Biella​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
The city of Biella is the capital city of the Province of Biella with a population of 43,987 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 420 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 47 km² and lies 70 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont.

An important centre for the wool and textile trades, Biella is situated on the banks of the River Cervo, within striking distance of the Alps and the nearby Sacro Monte di Oropo sanctuary.

What People Ask About Biella

Is Biella worth visiting?
Yes, Biella is worth visiting for its textile history, medieval quarter, and proximity to the Alps. It’s a lesser-known destination with cultural sites, walking routes, and artisan traditions.
What can you do in Biella?
You can explore the medieval Piazzo district, visit the Cathedral and Baptistery, and see local wool and textile museums. The nearby Sanctuary of Oropa is a popular day trip, located in the mountains north of the town.
How do you get to Biella?
Biella has its own train station with services from Santhià and Novara. It’s about 85 km from Turin and can also be reached by car via the A4 motorway and local roads.
What is Biella known for?
Biella is known for its high-quality wool and textile industry, historic hilltop quarter, and mountain scenery. It also has strong religious traditions centred around the Sanctuary of Oropa.
When is the best time to visit Biella?
Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit, with mild weather for sightseeing and walking. Autumn is also a good time for visiting local food markets and exploring the nearby hills.
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Discover

Discover Biella
The wool trade is partially responsible for the city's overall layout; split into a lower and upper town, the lower area is the busiest with the majority of shops and restaurants, while the upper city, called Piazzo, is where the original wool merchants built their more grandiose homes. 

The main area of interest in the lower part of Biella is around Piazza Duomo. The wide open square is home to Biella Cathedral, from where you can also see the impressive Bell Tower. Close by and tucked away in a slightly strange position, hemmed in to a side street, is the Biella Baptistery. From the Baptistery it's just a few more paces to reach the city's busiest shopping street: Via Italia. 

Piazzo - the upper side of the city, can be reached via a funicular railway that saves a steep walk up the hill. The funicular station is situated a 5 minute walk from Piazza Duomo from where you can see the direction you need to follow to reach it. Once in Piazzo you'll find a pretty main square with porticoed edges concealing a variety of shops and bars within.

​Also, if you head north from the main piazza (turning right from where you arrived on the main street after taking the funicular), towards the archway, you'll come to a bridge from where you can get some great views of the whole city. 

​Among the places of interest nearby are the medieval borgo of Ricetti di Candelo, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Ivrea and the aforementioned Sacro Monte di Oropa. 

Things to Do

Things to Do in Biella
  • Piazzo Historic Quarter is the medieval heart of Biella, set on a hill and accessible by funicular from the lower town. The area includes noble palaces, cobbled streets, and panoramic balconies overlooking the valley. It offers a quieter atmosphere than the modern centre and hosts antique fairs and cultural events throughout the year.
  • Biella Cathedral (Duomo di Santo Stefano) is located in the lower town beside the baptistery and town hall. Originally built in the 15th century, the cathedral has undergone various renovations and includes Gothic and neoclassical elements. Inside are frescoes, marble altars, and paintings by local artists, and the church remains active for services.
  • Baptistery of Biella stands adjacent to the cathedral and is one of the oldest buildings in the city, dating back to the 10th century. Built in Romanesque style, it features a circular plan, stone columns, and preserved frescoes. It is open to visitors and provides insight into the city’s early Christian history.
  • Santuario di Oropa is a major pilgrimage site located 12 km north of Biella in a mountain basin. Dedicated to the Black Madonna, the sanctuary complex includes a basilica, cloisters, and museum spaces. It is surrounded by hiking trails and alpine scenery, and is accessible by car or bus from the city.
  • Menabrea Brewery and Museum offers guided tours of one of Italy’s oldest beer producers, founded in 1846. Visitors can explore the production area, historic cellars, and a small museum displaying brewing equipment and memorabilia. The tour ends with a tasting session in the adjoining restaurant and bar.
Biella Tours and Activities
Comune di Biella
Province: Biella

