Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region, Alessandria is a charming yet often overlooked city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you're spending a weekend or passing through on a longer trip, this area offers a relaxing blend of architecture, countryside, and authentic food experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Alessandria and the surrounding territory.
Things to Do in Alessandria
Cittadella di Alessandria
One of the largest and best-preserved 18th-century fortresses in Europe. Walk along the ramparts and imagine the centuries of military history that unfolded here.
Piazza della Libertà & Corso Roma
Take a leisurely stroll around the main square and down Corso Roma for some shopping, gelato, or aperitivo in one of the historic cafés.
Museo Borsalino
Discover the story behind the iconic Borsalino hat, a symbol of Italian style since 1857. The museum is a tribute to local craftsmanship and fashion history.
Cathedral of Alessandria (Duomo di San Pietro)
A beautiful neoclassical structure with impressive interiors—perfect for a peaceful moment of reflection.
Day Trips from Alessandria
Casale Monferrato
A historic town along the Po River known for its Jewish heritage, baroque architecture, and the stunning Synagogue of Casale.
Acqui Terme
Famous for its Roman baths and natural hot springs. A great place to relax in a spa or walk through its charming medieval streets.
Novi Ligure
Ideal for cycling and food lovers. Visit Museo dei Campionissimi, dedicated to cycling legends Fausto Coppi and Costante Girardengo, and enjoy local sweets like baci di dama.
Tortona
A small town with art galleries, quaint piazzas, and a beautiful hilltop view. Known for timorasso wine—a rare local white varietal that’s making a big comeback.
What to Eat
The local cuisine is rich and earthy, heavily influenced by the agricultural traditions of Piedmont. It’s a region where simple ingredients are elevated through time-honored techniques, resulting in dishes full of character and depth.
Agnolotti al Plin
Small, hand-pinched pasta filled with roasted meats, typically served in butter and sage or in a rich meat broth.
Tajarin al Tartufo
Thin, golden egg noodles often served with white truffle—especially prized in autumn—or dressed with a slow-cooked beef ragù.
Bagna Cauda
A warm, garlicky dip made from anchovies, olive oil, and butter. It’s traditionally served bubbling hot with a variety of raw and cooked vegetables for dipping.
Finanziera
A bold and rustic dish featuring sweetbreads, chicken livers, and other offal. It reflects the roots of Piedmont’s “cucina povera,” turning humble ingredients into something unforgettable.
Robiola di Roccaverano
This soft, creamy goat cheese from the nearby Langhe hills is both tangy and smooth—a must for cheese lovers and often enjoyed on warm bread or in salads.
Baci di Dama
Literally meaning "lady’s kisses," these delicate cookies are made from hazelnuts and chocolate. They originated in nearby Tortona and are perfect with coffee or dessert wine.
Bonet
A classic Piedmontese dessert: a rich custard made with chocolate, rum (or coffee), and crushed amaretti biscuits. Dense, bittersweet, and deeply satisfying.
What to Drink
No visit to Alessandria and Monferrato is complete without sampling the local wines. You’ll find both red and white gems:
Barbera del Monferrato – Fruity, robust, and perfect with meats and cheeses.
Grignolino d’Asti – A light red with a peppery finish.
Timorasso – A structured, aromatic white wine from Tortona's hills.
