Govone

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
The historic town of Govone is situated within the Province of Cuneo and has a population of around 2,000 residents.

Standing at an elevation of 301 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 57 kilometres south east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont. Places of interest nearby include Neive, Alba, Asti, Canelli and Grinzane Cavour Castle.

What People Ask About Govone

Is Govone worth visiting?
Yes, Govone is worth visiting for its hillside setting, historic castle, and views over the Roero and Langhe areas. It’s listed among the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” and is known for its royal connections.
What can you do in Govone?
You can visit the Castle of Govone, walk through the landscaped gardens, and enjoy seasonal events like the Christmas market and tulip bloom. Wine tasting and walking routes are also popular in the area.
How do you get to Govone?
Govone is about 15 km from Alba and 20 km from Asti. It is best reached by car via the SP2 and SP231 roads. The nearest train stations are in Montegrosso and Asti, both within driving distance.
What is Govone known for?
Govone is known for its UNESCO-listed castle, once used by the House of Savoy. It’s also famous for tulip blooms in spring and one of the largest Christmas markets in Piedmont.
When is the best time to visit Govone?
Spring is ideal for the tulip season in the castle gardens, while December is popular for the Christmas events. The area can be visited year-round for views and walks.
Related links

Discover

Discover Govone
Govone, located in the Piedmont region, is a small town set at an elevation of 300 metres, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills of the Langhe and Roero regions. Known for its rich history and beautiful countryside, Govone offers a charming atmosphere with traditional stone houses and narrow streets, making it a peaceful destination for those looking to explore the scenic beauty of the area.
​
The town is home to the impressive Palazzo Comunale, a historic building that reflects its noble past, as well as the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, which adds to its architectural charm. Govone is also famous for its proximity to the Parco delle Rocche, a natural park ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. The town is easily accessible by car, with Alba located about 20 kilometres away. The nearest train station is Bra Railway Station, around 10 kilometres from Govone, while Turin Airport is approximately 70 kilometres away.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Govone
  • Castello di Govone is a former royal residence perched above the village, once used by the House of Savoy. The 18th-century building features grand staircases, frescoed halls, and formal gardens overlooking the Tanaro Valley. Now part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, it hosts guided visits and seasonal cultural events.
  • Italian-Style Castle Gardens surround the palace and include a terraced layout with manicured hedges, walking paths, and scenic viewpoints. In spring, the gardens are known for their flowering tulips and ornamental plants. The grounds are open during visiting hours and often included in guided tours.
  • Parish Church of San Secondo stands at the edge of the castle complex and dates from the early 19th century. It has a neoclassical façade and an interior with frescoes and marble fittings. The church remains active for services and local religious festivals, and is visible from across the surrounding hills.
  • Historic Village Streets run down from the castle into the lower part of Govone, with stone houses, arcaded buildings, and small squares. The layout reflects the village’s medieval origins, with several lanes offering views over vineyards and the Tanaro River. The area includes cafés, wine bars, and local produce shops.
  • Tulip Festival and Christmas Market are two major annual events held in and around the castle. The tulip festival takes place in spring when the gardens are in bloom, while the Christmas market transforms the historic centre with stalls, lights, and seasonal food. Both events attract visitors from across the region.
Govone Tours and Activities
Comune di Govone
Province: Cuneo

Region: Piedmont

Population: 2,231​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 19 km²

Elevation: 301 metres

Highlights: Castello di Govone 

Close by: Neive, Alba, Asti, Canelli, Grinzane Cavour Castle​

​Recommended accommodation: Antica Locanda San Pietro

Photo Gallery

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

    Private  Transfer  Request

    WE OFFER PRIVATE TRANSFERS ACROSS THE WHOLE OF ITALY!
    To request the price and availability of any transfer route in Italy please use the form below or contact us via the [email protected] mailbox. Make sure you've included details such as the name of the hotel, name of the town/city or which airport/train station where relevant. Our English booking team will get back to you ASAP to assist with your enquiry.
To book one of our private transfers you can contact us via the [email protected] mailbox or use the Whatsapp button above for live chat and general advice about your upcoming trip to Italy. 

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone. 
Chat with us on WhatsApp