What to see in Alba, the capital of the white truffle

What image first springs to mind when thinking of Alba? Perhaps the prized white truffle shaved over traditional dishes, or the warm, rolling colours of the Langhe hills that surround the town.

But Alba is not only about flavours and aromas: it is a city of timeless charm, with a historic centre rich in medieval heritage, elegant squares and churches that bear witness to centuries of history. One might ask: can a single city offer the authentic experience of a medieval village, a gastronomic capital and a gateway to UNESCO-listed landscapes? The answer is yes, and that is precisely what makes Alba such a unique destination.

Where Alba is and how to get there

Alba lies in Piedmont, at the heart of the Langhe in the province of Cuneo, and is widely regarded as the “capital of the white truffle.”

The town is easily accessible by car via the A33 Asti–Cuneo motorway (Alba exit) or along the A6 Turin–Savona with the Marene exit. Travellers arriving by train can alight at Alba station, which offers convenient connections to Turin and Asti. For those coming from further afield, the closest airports are Turin Caselle (around 90 km) and Cuneo Levaldigi (around 45 km), both with shuttle services and car hire facilities.

What to see in the historic centre of Alba

Strolling through Alba’s historic centre means wandering among narrow lanes, medieval towers and squares that appear almost untouched by time. The city is often referred to as “the city of a hundred towers”. Although only a handful remain today, they are enough to reveal its medieval origins.

The beating heart of local life is Piazza Risorgimento, better known as Piazza Duomo, where the Cathedral of San Lorenzo stands. This Gothic-style church preserves remarkable works of art inside, including frescoes and altarpieces that reflect the depth of local devotion.

What makes the centre truly distinctive is its layering of history: beneath today’s streets and squares lies the so-called “Underground Alba”, which can be explored on guided tours leading through Roman and medieval remains. It is an experience that offers a different and fascinating perspective, ideal for those wishing to explore the connection between past and present. Alongside the cathedral, the Church of San Domenico and the Church of San Giovanni Battista are also worth visiting, blending architectural beauty with sacred art.

The historic centre of Alba is not simply a place to admire, but an open-air stage where history and daily life merge in perfect harmony.

The most picturesque squares and streets of Alba

Alba is a city best discovered step by step, with every corner revealing a charming view. Via Vittorio Emanuele II, known to locals as “Via Maestra”, is the city’s main thoroughfare: lined with shops, wine bars and historic cafés, it serves as a meeting point for both residents and visitors. It is easy to be tempted here by the elegant shop windows displaying fine wines, or by the patisseries filling the air with the scent of hazelnuts, the area’s most iconic ingredient.

Another landmark is Piazza Savona, lively with bars and restaurants and perfect for a convivial pause. Equally captivating is Piazza Michele Ferrero, named after the founder of the world-renowned confectionery company born in Alba, which continues to embody excellence on the global stage. Each square reflects a different side of the city: from the institutional solemnity of its churches, to the vibrant commercial life of its markets, to the relaxed atmosphere of its open-air terraces.

The streets of the historic centre are especially animated during festivals, when cultural events and food celebrations draw visitors from across the globe. Alba is therefore not simply a place to see, but a place to experience in full, with its warm rhythm and charm that never fail to engage.

The white truffle of Alba and its International Fair

It is impossible to speak of Alba without mentioning its most celebrated treasure: the white truffle. This prized underground fungus, rare and instantly recognisable for its distinctive aroma, has made the town a global capital of gastronomy. Each year, from October to November, Alba hosts the International White Truffle Fair, an event that draws Michelin-starred chefs, gourmet enthusiasts and curious visitors from across the world. Far more than a marketplace, the fair is a celebration of local culture, featuring auctions, tastings and performances all centred on this extraordinary delicacy.

During the festival, the historic centre comes alive with a symphony of scents and flavours. Alongside truffles, visitors can sample renowned Langhe wines, traditional cheeses and artisanal cured meats. For those seeking a truly authentic experience, guided excursions with the trifolao and their dogs (the real protagonists of the truffle hunt) offer a glimpse into the woods where these rare fungi are found.

Alba thus becomes a meeting place where tradition, nature and haute cuisine converge. Little wonder the white truffle is regarded as a symbol of culinary luxury, able to elevate even a simple plate of pasta into an unforgettable dining experience.

Alba and the Langhe: an inseparable bond with its territory

Alba owes its identity to the surrounding landscape of the Langhe, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its winegrowing hillsides. The gently rolling slopes, dotted with orderly vineyards and hilltop villages, form a panorama unlike any other in Italy. For anyone visiting Alba, setting aside time to discover the surrounding countryside is almost essential. Within a short distance lie Barolo, La Morra and Barbaresco, towns renowned for wines that have placed Piedmont at the forefront of global winemaking.

The Langhe hills promise not only memorable tastings, but also experiences immersed in nature: walks through the vineyards, cycling along scenic routes, and visits to historic cellars. The bond between Alba and the Langhe is profound: the city is the natural gateway to a region where culture, gastronomy and landscape come together in harmony. Unsurprisingly, many travellers choose Alba as their base for a wider journey that brings together cultural discovery with food and wine exploration.

Museums and culture: what to see and do in Alba

While Alba is best known for its truffles and fine wines, the city also boasts a wealth of cultural attractions. The Federico Eusebio Civic Museum, located in the historic centre, preserves archaeological, natural history and historical collections, with artefacts spanning from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. It is an excellent place to explore the evolution of the city and its surrounding territory.

Another highlight is the Ferrero Foundation, which hosts temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art with an international profile. Established by the Ferrero family, this cultural centre symbolises Alba’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. Alongside its museums, the city offers a lively calendar of cultural events and festivals, from concerts and theatre performances to literary gatherings, all testifying to its vibrant character. In short, Alba is not only a gastronomic destination but also a cultural hub well worth exploring.

Cost of living in Alba

As of August 2025, buying a home in Alba costs on average €2,162 per square metre. Rental prices, meanwhile, average €9.44 per square metre.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

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Curiosities

Events

Parks and Nature

Travel

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