Discover the refined elegance of Piemonte and the dramatic landscapes of the Valle d’Aosta on this carefully curated small group tour. From the royal city of Turin to the vineyard-covered hills of the Langhe, from Roman ruins beneath Alpine peaks to the quiet beauty of Lake Maggiore, this journey explores one of Northern Italy’s most culturally rich and historically significant regions.
Over 14 days, we stay in just four carefully chosen bases: Turin, the Langhe, Aosta and Lake Maggiore. This gives you time to settle in, wander, and properly absorb each place without constant packing and unpacking.
Tour Dates and Prices
8 – 21 October 2026
AUD 10, 170 per person (double/twin-share)
AUD 12, 130 per person (solo traveller)
Tour Highlights
– Explore Turin, the first capital of unified Italy and the seat of the House of Savoy
– Visit the extraordinary Sacra di San Michele overlooking the Susa Valley
– Stay in the heart of the Langhe wine region, home of Barolo and Barbaresco
– Meet local producers of hazelnuts, cheese and wine
– Discover Roman Aosta, often called the “Rome of the Alps”
– Walk in Gran Paradiso National Park beneath towering Alpine peaks
– Visit Renaissance castles and ancient Roman bridges
– Cruise to the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore
– Enjoy a relaxed pace with only four hotel bases in 14 days
Enquire now about our Piemonte Tour
If you would like to check availability or ask any questions about this tour, please contact us via our Contact Us form. We are very happy to discuss the itinerary and help you decide whether this journey through Piemonte and the Valle d’Aosta is right for you.
14-Day Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta Itinerary
Days 1 – 3 Turin
We begin in Turin, the elegant former capital of the Savoy dynasty and the first capital of unified Italy. After arriving and settling in, we gather for a welcome aperitivo and dinner together. The following day, with an expert local guide, we explore the Palazzo Reale and walk through Turin’s grand piazze and arcaded streets, learning about the city’s royal past and refined café culture. We also travel into the Susa Valley to visit the extraordinary Sacra di San Michele, dramatically perched above the landscape and steeped in legend. Across these days there is also time for independent exploration, whether that means visiting the Egyptian Museum, the Mole Antonelliana, or simply enjoying Turin at your own pace.
Days 4 -7 In the Langhe Countryside
Leaving Turin behind, we travel into the vineyard-covered hills of the Langhe, stopping in Alba before settling into our base in La Morra. These days focus on the agricultural traditions that define this region. We visit a family-run hazelnut producer to learn about cultivation and enjoy a farm-based lunch, then spend time with an artisan cheesemaker renowned for its local varieties. A visit to a respected winery near Serralunga d’Alba introduces us to the wines that have made the Langhe internationally famous, including Barolo. Between visits, there is time to appreciate the rolling landscapes and small hilltop towns that make this area so distinctive.
Days 8 – 10 Aosta and Alpine Scenery
We journey north, pausing to visit the magnificent Venaria Reale before continuing into the Alpine scenery of the Valle d’Aosta. From our base in Aosta, often called the “Rome of the Alps,” we explore remarkably preserved Roman ruins and walk through the historic centre with a local guide. One day is dedicated to the natural beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park, travelling along the Cogne Valley and walking towards the waterfalls at Lillaz, with opportunities to appreciate the region’s dramatic mountain setting. Time is also set aside to enjoy Aosta’s relaxed atmosphere independently.
Days 11 – 14 Lake Maggiore
Travelling from the Alps to the lakes, we stop at the Renaissance Castle of Issogne and the ancient Roman bridge at Pont Saint Martin before arriving on Lake Maggiore. From our lakeside base in Intra, we explore the quieter beauty of Lake Orta, wandering Orta San Giulio and walking to the Sacro Monte for sweeping views. We venture into the surrounding mountains and see the spectacular Toce Waterfalls. Our final full day is spent discovering the Borromean Islands by private boat, including the palace and gardens of Isola Bella and the fishing village atmosphere of Isola dei Pescatori. The tour concludes with a group transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport.
Accommodation
Throughout this journey through Piemonte and the Valle d’Aosta, we stay in carefully selected, centrally located hotels that allow you to settle in and properly experience each destination. As with all Italian Tours departures, we prioritise location, comfort and character, ensuring you are well positioned to explore on foot and enjoy your surroundings without unnecessary travel.
