Vercelli
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Vercelli
Vercelli has a reliable selection of established hotels, reflecting its role as a provincial capital on the main route between Turin and Milan. Most accommodation lies close to the historic centre or near the main transport connections, giving visitors easy access to the basilicas, medieval streets and rice-growing plains that characterise the area. The best-reviewed hotels focus on comfort, practicality and steady service standards for short and medium-length stays.
Among the leading options, Hotel Cinzia Ristorante is appreciated for its comfortable rooms, welcoming hospitality and convenient location within reach of the centre (€€). Vercelli Palace Hotel provides modern interiors, spacious rooms and reliable guest feedback, making it a practical choice for those arriving by car (€€€). For a more central stay, Hotel Matteotti offers well-kept rooms, friendly service and a position suited to both sightseeing and onward travel (€€).
Among the leading options, Hotel Cinzia Ristorante is appreciated for its comfortable rooms, welcoming hospitality and convenient location within reach of the centre (€€). Vercelli Palace Hotel provides modern interiors, spacious rooms and reliable guest feedback, making it a practical choice for those arriving by car (€€€). For a more central stay, Hotel Matteotti offers well-kept rooms, friendly service and a position suited to both sightseeing and onward travel (€€).
Where is
Where is Vercelli?
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The city of Vercelli is the capital city of the Province of Vercelli with a population of 46,552 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 130 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 80 km² and lies 65 kilometres north east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont. One of the oldest cities in Italy, dating back to the 6th century BC, it's now a well-established centre for the production of rice with the surrounding area full of paddy fields. |
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Comune di Vercelli
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Province: Vercelli
Region: Piedmont Population: 45,635 (in 2024 - source) Size: 80 km² Elevation: 130 metres Highlights: Basilica di Sant'Andrea, Piazza Cavour, cathedral Close by: Varallo Sesia, Sacro Monte di Varallo, Casale Monferrato |
What People Ask About Vercelli
Is Vercelli worth visiting?
What can you do in Vercelli?
How do you get to Vercelli?
What is Vercelli known for?
When is the best time to visit Vercelli?
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Discover
Discover Vercelli
The layout of Vercelli is such that the main sights don't land on your doorstep as it were, instead they need to be carefully sought. The main square is Piazza Cavour; an attractive medieval market square with porticoed edges housing a number of shops and places to eat. There are seven medieval towers in the city and the main one, Torre dell'Angelo can be seen from the middle of the piazza.
From Piazza Cavour it's a 7 minute walk (550 metres) to the most impressive religious building in the city. Located at the north-western fringe of the city centre, the Basilica di Sant'Andrea is a 13th century Romanesque structure with a memorable, multi-coloured facade.
Continuing a similar distance (5 minutes/400 metres) in a clockwise direction from the Basilica di Sant'Andrea, Vercelli Cathedral is the second major church in the city that finds itself tucked away on the fringes, this time on one side of a large roundabout. Also within the cathedral complex are the Episcopal Palace and Museum.
Heading south from the Cathedral on Via Duomo, passing the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, you eventually arrive back at the area around Piazza Cavour. Further sights in this part of the city include the Museo Borgogna art gallery, the Torre di Città and the Vercelli Synagogue.
From Piazza Cavour it's a 7 minute walk (550 metres) to the most impressive religious building in the city. Located at the north-western fringe of the city centre, the Basilica di Sant'Andrea is a 13th century Romanesque structure with a memorable, multi-coloured facade.
Continuing a similar distance (5 minutes/400 metres) in a clockwise direction from the Basilica di Sant'Andrea, Vercelli Cathedral is the second major church in the city that finds itself tucked away on the fringes, this time on one side of a large roundabout. Also within the cathedral complex are the Episcopal Palace and Museum.
Heading south from the Cathedral on Via Duomo, passing the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, you eventually arrive back at the area around Piazza Cavour. Further sights in this part of the city include the Museo Borgogna art gallery, the Torre di Città and the Vercelli Synagogue.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Vercelli
- Basilica di Sant’Andrea is the city’s most iconic landmark, built in the early 13th century and blending Romanesque and Gothic elements. It features twin towers, a rose window, and a cloister with carved capitals. The interior includes frescoes, a wooden choir, and Gothic vaulting, and the basilica remains active for religious services and cultural events.
- Piazza Cavour and Torre dell’Angelo form the civic centre of Vercelli, surrounded by historic palazzi, cafés, and arcaded walkways. The 14th-century tower rises above the square and once served defensive and civic functions. The piazza hosts regular markets and is a starting point for exploring the city’s medieval quarter.
- Cathedral of Sant’Eusebio and Museo del Tesoro are located close to the main square. The cathedral was rebuilt in neoclassical style in the 19th century, though it retains earlier elements and artworks. The adjoining museum holds liturgical objects, medieval manuscripts, and the 10th-century Vercelli Book, an important Old English text.
- Museo Borgogna is one of Piedmont’s leading art museums, housed in a 19th-century villa and featuring works by Italian and European painters. The collection includes paintings from the Renaissance to the 19th century, decorative arts, and archaeological finds. Temporary exhibitions and guided visits are regularly offered.
- Risaie Vercellesi (Vercelli Rice Fields) surround the city and form part of Italy’s largest rice-growing area. In spring, the flooded fields create a reflective landscape popular with photographers and birdwatchers. Several cycling and walking paths pass through the countryside, linking rural villages and traditional farms.
