Asti Walking tour: San Secondo Tour Details

Asti, the capital and heart of its province with a population of 77,000, is a city that feels just right for its size. While globally recognized for its wines and cuisine, Asti’s artistic beauty might be lesser-known – an oversight that’s undeserved. To truly appreciate Asti, one should wander on foot through its historic center, which retains its medieval urban structure.

The Middle Ages, a time of prosperity and power for Asti, has left splendid traces in its primary monuments like the cathedral, the collegiate church of San Secondo, the complex of San Pietro in Consavia, its towers, and details of palaces and streets.

The baroque style of its stately homes and the 19th-century elegance of its squares harmoniously blend, complemented by the stylish shopfronts from the Liberty period. Asti embraces its glorious past, which is annually rekindled in its Palio. The city bustles commercially with its weekly markets and is enriched by cultural and gastronomic events, enhancing any visit.

Reasons to Visit Asti

Asti is the city of notable figures such as Vittorio Alfieri, Giovanni Pastrone, and more contemporarily, Paolo Conte and Giorgio Faletti. The city offers a captivating journey through history, anecdotes, and charm, without forgetting insights into the renowned gastronomic traditions of the region.

To explore Asti’s magic, book the walking tour organized by the Tourism Agency of Langhe Monferrato Roero. These tours, guided by certified experts, are available on Saturdays and Sundays, from spring until autumn.

Asti Walking tour: San Secondo Tour Details

Embark on a journey through Asti’s charm with the San Secondo Walking Tour. Available on weekends from spring to autumn, these tours are curated by the Tourism Agency of Langhe Monferrato Roero, ensuring a genuine and insightful experience. Commence from the Tourist Office at Piazza Alfieri, and explore the city with a bilingual guide well-versed in both Italian and English. With accessibility being a priority, the entire route is designed to be accommodating for all. Tickets are reasonably priced, and special considerations are made for children and persons with disabilities. Furthermore, pet lovers can rejoice as the tour is pet-friendly, with a few exceptions for places of worship. Dive deep into the Settembre Astigiano and Asti’s history, anecdotes, and gastronomic traditions in this immersive walking tour.

• When: Every Saturday at 4:00 pm and Sunday at 10:30 am from April 29th to July 30th. From August 5th to 28th, the tours will be available every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 5:00 pm.
• Starting Point: Tourist Office – Piazza Alfieri 34, Asti. Participants should gather 15 minutes prior.
• Languages: Tours will be conducted in both Italian and English with a bilingual guide.
• Group Size: Up to 25 participants.
• Accessibility: The route is fully accessible.
• Ticket Price: €5 (until June 4th), €10 (from June 10th) – Full price – Non-refundable.
• Complimentary Admission: Children up to 14 years, persons with disabilities, and one accompanying person.
• Pet Policy: Pet-friendly, except in places of worship.

What to Expect from Asti City Tours:

Asti offers a rich tapestry of historical exploration opportunities. As you walk through the city, you’ll encounter remnants of its medieval past, from historic towers to churches and palaces that speak of its glorious heritage. The gastronomic delights of Asti are unparalleled, especially its wines like the sparkling Asti Spumante. Wine tasting sessions and sampling local delicacies are common features of many city tours. The city boasts a unique blend of medieval, Baroque, and Art Nouveau (or “Liberty”) architecture, with each building and public space narrating its own story. If you time your visit right, you might get to witness the renowned Asti Palio, one of Italy’s oldest horse races, complete with parades and historical reenactments. Most tours are enriched by the presence of local guides, who provide in-depth insights into Asti’s history, culture, and traditions.

Best Itinerary and Activities to Do in Asti:

Start your journey with a visit to the Asti Cathedral, a symbol of Gothic architecture in Piedmont. For those looking for a bird’s eye view of the city, the Troyana Tower offers panoramic vistas of Asti’s terracotta rooftops and the surrounding countryside. Wine enthusiasts should not miss out on the local vineyards or enotecas to taste renowned wines like Asti Moscato, Spumante and Barbera d’Asti. Palazzo Alfieri, the birthplace of the famous Italian playwright Vittorio Alfieri, provides a sneak peek into life during the 18th century.

Piazza San Secondo, the city’s main square, is surrounded by notable edifices and is always pulsating with local life. For a touch of mystery, the Crypt of Sant’Anastasio is an underground archaeological marvel with remnants from various historical epochs. If you’re visiting in September, the Festival delle Sagre is a must-visit, where locals come together to celebrate their heritage with food, wine, and grand parades. The Old Town of Asti is perfect for leisurely strolls, where you can discover historic buildings, hidden courtyards, and charming boutiques. The Museo Paleontologico offers insights into the region’s geological and paleontological history.

Last but not least, immerse yourself in Asti’s culinary delights at local trattorias, where dishes like “Agnolotti” take center stage.