Piedmont is a treasure trove for travelers who want more than just pretty scenery. Its diverse landscapes, from lakes to mountains, combined with rich cultural experiences, make it a perfect destination for a variety of tours. Whether you’re craving a relaxing cruise on Lake Maggiore, exploring historic castles, tasting world-class wines, or hiking in the Alps, Piedmont offers something for all. We especially love the Lake Maggiore Gourmet experience for its seamless blend of scenic beauty and delicious regional food. Plus, the Balme: day trip to the Green Lakes is perfect for adventure seekers who want to escape into the mountains.
If you’re planning a trip, it helps to know what options fit your style and interests. Below is a quick overview of the top tours, from lakeside food adventures to castle explorations and wine tastings, to help you decide what suits you best.
1. Lake Maggiore Gourmet: Gardens, Lake Cruise, & Food Tasting
At number one, the Lake Maggiore Gourmet experience offers a full day of discovery on Italy’s second-largest lake. You start with a hop-on hop-off ferry ticket that allows you to explore at your own pace, hopping between charming stops like Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori. The highlight is a visit to the Villa Taranto botanical gardens, renowned for their stunning flower displays and peaceful pathways. The gardens alone are worth the trip, especially during spring or early summer when blooms are at their peak.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of scenic lake cruising and culinary tastings. You’ll enjoy regional cheeses, cold cuts, and wines during a dedicated food stop in Intra. The reviews sing praises for its smooth organization and the quality of the food and scenery. One traveler said, “The gardens were beautiful, and the food tasting was a real treat.” The flexible hop-on hop-off format allows you to tailor your day, making it ideal for those who value both relaxation and discovery.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Lake Maggiore’s natural beauty and culinary delights, perfect for food lovers and scenery seekers alike.
2. Lagnasco: Castles of the Marchesi Tapparelli D’Azeglio
At number two, the Castles of the Marchesi Tapparelli D’Azeglio tour is a short but fascinating look into medieval architecture and aristocratic history. For only $9 per person, you get a 50-minute exploration of three castles that date back to the 1100s. The tour dives into the history of the noble family and the evolution of the castles, which are still remarkably well-preserved.
This experience is perfect if you’re interested in architecture, local stories, or medieval Italy. The guide provides insights into the artistic and structural changes over the centuries, giving you a sense of how these fortresses transitioned from military strongholds to symbols of nobility. Reviews are limited but enthusiastic, noting how well-maintained and atmospheric the castles are.
Bottom line: Best suited for history buffs or those with a curiosity about medieval architecture, this quick tour offers a memorable glimpse into Piedmont’s noble past without breaking the bank.
3. Lake Maggiore Gardens: Botanical Gardens Gourmet Food Cruise
Number three is another standout from Lake Maggiore, the Gardens and Gourmet Food Cruise. This tour combines a hop-on hop-off ferry with visits to Villa Taranto and Isola Madre, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Italy, famous for its rare plants and colorful displays.
The trip is complemented by a gourmet tasting of regional cheeses, wines, and cold cuts aboard the ferry, making it perfect for those who want both scenery and flavor. The food tasting experience is carefully curated, with “aperitivo La Casera da Eros” adding a local touch. Guests appreciate the flexibility of the ferry system and the quality of the botanical gardens, which are described as “incredible and peaceful,” especially in spring.
This experience offers a great balance of nature, culture, and culinary delights, ideal for culture-minded travelers who enjoy a fine meal amid beautiful surroundings.
Bottom line: A great pick for lovers of gardens, good food, and relaxing boat rides, especially during the warmer months.
4. Wine Tasting in the Heart of Monferrato – Classic
Number four on our list is the Wine Tasting in Monferrato. For around $28, this one-hour experience brings you inside a modern winery and historic cellars called “Infernot,” dug out 200 years ago. The focus is on three local wines, which are carefully explained by the host, who’s eager to share his love for the region.
What makes this experience stand out is its authenticity. The guide emphasizes the UNESCO World Heritage designation of Monferrato and the region’s reputation for high-quality wines. Visitors get a glimpse into traditional wine-making techniques and the chance to taste wines that reflect the area’s unique terroir. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience engaging, especially for those curious about wine production.
While only an hour long, this tour offers a deep dive into Piedmont’s famed wine culture for an affordable price. It’s well-suited for wine novices or enthusiasts looking for a relaxed, informative experience.
Bottom line: If you want an authentic taste of Piedmont wine culture without a lengthy commitment, this tour offers great value and insight.
5. Lake Maggiore Art and Gardens
Number five, the Lake Maggiore Art and Gardens tour, combines visits to Villa Taranto and the Museo del Paesaggio with boat rides across the lake. This day-long experience is tailored for those who want a mix of visual arts, nature, and local culture.
You’ll start with the botanical gardens, renowned for their plant collections, then move to the Museo del Paesaggio, which showcases local landscape art. The ferry links these sites, providing scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. The tour includes regional food and wine tastings, with an aperitif at Vincent Bistrò to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Guests appreciate that this tour balances art, nature, and culinary experiences, making it suitable for culture lovers who also enjoy leisurely boat rides. The itineraries are flexible, and reviews note the “beautiful gardens and peaceful lakeside views,” perfect for a relaxing day.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in art, gardens, and relaxing around Lake Maggiore, this tour combines multiple interests into one day.
6. Balme: Day Trip to the Green Lakes with a Local Guide
Number six is a full 6-hour hiking adventure to the colorful alpine lakes of Balme, led by a local guide. The tour climbs through a wild mountain valley, passing ancient stone pastures and offering expansive views of the high peaks. It’s suited for active travelers who want to incorporate outdoor activity into their trip.
The itinerary includes about three hours of hiking, with a scenic lunch break, followed by additional short hikes and a visit to the lakes. Participants will enjoy the peace and quiet of a place far from roads and crowds. The tour promises plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to experience authentic mountain scenery.
Throughout the hike, travelers encounter ancient mountain structures and pristine nature, making this a memorable outdoor excursion. The tour is best for physically fit visitors who don’t mind a bit of effort for incredible views and untouched landscapes.
Bottom line: This trip is ideal for hiking enthusiasts seeking an immersive mountain experience and a break from the more touristy sights.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these diverse options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. For a leisurely day of lakeside sightseeing and culinary delights, Lake Maggiore Gourmet or the Gardens and Food Cruise are top choices. If history or architecture piques your curiosity, the Castles of the Marchesi Tapparelli D’Azeglio provides a quick, engaging glimpse.
Wine lovers should consider the Monferrato wine tasting, while those craving outdoor adventure will find the Balme mountain lakes rewarding. For a mix of art, gardens, and lakeside relaxing, the Lake Maggiore Art and Gardens offers a comprehensive experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the lakes cruises and the mountain hikes. Consider your travel style—whether that’s relaxed foodie exploration, cultural discovery, or outdoor activity—and pick the experience that best matches your itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Piedmont’s tours cover a wide range of interests, from scenic lake cruises and historic castles to wine tastings and mountain hikes. If you’re looking for a relaxing day with culinary highlights, the Lake Maggiore Gourmet stands out. For a quick historical fix, the Castles of the Marchesi Tapparelli D’Azeglio offers a compact but memorable journey into medieval times.
For those who want varied scenery, art, and a leisurely pace, the Lake Maggiore Art and Gardens is ideal. Outdoor enthusiasts will find the Balme mountain lakes a rewarding challenge.
No matter your preferences, these tours make it easy to enjoy Piedmont’s rich landscape and culture. We recommend booking ahead, especially in high season, so you don’t miss out on these authentic experiences that bring the region to life.