7 Day Piedmont Road Trip: The Perfect Italian 7 Day Lake & Valley Itinerary

Are you thinking about planning a Piedmont road trip this year? It’s the first region we visited on our eight-week grand tour of northern Italy after coming over the Swiss Alps in our DIY Ford Transit campervan. 

The journey was intense, but once we made it over those mountains and hit those lake views, we knew we were in for an incredible adventure. Piedmont didn’t disappoint as our first port of call and quickly became a highlight of our road trip in Italy.

The region, especially the lakes, is superb for road trippers thanks to a great network of roads, free facilities and campsites. Piedmont is a breathtaking area with delicious cuisine, wineries, and scenery to be enjoyed. 

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The Best Of Piedmont With My 7-Day Road Trip Lake Itinerary In Italy

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Summary: Piedmont Road Trip 7 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arona
• Day 2: Stresa
• Day 3: Verbania
• Day 4: Omegna
• Day 5: Orta San Giulio
• Day 6: Varallo
• Day 7: Alagna Valsesia

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About This Piedmont Road Trip

In this itinerary, we’ll be travelling around two lakes, Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, working our way west into the Valsesia Valley. For each location, I’ve included the must-visit attractions, tour recommendations, any hikes we did, where we stayed and a hotel suggestion for those of you not travelling in a campervan. 

As the first region we visited in Italy, but also the first road trip we’d taken together, we didn’t know what to expect. We had a plan, a rough itinerary on where we were going and for how long, but, really, we winged the majority of the trip.

As we discovered new places, heard recommendations, and did more research, the road trip evolved. Instead of spending 10 weeks driving around the entirety of Italy, we spent 8 weeks enjoying the north of Italy.

Keep this in mind when planning your own road trip. It’s great having an itinerary, but remember to leave room for new places, recommendations, adventures and even a few mishaps. A flexible itinerary is the best kind!

You’ll also be happy to hear that Piedmont is a fantastic spot to take a road trip; it’s quieter and less travelled than other regions, such as Lombardy and Tuscany. It’s also great for slow travel, and this itinerary can easily be extended.

Are 7 Days Enough?

We actually spent two weeks exploring Upper Piedmont before heading south to Liguria and the Italian Riviera. In all honesty, seven days might be a little bit of a push. If you can stretch your trip to ten days, it would be better as you’ll be able to spend longer at each destination.

However, I’ve crafted this road trip itinerary so you’ll be able to explore the best of Upper Piedmont within seven days. Therefore, a week is enough to get a feel for the region by exploring the lakes and visiting the mountains – the places Piedmont is famous for.

The beauty of a road trip is that you can move on as little or as often as you like. We ended up staying longer in some places and less time in others. Half of the adventure is the drive itself, and the landscape is stunning. Plus, we didn’t mind moving on every day.

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore marks the border between Piedmont and Lombardy, with the west side of the lake in Piedmont. We’ll be stopping by Arona, Stresa and Verbania with day trips to the Borromean Islands and Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens.

Lake Orta

To the west is Lake Orta, known as one of the cleanest lakes in Europe. It’s a little hidden gem in the heart of Upper Piedmont. We’ll be visiting the towns of Omegna and Orta San Giulio with a visit to the monastery island of Isola San Orta and the Sacro Monte di Orta. Plus, don’t miss the Alessi Factory Store!

Valsesia Valley

Even further west, we enter the Valsesia Valley. The main road we follow will take you to the villages at the foothills of Monte Rosa, the second-tallest mountain in the Alps. The scenery around here is unbelievable! We’ll be visiting Varallo with a stop at Sacro Monte di Varallo and the small Walser town of Alagna Valsesia, which is perfect for hiking. 

Piedmont Road Trip Map & Routes

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The Start Of A Piedmont Road Trip: Milan

For the purpose of this itinerary, I’ve assumed a starting point for this road trip in Milan. From Milan, you’ll need to jump on the E62 motorway (which is tolled) north to Lake Maggiore. 

Since we came to Italy from Switzerland, we did our Piedmont road trip in a different order. However, we visited all the locations I’ve suggested, and you can easily reorder the stops to suit your arrival point.

If you’re coming from the Simplon Pass (as we did), Verbania will be first, followed by Stresa, Arona, Orta San Giulio, Omegna, Varallo and Alagna Valsesia.

From Milan to Arona, the drive should take just over an hour. 

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Piedmont Road Trip: Arona (1 Day)

First up, we’re heading to the beautiful and charming town of Arona. It’s easy to get to Milan as it’s located on the south shore of Lake Maggiore. It’s the perfect destination to start your Piedmont road trip and is an excellent stop for history and nature lovers.

This town has a long history that can be traced back to the Roman period, and over the centuries, it has been used as an important strategic location. It has played a significant role in various historical events, with a number of museums worth checking out.

