When you visit Neive, you quickly see why it’s called one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Perched on a hill in the Langhe, it’s surrounded by vineyards that produce some of Piedmont’s best wines, Dolcetto, Barbera, and even Barbaresco just around the corner. The old town is small but full of character, with cobbled lanes, medieval buildings, and plenty of wine bars waiting to pour you a glass. It’s the kind of place where you wander slowly, chat with locals, and let the day unfold between tastings and scenic views. Pair your stop with nearby Piedmont wine tours, and Neive becomes not just a pretty village but a perfect snapshot of everything that makes this region unforgettable.
Visit Neive and the best things to do
Wander the cobbled streets of Neive’s historic center
Neive climbs gently uphill in a circle of cobbled streets and terracotta-roofed houses. The historic center, part of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) list, is packed with baroque villas, old fortified homes, and viewpoints that open onto the Langhe hills. Wandering here is the best way to catch the village’s charm and see how centuries of history still shape daily life.
Walk to the Church of San Michele
The Church of San Michele stands at the heart of Neive, its bell tower rising above the rooftops. Dating back to medieval times, it’s a quiet, welcoming spot where you can pause during your walk through the historic center. Simple yet full of character, the church reflects the spiritual side of this small Piedmont village.
Tour the Tivic Tower
Neive’s clock tower is located in Piazza Italia, a central meeting place lined with coffeehouses and local artisan shops. Climb the tower at sunset for an unbeatable 360° panorama of the Langhe hills and neighboring villages like San Rocco and Gallina.
Take a look at the Vineyards surrounding the city
The hills around Neive are a patchwork of vineyards that produce some of Piedmont’s most celebrated wines, from Dolcetto and Barbera to the prestigious Barbaresco. Walking or driving through these rolling landscapes is an experience in itself, with rows of vines stretching toward the horizon and small family-run wineries welcoming visitors for tastings. It’s here that tradition and terroir meet, making the vineyards around Neive not just scenic but also the heartbeat of the village’s identity.
Unwind among Neive’s vineyards
Drop by Cantina Negro Giuseppe, a family-run winery nestled in Gallina near Neive. Since 1985, oenologist Giorgio Negro has honored his father’s legacy by crafting elegant Barbaresco and Nebbiolo wines. Tastings happen on their terrace overlooking vineyards and the villages of Guarene, Govone, Barbaresco, and Neive, a setting made for sipping and savoring.
Taste organic traditions in the village heart
In the historic center of Neive, Massimo Rivetti offers a warm, organic-forward wine experience. The family-run estate covers hillside vineyards grown with care, no pesticides, no fuss. Inside an early 19th-century house, you can book guided tastings (from three to five wines) that showcase local varieties like Barbaresco, Barbera, Dolcetto, and Arneis alongside a few international picks, all in a relaxed, welcoming setup.
Trace two centuries of Barbaresco craft
Step into Paitin, one of the oldest Barbaresco estates, founded in 1796 by the Pasquero-Elia family. Their approach blends tradition and thoughtful experimentation, from extended macerations to a modern, gentle style that preserves Nebbiolo’s elegance. Known for dark, complex wines that reflect both terroir and time, Paitin offers a quietly powerful glimpse into Barbaresco’s evolution.
Visit Neive and the best things to do around
Discover the hidden treasures of Mango
A quick trip from Neive brings you to Mango, a hilltop village that knows how to mix history and wine. The star of the show is the Castello di Mango, now home to the Enoteca Regionale del Moscato, where you can sip your way through local bottles and learn a bit along the way. The town is surrounded by vineyards of Moscato and Barbera, proving there’s more to Piedmont than just Barolo and Barbaresco.
Wander in Alba
Alba, the cultural and culinary heart of Piedmont, is an essential stop just minutes from Neive. Famous worldwide for its prized white truffle (tuber magnatum), the city is equally loved for wines like Barbera, Dolcetto, and Arneis. Stroll past medieval towers and cobbled streets, pop into elegant cafés, and browse food shops overflowing with local specialties. For wine lovers, visiting an Alba winery adds another layer to the experience, connecting the city to the surrounding Langhe vineyards. Markets, baroque villas, and lively piazzas make Alba a place where history and flavor go hand in hand.
Ready to explore deeper? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Alba and uncover the city’s highlights.
