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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Asti.
Asti is a jewel waiting to be discovered, a city that stirs the senses and awakens the soul.
Surrounded by rolling hills and fertile vineyards, Asti offers a pure and authentic escape, where history and tradition intertwine with modernity and innovation.
Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, foodie or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle, Asti is a place where dreams are made, and memories are created.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Asti:
1. Asti Cathedral
Asti Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Asti, a city in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: The cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture with its ornate façade with intricate carvings. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows, frescoes, and marble sculptures.
The highlight of the cathedral is the impressive bell tower which offers a panoramic view of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the cathedral’s impressive collection of artwork and relics, including ancient textiles, historic vestments, and rare manuscripts.
Insider travel tips: – Admission to the cathedral is free, but visitors should dress modestly and be respectful during their visit.
2. Palazzo Mazzetti
Palazzo Mazzetti is a historic palace located in the heart of Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: The palace serves as a museum, showcasing a vast collection of art, artifacts, and historical objects. Visitors can admire works from famous artists such as Canaletto, Francesco Hayez, and Giovanni Boldini.
Don’t miss: The standout feature of Palazzo Mazzetti is its stunning Baroque-style façade, which is highly ornate and beautifully preserved.
Insider travel tips:
3. Piazza San Secondo
Piazza San Secondo is a historic square located in the heart of Asti, a charming town in the Piedmont region of northern Italy.
What to see or do: The square is home to the beautiful San Secondo church and the Torre Troyana, a medieval tower that offers magnificent views over the town and surrounding countryside.
Visitors can also wander around the many cafes, shops, and restaurants located in and around the square, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this charming and historic part of town.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try some of the delicious local cuisine while you’re in Piazza San Secondo.
Asti is known for its wine, salami, and truffles, which can be found in abundance in many of the town’s restaurants and food markets.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting Asti during the summer months, be sure to check out some of the town’s famous festivals and events.
In particular, the Palio di Asti, a medieval horse race held every September, is an incredible spectacle that you won’t want to miss.
Additionally, visitors should be aware that parking can be difficult in Asti, so it’s best to park outside the town and take public transport in whenever possible.
4. Collegiata di San Secondo
A Romanesque-Gothic style church in the historic town of Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: Marvel at the intricate façade and stunning bell tower of the Collegiata di San Secondo. Take a stroll through the interior and gaze at the beautiful paintings and frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the crypt, which houses the remains of San Secondo himself. It’s a peaceful and serene place that offers a glimpse into the church’s rich history.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Additionally, make sure to bring a camera to capture the church’s stunning architecture and unique details.
If you’re interested in learning more about the church’s history, consider hiring a local guide to take you through the building and explain its significance.
5. Torre Troyana
Torre Troyana is a medieval tower located in the historic center of Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive structure of the Torre Troyana, which dates back to the 13th century.
Take in the stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside from the top of the tower, which can be reached by climbing the narrow staircase.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful frescoes that adorn the walls of the tower’s interior. These paintings, which date back to the 14th century, depict scenes of everyday life and religious figures.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit Torre Troyana early in the morning or later in the evening.
6. Museo Civico di Palazzo Mazzetti
Museo Civico di Palazzo Mazzetti is a museum dedicated to art and history located in the heart of Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and other artifacts, mostly from the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum also houses a section dedicated to the history of Asti, featuring archaeological finds and documents.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive painting collection, which includes works by Giovanni Boldini, Francesco Hayez, and Filippo Palizzi. Also, make sure to see the frescoes in the Sala del Caffè, a stunning example of Baroque art.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Consider booking a guided tour to fully appreciate the art and history presented in the museum.
In the warmer months, you can enjoy a drink or a snack in the museum’s beautiful courtyard.
7. Museo Paleontologico
Museo Paleontologico is a paleontological museum located in Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: The museum displays a range of fossils chronicling the evolution of life on earth from the Paleozoic era to the present day.
Visitors can expect to see fossils of extinct mammals, dinosaurs, marine creatures, and more. The collection includes fossils found in the local region as well as specimens from across Italy and beyond.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the exhibit on the evolution of the horse, which features a complete skeleton of the extinct four-toed horse, Hyracotherium, as well as a range of other related fossils.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
8. Diocesan Museum
The Diocesan Museum is a museum located in Asti, Italy. It showcases the religious art and artifacts of the Diocese of Asti.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s rich collection of art and artifacts, which include paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and liturgical objects. There are also frescoes that date back to the 15th century.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the “Pala del Righetto”, a 15th-century altarpiece that depicts the Madonna and Child with Saints.
