Things To Do
in Savigliano
Savigliano is a charming Piedmontese town on the plain near the Alps, in the province of Cuneo. Its compact historic center reveals medieval streets, baroque churches, and a warm, walkable atmosphere. It serves as a convenient base for day trips to the Langhe and Monferrato wine country as well as scenic river and hill trails.
Local cuisine features Piedmont classics such as agnolotti, bagna cauda, and brasato al Barolo, enjoyed in family trattorie and lively markets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Savigliano and check into your charming accommodation, where you can experience the warmth of Italian hospitality. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets to absorb the quaint atmosphere of this historic town. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and espressos.
Explore the beautiful historic center, visiting the grand Parish Church of San Giovanni and the elegant Palazzo Comunale. Stop for lunch at a rustic trattoria to sample local Piedmont dishes like agnolotti or vitello tonnato. Afterward, wander through the local markets, finding unique artisan crafts and fresh produce.
As the sun sets, dine at a local osteria, where you can indulge in regional wines and homemade delicacies. Join the locals at a nearby piazza for an evening chat or a game of bocce, soaking up the lively ambiance. End the night with a leisurely gelato walk through town.
After breakfast, head to the Museo della Frutta, where you can discover the history of fruit cultivation in the region. Adjacent to the museum, visit the neighboring gardens for a peaceful morning immersed in nature. Take time to stroll through the town’s cobblestone streets, admiring the intricate architecture.
Grab lunch at an enoteca, pairing regional wines with local cheeses and charcuterie. Spend the afternoon exploring the annual local artisan fair, where you can find handcrafted goods and enjoy live music performances. Don't miss the chance to interact with local artists and artisans showcasing their skills.
For a memorable dinner, experience a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard, learning about the winemaking process from the experts. Feast on a farm-to-table dinner that highlights seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes. Enjoy a relaxed evening walk under the stars, reflecting on the day’s vibrant experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🛏Budget hotel or guesthouse | $60-110 |
| 🧀Groceries (basic groceries for a week) | $25-70 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one-way) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Piedmont experience with easy access to wine country
- Compact, walkable historic center with rich culture
- Excellent local cuisine and fresh market ingredients
- Good day-trip options to Langhe and nearby valleys
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with larger cities
- Limited public transport within the town itself; a car helps for surrounding areas
- Less English-language signage in some shops; some staff may speak limited English
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dove si trova…?" - Where is…?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Savigliano
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming square framed by arcades and churches, perfect for sunset photos and people-watching.
Narrow medieval lanes and the facades of local churches offer textures and light for street photography.
A vantage point for river reflections and quiet water shots, especially at dawn or dusk.
Rolling countryside scenes with vineyards and distant Alpine silhouettes for expansive landscape shots.
Food in Savigliano
Savigliano Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small stuffed pasta pockets served with a meat-based or plain butter-sage sauce; a Piedmont staple found in most trattorie.
Must-Try!
Very thin egg pasta topped with a slow-simmered ragù, often enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
A warm garlic anchovy dip served with raw vegetables; a traditional sharing dish, especially in colder months.
Slow-braised beef in Barolo wine, often accompanied by polenta or mashed potatoes.
Thinly sliced cold veal with a creamy tuna sauce, a classic Piedmontese antipasto.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market where locals buy cheese, cured meats, vegetables, bread, and local specialties.
Seasonal fairs with fritti, panini, and regional snacks in pleasant outdoor settings.
In-market vendors offer fresh robiola, toma, salumi, and local gianduja or hazelnut sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common greetings are 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera'; kiss on both cheeks is typical among friends, not strangers.
Dress modestly for religious sites; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Wait for others to be seated and for all to be served before starting; tasting and sharing dishes is common.
Safety
Tipping in Savigliano
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or a small tip for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; keep some cash for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make walking pleasant; outdoor markets return with fresh produce and flowers.
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; carry water, and enjoy late-afternoon or early-evening strolls.
Harvest season brings chestnut fairs and wine events; the countryside glows with vineyard colors.
Cool to cold weather with foggy days possible; cozy trattorie and festive markets provide warmth and flavor.
Savigliano at Night
Hiking in Savigliano
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails with river views and forested sections, suitable for all ages.
Scenic routes through vineyards and perched villages with panoramic views of the countryside.
More challenging day hikes with alpine scenery, best with proper gear and planning.
Airports
How to reach Savigliano by plane.
Major international gateway about 70 km northwest; frequent domestic connections and good rail/road links to the region.
Closest regional airport about 50-60 km southeast; seasonal international and domestic flights with straightforward road connections to Savigliano.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aging population in some districts with generations of families in the area; strong sense of local culture and tradition.
Active in service, education, and local business sectors; contribute to a vibrant community feel.
A small but growing presence in the local economy, particularly in agriculture and hospitality sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed; local clubs and amateur leagues provide weekend fixtures and community events.
Popular among locals and visitors alike; scenic routes through vineyards and rolling hills are common for day trips.
Nearby hills and river valleys offer a range of easy to moderate trails suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savigliano.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable sides, grilled vegetables, and fresh pasta without meat. Italian menus often offer risottos and vegetables as main courses.
Gluten-free pasta and bread options are increasingly common; confirm cross-contamination practices at smaller venues, and ask for simple sauces.