Tours and Activities
Vercelli Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Vercelli
- Ristorante Cinzia – Christian & Manuel: Located within Hotel Cinzia, this Michelin-starred restaurant focuses on creative cuisine rooted in local traditions. Signature dishes include reinterpretations of paniscia and risotto, using Vercelli’s renowned rice. The tasting menus are ideal for special occasions. Price guide: €€€€ (Fine dining)
- Trattoria Paolino: This long-standing trattoria near the city centre offers classic Piedmontese cooking in a down-to-earth setting. Expect dishes like vitello tonnato, agnolotti, and stewed meats, with seasonal ingredients and a good regional wine list. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Il Giardinetto: Tucked away near the old town, this family-run restaurant serves a mix of fish and meat dishes, with a focus on risotti. The warm service and garden seating in summer make it a pleasant place for a quiet dinner. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Pizzeria Bella Napoli: A casual spot popular with locals, Bella Napoli offers classic Neapolitan-style pizzas alongside salads and pasta. With a quick service and welcoming staff, it’s a good choice for families or relaxed meals. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Caffè del Corso: Overlooking Corso Libertà, this central café offers pastries, sandwiches, aperitivi and light lunches. It’s a great place to stop for a coffee or a glass of wine while people-watching in the heart of the city. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Vercelli Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Vercelli
- Biella (approx. 40 km northwest of Vercelli): A town located at the foot of the Biellese Alps, Biella is known for its textile heritage and stunning natural surroundings. The town features several beautiful parks, including the Parco della Burcina, ideal for walking and birdwatching. Biella’s historic centre is home to charming streets, traditional shops, and the Biella Cathedral, making it a great spot for history and nature lovers alike.
- Cigliano (approx. 20 km southwest of Vercelli): A small town with a quiet, rural atmosphere, Cigliano is surrounded by fertile farmland and offers visitors a peaceful escape. The town’s historic centre features a mix of traditional architecture, while the surrounding countryside provides plenty of opportunities for scenic walks and enjoying the local landscapes. Cigliano is an excellent destination for those seeking tranquillity and a taste of rural life.
- Casale Monferrato (approx. 40 km southeast of Vercelli): Situated in the heart of the Monferrato hills, Casale Monferrato is known for its medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the Casale Cathedral and the Palazzo del Monferrato. The town is famous for its wine production, particularly Barbera and Grignolino, and visitors can enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards. Casale Monferrato also offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Morbello (approx. 35 km south of Vercelli): A small town set in the picturesque Monferrato hills, Morbello offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a charming, tranquil atmosphere. The town is known for its historical architecture, including the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks through the surrounding vineyards and forests, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty of the region.
- Gattinara (approx. 40 km northeast of Vercelli): A historic town known for its Gattinara wine, a DOCG red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes, Gattinara offers visitors a blend of history and viticulture. The town’s historic centre is home to several landmarks, including the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Castello di Gattinara, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. Gattinara is also a great base for exploring the nearby Val Sesia and the 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
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 Vercelli
Vercelli's train station is situated in the same area of the city as the Basilica di Sant'Andrea, a 10 minute walk of 800 metres. Trains from here run south west to Turin (Porta Nuova) with a journey time of 57 minutes, or 17 minutes in the opposite direction to Novara, a train that continues on to Milan (Milano Centrale) with a total journey time of 56 minutes.
The most convenient airports for Vercelli are Turin Airport which is a 50 minute drive away (82 km) and Milan's Malpensa Airport which is 51 minutes and 55 kilometres by car. A third alternative is Milan Linate Airport which is an hour and 7 minutes (101 km).
In terms of places to visit nearby, Vercelli sits roughly halfway between two major cities: Turin and Milan, each of which are an hour or so away. Even closer and to the north are the Piedmontese towns of Biella, and Ivrea or heading south, Asti, Casale Monferrato and Alessandria in the important Monferrato wine-growing region with its beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Heading east over the regional border into Lombardy there are the impressive cities of Pavia and Vigevano while another Piemontese city, Novara is closest of all and well worth a visit.
The most convenient airports for Vercelli are Turin Airport which is a 50 minute drive away (82 km) and Milan's Malpensa Airport which is 51 minutes and 55 kilometres by car. A third alternative is Milan Linate Airport which is an hour and 7 minutes (101 km).
In terms of places to visit nearby, Vercelli sits roughly halfway between two major cities: Turin and Milan, each of which are an hour or so away. Even closer and to the north are the Piedmontese towns of Biella, and Ivrea or heading south, Asti, Casale Monferrato and Alessandria in the important Monferrato wine-growing region with its beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Heading east over the regional border into Lombardy there are the impressive cities of Pavia and Vigevano while another Piemontese city, Novara is closest of all and well worth a visit.
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Public transport: central train station, local buses
By train: Novara - 17 minutes, Turin - 57 minutes |
By car: Novara - 33 mins (25 km), Alessandria - 38 mins (56 km)
Fly to: Turin Airport - 50 minutes (82 km) |
Private Transfers
Vercelli Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Vercelli, offering a direct service without the need to manage train connections or drive the regional roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.
From Vercelli, the nearest hub is Turin Caselle Airport, which can be reached in about 55 minutes, a distance of 75 km. Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour away at 80 km, while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 85 km. For longer trips, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is around 1 hour 50 minutes away, a distance of 145 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Vercelli, the nearest hub is Turin Caselle Airport, which can be reached in about 55 minutes, a distance of 75 km. Milan Malpensa Airport is around 1 hour away at 80 km, while Milan Linate Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 15 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Milan city centre usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 85 km. For longer trips, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is around 1 hour 50 minutes away, a distance of 145 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
