from a nearby gelateria while soaking in the ambiance of the town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $2-4 |
| 🧀Groceries (basic staples for a week) | $40-60 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-12 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, quiet town with medieval charm
- Close proximity to Turin and Monferrato wine country
- Beautiful hillside scenery and easy day trips
- Solid aperitivo and trattoria culture
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Public transport outside Turin can be infrequent
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Un tavolo per due, per favore" - A table for two, please
Places to Visit in Piossasco
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the town, valley, and surrounding hills, ideal for golden-hour photography.
Narrow stone alleys, arched passageways, and the church facade provide classic Piedmontese architectural shots.
Terraced vineyards with warm light during late afternoon, perfect for landscape and still-life composition.
Paths along local streams and green corridors, offering tranquil, nature-forward photography moments.
Food in Piossasco
Piossasco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small, delicate stuffed pasta purses filled with roast meat or vegetables, typically served with a light sauce or butter and sage.
Must-Try!
Slender egg pasta tossed with a fragrant truffle butter or cream sauce, a hallmark of Piedmont's luxury autumn flavors.
Velvety braised beef slow-cooked in Barolo wine, usually served with polenta or mashed roots.
A warm dip of garlic, anchovies, and olive oil for dipping vegetables, a shared, rustic Piedmontese dish.
Thinly sliced veal covered with a creamy tuna sauce, a classic cold-cut dish enjoyed in Piedmont.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, cheeses, honey, bread, and prepared foods from local farmers, usually held in the main square.
A larger city market nearby where you can taste regional specialties, buy fresh produce, and try street food offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting like Buongiorno (good morning) or Buonasera is appreciated; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Respectful behavior in religious sites; dress modestly and keep voices low inside churches and during ceremonies.
Hands on the table during meals are fine; wait for everyone to be served before starting; politeness and patience are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Piossasco
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is common in bars and restaurants.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller venues; carry some euros for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with often strong sun; carry water, wear sun protection, and enjoy shade at historic sites and shaded vineyards. Evening events and aperitivo culture flourish.
Harvest time with ruby vines and porcini mushrooms in nearby forests; mild days and crisp evenings; great for hiking and food markets.
Cold, with occasional snow on the hills; festive lights in town; cozy dining and hot beverages pair well with chilly walks.
Mild weather, blooming orchards, and new produce; ideal for strolls through the historic center and scenic hillside trails.
Piossasco at Night
Hiking in Piossasco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop along the hill ridge offering panoramic views of the plain and the surrounding hills.
A moderate trail winding from the town toward the castle with forested sections and open overlooks.
A gentle circuit through nearby vineyards, ideal for a relaxed day hike with seasonal scenery.
An extended route that climbs to vantage points above the valley for broad landscape photography.
Airports
How to reach Piossasco by plane.
The primary international gateway for the region; about an hour by road from Piossasco with various shuttle and taxi options.
A smaller regional airport offering additional connections, about a 1.5–2 hour drive depending on traffic.
A major international hub located farther away; provides many international connections and is accessible via train or car with a longer transfer time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A stable base of long-term residents, many with deep ties to agriculture, crafts, and local industries.
Many people travel to Turin for work, bringing a mix of daytime energy and weekend visitors seeking countryside escapes.
Smaller numbers of students and retirees contribute to the town’s quiet charm and cultural activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at local clubs and recreational fields; many residents enjoy weekend matches and pickup games.
Hilly terrain and scenic routes make cycling a favored activity for locals and visitors alike.
Extensive hillside trails attract hikers and runners seeking views of the valley and vineyards.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Piossasco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature cheese, vegetables, risottos, and pasta. Look for gnocchi, risotti, and vegetable-based antipasti, and ask for meat-free preparations.
Vegan options exist but are less common; seek vegetable-forward dishes, legumes, and polenta-based plates. Ask about butter, cheese, and animal products in sauces.
Gluten-free pasta and bread options are increasingly available; inform staff of gluten restrictions and check for cross-contamination in kitchens.