September in Astigiano 2023: Events, Festivals, and Travel Guide

September in Astigiano is a month like no other. As the warm Italian summer days begin to mellow into the cooler embrace of autumn, the historic region of Asti in Piedmont springs to life with a series of events, festivals, and traditions that have been celebrated for centuries. At the heart of these is the renowned Palio di Asti, a spectacular race that draws visitors from far and wide.

But Astigiano in September isn’t just about the Palio. From culinary celebrations to local craft fairs, the region is a hive of activity and festivity. This guide aims to introduce you to the wonders of September in Astigiano, ensuring you don’t miss a thing on your visit.

September in Astigiano: Events 2023

As the warm summer sun gives way to the crisp air of autumn, the Astigiano region in Italy bursts into a palette of vibrant colors and festive spirit. September is a particularly enchanting time to visit Astigiano, famed for its unique blend of historical events, food and wine festivals, and the serenity of the Piedmont countryside.

Whether you’re keen on witnessing the thrilling Palio di Asti, indulging in local gastronomy at the Festival delle Sagre, or savoring fine wines at the Douja d’Or Wine Fair, September in Astigiano offers also a wine tasting experience during the weekend in the city center. A rich array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s whims and fancies. This guide unveils the charm of Astigiano in September, paving the way for an unforgettable Italian sojourn.

Palio di Asti

The Palio di Asti is a historic horse race that has its roots in the medieval period and is one of the oldest recorded in Italy. It takes place in Asti’s beautiful Piazza Alfieri, transforming the square into a spectacle of galloping horses and cheering crowds.

The event is not just a race, it’s a deeply entrenched tradition, a competition between the city’s districts, and an expression of Asti’s rich history and culture. The race is usually preceded by a grand parade featuring participants dressed in medieval attire, creating a vibrant atmosphere that takes you back in time. If you’re visiting Astigiano in September, witnessing the thrilling Palio di Asti should be high on your list.

Festival delle Sagre

September in Astigiano also sees the gastronomic delight that is the Festival delle Sagre. This food festival is a celebration of Asti’s culinary traditions and rural life. Locals from different villages set up food stalls to showcase and sell traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The seasonal temperatures are average warm.

The festival is a fantastic opportunity to taste authentic Piedmontese cuisine, and it often includes traditional music, dance, and other cultural exhibitions. Apart from indulging in culinary delights, visitors can also learn about the region’s agricultural practices and the importance of maintaining traditional food-making methods.

Douja d’Or Wine Fair

Douja d’Or is an annual wine fair held in September, dedicated to promoting and appreciating Italian wines, particularly those from the Piedmont region. The event is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts, with numerous wine tastings, presentations, and awards given to the best wines.

Here, you can savor the region’s renowned wines such as Barbera d’Asti and Moscato d’Asti, learn about wine production, and even meet local producers.

Exploring Asti’s Street Wine and Food in September

Beyond the festivals, Astigiano’s food and wine scene is exceptional. September is the beginning of the grape harvest season, making it an excellent time for wine tours and tastings. Visiting local vineyards and wineries offers insight into the winemaking process and allows you to taste wines straight from the source. Similarly, local restaurants and markets brim with seasonal produce, offering fresh, flavorful dishes that encapsulate the region’s culinary artistry.

Asti’s Surroundings in September

Astigiano’s charm extends beyond the city of Asti. The surrounding countryside, dotted with vineyards, quaint villages, and historic castles, is particularly captivating in September. The landscape, tinged with the hues of autumn, provides excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and photography. Day trips to places like the picturesque town of Alba or the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato are highly recommended.

Practical Information for Visiting Astigiano in September

September is one of the most eventful months to visit Astigiano and offers a mild and pleasant climate that is ideal for outdoor activities. The average temperature during this time ranges from around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), which is comfortable for exploring the city and attending the various festivals. However, evening temperatures can dip, so it’s advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater.

The festivals and events in September, such as the Palio di Asti and the Festival delle Sagre, attract a considerable number of visitors, so it’s recommended to book your accommodations well in advance to secure a convenient location. Additionally, some of these events may require tickets, which should be booked in advance as well. Astigiano, particularly the city of Asti, is well-connected to other major Italian cities by train and road, making it quite accessible. Once you’re in the city, local buses, taxis, and rental cars are readily available to move around. Alternatively, the city is quite walkable, and strolling through its streets is a lovely way to explore the local life.

When it comes to dining, Astigiano offers a vast array of eateries. From traditional trattorias and osterias to contemporary restaurants, you can find places that serve authentic Piedmontese cuisine. Don’t forget to try some of the local wines, especially the renowned Barbera d’Asti. Lastly, while Italian is the official language, English is also widely spoken in the city’s tourist areas, making communication quite straightforward for international visitors.

What to do in Asti during September Astigiano?

Visiting Astigiano in September provides you with a plethora of activities to engage in, particularly revolving around gastronomy and local culture. Here are some must-do experiences:

Asti Truffle Tour: Asti is renowned for its truffles, and September marks the beginning of the truffle season. The Asti Truffle Tour is an incredible opportunity to hunt for these culinary treasures. Accompanied by experienced local guides and truffle-hunting dogs, you can explore the lush forests and learn about the unique ecosystem required for truffle growth. Afterwards, you can indulge in a truffle-based meal that truly showcases the depth and earthy complexity of this ingredient.

Moscato Wine Tour: Astigiano is the home of Moscato d’Asti, a sweet and fragrant sparkling wine that is loved worldwide. Taking a Moscato Wine Tour will not only allow you to visit beautiful vineyards but also offer an opportunity to learn about the delicate process of crafting this wine. You can walk through the sun-drenched vineyards, tour the cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and of course, enjoy tastings of this exquisite wine.

Barbera and Ruchè Wine Tasting: Barbera d’Asti is one of the most famous wines of the region, known for its deep color, full body, and low tannins. Ruchè, on the other hand, is a lesser-known but equally enchanting wine with a distinctive aromatic profile. September is an excellent time to sample these wines, as the grapes are nearing harvest and the wineries are bustling with activity. Attend a wine tasting session to savor these wines and understand their characteristics under the guidance of expert sommeliers.

These tours and tastings not only provide a deeper understanding of Astigiano’s rich culinary and winemaking traditions but also offer a chance to immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes and warm hospitality of the region. Be sure to book these experiences in advance to ensure availability.

Asti, Italy – Old Town walking tour – Autumn

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.

Conclusion

September in Astigiano is a month-long celebration of history, culture, and gastronomy. The enchanting blend of unique events like the Palio di Asti and the Festival delle Sagre, combined with the allure of Piedmontese wines and the region’s captivating surroundings, makes a visit to Astigiano in September an experience to remember. Whether you’re a history buff, a food and wine connoisseur, or a lover of rural landscapes, Astigiano in September has something special for you.