In Turin, we stay at the NH Santo Stefano, a well-located hotel in the historic centre, just steps from the Duomo and within easy walking distance of the Palazzo Reale and the city’s elegant piazze and arcades.
In the Langhe, the Boutique Hotel Corte Gondina in La Morra is our base. This small, family-run hotel is located in one of the region’s most picturesque hilltop towns, surrounded by vineyards and close to the villages and wineries of the Barolo area.
In Aosta, we stay at the Hotel Duca d’Aosta, centrally positioned in the historic heart of town. From here, we can step straight out into the Roman streets and alpine atmosphere that define the Valle d’Aosta.
On Lake Maggiore, we stay at Hotel Ancora in Intra, directly on the lakeside promenade. Its position allows easy access to ferries, cafés and lakeside walks, providing a relaxed setting for the final days of the tour.
Occasionally, hotels may be substituted for operational reasons; however, any replacement will always be of a similar standard and in a comparable location.
What’s Included?
– A dedicated Italian Tours tour leader for the duration of the tour
– 13 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected hotels
– Breakfast daily
– Five lunches and five dinners, with wine or a non-alcoholic alternative included
– All land travel within Italy in a private, air-conditioned mini-coach
– Entry fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary
– Expert local guides where specified
– Private boat excursion to the Borromean Islands
– Group transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport on the final morning
What’s not Included?
– International airfares
– Travel insurance (compulsory)
– Airport transfers prior to Day 1
– Meals not specified in the itinerary
– Personal expenses such as shopping and activities in your free time
Why travel to Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta with Italian Tours?
Piemonte is one of Northern Italy’s most sophisticated yet least tourist-driven regions. It offers refined food and wine culture, grand history and dramatic Alpine landscapes without the crowds. Travelling here lets you experience Italy in a more authentic, unhurried way.
Our small group format, carefully chosen bases and balanced itinerary give you both expert insight and time to wander independently. It is a region of depth and elegance, best explored at a pace that allows you to properly absorb it.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How physically demanding is this tour?
You should be comfortable on your feet for up to three hours at a time, with breaks. There are cobblestones in Turin and Aosta, and some gentle alpine walking in the Valle d’Aosta, including uneven paths. A reasonable level of mobility and balance is required.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. Solo travellers are very welcome. The solo price provides a double room for your own use for the duration of the tour.
What is the weather like in October?
October in Piemonte and the Valle d’Aosta is crisp and fresh, with daytime temperatures generally between 18°C and 22°C, and cooler evenings in the mountains. Layered clothing and a light waterproof jacket are recommended.
Do I need to arrange my own flights?
Yes. International airfares are not included. The tour concludes with a group transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport on the final morning.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory for all guests travelling with Italian Tours.
Other Small group tours to Italy
If the Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta journey does not quite suit you, you may be interested in some of our other small group tours to Italy. Our Puglia tour explores southern Italy’s landscapes and architecture at a similar time of year, Emilia Romagna offers a quieter region rich in culinary tradition and elegant cities, and our Italian Lakes tour combines lake scenery with alpine backdrops in Northern Italy.
13 days
September – October 2026
Parma, Bologna, Romagna Hills & Ravenna
Explore one of Italy’s most food-loving regions, known for its historic towns, culinary traditions and everyday Italian life. From Bologna and Parma to quieter towns and countryside, this tour offers a rich introduction to central-northern Italy.
15 days
April, May, September and October 2026
Lecce – Valle D’Itria – Gargano – Polignano
Explore the Baroque beauty of Lecce, the whitewashed hilltowns of the Valle d’Itria and the dramatic coastline of Polignano a Mare. Enjoy boutique stays, regional food and wine, and a relaxed journey through Italy’s sunny south.
9 days
May and September 2026
Lake Maggiore and Lake Como
Experience the elegance of northern Italy on a relaxed small-group journey to Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Explore historic villas and lakeside towns, enjoy scenic drives, and unwind amid some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes.
What our clients say about travelling with Italian Tours
“The tour was absolutely fantastic, and all that it is cracked up to be on your website. We were amazed at the beauty of Puglia and were stunned by the local food. The accommodation was first-rate. The group size is perfect for the sort of tour that you offer.
Our guide, Marco, …was greatly appreciated for his care and sense of humour. He introduced us to many Pugliese dishes and especially to Café Leccese, which became a great hit with the whole group. We are now making it at home!!
