The Best Things to Do in Alessandria, Italy & Reasons to Go

Table of Contents

Introduction

Alessandria is a beautiful city about 90 kilometers east of Turin in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. It is a city rich in history and culture, with a population of approximately 95,000 people. Alessandria was built as a military fortress in the 12th century. It is known for its strategic location and its role in the history of Italy’s unification. The Apennines and the rolling hills of the Monferrato wine region are just two examples of the stunning scenery that surrounds it. Alessandria is a busy city with a strong economy. It has a mix of modern amenities and ancient architecture, which makes it a great place for tourists who want to experience a unique mix of history, culture, and modernity.

Best time to visit Alessandria

Alessandria is a charming city located in the northern part of Italy, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. If you’re planning to visit Alessandria, it’s important to know the best time to go so that you can make the most of your trip. Here are some factors to consider when deciding when to visit Alessandria:

Weather:

The weather in Alessandria can be quite variable depending on the season. Summers are usually hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters are cold and often snowy, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). If you prefer warm weather, then the best time to visit Alessandria is during the summer months. However, if you prefer milder temperatures, then spring and fall are ideal.

Tourist Crowds:

Another factor to consider when planning your trip to Alessandria is the tourist crowds. During the summer months, Alessandria can be quite busy with tourists, especially in July and August. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, then it’s best to visit Alessandria in the off-season, which is from October to April.

Festivals and Events:

There are many festivals and events in Alessandria all through the year, which may help you decide when to go. One of the most popular festivals is the Palio di Alessandria, which takes place in June and features a horse race through the city streets. The Fiera di San Giuseppe, a traditional fair held in March, is another popular event that attracts visitors from all over Italy. If you want to experience these festivals and events, then it’s best to plan your trip accordingly.

Overall, the best time to visit Alessandria depends on your preferences and interests. If you prefer warm weather and don’t mind the crowds, then the summer months are ideal. However, if you prefer milder temperatures and want to avoid the crowds, then spring and fall are better options. Regardless of when you visit, you’re sure to enjoy the rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine that Alessandria has to offer.

Reasons to Visit

Alessandria is a lovely ancient city in northern Italy. It is well known for its rich cultural past, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. If you’re considering a vacation to Italy, here are some reasons why Alessandria should be on your list:

Rich History: Alessandria has a long and intriguing history dating back to the Medieval Ages. The Lombard League constructed the city in the 1100s as a defense against the Holy Roman Empire. It has seen several wars throughout the years and has played a major part in Italian history. Visitors can see the medieval Citadel, the Church of San Pietro, and the Palazzo Ghilini, which are all important historical sites in Alessandria.
Alessandria has several gorgeous structures and monuments that represent the city’s rich history and culture. The architecture of the city is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, with many beautiful churches, palaces, and monuments to admire. Some of the most interesting buildings are the Palazzo del Comune, the Cathedral of Santa Maria di Castello, and the Palazzo Ghilini.
Excellent Cuisine: Alessandria, like the rest of Italy, is famed for its great cuisine. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the simplicity of the city’s cuisine set it apart. Agnolotti pasta, a typical pasta loaded with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and Bagna Cauda, a spicy dip prepared with garlic, anchovies, and olive oil, are two must-try meals. Guests may also sample local wines, including Barbera and Dolcetto.
Alessandria is known for its history and architecture, but its natural beauty is also stunning. There are many places to walk, ride, and engage in other outdoor activities because farms and rolling hills surround the city. The Parco Naturale Capanne di Marcarolo and the Parco Fluviale del Po are both nature reserves and parks that are close by.
Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Alessandria hosts a number of festivals and events that give visitors a chance to learn about the city’s culture and traditions. Some of the most popular events include the Palio di Alessandria, a medieval-style horse race that takes place in June, and the Fiera di San Giuseppe, a traditional fair held in March. Throughout the year, the city also has a number of music and art festivals, such as the Alessandria Jazz Festival and the Festival della Valle del Po.

Things to do in Alessandria

1- Historical Sites

Alessandria is a city in northern Italy that offers visitors a wealth of things to do and see. Its rich and fascinating history, dating back to the Middle Ages, has left behind a legacy of many interesting historical sites to explore. Here are some historical sites:

The Citadel of Alessandria: The Citadel is one of the most important historical sites in Alessandria. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century as a military complex with strong walls to protect the city from attacks from the outside. The Citadel features a pentagonal shape with five bastions connected by curtain walls. Visitors can explore the interior of the citadel, including the underground tunnels, barracks, and gunpowder magazines.
The Cathedral of San Pietro: The Cathedral of San Pietro is a beautiful Gothic-style church that dates back to the 13th century. It was built on the site of a former Romanesque church and features a stunning bell tower, a rose window, and intricate sculptures. Inside the cathedral, there are beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures that people can look at.
The Church of Santa Maria di Castello: The Church of Santa Maria di Castello is a beautiful Romanesque-style church that dates back to the 12th century. It features a stunning bell tower and a beautiful rose window. Visitors can explore the interior of the church, which features beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.
The Palazzo del Comune: The Palazzo del Comune is a beautiful Renaissance-style palace that was built in the 16th century. It was the seat of the municipal government and features a beautiful courtyard and loggia. The Municipal Museum is inside the palace, which has beautiful architecture that people can look at and explore.
The Palazzo Ghilini: The Palazzo Ghilini is a beautiful Baroque-style palace that was built in the 18th century. It features a stunning façade with intricate decorations and a beautiful courtyard. Visitors can explore the interior of the palace, which features beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.

2- Shopping

When it comes to shopping in Alessandria, tourists will be spoiled for choice. The city provides something for everyone, whether you’re seeking high-end couture or locally handcrafted goods. These are some of the top locations to shop in Alessandria that you should include on your list of things to do in Alessandria:

Piazza Della Libertà: This central square in Alessandria is the perfect place to start your shopping excursion. Here you will find a range of shops and boutiques, selling everything from clothing and accessories to books and souvenirs.
Il Gigante: Il Gigante is a large shopping mall located just outside of the city center. It offers a wide range of stores, including fashion boutiques, electronics shops, and supermarkets.
Mercato del Sabato: If you’re looking for a more local shopping experience, head to the Mercato del Sabato on Saturday mornings. Here you will find a bustling market filled with vendors selling fresh produce, clothing, and household goods.
Via Milano is another popular street for shopping in Alessandria. It is lined with stores that sell high-end clothing and accessories.
Artisanal Shops: For a unique shopping experience, visitors can check out the many artisanal shops in Alessandria. These shops sell locally made crafts, such as ceramics, jewelry, and textiles.

3- Dining

Alessandria is a northern Italian city famous for its rich culinary tradition. Visitors to the city may enjoy delectable local food, ranging from classic pasta meals to area wines. These are some of the greatest restaurants in Alessandria that you should include on your list of things to do in Alessandria:

Trattoria Rosso di Sera: This cozy trattoria serves up classic Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but you can expect to find dishes like handmade pasta, grilled meats, and hearty soups.
Osteria del Teatro: This elegant restaurant is located in the heart of Alessandria’s historic center and serves up traditional Piedmontese cuisine. Diners can enjoy dishes like agnolotti pasta, braised beef, and local cheeses, paired with regional wines.
La Corte Dei Glicini is a charming restaurant in an old building with a beautiful garden where you can eat outside. The menu is mostly made up of traditional Italian dishes, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional ways of cooking.
Pizzeria Al Rustico: For a more casual dining experience, head to Pizzeria Al Rustico, where you can enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas and other classic Italian dishes. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Il Mercato Centrale is a food hall inside the central market of the city. It has a variety of food options, from fresh seafood to gourmet sandwiches. Visitors can sample a range of local specialties and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Outdoor Activities

1- Parks and Trails

Alessandria, a northern Italian city, is recognized for its ancient attractions and delectable food. Nonetheless, visitors to the city may also undertake a variety of activities outdoors, such as visiting the parks and trails. These are some of the greatest Alessandria parks and trails to add to your bucket list of things to do in Alessandria:

Parco del Castello is a beautiful park that was built on the site of an old castle. It has great views of the countryside around it. The park features a range of walking trails, as well as picnic areas and a playground for children.
Parco del Popolo is a large park in the middle of Alessandria. The park features a range of walking and cycling trails, as well as a large pond and a playground for children.
Sentiero Della Bormida: This trail follows the course of the Bormida River and offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. People like to walk and ride bikes on this trail because it has beautiful views of the countryside.
Parco Naturale Cittadella is a nature reserve just outside of Alessandria where people can see the plants and animals that live there. The reserve features a range of hiking trails, as well as picnic areas and a visitors center.
Parco Delle Capanne di Marcarolo: This nature reserve is just south of Alessandria and gives visitors a chance to see the beautiful countryside of the area. The reserve features a range of hiking trails, as well as picnic areas and a visitors center.

2- Beaches

Despite the fact that Alessandria is not on the shore, there are a number of beaches nearby for tourists to enjoy. These are some neighboring beaches in Alessandria that you may wish to visit:

Varazze: A popular seaside town, Varazze is about 45 minutes by car from Alessandria. The town is known for its long, sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic promenade. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the sea, sunbathing on the beach, or taking a stroll along the promenade and enjoying the stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.
Albisola is a beautiful town that is about an hour’s drive from Alessandria. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and charming historic center. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the town’s many shops and restaurants.
Savona: Savona is a seaside city located about an hour away from Alessandria by car. The city is known for its long, sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful harbor. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the historic city center.
Alassio: Alassio is a beautiful town located about an hour and a half away from Alessandria by car. The town is known for its long, sandy beaches, clear waters, and beautiful promenade. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the town’s many shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

3- Bike tours

Taking a guided bike tour is one of the greatest ways to see the city. The knowledgeable local guides who lead these excursions will share their knowledge of the history and culture of the city and show you Alessandria’s hidden gems. There are a lot of different bike trips to choose from, from short, easy rides to longer, more difficult ones for more experienced riders.

One popular bike trip winds through the old city center, through the 18th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista, the 19th-century Theatre Alessandrino, and the 14th-century Palazzo del Comune. You’ll also ride past the lovely Piazza Della Libertà and the busy Piazza Garibaldi, both of which are popular gathering places for residents to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Another famous bike journey takes you into the area around Alessandria, passing through rolling hills, luscious vineyards, and charming towns. Along the journey, you’ll be able to sample some of the region’s delectable wines and traditional cuisines, like Piedmontese meat, truffles, and hazelnuts. If you’re feeling brave, you can also take a bike excursion to some of the surrounding sights, such as the spectacular Castle di Gabiano or the lovely Monastery of Santa Maria di Lucedio. These trips will take you through some of the most beautiful parts of Italy’s countryside, giving you a unique and interesting chance to learn about the history and culture of the area.

Nightlife

A bar in Alessandria, one of the the best things to do

Bars and Clubs

If you’re seeking must-do activities in Alessandria, don’t miss the city’s thriving bar and club scene. Whether you want a quiet drink in a small tavern or a night of dancing in a noisy club, Alessandria offers something for everyone. The Bar Dello Sport, a bustling venue ideal for watching the game or sharing a drink with friends, is one of the city’s most popular bars. This bar is in the middle of Alessandria and is known for its friendly atmosphere and a large selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Bar Milleluci is a beautiful lounge bar that is perfect for a romantic night out if you want to feel more wealthy. This stylish place offers a wide range of drinks and aperitifs, as well as tasty snacks and appetizers.

If you want a more authentic Italian experience, go to Bar Tenco, a vintage café that has been a local favorite for over 60 years. You may sip an espresso or cappuccino while taking in the real Italian environment. When it comes to nightlife, Alessandria boasts a plethora of possibilities. The Club 24, a bustling venue ideal for dancing the night away, is one of the most popular. This bar is popular among both residents and visitors due to its diverse musical selection, which includes everything from current hits to old Italian melodies. The Bolgia is another terrific club, a fashionable location noted for its cutting-edge music and sophisticated décor. There’s a mix of house, techno, and electronic music here, as well as a variety of special events and themed parties.

Live Music

Alessandria is a city in northern Italy that is known for its rich cultural heritage, including a thriving music scene. From jazz to rock, the city has a diverse range of live music venues that cater to all tastes.

One of the most popular venues for live music in Alessandria is the Circolo La Mela, a cozy club that features both Italian and international bands. The club has a reputation for hosting some of the best live music events in the city and attracts a mix of locals and tourists.

The Teatro Alessandrino is another great place to see live music. It is a beautiful theater that hosts a wide range of shows, such as concerts by Italian and international musicians. The theater has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and is a popular destination for music lovers.

For jazz enthusiasts, the Jazz Club Alessandria is a must-visit. This intimate club hosts regular live jazz performances by local and international musicians and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent acoustics.

If you’re looking for something a little different, head to Il Cantiere, a popular venue that hosts a mix of live music, theater, and art exhibitions. The space has a bohemian vibe and attracts a diverse crowd, making it a great place to meet new people and experience the local culture.

Lastly, the Cantina Della Birra is another great spot to catch live music in Alessandria. Local bands and musicians play at this lively pub, which also has a great selection of craft beers and other drinks.

Summary of Things to do in Alessandria

In conclusion, Alessandria is a city in northern Italy that offers a range of activities and attractions for tourists and locals alike. From historical landmarks like the Cittadella di Alessandria to natural wonders like Parco Naturale Cittadella, visitors can experience the rich culture and beauty of this charming city. Other popular things to do in Alessandria include exploring local markets, tasting delicious Italian cuisine, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. With so much to see and do, Alessandria is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Italian history, culture, and cuisine.

The Best Things to Do in Alessandria, Italy & Reasons to Go

Introduction