If you’re planning a family vacation in Piemonte, the Monferrato region is a fantastic choice. Nestled between rolling vineyards, historic castles, and charming villages, this UNESCO-listed area offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Staying in a private villa, your family can enjoy the peaceful countryside while being within easy reach of exciting activities—whether it’s exploring medieval towns, venturing underground, or taking a day trip to the seaside or Turin.
For exclusive villa rentals in Monferrato, check out Viva! Villas in vineyards and find the perfect stay for your family.
Here’s how to make the most of your stay in Monferrato with kids !
1. Discover Magical Castles & Historic Villages
Monferrato is dotted with fairytale castles, perfect for sparking children’s imaginations.
– Castello di Gabiano– This stunning medieval castle has a fun **labyrinth garden** where kids can play while parents enjoy breathtaking views.
– Castello di Camino – A well-preserved fortress offering guided tours filled with tales of knights and noble families.
– Castello di Montemagno – A picturesque castle located in a charming village, great for a relaxing stroll and a family-friendly meal.
Many of these castles host events and medieval festivals, so check for any special activities during your visit. Find more local events and activities in Monferrato on Viva Piedmont’s blog.
2. Explore the Underground Wonders of Asti & Canelli
For an adventure below the surface, visit the Underground Cathedrals of Canelli—a network of historic wine cellars that stretch beneath the town like hidden tunnels. While adults appreciate the wine history, kids will love the mysterious, cave-like atmosphere.
Another fascinating experience is the Asti Underground Tour, where families can discover ancient ruins and hidden passages beneath the streets of Asti. It’s an exciting way to introduce children to history in a hands-on way!
For a customized family-friendly itinerary in Monferrato, check out Viva Piedmont’s travel services.
3. Have Fun in Monferrato’s Great Outdoors
If your kids love the outdoors, Monferrato offers plenty of space to run, hike, and explore:
– Sacro Monte di Crea Natural Park – A scenic, family-friendly hiking area with small chapels hidden in the woods and panoramic picnic spots.
– Bialbero di Casorzo – A fascinating natural wonder where one tree grows on top of another—perfect for a fun stop and family photos.
– The Po River Park – A beautiful area for easy walks or bike rides along the river, with plenty of space for kids to play.
Many local vineyards and farms also welcome families, offering tours where kids can learn about grape-growing and taste fresh local produce. Find the best family-friendly wine experiences on Viva Piedmont’s wine tours page
4. A Day at the Seaside: Ligurian Coast Escape
While Monferrato is inland, a trip to the seaside is an easy and fun family adventure! The Ligurian Coast is just a 1 to 1.5 -hour drive away, offering sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and great seafood restaurants.
– Finale Ligure – A beautiful beach town with calm waters, perfect for families.
– Varazze – A lively seaside resort with long beaches and a charming old town.
– Noli – A picturesque medieval town by the sea, with shallow waters ideal for young children.
For more detailled advice on your journey to the coast contact Viva Piedmont
5. Take a Family Day Trip to Turin
Turin, the capital of Piemonte, is just a short drive from Monferrato and offers plenty of family-friendly attractions:
– Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum) – One of the world’s best collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including real mummies!
– Mole Antonelliana & Cinema Museum – A fun and interactive museum about film, housed in Turin’s most iconic building. Kids love the panoramic glass elevator that takes you to the top!
– Parco del Valentino – A large park along the Po River with playgrounds, green spaces, and a fairytale-like medieval village to explore.
– Chocolate & Gelato Stops – Turin is famous for its gianduja chocolate, and you can find delicious treats in cafés like Guido Gobino or Venchi.
Need help planning a private guided tour in Turin? Viva Piedmont’s travel experts can arrange the perfect experience for your family.
6. Enjoy Local Food & Kid-Friendly Dishes
Monferrato is a paradise for food lovers, and even picky eaters will find something delicious to enjoy:
– Agnolotti del Plin – Small, stuffed pasta that’s easy for kids to eat.
– Nutella & Gianduja Chocolate – Piemonte is the birthplace of Nutella, and many cafés serve chocolate-based treats.
– Bunet – A creamy chocolate and amaretti dessert.
– Handmade Gelato – Every town in Monferrato has excellent gelaterias, so make sure to stop for a refreshing treat!
For an authentic Monferrato food experience, check out the best local restaurants and food tours on Vivapiedmont.
7. Discover the Giant Benches of Monferrato
One of the most unique and fun activities for families in Monferrato is visiting the Big Bench Community Project—a series of oversized, colorful benches placed in scenic spots across the region. These giant benches are designed to make visitors feel like children again, offering a playful experience and breathtaking panoramic views.
Kids love climbing up and sitting on these enormous benches, while parents can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Monferrato’s rolling vineyards and charming villages. Some of the most beautiful big benches in Monferrato include:
- Big Bench #41 in Rosignano Monferrato – Located near a scenic vineyard with a fantastic view over the hills.
- Big Bench #100 in Grazzano Badoglio – A striking red bench with a perfect backdrop for family photos.
- Big Bench #85 in Vignale Monferrato – Set in a picturesque countryside location, great for a relaxing stop during a day trip.
Each bench has a unique color and number, and you can even collect stamps in a special “Big Bench Passport” from local tourism offices or participating businesses.
For a fun, interactive experience, create a Big Bench treasure hunt with your kids, visiting multiple benches and taking memorable family pictures at each stop.
Find the best routes and Big Bench locations near your villa on Viva Piedmont.
Final Thoughts: Why Monferrato is a Perfect Family Destination
Monferrato is a hidden treasure in Piemonte, offering families a mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and great food. Staying in a private villa, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the peaceful countryside and easy access to exciting day trips to Turin and the seaside.
From exploring medieval castles to discovering underground wonders, hiking through nature parks, and tasting delicious local dishes, Monferrato has everything for an unforgettable family vacation.
Looking for a luxury villa with private pool in Piedmont for your next trip? Browse exclusive rentals on Viva! Villas in vineyards and start planning your dream family holiday today!
Have you visited Monferrato with your family? Share your experiences in the comments!