Today, Arona is quite a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning location and rich history. You’ll be able to enjoy the picturesque waterfront promenade and the streets and alleyways of the town, which are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

Must-Visit Attractions

Arona is also an excellent starting point for exploring the enchanting Lake Maggiore region. One of the best things to do is take a boat trip over the lake to take in the scenery. There are a number of stunning parks and gardens to explore. 

The biggest attraction in Arona is the impressive 500-year-old statue of San Carlo Borromeo, which stands tall at 35 meters. Nestled at the north end of town, this statue dominates the skyline. 

There are a number of churches to visit. Head to the Church of Santa Maria Nascente and Church of Santi Martiri or San Graziano, which is on a hill above the Piazza San Graziano.

There’s also a small archaeological museum, ArcheoMuseo Khaled al-Asaad, which is free to enter, although in Italian, and the Museo Mineralogico; both are worth a visit if you’re interested in geology.

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Piedmont Road Trip: Stresa (1 Day)

Second day in, and I want to introduce Stresa to you. Stresa was one of our favourite locations, and if you have time to extend your trip, I suggest staying an additional night in this town. Known for its stunning promenade and historic centre and as an access point to the Borromean Islands, Stresa is a must-visit destination.

We felt Stresa had two parts: the waterfront and a bustling centre. 

Along the lakeside promenade, the street is lined with magnificent 19th-century villas, gardens, grand hotels and plenty of restaurants overlooking the lake. Explore deeper into the heart of Stresa, and you’ll find narrow streets lined with shops and cafes leading into a busy central plaza. 

It’s a fun town with pockets of entertainment and beautiful vistas.

Must-Visit Attractions

Ultimately, people visit Stresa to hop on a boat to the Borromean Islands. These are a group of three small islands owned by the Borromean family, a noble Italian house, since the 16th century and have become a popular attraction on Lake Maggiore.

Additional attractions include a panoramic point, which is worth a visit, and access is just north of Stresa. The historical sites within the town itself, such as the Church of San Vittore, the promenade, the gardens and the main plaza, are not to be missed. 

You’ll need a day to visit the Borromean Islands, but Stresa town can be enjoyed afterwards in the evening and the following morning.

Where To Eat & Drink

Stresa is full of places to grab a nice meal catering to all budgets; however, there are some really upmarket restaurants, including a number of rooftop bars overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains. 

• Torrefazione e Bar Moka Stresa ($): This is a fabulous bar with a good vibe; full of locals and all ages.
• Bar Elena ($): A local cafe on the main plaza, one of the more affordable spots.
• Al Buscion ($$): Nice place for dinner.
• Sky Bar at Hotel La Palma ($$$): Breathtaking view of Lake Maggiore.

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Piedmont Road Trip: Verbania/Intra (1 Day)

Our first stop was actually Verbania since we came in from Switzerland. However, for this itinerary, it makes more sense to visit it on day three. 

Verbania sits on the north end of Lake Maggiore. It’s a charming little town with a nice blend of history, culture and beauty. The town is divided into two areas: Intra, which is the historic centre, and Pallanza, which is more modern.

The main purpose of this stop is to visit Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, an absolute star attraction! You have two options for this day: either drive here from Stresa or remain in Stresa and catch the ferry over to Intra.

When we arrived in Verbania, it was raining, so we ended up staying a couple of extra nights, waiting for it to pass. In the end, we had perfect weather to visit the botanical gardens, and we were able to explore Verbania in the sunshine and visit a nearby beach club.

Must-Visit Attractions

Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens are not to be missed! They are superb. You’ll find a terraced garden with water features, rare species, thoughtful landscaping and even a colourful dahlia maze.

Other attractions include the Church of Saint Leonard, the Oratory of Saint Remigio and the Museo del Paesaggio (an art museum). Also, don’t miss a stroll along the Lakefront Pallanza to admire the beautiful villas and gardens.

If you have additional time, make a stop at Suna Beach – Pool & Lounge Bar. We visited in the off-season and enjoyed the facilities for free; however, there is normally a charge. But, if the weather is good, it’s the perfect place to relax by the lake. 

Where To Eat & Drink

• Il Burchiello ($$$): An amazing restaurant with a beautiful terrace on the lakeside.
• Vincent Bistrò ($$): We visited for a light bite. The staff were super friendly, and the food was good.
• Suna Beach – Pool & Lounge Bar ($$): Has a beach and pool; nice atmosphere to relax in the sun.

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Piedmont Road Trip: Omegna (1 Day)

Today, we leave Lake Maggiore and head over to Lake Orta. I couldn’t tell you which lake is better as I enjoyed them both, but Lake Orta is certainly more laid-back and to be enjoyed at a slower pace. 