It was created by Giovanni Martino Spanzotti, a famous Italian painter.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can be easily reached on foot from the city center.
9. Crypt of Sant’Anastasio
Crypt of Sant’Anastasio is a charming underground church located in Asti, Italy. It is an ancient, beautifully preserved crypt dating back to the early Christian era.
What to see or do: Visitors can view beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings depicting early Christian motifs and beliefs. The crypt is also home to an impressive collection of Roman artifacts and a unique black and white tiled floor.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the beautiful frescoes dating back to the 5th century, which are remarkably intact and exquisitely detailed.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared for a unique and atmospheric experience, as the crypt is dimly lit and can be chilly.
Visitors should also note that the entrance is located in the basement of a nearby building and requires descending a flight of stairs.
Additionally, guided tours are available for a more in-depth exploration of the crypt’s fascinating history and features.
10. Palazzo del Comune
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful façade and stunning architecture of the building, take a guided tour inside to see the art and artifacts housed within.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view from the top floor of the tower, overlooking the city.
Insider travel tips: If you have the chance, visit during one of the many festivals held in the square in front of the Palazzo, where you can experience local food, wine and music.
It’s also worth checking out the nearby Palio di Asti horse race, which takes place in September and is a beloved local tradition.
11. Chiesa di San Giovanni
Chiesa di San Giovanni is an impressive church located in the heart of Asti, Italy. This Romanesque-style church dates back to the 13th century and features beautiful architectural details.
What to see or do: Visitors to Chiesa di San Giovanni can admire the stunning façade of the church, which is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Once inside, you can marvel at the impressive frescoes that adorn the walls and ceiling of the church. Take a moment to appreciate the gorgeous stained-glass windows that cast a colorful glow on the interior.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the tomb of Sant’Anastasio, a beautiful marble sarcophagus adorned with reliefs depicting scenes from the life of the saint.
The sacristy also contains some impressive works of art and artifacts, including a beautiful altar and a statue of the Madonna and Child.
Insider travel tips: – The church is located in the historic center of Asti, so take some time to explore the charming streets and buildings of the area.
12. Chiesa di San Martino
Chiesa di San Martino is a beautiful Romanesque church located in Asti, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture and intricate details of the church, including the ornate rose window and the striking frescoes on the ceiling.
The church also houses several works of art, including a 16th-century altarpiece.
Don’t miss: Be sure to admire the bell tower, which dates back to the 13th century. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the beauty of the church, visit during the day when the natural light streams in through the windows.
Also, be respectful of the religious significance of the church and dress appropriately. Admission to the church is free, but donations are appreciated.
13. Oratorio di San Filippo Neri
Oratorio di San Filippo Neri is a beautiful 17th-century church located in the heart of Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can appreciate the stunning Baroque architecture of the church, complete with beautiful frescoes, intricate ornaments, and stunning paintings. The interior is covered with ornate decorations that are sure to impress any visitor.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the enormous organ, which is still in use today and considered one of the church’s key highlights.
You should also take the time to explore the various chapels in the church that showcase vividly painted canvases and gilded statues.
Insider travel tips: Admission to the Oratorio di San Filippo Neri is free, and it is usually open during weekdays but may be closed on weekends or during local holidays.
Visitors should dress modestly when entering this religious site and avoid taking pictures during mass or other religious ceremonies.
14. Church of San Pietro in Consavia
A charming small church located in the hills of Asti, Piedmont.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture and frescoes, including a stunning 15th-century fresco of the Madonna and Child. Attend a mass or religious service.
Don’t miss: The views of the surrounding landscape from the church’s hilltop location.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the church is located on a hill and there may be some uphill walking involved. Visit during the annual San Pietro in Consavia festival in June for traditional celebrations, local food, and wine.
15. Santo Sepolcro Church
Santo Sepolcro Church is a Gothic-style church located in the historic city center of Asti, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive interior of the church, which features beautiful frescoes and intricate sculptures.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of the church is the Holy Shroud, which is displayed in a small chapel and is only visible on certain occasions.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of this church.
Additionally, make sure to check the church’s schedule to see if there are any special events or masses occurring during your visit.