Bra, Temples of Gastronomy

Piedmont · Bra and Pollenzo · 2 daysVerified itinerary ✓

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through one of Italy's most celebrated regions for its exceptional food and wine culture and its deep connection with the Slow Food movement. This itinerary takes you to Bra — the cradle of Bra Tenero PDO cheese and birthplace of the Slow Food philosophy — and to Pollenzo, home of the University of Gastronomic Sciences, offering a full immersion in flavors, knowledge, and history, from historic cafés and freshly whipped cream to the beauty of the Savoy residences.

Your day begins in Bra, a town suffused with the aroma of good food and Slow Food philosophy, then immerses you into the gastronomic knowledge of Pollenzo.

Pasticceria Converso

The first stop is for breakfast pleasure: head to Pasticceria Converso — one of Italy's best cafés — enjoying an authentic Italian breakfast with cappuccino and brioche.

Bra Historic Center

Explore the historic center: visit Palazzo Mathis and prepare for a pleasant walk to Villa La Zizzola, offering a lovely panoramic view over the town and the Langhe. Don't miss the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, a little gem.

Sardo & Quaglia

Before retrieving your car, stock up on quality local products at the historic shop Sardo & Quaglia — a great example of a traditional store showcasing regional specialities.

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University of Gastronomic Sciences and Wine Bank

In Pollenzo you enter one of Italy's flagship institutions: the University of Gastronomic Sciences. Spend time on a knowledgeable guided tasting at the Wine Bank, a unique venue housing thousands of labels of Italy's finest wines, and visit the University site, where the best professionals in hospitality and new gastronomy are trained.

Pollenzo Ancient Amphitheater, Church of San Vittore Martire and Royal Castle

Pollenzo is also a historical gem: explore the ancient amphitheater, imagining its glorious past, plus the Church of San Vittore Martire and the Royal Castle.

Tips for Day 1

☕ Lunch: Osteria Boccondivino — an iconic venue not only for its excellent cuisine but also because it's where Slow Food was founded by Carlo Petrini; owned by Slow Food, it celebrates the food and style of the association right where it began.
🍽️ Dinner: Ristorante Garden — located inside the Albergo dell'Agenzia in Pollenzo, it offers a great gastronomic conclusion to the day.
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Albergo dell'Agenzia

Check in at the Albergo dell'Agenzia in Pollenzo, also owned by Slow Food, fully immersed in the atmosphere of Slow Food and the University of Gastronomic Sciences.

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On the second day you'll discover the Savoy heritage of Racconigi, nestled in a magnificent park, and you'll have the chance to taste more typical Piedmontese delights.

Caseificio Persia

After breakfast at the Albergo dell'Agenzia, the day begins with a visit to Caseificio Persia, where you can discover the secrets of local cheese production and taste typical cheeses — true taste treasures.

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Racconigi Royal Castle

Head to Racconigi to visit its magnificent Royal Castle. This sumptuous Savoy residence, a UNESCO heritage site, will captivate you with its lavishly decorated rooms and its vast historic park, which you can explore on foot or by bicycle, including the evocative Royal Greenhouses — a true architectural and botanical spectacle.

Tips for Day 2

☕ Lunch: El Quartin — stop here for a typical local lunch in Racconigi, where you can enjoy traditional Piedmontese cuisine in a welcoming environment.

Experiences nearby

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