Things To Do
in Biella
Biella is a small city in Piedmont, northern Italy, set in the Biellese hills between the Alps and the plains. It has a rich textile heritage, charming historic streets, and a gateway feel to the surrounding nature. The town blends elegant architecture with intimate courtyards and lively markets, making it a great base for exploring Piedmont's culinary and natural treasures.
Nearby valleys, forests, and the Oropa Sanctuary offer easy day trips for outdoor lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and Italian coffee. Stroll through the narrow streets of Biella's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and charming piazzas. Don't miss the stunning views from the Basilica di San Sebastiano, which offers a perfect panorama of the city.
Visit the Biella Museum of Contemporary Art to immerse yourself in local art and culture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria, where you can taste regional specialties such as polenta and hearty risotto. Spend the afternoon browsing the artisan shops for handmade textiles and unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to the scenic Piazzo Cisterna for an aperitivo, enjoying local wines and small bites. For dinner, indulge in a multi-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, experiencing the exquisite flavors of Piedmont cuisine. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the city.
After breakfast, take a short drive to the Oasi Zegna, a stunning natural park with breathtaking mountain views. Start your hike on one of the scenic trails, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Bring along a picnic to enjoy amidst the spectacular landscapes along the way.
Continue exploring the trails, perhaps reaching the panoramic viewpoint at the top of the mountain, where you'll be rewarded with views stretching to the Alps. After your hike, visit the nearby Ecomuseum, which showcases the area's natural and cultural heritage. Enjoy a light lunch at a mountain hut, tasting local cheeses and cured meats.
Return to Biella and relax at a cozy wine bar, sampling regional wines and enjoying the vibrant local atmosphere. For dinner, try a rustic pizzeria that serves authentic wood-fired pizzas, perfect for recharging after a day outdoors. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, appreciating the town's charm at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-3 |
| 🍝Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🥛Milk (1 liter) | $1-1.5 |
| 🏠Apartment rent (1 bedroom in city centre, per month) | $700-1000 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center and easy access to mountains
- Excellent Piedmontese cuisine and wines
- Safe and walkable city with lots of nature nearby
- Good base for day trips to Turin, Milan, and the Alps
- Smaller nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Seasonal tourist crowds around Oropa Sanctuary
- Some attractions require a bit of travel to reach
- Limited direct international flights to Biella itself
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Biella
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic cathedral facade, charming arcades, and atmospheric morning light.
Elegant façades and quiet courtyards ideal for street photography.
Forest trails with panoramic views over the Biella valley, especially colorful in autumn.
Calm waters and reflections at sunrise or sunset provide classic landscape shots.
Expansive mountain landscapes, pine forests, and valley vistas.
Food in Biella
Biella Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pasta parcels stuffed with a meat mixture, typically served with butter and sage or a light ragù.
Must-Try!
Thin egg noodles tossed with slow-cooked meat ragù, a Piedmont staple.
Polenta topped with melted cheese and butter, a hearty traditional dish.
Beef braised in Barolo wine, a classic regional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties.
Casual bites, panini, and handmade gelato to enjoy while wandering the streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting (Buongiorno/Buonasera) is customary; handshake or light kiss among friends.
Modest attire is appreciated when visiting churches; remove hats and expect to cover shoulders.
Meal times are social; avoid loud, rushed meals; wait to start eating after everyone is served if in a group.
Safety
Tipping in Biella
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service charge is often included; rounding up the bill or a small extra tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is handy for small vendors and markets; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing mountain breezes; occasional thunderstorms—pack light layers and sunscreen.
Mild days with turning leaves; ideal for scenic hikes and harvest foods.
Cold with possible snow in the hills; many trails are quiet and atmospheric; dress warmly.
Mild and fresh, with flowers in bloom; great for outdoor photography and markets.
Biella at Night
Hiking in Biella
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with panoramic viewpoints over the Biella valley.
Extensive network from forest paths to alpine overlooks in Trivero.
Easy lakeside trails suitable for all ages.
Rolling valley trails linking villages and scenic alpine views.
Airports
How to reach Biella by plane.
Primary international gateway for Biella; about 70-100 km away; accessible by train or road.
Major international hub about 150-180 kilometers away; good flight options and rail connections.
City-focused airport about 180-200 kilometers away; convenient for short trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Italian families and professionals; many residents trace roots to textile traditions.
Visitors attracted by markets, nature, and Piedmont cuisine.
Some seasonal workers involved in tourism and agriculture in surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and matches often held in town stadiums.
Nearby Alpine areas offer winter sports including cross-country skiing and downhill skiing.
Popular for scenic road rides through the Biella valleys and surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Biella.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most trattorie offer vegetarian options such as tajarin with mushrooms or polenta with seasonal vegetables; many places can adapt dishes on request.