Paul and Sue, Puglia, The Road Less Travelled Tour September 2023
Accommodation
We use boutique and character-filled properties throughout the tour, and as is typical with this style of accommodation, room layouts and features can vary. All rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, though they may differ slightly in size, outlook and configuration. Once you enquire about your preferred departure, we will confirm the specific hotels for your dates.
Rome
In Rome, we stay at the centrally located Hotel Nazionale on Piazza Montecitorio. This elegant and historic property offers easy access to many of the city’s landmarks and provides a comfortable base for the first days of the tour.
Florence
In Florence, we stay at one of two centrally located boutique hotels, such as Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco or Hotel de la Ville. Both offer warm hospitality and an excellent position within walking distance of major museums, gardens and the city’s historic streets.
Verona
In Verona, our base is the historic Hotel Colomba d’Oro. Situated near the Roman Arena, this refined hotel combines classical charm with modern comfort, making it an ideal location for exploring the city and the surrounding villas and gardens.
Lake Como
For the final stage of the tour, we stay in Bellagio at the Hotel Florence. With its prime waterfront position and elegant rooms, it provides a serene and picturesque setting as you explore the iconic gardens of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore.
What’s included?
– Fourteen nights in boutique, centrally located hotels
– Breakfast daily
– Selected lunches and dinners featuring regional cuisine and wine
– All guided visits, garden entries and cultural experiences
– Professional tour leader throughout
– Comfortable private transport
– Vineyard tour and tasting
What’s not included?
– International airfares
– Travel insurance
– Meals not listed in the itinerary
– Optional activities during free time
– Personal expenses
Why visit Italy’s gardens with Italian Tours?
Our Great Gardens of Italy tour is one of our longest-running and most popular itineraries, refined over more than a decade. Travelling in a small group allows us to visit gardens, producers and restaurants not suitable for larger tours, and our long relationships with garden owners give guests access to private estates and experiences rarely available to the public.
As an Australian-owned company with strong ties to Italy, we understand how our guests like to travel. We choose centrally located boutique accommodation, work with knowledgeable local guides and pace the days carefully so you can enjoy both expert-led visits and time to explore at your own rhythm.
Ideal for travellers who appreciate …
This tour suits travellers who enjoy small-group journeys, comfortable boutique accommodation and exploring Italy through its gardens and beautiful landscapes. It is particularly appealing to guests in the over-50 age group who have an interest in garden design, cultural history and experiencing Italy at a relaxed pace. Mobility is important, as many of the gardens and historic centres we visit include uneven paths, steps or gentle slopes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many people are in the group?
We travel with a maximum of 12 guests. This small group size keeps the experience relaxed and personal and allows us to visit gardens and historic sites that are not suitable for larger groups.
What level of mobility is required?
This is our most active tour. Many of the gardens are large and spread across uneven paths, slopes and steps, and days often involve extended periods of walking or standing. Guests need to be confident on their feet and able to walk longer distances at a comfortable pace. If you have any concerns about your mobility, please contact us, and we can provide more details to help you decide whether this tour is suitable.
Are flights included?
No, international flights are not included. Many guests choose to arrive in Italy earlier or extend their holiday after the tour.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. Solo travellers are welcome on all our tours and often make up a good portion of each departure. Travelling with a small group provides a friendly and comfortable way to explore Italy’s gardens without having to navigate everything on your own.
What does the single supplement include?
The single supplement provides a double room for sole use throughout the tour. As we stay in boutique hotels in historic centres, room sizes and layouts may vary, but all properties are chosen for comfort, location and charm.
Where does the tour begin?
The tour begins in Rome. Most guests arrive via Rome Fiumicino Airport or by high-speed train from elsewhere in Italy.
Where does the tour finish?
The tour ends in Bellagio on Lake Como. On the final morning, we provide a group transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport and Milano Centrale station.
What standard of accommodation can I expect?
We stay in centrally located boutique hotels in Rome, Florence and Verona, and a lakeside property in Bellagio. Most are in the four-star range, with the occasional exceptional three-star hotel. The exact hotels vary slightly between departures and will be confirmed when you ask.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes. Most dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice. Please let us know when you book so we can advise our hotels and restaurants.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is required for all guests travelling with Italian Tours.
Other small group tours to Italy
If our Gardens tour isn’t quite the right fit for you this year, we offer several other small-group journeys across Italy. Each tour features boutique accommodation, local experiences and the same relaxed, unhurried style that defines Italian Tours. Please have a look at some of our other tours below.