Omegna is a great place to start your Lake Orta expedition and is easily reached from Verbania/Stresa. Hop on the SS34 to Gravellona Toce and join the SP229 south to Omegna.

The picturesque town is nestled at the north shores of Lake Orta and sits on the only north-flowing river in the whole of Italy! The Stroma River divides the town in two, with the historic centre on the west bank.

It’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours, visit a museum and try some delicious Piedmont dishes. It’s also well known for its production of household items, particularly kitchenware, and you can visit the Alessi Factory Store to see its products and buy some souvenirs. 

Must-Visit Attractions

The historic centre of Omegna is worth a visit, as well as a walk along the waterfront promenade – one of the prettiest in Piedmont. Within the old town, you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy local cuisine and drinks. 

The river walk is particularly nice and will lead you to Forum Omegna, which is an old steelwork factory which has been renovated and turned into a museum open to visitors. There are a handful of other museums, and the Church of San Ambrogio is worth a quick peep.

The Alessi Factory Store is a favourite and worth a visit if you’re after some Italian household items. The best way to visit is to catch a train from Omegna-Centre to Omegna-Crusinallo, which is only one stop north and stops you from moving your vehicle – always an annoyance if you’re travelling in a campervan.

Where To Eat & Drink

Some of our favourite meals were in Omegna. Here are a few places worth trying:

• La Buvette ($$): A restaurant deli.
• Blackbeard Bar ($$): Cocktail bar on the river.
• Pomodoro ($): Budget-friendly pizzaria.
• Il Bistratto ($$): A popular spot in the centre with outdoor seating.

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Piedmont Road Trip: Orta San Giulio (1 Day)

Next up is the captivating town of Orta San Giulio. It’s another one of my favourite locations and a little treasure. Whatever you do, make sure you don’t miss it from your Piedmont road trip itinerary! 

Orta San Giulio is regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy,  and I couldn’t agree more. It has so much to offer that you’ll need an early start to see it all, but a day trip is long enough to take in the sites.

The town features cobbled streets and historic buildings full of character and old-age charm. The views over the lake from the main piazza are incredible, and they overlook one of its main attractions: Isola San Orta.

It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to experience the charm and beauty of a traditional Italian town. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, you’re going to love Orta San Giulio.

Must-Visit Attractions

There are two main attractions in Orta San Giulio. The first is Isola San Orta, a monastery on an island just five minutes on a boat ride from the Piazza Motta, a large square located in the centre of town. The island is home to a 12th-century basilica and is a must-visit attraction. You can walk around in less than half an hour. 

Secondly, the Sacro Monte do Orta is a revered religious site located on a hill overlooking the town. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features 20 chapels dedicated to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. From the top, you’ll witness stunning views of the surrounding area.

Within the town itself, it’s a lovely place to wander around. There are a bunch of cafes, shops and restaurants to grab a bite and admire the lake views.

Where To Eat & Drink

In Orta San Giulio, there are loads of places to eat and drink; here are a handful of the top spots worth checking out:

• Focacceria Ligure ($): Very good slices of pizza at a more than reasonable price.
• Pan & Vino Gelataria ($): Very popular ice cream shop.
• Pan & Vino Enogastronomia ($$): It is in an amazing location, and the food was superb.
• Enoteca re di Coppa ($$): wine bar
• Al Boeuc ($$): This is a little place wine bar/bistro on a tiny street and, therefore, peaceful and cosy.

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Piedmont Road Trip: Varallo (1 Day)

Afterwards, head to the Valsesia Valley. The first stop in this beautiful part of Piedmont is Varallo, which is home to the oldest of the nine Sacred Mountains. It’s a special place with stunning views and a quaint historic centre. We actually stopped here to break up our journey but ended up falling for the town’s quirky character.

To reach it, you’ll need to drive south around the mountain and join the SP76 to the SP229 north or cut through the mountain on SP78. Both routes provide stunning scenery, and once you pass Varallo, you’ll be following the Sesia River into the valley.

Varallo is known for its religious and cultural heritage, as well as its stunning natural beauty. It’s larger than we expected and actually makes a great base for exploring more of the Valsesia Valley, but for a day trip, it’s also perfect. 

Additionally, the town is home to several restaurants and cafes, which are perfect for sampling the delicious cuisine and wines of the Piedmont region.

Must-Visit Attractions

One of the main attractions in Varallo is the Sacro Monte di Varallo, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a series of 44 chapels and statues depicting scenes from the life of Christ. You can reach it via a cable car (the steepest in Europe) or a 15-minute uphill walk.

Other notable attractions include the Palazzo dei Musei – Pinacoteca di Varallo e Museo Calderini, which houses a collection of art and artefacts from the town’s history. 

