Savigliano Travel Guide

Discover the top cultural attractions, natural wonders, food and drink scene, where to stay, and essential travel tips for Savigliano in Piedmont, Italy.


Introduction to Savigliano

Savigliano is a charming town located in the Piedmont region of Northwest Italy. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, the town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque streets, and beautiful landscapes.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s cultural heritage, hiking in the surrounding hills, or indulging in the region’s delicious food and drink, Savigliano has something to offer visitors of all interests. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in Savigliano.

List of Places to Visit in Savigliano

Here are the top attractions and things to do in Savigliano:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Civico - This museum houses a collection of ancient art and artifacts that tell the story of Savigliano’s past, including Roman coins, medieval sculptures, and paintings.
  • Castello dei Principi di Acaia - The Castle of the Acaia Princes is a 12th-century castle that served as a residence for the Acaia lineage. Today, the castle is a museum and hosts various events and exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Savigliano: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parco Naturale delle Alpi Marittime - Located just a short drive from Savigliano, this national park offers spectacular views of the Alps and is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
  • Croce Alpina - A popular hiking spot with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this mountain peak is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Savigliano

Savigliano is surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque valleys, making it the perfect destination for hikers and bikers. Some popular routes include:

  • The Royal Road - A trail that connects Savigliano to Saluzzo, the Royal Road is a popular route for hikers and bikers.
  • Monte Bracco - This route takes you to the top of Monte Bracco, a beautiful mountain with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Savigliano: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tour - Piedmont is famous for its wines, and Savigliano is no exception. Take a wine tasting tour to explore the local vineyards and sample the region’s delicious wines.
  • Cooking Classes - Learn how to cook traditional Piedmontese dishes from the locals and discover the region’s culinary delights.

Week-Long Itinerary for Savigliano

If you’re planning a longer stay in Savigliano, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the town’s medieval architecture and visit the Museo Civico.
  • Day 2: Take a wine tasting tour and explore the local vineyards.
  • Day 3: Hike to the top of Monte Bracco for stunning views of the countryside.
  • Day 4: Visit the Castle of the Acaia Princes and learn about the town’s history.
  • Day 5: Take a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Piedmontese dishes.
  • Day 6: Visit the Parco Naturale delle Alpi Marittime for a day of hiking and nature exploration.
  • Day 7: Explore the town’s markets and do some souvenir shopping.

Food and Drink Scene of Savigliano

Piedmont is known for its amazing food and drink, and Savigliano is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Agnolotti dal plin - A type of stuffed pasta, agnolotti dal plin is a local specialty made with a variety of fillings.
  • Bagna Cauda - A traditional Piedmontese sauce made with garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, and often served with vegetables for dipping.
  • Truffle Risotto - A creamy risotto made with the region’s famous Alba truffles.

Local Beverages

  • Barolo Wine - One of the region’s most famous wines, Barolo is a full-bodied red wine made from the Nebbiolo grape.
  • Martini Vermouth - A sweet and aromatic vermouth produced in the nearby town of Pessione.
  • Bicerin - A traditional drink made with espresso, hot chocolate, and whipped cream.

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

Savigliano offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Alba - A luxury hotel located in the heart of the town, offering comfortable rooms and excellent facilities.
  • Affittacamere Borgo Santa Maria - A budget-friendly guesthouse with a great location and friendly staff.
  • B&B Il Ciabot - This charming bed and breakfast is located in a quiet area just outside the town and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are some recommendations:

  • Truffles - Savigliano is close to Alba, which is known for its truffles. Buy some truffles to take home and use in your cooking.
  • Wines - Piedmont is famous for its wines, and Savigliano is home to some excellent vineyards.
  • Handmade Ceramics - The town has a long tradition of pottery-making, and you’ll find handcrafted ceramics in many shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Savigliano

Savigliano has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience many local traditions and customs. Here are some things to know:

  • Religious Festivals - Savigliano hosts various religious festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of St. Roch in August and the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary in October.
  • Market Day - Every Friday morning, the town hosts a bustling outdoor market. Expect to find everything from fresh produce to clothing and accessories.
  • Aperitivo - Aperitivo is a popular pre-dinner drink in Italy, and Savigliano has a great selection of bars and restaurants where you can try this local custom.

Best Time to Visit Savigliano

Savigliano is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Savigliano

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Savigliano:

Do:

  • Try the Local Cuisine - Piedmontese cuisine is delicious, and Savigliano has some excellent restaurants and food markets.
  • Visit the Museums - Savigliano boasts a rich cultural heritage, and the town’s museums are worth exploring.

Don’t:

  • Forget to Wear Comfortable Shoes - Savigliano is a hilly town with lots of uneven sidewalks, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
  • Expect Late-Night Dining - Many restaurants in Savigliano close early, so plan your meals accordingly.

Safety and Health

Here are some tips to ensure your safety and health while visiting Savigliano:

Safety in Savigliano

Savigliano is a safe town with low crime rates. However, be aware of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.

Health in Savigliano

Italy has an excellent healthcare system, and emergency services are available 24/7. If you need medical assistance, call 118 for an ambulance or visit the local hospital.

Getting to Savigliano: Transportation Options and Logistics

Savigliano is well-connected to the rest of Italy and Europe by various modes of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Savigliano

The nearest airports to Savigliano are Turin Airport (TRN) and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). From both airports, you can take a train or hire a car to reach Savigliano.

Bus Stations Near Savigliano

Savigliano has a bus station located in the town center with connections to other towns within the Piedmont region.

Other Options

You can also reach Savigliano by train from Turin or Milan. The town’s train station is located in the center of town and is well-connected to other parts of Italy.

How to Get Around in Savigliano

Savigliano is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, if you’re planning to visit the surrounding hills and countryside, it’s best to hire a car or take a bus.

Where to Go Next from Savigliano: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve explored Savigliano and have some extra time, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Turin - The capital of Piedmont, Turin is famous for its stunning baroque architecture, museums, and excellent food scene.
  • Alba - A charming town located in the heart of the Piedmont wine region, Alba is worth a visit for its truffles and wine.
  • Cuneo - A picturesque town located at the base of the Alps, Cuneo is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Savigliano is a hidden gem in the Piedmont region of Italy with lots to explore for visitors of all interests. From cultural attractions and natural wonders to the food and drink scene, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this charming town. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in Savigliano.

Arco di Trionfo, Piazza Santarosa Arco di Trionfo, Piazza Santarosa