Living in Piedmont:
The region of six languages
Nestled in northwestern Italy, Piedmont impresses not only with its natural and cultural treasures but also with its linguistic diversity. Six languages shape daily life in this region—once, there were even eight—highlighting the intense exchange and cultural diversity of this region.
Italy > Piedmont
Near the borders of France and Switzerland, Piedmont covers an area of approximately 25,400 square kilometers and is home to over 4.2 million residents (as of 2022). This northern Italian region has made a name for itself not only through its stunning landscapes and rich historical heritage but is also increasingly attracting expatriates seeking its unique way of life.
A region of stunning landscape diversity
The landscape of Piedmont is characterized by a fascinating mix of towering mountains, picturesque valleys, and fertile plains. In the north and west, the Alps shield the region, while the Apennines in the south form a gentle natural border. The Langhe area, known for its outstanding wines and scenic rolling hills, is particularly popular among connoisseurs and those seeking peace and relaxation.
Nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers will find endless opportunities in Piedmont’s many nature reserves and national parks. Gran Paradiso National Park, one of Italy’s oldest and most renowned parks, boasts diverse flora and fauna, offering inviting trails for peaceful hikes.
Piedmont is not just a paradise for hikers—it’s also a perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The alpine ski resorts around Sestriere and Bardonecchia, often considered hidden gems for active expatriates, offer the perfect setting to experience the magic of an Italian winter.
The culture and history of Piedmont
Piedmont’s rich culture is a reflection of its long and fascinating history. The region has always been a melting pot of civilizations, with traces of Celtic and Roman heritage blending seamlessly with influences from France and Austria. This cultural diversity continues to shape Piedmont today, evident in its remarkable architecture and historical sites. Turin, the region’s capital, was even Italy’s first capital until 1865 and today boasts a wealth of historical and cultural attractions.
Turin’s highlights include the Palazzo Reale, the former residence of the Savoy family, and the world-famous Egyptian Museum, the largest of its kind outside Egypt. The “Mole Antonelliana”, the city’s landmark, is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also houses the fascinating National Film Museum.
Beyond Turin, Piedmont is home to numerous other cities that impress with their rich cultural heritage. The city of Alba, for example, is famous for its truffles and historic townscape. Asti captivates visitors with its medieval palaces and the tradition of the Palio di Asti, an annual horse race that enthralls the entire city. The small town of Biella, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Piedmontese life with its historic churches and picturesque old town.
Gastronomy and culinary delights in Piedmont
Piedmont is considered one of Italy’s top culinary destinations, renowned worldwide for its high-quality specialties. Nowhere else in Italy is regional cuisine so deeply intertwined with daily life as it is here. Piedmontese cuisine embraces simple yet exceptionally flavorful ingredients, making life in the region a true delight.
The region is particularly famous for its exquisite truffles, especially the renowned white truffle from Alba, which attracts gourmets from around the world each year. Cheese lovers will also find paradise in Piedmont, home to a wide variety of local cheeses, including castelmagno, a blue-veined cheese from the province of Cuneo.
Other culinary highlights include typical dishes such as agnolotti (stuffed pasta), vitello tonnato (cold veal with tuna sauce), and the rich bagna cauda sauce. However, Piedmont is best known for its wines: the wines from the Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera growing areas rank among Italy’s finest, making Piedmont a premier destination for wine lovers and connoisseurs.
Quality of life and lifestyle in Piedmont
People planning to move to Italy often appreciate the high quality of life that the country offers its residents. In this regard, Piedmont provides ideal conditions: a temperate climate, stunning landscapes, and a wealth of recreational opportunities. But it’s also the authenticity and tranquility of the smaller towns that attract many people seeking a lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
The area around the Langhe, Monferrato and Roero offers beautiful landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, which you can experience at first hand in the small villages where time seems to have stood still. With a well-developed infrastructure, excellent healthcare and a high standard of safety, Piedmont is an interesting option for anyone looking to start a new life in Italy.
Many smaller towns and villages in Piedmont are also ideal places to settle for expatriates seeking peace and proximity to nature without having to give up the conveniences of urban infrastructure. Particularly appealing are the numerous real estate opportunities, ranging from picturesque country houses and charming apartments in historic town centers to renovation-worthy villas—perfect conditions for making the dream of living in Italy a reality.
Hidden gems and leisure activities in Piedmont
Beyond its well-known attractions, Piedmont is also home to numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Rocche del Roero—a striking rock formation in the Roero area—offers a breathtaking outdoor experience. The “Sacri Monti” (Sacred Mountains), a collection of chapels and pilgrimage sites recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide an opportunity for spiritual exploration and cultural insight.
A true highlight is the “Via Francigena”, a historic pilgrimage route that winds through Piedmont, connecting picturesque landscapes and historic villages. For wine connoisseurs, a visit to the vineyards of the Langhe area is an absolute must. Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to discover the secrets of Piedmont’s winemaking tradition.
To sum up: embracing life in Piedmont
Piedmont combines high quality of life, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal destination not just for a visit, but also as a new place to call home. The region’s blend of culinary treasures, diverse recreational opportunities, and cultural depth attracts many people and inspires them.
Whether you prefer the bustling city of Turin or a quiet village in the mountains, in Piedmont you will find an attitude to life that cannot be put into words, but must be experienced. Moving to Italy could be the fulfillment of a dream for many people, and Piedmont could be just the place to make that dream come true.
Piedmont consists of seven provinces and the metropolitan city of Turin, which we would like to introduce to you here:
- Alessandria – Brief info with map available here: ALESSANDRIA
- Asti – Brief info with map available here: ASTI
- Biella – Brief info with map available here: BIELLA
- Cuneo – Brief info with map available here: CUNEO
- Novara – Brief info with map available here: NOVARA
- Turin – Brief info with map available here: TURIN
- Verbana Cusio Ossola – Brief info with map available here: VERBANA CUSIO OSSOLA
- Vercelli – Brief info with map available here: VERCELLI
Piedmont is a region in northern Italy that offers a mixture of impressive nature, rich history and culture as well as culinary delights. It is a popular destination for wine lovers, gourmets and nature lovers who want to experience Italy in all its facets.
