ALBA
Tour of Alba, Italy’s Piedmont Truffle Capital
Join us on a private walking tour of Alba in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region for a journey through its charming streets, rich history, tantalizing truffle shops, and stories of local personalities who made Alba proud.
This picturesque town is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the underground remains that whisper tales of the past, to retracing the footsteps of Pietro Ferrero and his family who invented Nutella, Alba offers a unique culinary and cultural journey that promises unforgettable experiences.
Immerse yourself in local traditions at the vibrant Slow Food market, discover the sites that inspired Beppe Fenoglio‘s novels, savor exquisite local wines in the nearby Barolo wine region, and explore local landmarks such as the Cathedral or the Baroque jewel of La Maddalena Church for a dive into detailed works of art.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast eager to taste authentic Italian flavors or a history buff fascinated by centuries-old architecture, Alba invites you to uncover its secrets and embrace its enchanting ambiance.
Tour of Alba: Underground, Slow Food Market, Ferrero and more
The walking tour of Alba, Italy, is guided by a knowledgeable local guide and, depending on availability may include a visit to one of the few underground sites like Museo Diocesano, or the Slow Food market on Saturday mornings.
Read more our blog about Alba Market Day & Slow Food Movement for more details about the market’s opening hours, parking, and more.
Known by locals as the capital of the Langhe Hills and the birthplace of the Ferrero chocolate factory, every corner of Alba is a reminder of local figures, including Teobaldo Calissano, Macrino d’Alba, Beppe Fenoglio, and the Resistance struggle, Giacomo Morra, founder of the early Truffle Fair, among others.
Although the Ferrero chocolate factory is not open to the public, we share the fascinating story of the Ferrero family, beginning with the founder Pietro and showing the first original site of their pastry shop in central Alba.
Read more about the fascinating story of this family on our blog: Ferrero and Nutella, Pride of Alba.
Alba, Italy’s Roman Roots
Alba, Italy, boasts a rich history spanning over 2500 years, dating back to its initial settlement by native tribes. Archaeological findings from this first settlement were uncovered near Alba’s modern residential outskirts just a few decades ago.
When the Romans invaded the region in the 2nd century BC, they established their urban center where modern Alba’s Old Town stands today, nestled within a naturally-protected triangle bordered by the Tanaro River, a smaller stream, and the Langhe Hills behind it.
Alba became prosperous due to its connectivity to the Mediterranean Coast through trails and roads passing over the Apennines, serving as a strategic point for Roman advances into the Alps and eventually France. This led to Alba being granted the title of “municipium“ and bestowed with Latin citizenship for its inhabitants.
Notable public structures such as a temple, a theater, and a Roman basilica emerged around a large central square, the forum, which now corresponds to Piazza Duomo.
As Alba evolved from Roman times, it reveals layers of history, including Roman ruins, the foundational remains of medieval structures, and a former Romanesque church from the 6th century, found beneath the current Cathedral.
Alba’s Cathedral and its Underground Museum
Although the existing cathedral cannot be labeled as the oldest church in the town due to extensive renovations, its location has always been significant.
Originally, an ancient Roman basilica was replaced by an early Romanesque church and a simple adjacent baptistery from the 6th century AD. Remnants of these earlier structures, along with other intriguing artifacts, lie beneath today’s cathedral and are accessible via our underground tour or through the Museo Diocesano.
Furthermore, our knowledgeable local guide will lead a tour of Alba’s Cathedral, where a remarkable wooden inlaid choir from 1512 is situated behind the main altar. The side chapel of S. Teobaldo showcases an exquisite example of Piedmontese Baroque style, adorned with vibrant frescoes.
Visit Alba in Italy’s Piedmont
The Alba walking tour highlights four monastic orders that settled in the area during the Middle Ages and subsequent centuries, contributing Gothic and Baroque treasures that signify the town’s wealth.
Slender medieval towers contribute to a distinct skyline, culminating in the elaborate elliptic dome of the church named ‘Maddalena,’ located at the corner of a former convent.
The walking tour of Alba reveals numerous hidden gems often overlooked by inexperienced visitors. Decorated with ornate terracotta tiles and cherub bas-reliefs, the stout medieval palaces have much to offer. Luxurious residential apartments disguise old loggias now transformed into modern windows, and towers have been shortened for stability, integrated into the buildings below.
Whether exploring 1930s Rationalist Architecture or the door knobs adorning private homes, Alba warrants a visit with a tour guide to genuinely appreciate its extensive history.
Book Now a Private Tour of Alba
From 150€ | 2 hours | Private, just for your party, up to 15 guests
Museums and Underground entrance tickets not included
