Asti isn’t just about sparkling wine and beautiful landscapes; it offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that make a visit truly memorable. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn how to make authentic pasta, a wine lover wanting to explore Barbaresco vineyards, or an adrenaline junkie ready to race go-karts, Asti has something for you. We’re especially fond of the hands-on pasta class near Asti for its stunning setting and authentic recipes, and the private wine tasting for its deep dive into local wines with a knowledgeable sommelier. These experiences give you a genuine taste of the region, blending local tradition with fun.
If you’re wondering which activity suits your style, this guide lays out the top options, highlighting what makes each stand out and who will enjoy them most. From culinary adventures to exciting racetrack sessions, here’s a look at the best tours and experiences in Asti.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a variety of tours and experiences including:
- An immersive pasta-making class near Asti, blending Piedmontese and Tuscan flavors (Fresh pasta with a view near Asti)
- A private wine tasting experience focused on Barbaresco wines, guided by a sommelier (Private Tasting Barbaresco Experience)
- Two go-karting sessions — one quick 15-minute challenge and another more competitive race with qualifying (Go-kart Asti, Go-Kart Asti Race)
Now, let’s dive into each experience in detail.
1. Fresh pasta with a view near Asti – Langhe, Roero, Monferrato
At number 1 on our list, this pasta-making experience combines culinary tradition with stunning scenery, making it a favorite for food lovers. Located just outside Asti, this class is not your average cooking lesson. You’ll work with a chef to prepare classic tajarin, ravioli del plin, and pici senesi, each representing different regional styles. What makes this class special is the opportunity to learn authentic techniques—including making two types of dough (with eggs for Piedmontese pasta and without eggs for Pici). The setting offers panoramic views, adding to the charm.
The class lasts around 4 hours and includes not only hands-on pasta preparation but also regional wine tasting and a chance to relax in a scenic environment. Chef Andrea leads the group in a friendly, accessible manner, making it suitable whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete beginner. Reviewers praise the authentic recipes, the delightful location, and the fun, engaging atmosphere. One reviewer called it “a true cooking experience, hands on, insightful and fun from beginning to end.”
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who love Italian food and want to learn regional techniques in a beautiful setting. It offers excellent value for the money and a memorable, tasty souvenir to take home.
2. Private Tasting Barbaresco Experience with Typical Products
Number 2 on our list is an intimate wine tasting experience led by a Sommelier. This tour on the Unesco-listed vineyards of Langhe and Monferrato immerses you in the world of Barbaresco wines, renowned for their quality and complexity. The visit includes a walk through vineyards, visits to cellars, and a look at the aging process, providing a behind-the-scenes look at wine production.
The highlight is the tasting session, where you’ll sample several wines paired with typical Piedmontese products. The guide, Christian, is praised for sharing clear, interesting stories about each wine, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Reviewers mention the excellent wines, friendly atmosphere, and how the guide’s explanations deepen their appreciation of the region’s winemaking traditions.
This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager for a personalized experience, offering great value at around $53 per person for two hours. It caters well to those wanting an authentic, relaxed exploration of Piedmont’s viniculture.
Bottom line: This private tour suits wine lovers who prefer a more intimate setting and comprehensive insight into Barbaresco wines, combined with local food pairings.
3. Go-kart Asti: 15-minute timed session for children aged 7 to 14
For a quick dose of adrenaline, number 3 is a 15-minute go-kart session designed for kids aged 7 to 14. The indoor track spans 500 meters over two levels, offering a fun and safe environment for children and beginners. This experience is straightforward: kids race against the clock, trying to set their best lap time.
The track’s design ensures that even those new to go-karting can have fun, with motorized karts that are easy to handle. Everyone gets a printout of their lap times and rankings, making it easy to see who was fastest. This is a perfect activity for families looking for a quick, exciting break from sightseeing.
While it’s a short session, reviews highlight how much fun kids have and how accessible the experience is. It’s a great way for younger travelers to burn off some energy in a controlled environment.
Bottom line: Ideal for families seeking a quick thrill, this indoor go-karting experience is beginner-friendly and guarantees some friendly competition.
4. Go-Kart Asti: Race with 5 minutes of qualifying + 15 laps of racing
Number 4 on our list is a more competitive go-kart race that adds an exciting qualifying round to determine starting positions. The track remains the same—an indoor, 500-meter course over two levels—but this experience is aimed at those who want more than just a quick run.
The process begins with a 5-minute qualifying session, where drivers try to post their best lap times. Afterward, everyone races 15 laps in a head-to-head challenge, with the final rankings based on total race time. The race environment is lively, with the possibility to challenge friends or family, and everyone gets a printout of their lap history and final standings.
With a cost of about $41 for a 20-minute session, it offers great value for a competitive experience. Reviewers note the friendly staff and the thrill of racing in an indoor setting, suitable for all skill levels.
Bottom line: This is best for those who want a competitive edge and enjoy a more immersive racing experience. It’s perfect for groups wanting a fun, energetic activity.
How to Choose Your Asti Adventure
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and trip priorities. If authentic culinary skills appeal, the pasta class (Fresh pasta with a view) offers a meaningful hands-on experience. For wine aficionados, the private Barbaresco tasting (Private Tasting Barbaresco) provides a personalized, in-depth look at local wines.
Families or groups looking for a quick thrill might opt for the 15-minute go-kart session (Go-kart Asti), while those seeking a more competitive challenge should try the race experience (Go-Kart Race). Budget, time, and activity level are key factors—think about whether you’d prefer a relaxed, educational experience or an adrenaline-packed race.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons. Check availability online and consider combining a couple of experiences if your schedule allows.
Final Thoughts
Asti offers a diverse range of tours and experiences that go beyond just tasting wine or walking its streets. From cooking classes in a beautiful setting to personalized wine tastings and exciting go-kart races, there’s something to suit every interest. If you’re a food lover, the pasta-making class is a standout. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the in-depth Barbaresco tasting, and families or thrill-seekers can enjoy the indoor go-kart options.
For a well-rounded visit, consider combining a culinary experience with a wine tasting or a race for some fun and flavor. Whatever you choose, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable activities. Happy exploring!