Piedmont: Turin & Wine Country

The Piedmont is Italy's most underrated gourmet region: Turin (Torino) surprises as an elegant Baroque city, the Langhe and Roero produce Barolo and Barbaresco (Italy's noblest wines), and in autumn everything revolves around the white Alba truffle — the most expensive food in the world.

Turin

Former capital of Italy (1861–1865), home of Fiat and Juventus. The Mole Antonelliana (elevator to the viewing platform €14) offers the best view over the city and the Alps. The Egyptian Museum (€15) is the second most important in the world after Cairo. And: Turin is the capital of chocolate — Gianduia (nut nougat, the inspiration for Nutella) was invented here. Try Bicerin (hot drink made of espresso, chocolate, and cream) at Caffè Al Bicerin (since 1763).

Langhe: Barolo & Barbaresco

The gentle hills south of Alba are UNESCO World Heritage and produce some of the best wines in the world. Barolo (the "King of Wines") and Barbaresco from the Nebbiolo grape are complex, long-lasting, and awe-inspiring. Tastings at wineries from €15–40. In October/November: Fiera del Tartufo in Alba — the most important truffle market in the world. White truffles: €2,000–5,000 per kg.