Mondovi
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Latest page update: 26 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Mondovì
Mondovì offers a well-reviewed selection of established hotels, supported by its historic Piazza district, funicular link between the upper and lower town, and convenient position for visiting the Langhe and the Maritime Alps. The best options focus on comfort, character and easy access to the main sights and viewpoints.
Park Hotel is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its comfortable rooms, welcoming service and practical location within walking distance of the centre (€€). Hotel Villa Cinzia, in nearby Villanova Mondovì, provides a refined alternative with a pool, modern interiors and consistently positive feedback for both comfort and hospitality (€€€). For a countryside stay a short drive away, Albergo della Ceramica in Mondovì Breo offers stylish rooms, friendly service and a convenient base for exploring the town, the Langhe and the surrounding hills (€€€).
Park Hotel is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its comfortable rooms, welcoming service and practical location within walking distance of the centre (€€). Hotel Villa Cinzia, in nearby Villanova Mondovì, provides a refined alternative with a pool, modern interiors and consistently positive feedback for both comfort and hospitality (€€€). For a countryside stay a short drive away, Albergo della Ceramica in Mondovì Breo offers stylish rooms, friendly service and a convenient base for exploring the town, the Langhe and the surrounding hills (€€€).
Where is
Where is Mondovì?
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The historic town of Mondovì is situated within the Province of Cuneo and has a population of around 22,000 residents. Standing at an elevation of 395 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 81 kilometres south of Turin, the capital of Piedmont.
The town is divided into a number of districts or rioni, either side of the River Ellero that flows through its centre. That central area at ground level is called Breo while to the west of the river the town rises up a hill to the rione of Piazza which is accessed via a funicular railway. Piazza is the site of a beautiful square and cathedral. |
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Comune di Mondovì
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Province: Cuneo
Region: Piedmont Population: 22,068 (in 2024 - source) Total size: 87 km² Elevation: 395 metres Highlights: Piazza Maggiore, funicular railway, Piazza San Pietro Close by: Cuneo, Bene Vagienna, Monforte d'Alba, Barolo |
What People Ask About Mondovì
What is Mondovì known for?
Is Mondovì worth visiting?
What can you see in the upper town of Mondovì?
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Related links
Discover
Discover Mondovì
An illustrious history
Once the largest town in Piedmont, Mondovì has had a colourful history, regularly changing hands between a series of French and Italian governments. At one time or another it's come under the jurisdiction of Charles of Anjou (King of Naples at the time), the House of Savoy, the Marquisate of Monferrato and Napleon's Kingdom of Italy. Each of these different historical eras and others besides have left their mark on this attractive provincial town.
The two main areas are the ground-level area of Breo and this historic hill town of Piazza. On arrival in Breo via the main road you're immediately presented with a beautifully-appointed town with a bridge across the river. The historical streets in this part of town are full of colour and nowhere is that more in evidence than Piazza Cesare Battisti, the first of a series of superb squares in the town.
The two main areas are the ground-level area of Breo and this historic hill town of Piazza. On arrival in Breo via the main road you're immediately presented with a beautifully-appointed town with a bridge across the river. The historical streets in this part of town are full of colour and nowhere is that more in evidence than Piazza Cesare Battisti, the first of a series of superb squares in the town.
Stylish piazzas of the lower town
A short walk beyond Piazza Cesare Battisti brings you to the second square of note: Piazza San Pietro. This stylish space is dominated at one end by the Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo, in front of which is a restaurant with outdoor seating. South of the Piazza the main thoroughfare of Via Sant'Agostino stretches for half a kilometre, along which the brightly-coloured walls are painted in the distinctive trompe l'oeil style.
Halfway along the street is the Chiesa di Sant'Agostino while closer to Piazza San Pietro you may be forgiven for passing the inconspicuous narrow street of Via della Funicolare.
Halfway along the street is the Chiesa di Sant'Agostino while closer to Piazza San Pietro you may be forgiven for passing the inconspicuous narrow street of Via della Funicolare.
Taking the funicular railway up to Piazza Maggiore
That is in fact one of the most important streets in the town as it leads up to Breo's funicular railway station. From there you can climb the hill to arguably the prettiest are of Mondovì known as Piazza. The name of the town's district can cause a little confusion because it's also the home to one of the most beautiful squares in Piedmont: Piazza Maggiore.
The square is enclosed by historical buildings, among which are the 17th century Chiesa di San Francesco Saverio occupying the southern end. At the opposite end of the square, a building decorated with colourful frescoes conceals a narrow walkway which leads to the town's cathedral: the Cattedrale di San Donato.
From this, the higher part of town you can enjoy some wonderful panoramic views down on to the lower area of Breo from the garden just behind the cathedral called the Giardini di Belvedere. Better still, you can climb the tower which has several names (Torre Civica, Torre dei Bressani or Torre Belvedere) to take in vistas of a much wider area of the local landscape.
The square is enclosed by historical buildings, among which are the 17th century Chiesa di San Francesco Saverio occupying the southern end. At the opposite end of the square, a building decorated with colourful frescoes conceals a narrow walkway which leads to the town's cathedral: the Cattedrale di San Donato.
From this, the higher part of town you can enjoy some wonderful panoramic views down on to the lower area of Breo from the garden just behind the cathedral called the Giardini di Belvedere. Better still, you can climb the tower which has several names (Torre Civica, Torre dei Bressani or Torre Belvedere) to take in vistas of a much wider area of the local landscape.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Mondovì
- Piazza Maggiore is the heart of the historic upper town, lined with arcaded buildings, noble palaces, and the Town Hall. Its uneven shape and frescoed façades create a distinctive atmosphere. The square often hosts events and markets, especially during local festivals. It’s accessible via the town’s funicular, which connects the lower and upper districts.