Visit Barolo and discover the soul of Piedmontese winemaking
A scenic drive through the Langhe brings you to Barolo, the beating heart of the Barolo wine region and one of Italy’s most celebrated wine villages. Known worldwide for its bold Nebbiolo reds, Barolo is all about immersive wine culture. Join one of the many Barolo wine tours to taste in historic cellars, meet family producers, and learn the traditional methods that made this wine legendary. Don’t miss the Castello Falletti, home to the WiMu Wine Museum, where the story of winemaking comes to life. Between the rolling vineyards, the striking castle, and the unforgettable tastings, Barolo is a must-visit stop near Neive.
Explore the elegant vineyards and town of Barbaresco
Just a short drive from Neive (less than an hour), the village of Barbaresco combines small-town charm with world-famous wine culture. Its medieval tower dominates the skyline, offering sweeping views over the Langhe and Roero hills, while narrow streets lead to historic churches, cozy trattorias, and traditional cellars. The surrounding hills are home to Nebbiolo vines that produce the celebrated Barbaresco wine, and joining a Barbaresco wine tour is the best way to experience both the landscape and the flavor.
Good to Know before visiting Neive, Italy
What makes Neive a must-visit destination in Italy?
Neive is a charming hilltop village located in the Piedmont region, known for its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views over the Langhe hills. It’s part of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” (Most Beautiful Villages in Italy) and offers a perfect blend of culture, wine tourism, and authentic Italian countryside charm. With its historic center and proximity to the Barbaresco wine region, it’s an ideal destination for wine lovers and slow travelers.
When is the best time to visit Neive?
The best time to visit Neive is in the spring (April–June) or early autumn (September–October). These months offer pleasant weather for exploring the village and vineyards, fewer crowds, and—especially in autumn—a chance to witness the wine harvest and the stunning colors of the Langhe landscape. October is particularly popular for truffle festivals and wine events nearby.
What are the best places to stay in Neive?
Neive offers a selection of charming accommodations perfect for a relaxing stay:
- Hotel Villa Lauri – A boutique hotel with panoramic terraces, a pool, and views over the vineyards.
- Borgo Vecchio – Located in the heart of the old town, it offers elegant rooms with a traditional style and modern comforts.
- Al Palazzo Rosso – A historical bed & breakfast offering warm hospitality in a restored noble residence.
- Cascina Gaione – For a countryside experience, this agriturismo features rustic rooms surrounded by nature and vineyards, just a short drive from the village.
What are the best restaurants in Neive?
Neive is known for its rich culinary traditions and fine dining experiences. Some top places to try include:
- La Contea – A gourmet experience with local ingredients and a prestigious selection of Barbaresco wines.Trattoria della Posta – A welcoming family-run spot offering homemade pasta, truffle dishes, and Piedmontese classics.Donna Selvatica – Romantic and gourmet, perfect for a special evening, with carefully curated menus and a wine cellar to explore.
How do I get to Neive?
Neive is about 43 miles southeast of Turin and 9 miles from Alba, the nearest large town. The easiest way to reach Neive is by car, which allows flexibility for exploring the surrounding wine region. If using public transport, take a train to Alba and then a local bus or taxi to Neive. There’s limited local public transport, so a rental car is highly recommended for convenience.
Is Neive suitable for a day trip, or should I stay overnight?
While Neive makes a delightful day trip from Alba or Asti, staying overnight allows visitors to fully enjoy its peaceful evenings, fine dining, and slower pace. Spending at least one night also gives you the chance to explore nearby wineries and partake in experiences like truffle hunting or cooking classes, which require more time.
What are the must-see attractions in Neive?
Top highlights in Neive include:
- Centro Storico – Neive’s medieval historic center, full of narrow stone lanes and beautifully preserved buildings.
- Tower of Neive – A former watchtower offering scenic views of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
- Parrocchia dei Santi Pietro e Paolo – A beautiful baroque church in the center of the village.
- Casa della Donna Selvatica – A local museum and historic home with legends and stories tied to Neive’s past.
What local delicacies should I try when visiting Neive?
Neive is in the heart of Piedmont’s culinary territory, so don’t miss:
- Tajarin – Thin egg pasta, often served with butter and white truffles in season.
- Vitello Tonnato – Thinly sliced veal topped with a velvety tuna sauce.
- Carne Cruda – A Piedmontese-style beef tartare, simply seasoned and incredibly fresh.
- Bonet – A rich chocolate and amaretto pudding with caramel.
Pair dishes with a regional Barbaresco or a glass of Moscato d’Asti for a complete local tasting experience.