Cuneo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, culture, and transportation in Cuneo, Italy.


Cuneo, located in the picturesque region of Piedmont in the northwest of Italy, is a city that offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its charming streets, historical architecture, and quaint cafes, the city of Cuneo boasts of a vibrant culture and a rich history that has remained intact through the ages.

Introduction to Cuneo

Cuneo, the capital of the province of Cuneo, is situated at the base of the Maritime Alps and is known for its magnificent architecture, beautiful countryside, and rich cultural heritage. The city is situated close to the French and Swiss borders, making it the perfect destination for travelers who wish to experience Western Europe.

List of Places to Visit in Cuneo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cuneo is renowned for its cultural heritage, and visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring historical and cultural attractions. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places in Cuneo include:

  • The Civic Museum: Located within the Palazzo Boves, the civic museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Roman artifacts and historical exhibits.
  • The Cuneo Academy of Fine Arts: Established in 1796, the academy boasts of a rich collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and graphic art.
  • The Galimberti Palace: Constructed in the 16th century, the Galimberti Palace features impressive frescoes and stunning architecture.

Natural Attractions of Cuneo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cuneo is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The city is surrounded by the Maritime Alps and is home to several natural attractions that leave visitors awestruck. Here are some of the most popular outdoor adventures and scenic views in Cuneo:

  • Mount Monviso: Known as the ‘Queen of the Maritime Alps’, Mount Monviso offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
  • The Gesso River Park: The park is famous for its vast network of hiking and cycling trails and offers visitors an opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Cuneo region.
  • The Cuneo Botanical Garden: Located at the heart of the city, the botanical garden is home to a diverse range of exotic plants and lush greenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cuneo

Cuneo is synonymous with outdoor adventures, and visitors can embark on hiking and cycling adventures all year round. Some of the most popular hiking and biking trails in Cuneo include:

  • The Via del Sale: This trail starts in Limone Piemonte and reaches Ventimiglia, stretching over 60 miles. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • The Saluzzo circuit: This trail starts from the town of Saluzzo and finishes in Moncalieri, covering over 44 miles, and offers visitors an opportunity to explore stunning valleys and small villages.

Best Things to Do in Cuneo: Activities and Tours

Cuneo has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant tourist scene, and visitors will never be short of things to do in the city. Some of the most popular activities and tours in Cuneo include:

  • Cheese tasting: Piedmont is known for its culinary delights, and visitors can indulge in cheese-tasting tours to savor some of the region’s best cheeses.
  • The Langhe Wine Tour: Wine lovers can take a leisurely wine-tasting tour through the Langhe, one of Italy’s most famous wine regions.
  • The Piedmont Pasta-Making Class: Visitors can learn how to make traditional Piedmontese pasta from local chefs and take home a lifelong skill.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cuneo

Day 1: Explore the museums and historical places in Cuneo

Day 2:Take a scenic hike on Mount Monviso and explore the neighboring valleys.

Day 3:Take a cycling tour through the Gesso Watershed Park and visit the botanical garden.

Day 4:Take a wine-tasting tour through the Langhe.

Day 5:Explore the small villages and towns in the Saluzzo circuit.

Day 6:Savor traditional Piedmontese cuisine in the city’s cafes and restaurants.

Day 7:Shop for souvenirs and take home local products from the Cuneo markets.

Food and Drink Scene of Cuneo

Cuneo is one of the most famous food regions in Italy, and visitors can indulge in a variety of traditional dishes and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Cuneo:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tajarin: This dish is a type of homemade pasta made with eggs and flour and served with butter and sage or other sauces.
  • Bagna Cauda: This is a dip made with anchovies and garlic, served with vegetables and bread.
  • Fritto Misto: This dish features a selection of fried meats and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Barolo Wine: This is a full-bodied red wine made from the Nebbiolo grape and is considered one of Italy’s finest wines.
  • Chinotto: This is a popular carbonated soft drink made with the dried fruit of the myrtle-leaved orange tree.