- Cattedrale di San Donato is the city’s cathedral, built in the 18th century and designed by architect Francesco Gallo. It features a Baroque façade and richly decorated interior with stucco work, marble altars, and ceiling frescoes. The cathedral stands on a panoramic terrace overlooking the plain below. It remains a focal point for religious and civic occasions.
- Chiesa della Missione is known for its dramatic trompe-l'œil ceiling painted by Andrea Pozzo, one of the masters of Baroque illusionistic art. The church was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century and contains additional frescoes, altarpieces, and a richly carved pulpit. It lies close to Piazza Maggiore and is often visited together with the cathedral.
- Funicolare di Mondovì is a modernised funicular railway connecting Breo (the lower town) to Piazza (the historic upper town). Originally opened in 1886, it was restored and reopened in 2006. The ride offers scenic views and a practical link between the two areas. It’s an integral part of the town’s layout and local identity.
- Museo della Ceramica is housed in the Palazzo Fauzone di Germagnano and showcases Mondovì’s long history of ceramic production. The collection includes tiles, stoves, tableware, and artistic ceramics from the 18th century to the present. Multimedia displays explain the town’s industrial heritage. The museum is part of the Piedmontese ceramics network.
Tours and Activities
Mondovì Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Mondovì
- Taverna Paolino: Located in the heart of Mondovì, this restaurant offers traditional Piedmontese cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Signature dishes include agnolotti pasta and brasato al Barolo. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Croce D'Oro: Situated near the main square, Croce D'Oro serves a variety of Italian and regional dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list featuring local Piedmontese wines. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Dimora del Contadino: Set in a historic building, this restaurant combines rustic charm with modern culinary techniques, offering a menu that highlights local ingredients and traditional recipes. Price guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria Bertaina in Mondovì: A Michelin-recognized establishment known for its refined Piedmontese cuisine, Osteria Bertaina offers a seasonal menu that emphasizes fresh, local produce. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Marsupino 1901 in Briaglia: A short drive from Mondovì, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative Piedmontese cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Signature dishes include veal with foie gras and hazelnut desserts. Briaglia is a small village located around 15 minutes from Mondovì by car. Price guide: €€€€ (High-end)
Photo Gallery
Mondovì Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Mondovì
Although Mondovì does have its own train station, you usually need to change first before you can reach the major locations in this part of the region. Bus services are widely available but the greatest freedom can be enjoyed with a car. The main town in the area is Cuneo which lies 27 kilometres west of Mondovì and can be reached by car in around half an hour.
Apart from the pretty village of Bene Vagienna, the area directly to the north of Mondovì is dominated by the vineyard aeea of the Langhe. Some of the key vineyard towns in the area are the likes of Barolo, Barbaresco and La Morra, which are all a scenic drive of half an hour or so away.
The Piedmont region is completely landlocked but Mondovì isn't too far from the coast. Its close proximity to the A6 motorway puts the city of Savona in the region of Liguria within reach, three quarters of an hour or so away.
Apart from the pretty village of Bene Vagienna, the area directly to the north of Mondovì is dominated by the vineyard aeea of the Langhe. Some of the key vineyard towns in the area are the likes of Barolo, Barbaresco and La Morra, which are all a scenic drive of half an hour or so away.
The Piedmont region is completely landlocked but Mondovì isn't too far from the coast. Its close proximity to the A6 motorway puts the city of Savona in the region of Liguria within reach, three quarters of an hour or so away.
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
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 Mondovì
By Rail: Mondovì is served by its own train station, providing connections to cities such as Turin and Savona. The journey from Turin to Mondovì takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by train. From the station, the town's attractions are within easy reach.
By Road: Mondovì is approximately 80 km southeast of Turin, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A6 motorway. From Turin, follow signs for Savona, then take the Mondovì exit. The town is also accessible via the SS28 road, connecting it to surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Mondovì is approximately 80 km southeast of Turin, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A6 motorway. From Turin, follow signs for Savona, then take the Mondovì exit. The town is also accessible via the SS28 road, connecting it to surrounding areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Turin Airport (Aeroporto di Torino): Located about 90 km northwest of Mondovì, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A6 motorway. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Mondovì.
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (Aeroporto di Genova): Situated about 130 km southeast of Mondovì, the drive takes around 2 hours via the A6 motorway. From Genoa, you can rent a car or take public transportation to reach Mondovì.
Private Transfers
Mondovì Private Transfers
Booking a private transfer to or from Mondovì is a practical and comfortable solution for getting around this part of Piedmont. You’ll be collected directly from your hotel, airport, or another specified location and taken straight to your destination without the need to navigate train changes or local bus schedules.
Mondovì is situated approximately 80 kilometres south of Turin, with a transfer time of just over 1 hour by car. A journey to Cuneo Levaldigi Airport takes around 40 minutes (35 kilometres), while Savona on the Ligurian coast can be reached in just over an hour (70 kilometres).
To request your transfer, simply fill in the form below.
Mondovì is situated approximately 80 kilometres south of Turin, with a transfer time of just over 1 hour by car. A journey to Cuneo Levaldigi Airport takes around 40 minutes (35 kilometres), while Savona on the Ligurian coast can be reached in just over an hour (70 kilometres).
To request your transfer, simply fill in the form below.