The churches of San Gaudenzio and Santa Maria delle Grazie are both definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in art, religion and architecture. Santa Maria delle Grazie contains a unique “wall of frescos” painted by artist Gaudenzio Ferrari.

The winding streets of the historic town, which sits on the east bank of the River Mastallone, are lovely places to explore, and even the views from the Ponte Antonini bridge are worth a moment of your time.

Where To Eat & Drink?

We stopped by a number of places while exploring Varallo. They were all great, but there was a pizzeria in the old town which we enjoyed the most:

• Frigidarium ($): Delicious pistachio ice cream.
• Pizzeria Ristorante Grotta Azzurra ($): On of the best pizza’s we had in Piedmont.
• Gambrinus Pub ($): Lively pub for afternoon/evening entertainment.

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Piedmont Road Trip: Alagna Valsesia (1 Day)

Finally, I want to end this Piedmont road trip itinerary in the mountain town of Alagna Valsesia. I understand that this is a popular winter location, ideal for skiing, but visit in the warmer months, and you’ll get breathtaking vistas and hiking trails to yourselves.

The surrounding area is really stunning. Alagna Valsesia is the end of the road, and it’s perfect for nature enthusiasts.

We stayed here for a few days, but you can easily visit for the day and go hiking through the woods up to a waterfall and the closest Rifugio. Rifugio Pastore is the first of the high-elevation mountain huts situated directly along the hiking trail and offers stunning views of the Monte Rosa Massif glaciers.

Afterwards, explore the town. It’s a gorgeous spot with Walser architecture, which is famous in the region. The Walser people originate from the Swiss canton of Valais, and you’ll notice unique architectural designs, such as stone and timber houses with slated wooden facades and slopping slate roofs.

Must-Visit Attractions

Alagna Valsesia is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. There are plenty of hiking routes, clearly waymarked and easy to access from the main car park just outside the town. Take half the day to hike to Rifugio Pastore and pass the White Water Falls along the way.

Afterwards, enjoy a meal in the town overlooking the River Sesia before strolling through the traditional Walser buildings. There are a number of paths winding between these cute buildings. The river is also great for activities like rafting and canyoning.

The town also has a lovely church – Parrocchia S Giovanni Battista, which is worth visiting. And, if you have time, visit the local Alagna Walser Museum. It was closed when we were there, but I’ve heard good things about it, and it is housed in an excellently preserved Walser building. 

Where To Eat & Drink?

• Rifugio Pastore ($$): Mountain hut with incredible views of the glacier and surrounding area.
• Zam Tachji ($$): This was a fantastic spot on the river overlooking the town with local dishes.
• La Latteria ($$): A dairy/farm shop selling local produce.
• Cafe Ba Centrale ($$): This is a great spot for a drink in the sun. It’s not listed on the map. However, I’ve dropped a location pin on the map for you.

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Alternative/Additional Stops: 7+ Days In Piedmont

Aside from the stops I’ve listed above, there are a few other places that you might find interesting. You might want to consider adding these to your Piedmont road trip itinerary or switch them with another location if you can’t extend past seven days.

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Tips For Driving In Piedmont

• While you’re driving in Italy, make sure you carry your driver’s license and have breakdown cover and insurance arranged before you leave home.
  
• In car parks, the white-lined spaces are free, while the blue-lined spaces are paid.

• Italy has different speed limits according to road classification. For example, on urban roads, it’s 50 km/h, and on rural roads, it’s 90 km/h. Motorways are 130 km/h, and dual carriageways are 110 km/h.

• Brush up on the Italian road signs as they differ from back home. The most important for us campervans is the red circle on a white background; it means no access. Sometimes, it’s got a specific vehicle inside, which means no access to that vehicle.

• If you can, avoid driving in the city centres. Most of them have limited traffic zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato) anyway, but if they don’t, it’s just really stressful.

• We found local drivers to be quite impatient, although, in Piedmont, it wasn’t as bad as in other regions (like Tuscany). However, be mindful of other drivers, especially if you’re making a turn in the road. We got honked a lot. A car tried to swerve behind us as we turned in the road in Verbania and almost took us out!

• Finally, the roads are narrow, and some are simply too small for campervans. Turnings can also be quite tight, and you might need to approach from a particular direction. Keep an eye out for low bridges, too! 

In Summary: Piedmont Road Trip Itinerary

This 7-day road trip itinerary is perfect for exploring the best sites around the upper Piedmont region. I’ve included a variety of our favourite locations so you can experience the surrounding area, and all of these locations were favourites of ours. However, there were a number of activities that we really enjoyed: the botanical gardens, the Borromean Islands and 

As always, I hope you enjoy your road trip and have found this Piedmont itinerary useful.