While most visitors will have only heard of the province of Asti because of the famous sparkling white wine spumante, the region has a lot more to offer than vineyards. Situated in the heart of the Piedmont region, with Liguria to the south, Asti is also home to stunning natural scenery and historic towns and villages, including those lining a medieval pilgrimage route. A popular destination with those who enjoy walking thanks to the pleasant climate and gentle slopes, Asti can also boast some fine cultural events and attractions. The main town, which shares its name with the province is the ideal base for tourists in the region.
The town of Asti can trace its roots back to Roman times; indeed, recent archaeological work uncovered the ruins of a Roman defensive wall, which can be seen in the centre of the city. Parts of the later medieval ramparts also remain, dotted throughout the old town, while the highlights of a visit to Asti include the huge 13th century Catedrale de Santa Maria Assunta. Make sure you tour the interior, with its 18th century painted frescoes and the impressive mosaic floor in the presbytery. The main square in Asti is the venue for the town's historic 'Palio', a horse race held each year between representatives of different areas of the province. The vineyards just outside Asti are where the famous spumante is made, and although you cannot visit the Gancia castle, which is where the wine started its existence, there are many other venues where you can taste some of the local produce.
Walkers and cyclists are a common sight in the Asti countryside and there are networks of marked trails away from the roads if you want to experience some real peace and quiet. Many of the smaller vineyards that you will come across on your travels are happy to give tours to visitors – just be careful how much of the produce you sample if you're on a bicycle! After a long day on your feet or in the saddle, take the time to visit the spa at Agliano Terme, where people have come to take the waters since the early 1900s. As well as the famous wines, the Asti region also holds many annual festivals dedicated to other local delicacies, including the Festival delle Sagre, an enormous outdoor event that takes over the whole city centre of Asti, turning the narrow medieval streets into pavement cafés, restaurants and markets stalls.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Asti? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Asti and villas in Asti that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
