Things To Do
in Cuneo
Cuneo is a picturesque Piedmontese city set at the foot of the Alps, acting as a warm gateway to both the Langhe wine region and the surrounding hills. Its elegant centro storico features arcaded streets, red-tiled façades, and a lively market life along the Stura river. The city blends a refined cultural scene with down-to-earth trattorias and friendly locals.
From here, easy day trips to vineyard towns, medieval villages, and alpine viewpoints are all part of the experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the charming streets of Cuneo's historic center, admiring the well-preserved architecture and vibrant façades. Stop by the impressive Piazza Galimberti, where local vendors often set up, offering fresh produce and unique crafts. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring a traditional Italian pastry alongside your espresso.
Spend the afternoon visiting the Cuneo Cathedral, known for its stunning Baroque interior and beautiful stained glass windows. Afterward, explore the Museo Diocesano, where you can learn about the region's rich religious history through its fascinating exhibits. Conclude your cultural experience with a stroll through the charming Via Roma, where boutique shops and artisan crafts beckon.
As dusk falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local trattoria, sampling regional specialties like agnolotti and local wines. Post-meal, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Stura River, enjoying the soft evening breeze and the glow of the city lights. Cap off your evening with a gelato from one of the many gelaterias, a sweet treat to end a perfect day.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the beautiful hills surrounding Cuneo. Rent a bike or join a guided tour to explore the lush landscapes and picturesque vineyards that characterize the region. Feel the invigorating mountain air as you pedal through charming hamlets and olive groves, soaking in the breathtaking views.
Stop for lunch at a rustic osteria nestled among the hills, where you can taste local cheeses and cured meats paired with a glass of Barolo. Continue your exploration with a visit to the historic Castello di Rocca de Baldi, where you can wander through its ancient halls and enjoy panoramic views of the valley below. Spend some time hiking the trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and scenic vistas, immersing yourself in nature.
Return to Cuneo and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a well-reviewed restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach. Enjoy a leisurely meal featuring seasonal ingredients, accompanied by lively conversation with fellow diners. Conclude your evening by attending a local event or music performance, experiencing the vibrant culture of Cuneo.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ride | $2-3 per ride |
| 🧺Groceries (basic groceries) | $40-70 per week |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary scene and wine region nearby
- Compact, walkable historic center
- Easy access to Langhe, Alps, and year-round day trips
- Good value for a Piedmontese city
- Nightlife is quieter than in big cities
- Limited direct international flights to Cuneo; better connections via Turin or Milan
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due." - I would like a table for two.
- "Consiglia un ristorante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Cuneo
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square framed by elegant arcades and bustling activity, a classic Piedmontese cityscape.
13th-century cathedral with a striking façade and inviting interiors, great for architectural photography.
Covered passages with shops and ambient light filtered through arches, ideal for street photography.
River reflections and mountain silhouettes create tranquil landscape shots.
Food in Cuneo
Cuneo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Piedmontese stuffed pasta, usually filled with meat and served with butter, sage, or a light sauce.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised beef cooked in Barolo wine, often served with polenta or mashed potatoes.
Fine egg pasta ribbons topped with shaved white truffle when in season.
Assorted fried meats and vegetables, typically shared as an indulgent starter or light main.
A distinctive blue cheese from nearby valleys, enjoyed with honey, walnuts, or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, bread, and regional specialties.
Seasonal stalls around the historic center offering focaccia, pastries, and simple street bites.
Occasional fairs highlighting truffles, hazelnuts, and local wines from the Langhe and surrounding hills.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with buongiorno or Ciao in casual settings; say grazie and preface requests with per favore. In churches and formal spaces, dress modestly and speak softly.
Respect lines in shops and markets; avoid talking loudly on the phone in restaurants; meals are social occasions and may be leisurely.
Safety
Tipping in Cuneo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional in Italy; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments; many places also take cash, especially for smaller purchases or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with occasional showers; perfect for walking tours and outdoor markets as flowers bloom.
Warm days with mountain breezes; expect occasional thunderstorms. Stay hydrated and enjoy al fresco dining.
Harvest season in full swing; colorful hills, truffle and hazelnut fairs, and wine-tasting opportunities.
Cold with the possibility of snow in the surrounding Alps; great for nearby skiing and festive markets.
Cuneo at Night
Hiking in Cuneo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested valley trails with river views and alpine landscapes suitable for day hikes.
Gentle to moderate ridge and vineyard trails with panoramic valley views.
Airports
How to reach Cuneo by plane.
Small regional airport 20-40 minutes from the city center with connections to Turin and Milan; convenient for short trips.
Major hub about 1.5-2 hours by car or train; broad international connections.
Large international airport about 2.5-3 hours away by rail or road; many onward travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time families and a steady stream of visitors; age distribution skews toward an aging population with vibrant younger communities in town centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong appeal due to proximity to the Alps and Limone Piemonte.
Local matches and casual play reflect the region’s passion for the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cuneo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus offer vegetable-focused antipasti, risotti, and pasta. When needed, ask for vegetable sides or pasta with tomato sauces; consider dishes that use seasonal greens and mushrooms.