Where to Stay in Cuneo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cuneo is renowned for its hospitality and offers visitors a range of accommodation options to choose from. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Cuneo:

  • Hotel Palazzo Lovera: This luxury hotel is located close to the city center and features elegant rooms and a spa.
  • B&B Casa Vico dei Poeti: This charming guesthouse features spacious rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Ostello Cuneo: This eco-friendly hostel is ideal for backpackers looking for budget accommodation.

What to Buy in Cuneo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home a piece of Cuneo by buying local products and souvenirs. Some of the most popular souvenirs and local products to bring home from Cuneo include:

  • The Piedmont Truffle: This is a highly prized culinary delicacy, and visitors can buy truffle products such as oil, paste, and butter to take home.
  • Gioacchino Garavini: Visitors can buy traditional wood carvings and sculptures made by the renowned local artist Gioacchino Garavini.

Local Culture and Customs of Cuneo

Cuneo has a vibrant culture and is home to several festivals and traditions. Visitors can experience the city’s culture through its music, cuisine, and traditional customs. Some traditional customs and festivals in Cuneo include:

  • The Piedmontese Flag Waving Festival: This festival is a historic event that dates back to the 12th century and features displays of flag waving and traditional costumes.
  • The Feast of Saint Ambrogio: This festival celebrates the patron saint of Cuneo and features traditional food, music, and dancing.
  • Traditional Piedmontese Music: Visitors can listen to traditional Piedmontese music, such as the bagpipes or the accordion, played by local musicians.

Best Time to Visit Cuneo

The best time to visit Cuneo is between April and October when the weather is mild, and visitors can explore the city’s museums, historical sites, and outdoor attractions. The city is also home to several festivals and events during this time, making it the perfect time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cuneo

Do:

  • Do try traditional Piedmontese cuisine, such as tajarin and bagna cauda.
  • Do take a scenic hike on Mount Monviso.
  • Do attend local festivals and cultural events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t be late for appointments or meetings.
  • Don’t dress too casually when visiting museums or historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cuneo

Cuneo is a safe city, and visitors can explore the city without any worries. However, visitors should take precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding dark alleys or deserted areas at night.

Health in Cuneo

Cuneo has excellent medical facilities, and visitors can access medical care in case of an emergency. Visitors should also ensure they have adequate health insurance cover before visiting Cuneo.

Getting to Cuneo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cuneo is well-connected to other parts of Italy and Europe and can be accessed through several transportation options. Here are some of the transportation options available for visitors traveling to Cuneo:

Airports Near Cuneo

The nearest airport to Cuneo is the Cuneo Levaldigi Airport, which is located approximately 20 kilometers north of the city. The airport offers flights to several destinations within and outside Europe.

Bus Stations Near Cuneo

Cuneo is well connected by bus, and visitors can access the city through several major bus stations. Some of the most popular bus stations near Cuneo include:

  • Cuneo Bus Station
  • Saluzzo Bus Station
  • Alba Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also access Cuneo through a range of other transportation options, such as trains and taxis.

How to Get Around in Cuneo

Cuneo is a relatively small city, and visitors can easily explore the city on foot or by bike. Visitors can also access public transportation options, such as buses and taxis, to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Cuneo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cuneo is located close to several other attractive destinations in Italy and Europe, making it a gateway to several other exciting destinations. Some of the most popular destinations and excursions from Cuneo include:

  • Turin: This beautiful city is located just an hour’s drive from Cuneo and is renowned for its art, culture, and cuisine.
  • Nizza Monferrato: A charming town in the piedmont region known for its wine.
  • Menton: A beautiful coastal town in France known for its gardens and lemon trees.

Conclusion

Cuneo is a city full of surprises, offering visitors a combination of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether visitors are looking for a cultural experience, a gastronomic adventure, or an adrenaline-filled vacation, Cuneo has something for everyone.