Things To Do
in Vercelli

Vercelli is a charming city located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city boasts a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, highlighted by its impressive cathedral and historical buildings. Known as the rice capital of Italy, Vercelli is surrounded by fertile fields and picturesque landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic Italian experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Vercelli
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Basilica di Sant'Andrea, an architectural masterpiece, followed by a stroll around the historic center to admire the beautiful Piazza Cavour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria and then visit the Museo Borgogna, which features an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the region.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the canals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso for a scenic hike.

afternoon
:

Return to Vercelli for lunch and explore the Vercelli rice fields, learning about the local rice cultivation process.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a wine tasting experience at a nearby vineyard and a traditional Italian dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of wine$5
🍽️Dinner at a restaurant$25
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially rice dishes.
  • Relaxed atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Less English spoken in comparison to major tourist areas.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Scusi" - Excuse me
  • "Dove si trova ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Vercelli

Visit one of these nice places.

Basilica di Sant'Andrea

Capture the intricate Gothic architecture of this stunning basilica, especially its facade.

Piazza Cavour

A picturesque square perfect for street photography, featuring beautiful buildings and vibrant local life.

Rice fields

The expansive rice paddies surrounding Vercelli offer breathtaking landscapes, particularly at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vercelli

Vercelli offers a delightful culinary experience, particularly known for its rice-based dishes, fresh local ingredients, and vibrant food markets.

Vercelli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Risotto alla Vercellese

A creamy risotto made with locally grown Arborio rice, often prepared with saffron and seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Riso al salto

A traditional dish of leftover risotto pan-fried until crispy, served with various toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Vercelli

A bustling local market held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and street food.

Street food stalls

Try local favorites like panzerotti and arancini from various street vendors throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vercelli experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in spring and fall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

It is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating, and keep your hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals.

Dress code

Dress neatly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vercelli is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Vercelli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

A tip of around 10% is appreciated for good service, but it's not obligatory.

Payment methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and vibrant landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot temperatures dominate, making it perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler weather brings beautiful fall colors, making it a great time for hiking and wine tasting.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected, with occasional snow, offering a serene atmosphere for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Vercelli at Night

Vercelli has a laid-back nightlife scene, characterized by cozy bars and cafes. Locals often gather in Piazza Cavour and nearby streets to enjoy aperitivo, a tradition of having drinks and appetizers before dinner. While the city may not have large clubs, there are several venues offering live music and cultural events, especially during weekends.

Hiking in Vercelli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Riso

A scenic trail that winds through rice fields, offering beautiful views and a chance to learn about local agriculture.

Monte Rosa Trail

Located a short drive away, this trail offers stunning views of the Monte Rosa massif and is suitable for various skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Vercelli by plane.

Milan Malpensa Airport

Located about 60 km from Vercelli, this international airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vercelli is highly walkable, with most attractions concentrated in the historic center. The city features pedestrian-friendly streets and numerous sidewalks, making it easy to explore on foot. Public spaces and parks also invite leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Vercelli's population is Italian, with a strong sense of community and local traditions.

Students

Vercelli has a notable student population, especially from nearby universities, contributing to the city's vibrant culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Vercelli, with local teams having a strong following.

Cycling

The flat terrain surrounding Vercelli makes it a popular spot for cycling enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vercelli is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. However, during peak hours, local traffic may increase slightly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vercelli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-free options

Gluten-free pasta and risotto dishes are available in several eateries; just ask the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Vercelli is accessible and of high quality. The city has multiple hospitals and clinics, including the Ospedale Sant'Andrea, which provides excellent medical services. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are scattered throughout the city for minor health needs.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide