Day Trip Drive Itinerary from Turin to Asti to Serravalle

If you’ve already admired the grand boulevards of Turin, sipped a bicerin in Piazza San Carlo, and marveled at the treasures of the Egyptian Museum, you may be wondering what lies just beyond the city. A stylish day trip from Turin to Asti and Serravalle Designer Outlet is the perfect way to combine culture, wine, and luxury shopping—all within easy reach. This itinerary takes you through medieval piazzas, rolling vineyard landscapes, and finally, a chic shopping village where the latest runway looks await.

Morning Departure from Turin

Before setting off, bid arrivederci to Turin with a scenic coffee stop. If you haven’t discovered it yet, one of the loveliest spots is Caffè al Bicerin, overlooking the Santuario della Consolata, where you can enjoy the city’s signature drink of espresso, chocolate, and cream in a historic 18th-century setting. Alternatively, head to Capodoglio Cafe at the Murazzi riverbank along the Po, where outdoor cafés offer leafy views of the water and the hills beyond — a perfect way to take in Turin’s refined charm one last time.

From there, begin your drive southeast. As you leave behind the baroque palaces and lively piazzas, the road opens to the rolling hills of Monferrato, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape dotted with vineyards, medieval towers, and castles. Your first stop: the wine capital of Asti.

Midday in Asti

Just under an hour from Turin (approx. 55 km), Asti welcomes you with medieval towers, lively piazzas, and a wine heritage that’s known worldwide.

The Asti regione is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a beloved destination for both tourists and locals alike. Nestled in the heart of Piedmont, this area boasts rolling hills covered with vineyards that produce some of Italy’s finest wines, particularly the renowned Asti Spumante, a sweet wine made from Moscato Bianco grapes. Visitors to the region can explore charming medieval towns such as Cocconato,  Mombaldone, Castagnole delle Lanze and of course, Asti.

It’s an off the beaten region where foodies and curious travelers can indulge in culinary delights featuring truffles and local cheeses, and partake in various festivals that celebrate its heritage and agricultural bounty. With its picturesque scenery and warm hospitality, the Asti regione offers an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of northern Italy.

Sightseeing in Asti

Begin your visit in Piazza Alfieri, the central square that hosts the famous Palio horse race each September. Wander toward Piazza San Secondo, home to the 13th-century Collegiata di San Secondo, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Inside, admire the frescoes and stained glass — but remember to dress modestly. As with most Italian churches, it’s best to cover shoulders and knees, so keep a lightweight shawl or scarf in your bag to enter respectfully.

Continue your stroll through the cobbled streets to see the Torre Troyana, a 13th-century tower offering panoramic views of Asti’s rooftops and rolling vineyards in the distance. For art lovers, the Palazzo Mazzetti Museum displays a mix of Baroque interiors and fine art, including works by Guercino and Moncalvo.

Where to Lunch

Asti is also a capital of gastronomy, and your lunch stop should reflect that. For a luxury experience, book a table at Osteria del Diavolo, a stylish eatery blending traditional Piedmontese recipes with contemporary flair, offering curated wine pairings and elegant presentation. Osteria del Diavolo is run by Chef Enrico Trova who after an international career in New York and Los Angeles, left his staff to manage his restaurant Amici in Beverly Hills to return home to Italy. If you prefer something budget-friendly yet authentic, try Tacabanda, a cozy trattoria just steps from the cathedral, where you can enjoy hearty regional dishes like agnolotti del plin or tajarin al ragù without breaking the bank. Both are excellent choices if you want to try local delicacies and wines.

An After-Lunch Stroll

After your meal, explore more of Asti with a leisurely walk. For a taste of nature, head just outside the center to the Parco della Resistenza, a peaceful green space ideal for a short stroll under shady trees. If you’d prefer a more contemplative atmosphere, slip into the Chiostro di San Pietro in Consavia, a Romanesque cloister that feels worlds away from the bustling piazzas. Both options offer the perfect pause before continuing your journey.

Stop at an independent winery

Just a 40 minute drive from Asti, wine enthusiasts may want to add a short vineyard stop in the surrounding countryside. A delightful choice is Chieliso, a small, independent winery set in the gentle hills near Alessandria. Family-run and deeply rooted in tradition, Chieliso welcomes visitors as friends rather than tourists. Tastings take place in an intimate setting, often paired with seasonal events and local flavors, giving you a true sense of Piedmontese hospitality. It’s the kind of stop that turns a road trip into a lasting memory, offering not only excellent wines but also an authentic connection with the people who make them.

Afternoon in Serravalle

From Asti, continue southeast for about 40 minutes (100 km) to reach Serravalle Designer Outlet, the ultimate shopping destination for style-savvy travelers. More than just a retail stop, Serravalle is Europe’s largest luxury outlet village, designed like a charming Italian town with pastel façades, arched porticoes, and lively piazzas. Strolling through its arcades feels more like a leisurely promenade than a shopping trip.

Over 230 Designer Brand Boutiques

Inside its 230 boutiques, you’ll find an impressive mix of Italian fashion powerhouses and international icons. Shop timeless tailoring at Prada, bold statement pieces at Gucci, and classic elegance at Valentino. Browse must-haves from Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Armani, and Fendi, alongside global favorites like Burberry, Nike, Michael Kors, and Polo Ralph Lauren. With year-round discounts of 30–70%, it’s the place where fashion dreams feel within reach.

Snacks, Aperitivos and Fine Dinning

But Serravalle is not only about shopping. Throughout the village, cafés and wine bars offer perfect breaks for people-watching with a cappuccino or a glass of Piedmontese wine. Eataly offers fresh salads, light pasta dishes, and quality Italian cuisine, ideal for a quick but stylish meal before continuing your shopping.

If you prefer to extend your visit into the evening, stay for dinner and a taste of local Piedmont flavors at Le Dolci Terre restaurant inside the outlet which serves everything from refined Italian cuisine to light bites, making it easy to unwind after a day of walking and browsing.

In summer, when the shops stay open until late, the atmosphere transforms into a chic outdoor lounge, with fairy lights and music creating a relaxed, resort-like vibe.

For many travelers, Serravalle is both a finale and a highlight of their journey — a place to end the day with a touch of indulgence, whether that’s the perfect designer handbag or simply a beautiful dinner under the arcades.

Stay Overnight in Serravalle

If you’d like to stretch your trip beyond a single day, Serravalle makes a convenient overnight stop.

Where to stay

• Luxury Stay: Villa Sparina Resort – Nestled in the Gavi hills just minutes from the outlet, this elegant wine resort combines refined hospitality with a working vineyard. Guests can enjoy spa services, gourmet dining, and views of the rolling countryside.
• Budget-Friendly: Hotel Motel 2 – A practical choice just off the A7 motorway, this clean and comfortable hotel offers modern rooms at a reasonable price point, ideal for travelers who want a convenient base after a day of shopping.

Where to Go Next

From Serravalle, it’s just under an hour’s drive south to Genoa, the Ligurian capital known for its grand palaces, labyrinthine old town, and famous harbor. The city offers a different pace entirely: swap shopping bags for seaside promenades, discover the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli, or enjoy fresh seafood along the Porto Antico. Whether you continue onward to the coast or circle back to Turin, your road trip promises a blend of culture, indulgence, and la dolce vita.

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