GemmaMonferrato Hills in Piedmont, Italy, is the kind of place that grabs you gently, whispers, “Stay a while,” and before you know it, you’ve fallen head over heels for its rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and charming villages. If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through hills that look like they were painted just for a postcard, Monferrato delivers exactly that—and more.
From my own personal experience, there’s something magical about wandering through these towns. Each one has its own rhythm, history, and flavor, offering a unique adventure while feeling comfortably familiar. If you’re planning a trip, or even just daydreaming from your desk, here are ten towns in Monferrato Hills that you absolutely need to see, explore, and enjoy.
1. Casale Monferrato – History with a Splash of Charm
Casale Monferrato is the heartbeat of the Monferrato region. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time, but with a modern twist. The town boasts grand palaces, beautiful churches, and a medieval fortress that practically shouts, “Come explore me!”
Things to do here include strolling along the Po River, visiting the impressive Cathedral of Sant’Evasio, and enjoying a local aperitivo in one of the lively piazzas. If you love history and a touch of sophistication, Casale Monferrato is the perfect starting point.
2. Grazzano Badoglio – Wine, Castles, and a Quiet Escape
Grazzano Badoglio is a gem for wine lovers. Nestled among vineyards, it’s famous for its Barbera and Nebbiolo wines. The town’s castle is a must-visit, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Exploring the quiet streets, you’ll find small trattorias serving traditional dishes that pair beautifully with local wines. From my own personal experience, there’s nothing quite like sipping a glass of Barbera while watching the sunset over the Monferrato landscape.
3. Moncalvo – Artistic Vibes and Baroque Beauty
Moncalvo is often overlooked, but it deserves your attention. Known for its Baroque architecture, it’s an artistic haven with galleries, quaint shops, and historic churches. The annual Moncalvo Fair is a delight, attracting visitors with its antiques, crafts, and food stalls.
Walking through Moncalvo feels like reading a charming storybook. The town is compact, so you can easily wander on foot, discovering hidden fountains and enjoying the slow pace of life that Monferrato towns are famous for.
4. Serralunga di Crea – Spirituality and Stunning Views
If you appreciate spiritual journeys, Serralunga di Crea is your go-to. Home to the Sacro Monte di Crea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this town offers both breathtaking views and cultural depth.
Climbing the hill to the sanctuary is rewarding: the panorama of vineyards and rolling hills below is something you’ll remember long after you leave. Don’t forget to explore the local artisanal shops—they often have handcrafted souvenirs that tell the story of the region.
5. Rosignano Monferrato – Medieval Streets and Local Flavor
Rosignano Monferrato is the kind of town where you can lose track of time. Narrow, cobbled streets, ancient towers, and cozy cafes make it perfect for slow exploration. The town also has an impressive castle that overlooks the valley, offering a photo opportunity you’ll treasure.
Local restaurants serve up hearty Monferrato specialties like agnolotti pasta and truffle dishes. From my own personal experience, taking a long lunch here is a must—because when in Monferrato, indulging in local food is practically a requirement.
6. Camagna Monferrato – Quiet Hills and Wine Trails
Camagna Monferrato is ideal for those seeking peace and authentic local life. The town is smaller and less touristy, giving you a sense of true Italian village life. Vineyards surround it, and local wineries often welcome visitors for tastings and tours.
Walking the wine trails here, you’ll find panoramic views that are postcard-perfect. It’s also a great spot to connect with locals, hear stories of the land, and learn about wine-making traditions that have been passed down for generations.
7. Ottiglio – Castle Views and Tranquil Walks
Ottiglio is a hidden treasure in the Monferrato Hills. Its castle is perched high, offering sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. The town itself is small, but its charm lies in its tranquility and scenic beauty.
Exploring Ottiglio on foot is a pleasure. You can wander through peaceful streets, stop by local cafes, and take in the quiet elegance of this little-known gem. For photography enthusiasts, this town is a dream, especially during golden hour when the hills glow warmly.
8. Vignale Monferrato – Art, Wine, and Local Festivals
Vignale Monferrato combines culture, wine, and local celebrations. The town has an art gallery featuring regional artists, and its annual festivals celebrate food, wine, and tradition with genuine enthusiasm.
Walking through Vignale, you’ll encounter friendly locals eager to share their stories, sample their wine, or recommend a hidden spot for the best view. Based on my overall experience, joining one of these festivals gives you a truly immersive taste of Monferrato life.
9. Cella Monte – Panoramic Beauty and Peaceful Strolls
Cella Monte is a small town with a big reputation for scenic views. Perched on a hilltop, it offers 360-degree panoramas of vineyards, valleys, and neighboring towns. It’s ideal for anyone who loves photography, quiet walks, or simply sitting on a bench to watch the world go by.
The town has a charming main square where locals gather. You can sip coffee, enjoy homemade pastries, and watch life in a way that feels slow, meaningful, and unhurried—a true taste of Monferrato living.
10. Fubine Monferrato – Hilltop Charm and Wine Heritage
Fubine Monferrato is the perfect blend of history, scenery, and wine culture. Its hilltop location offers stunning vistas, and the town itself is rich in medieval architecture. Local vineyards produce some of the finest wines in the region, and visiting a winery here is almost a spiritual experience for wine lovers.
Exploring Fubine, you’ll find small squares, hidden churches, and trails that lead to breathtaking overlooks. From my own personal experience, a late afternoon walk here, followed by a local wine tasting, is an experience you’ll never forget.
Why These Towns Will Steal Your Heart
What makes Monferrato Hills so special is not just the beauty of each town, but the feeling of connection you get when exploring them. The pace is gentle, the landscapes are stunning, and the food and wine are consistently excellent. Each town offers its own slice of Italian life, from bustling piazzas to quiet hilltop escapes.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to disconnect and enjoy authentic scenery, Monferrato Hills delivers. Walking its streets, tasting its wines, and meeting its people leaves a lasting impression—one that’s hard to forget.
If you plan your trip well, you can explore multiple towns in a day or spend a few days wandering slowly, letting the hills reveal their secrets. From my own personal experience, the best way to enjoy Monferrato is without a strict schedule—let yourself get lost, linger over meals, and take in every vista.
Tips for Exploring Monferrato Hills
- Go by car or bike: The towns are spread out, and while public transport exists, having your own vehicle gives you freedom to explore at your own pace.
- Plan wine tastings ahead: Many small wineries require reservations, especially during peak seasons.
- Stay in agriturismos: These farm stays offer authentic experiences, often with incredible local food and wine.
- Bring comfortable shoes: Cobblestones, hills, and medieval streets mean you’ll want footwear that can handle both charm and a bit of adventure.
- Embrace slow travel: Monferrato isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about savoring each town, each meal, and each view.
Monferrato Hills is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Its towns are rich with history, beauty, and life that moves at a pace you’ll wish you could bottle. So pack your bags, bring an appetite for good food and wine, and prepare to fall in love with Italy’s secret hilltop treasures.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.