Region: Piedmont

Population: 42,953​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 47 km²

Elevation: 420 metres

Highlights: Biella Cathedral, Piazzo, Baptistery, Bell Tower

​Close by: Ricetto di Candelo, Sacro Monte di Oropa, Ivrea

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Biella
  • Agora' Palace Hotel Located in the centre of Biella near the main shopping streets, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms with contemporary furnishings and soundproof windows. Guests appreciate the on-site restaurant, private parking, and walking distance to the medieval Piazzo district and public transport. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Astoria Situated close to Biella's station and city centre, this hotel provides comfortable rooms with traditional décor and free Wi-Fi. Visitors enjoy the helpful staff, daily breakfast service, and convenient access to nearby cafés, shops, and cultural sites. €€ (mid-range)
  • Augustus Hotel This centrally located hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with wooden flooring, modern bathrooms, and a quiet atmosphere. Guests value the friendly welcome, varied breakfast, and the location within easy reach of both the business district and Biella’s historic areas. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Cascina Belsito Set in the hills just outside Biella, this bed and breakfast provides rustic-style rooms with views over the countryside. Guests enjoy the homemade breakfast, garden area, and peaceful setting only a short drive from the town centre. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B La Varda Located in a quiet residential area of Biella, this small B&B offers well-kept rooms and a shared garden. Visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, the attentive hosts, and the convenient access to both the city and nearby walking trails. € (budget)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Biella
  • Ristorante Cascina Foresto: Set in a rustic farmhouse just outside the town centre, this restaurant serves traditional Piedmontese cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Dishes include risotto with local cheeses, brasato al Nebbiolo, and homemade desserts. The peaceful countryside location adds to the appeal. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Osteria del Cervo: Located in Biella’s old town, this osteria offers a warm, informal atmosphere and a menu featuring regional classics like polenta with stewed meats, tagliolini with porcini, and local cured meats. A good option for an authentic, no-frills experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Trattoria Stazione: Opposite Biella San Paolo train station, this long-standing trattoria is popular for its reliable food and relaxed setting. Expect hearty mains, simple pasta dishes, and a decent wine list focused on regional producers. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria Mastro Pizza: A convenient option near the central shopping streets, Mastro Pizza offers a wide selection of thin-crust and wood-fired pizzas. It’s a casual choice for families or groups looking for something quick and affordable. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
  • Caffè Bugella: This stylish café near Piazza Duomo serves light lunches, coffee, and pastries in a contemporary setting. Perfect for a snack or aperitivo, with options like focaccia, salads, and cakes made in-house. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Biella
  • Cossato (approx. 15 km south of Biella): A small town known for its quiet atmosphere, Cossato offers a peaceful setting with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the historic centre, with charming streets and local shops, or enjoy the nearby natural landscapes. Cossato is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Biellese Alps and nearby natural parks.
  • Pollone (approx. 10 km east of Biella): A picturesque village set in the foothills of the Biellese Alps, Pollone is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. The village is home to the Parco della Burcina, a large park filled with lush greenery and walking paths, ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene landscape. Pollone offers a perfect escape into nature while remaining close to the city.
  • Bioglio (approx. 20 km north of Biella): A small, traditional village nestled in the Biellese mountains, Bioglio offers visitors a chance to experience rural Italian life. The town features charming stone houses, narrow streets, and beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests. Bioglio is a great spot for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
  • Mongrando (approx. 10 km northeast of Biella): A small town with a rich history, Mongrando is surrounded by lush forests and offers a peaceful atmosphere. The town’s historic centre features traditional stone buildings, and visitors can enjoy scenic walks in the nearby hills. Mongrando is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding nature reserves and enjoying outdoor activities in the Biellese Alps.
Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont

1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. ​Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. ​Barolo

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Biella
Biella's main train station is called Stazione San Paolo; it's located 2 kilometres from Piazza Duomo, a walk of around 23 minutes or a 7 minute bus ride using any of the 360, 370 or 380 bus routes. Trains run from Biella to nearby Santhià where you change to continue on to Turin (Porta Nuova Station), the whole journey taking an hour and a half. Heading east you can reach Novara in 53 minutes without changing and from there you can continue on to Milan which is another 40 minutes away.

The most convenient airport for Biella is Turin Airport which is a one hour drive away (86 km). Equally viable is Milan Malpensa Airport at an hour and 4 minutes, a distance of 95 kilometres, or even Milan Linate Airport (1 hour 22 minutes/118 km).
​Public transport: ​train station 2 km from centre, buses, funicular

By train: ​Novara - 53 minutes, Turin - 1 hour 30 minutes (1 change)
By car: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Vercelli - 45 mins (42 km), Novara - 52 mins (57 km)

Fly to: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Turin Airport - one hour by car (86 km)

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