Top Things to Do in Vercelli, Italy: A Local’s Guide
Three years ago, I moved to Italy, settling down in the charming city of Vercelli, Piedmont, to start a life with my now husband. Located conveniently between Milan and Turin, Vercelli is a delightful little gem with a tranquil atmosphere, rich history, and exceptional cuisine. While I do miss the bustle of a big city life, I’ve come to appreciate the quiet allure and fascinating discoveries of my adopted hometown.
Where Is Vercelli?
Vercelli is situated in the fertile plains of Piedmont, between Milan and Turin. It was founded in ancient Roman times as “Vercellae” and had its heyday during the Middle Ages. You can still feel that history walking through its narrow streets or stopping in front of impressive landmarks like the Basilica di Sant’Andrea. The city also played an important role as a religious and trading center, and you’ll notice this past significance in the beautiful piazzas, charming medieval buildings, and lots of impressive churches dotted around town.
Beyond history, Vercelli is surrounded by rice fields and has made its mark in Italy’s agricultural history as one of the leading centers of rice production. It is one of those quiet little cities that you might not find in every guidebook, but it definitely deserves some attention.
10 Must-See Attractions in Vercelli
When my friends and family come to visit, they often wonder what there could possibly be to see in a small city like Vercelli. Surprisingly enough, there’s quite a bit to uncover. Here are some of my favorite spots, the ones I always recommend:
1. Piazza Cavour
This is the vibrant heart of Vercelli, a beautiful square lined with cafes and historic buildings. On sunny mornings, you’ll find locals sitting outdoors, sipping cappuccino or enjoying an aperitivo in the late afternoon while catching up on daily gossip.
Every Tuesday and Friday morning, the square transforms into a bustling local market where you can buy fresh produce, cheese, cured meats, clothing, and household goods. On the first Sunday of every month, there’s an antique market, where you can find unique treasures. Throughout the year, Piazza Cavour also hosts seasonal markets, craft fairs, and special events that bring an extra bit of life and excitement to the city center.
It’s especially beautiful during the blue hour, when the lights on Torre dell’Angelo switch on and the square takes on this calm, golden glow.
2. Piazza Palazzo Vecchio & Antico Broletto
Just a short walk from Piazza Cavour, literally down a small alley that connects the two, you’ll find yourself in Piazza Palazzo Vecchio. It’s a quiet, slightly hidden spot with a small fountain in the center and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Antico Broletto, with its red brick arches and medieval architecture, once served as the city’s marketplace and town hall. On the way there, you’ll pass L’Angolo del Gusto, my go-to gelato spot, an ideal place to stop by, if you want to enjoy something sweet while exploring the city.
3. Basilica di Sant’Andrea
Probably my favorite building in the entire city, this 13th-century basilica is an absolute gem. Its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture makes it stand out immediately, especially the striped facade and the two tall towers that frame the entrance. But what I love most is stepping inside the quiet cloister and walking through the peaceful garden just next to it. It’s one of those places that’s just as beautiful up close as it is from afar, especially in spring, when everything is in bloom. Even if you’re not usually into churches or architecture, this one is well worth a visit.
4. Duomo di Vercelli & Museo del Tesoro
Just a few minutes’ walk from the Basilica, the Duomo di Vercelli (officially the Cathedral of Sant’Eusebio) is one of those places you might pass by without realizing how much history is tucked inside. From the outside, it looks imposing but fairly understated compared to other Italian cathedrals. But step inside, and the scale and detail really hit you. The interior is grand and elegant, with high vaulted ceilings, and ornate chapels.
Attached to the cathedral is the Museo del Tesoro, a small but surprisingly rich museum that showcases centuries’ worth of religious artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and beautifully crafted objects.
5. Chiesa di San Cristoforo
From the outside, Chiesa di San Cristoforo doesn’t really try to catch your eye. It is small, tucked away on a quiet street, and honestly, pretty unassuming. But don’t let that fool you. The first time I stepped inside, I was completely taken by surprise. The walls are covered in stunning Renaissance frescoes by Gaudenzio Ferrari, full of color and detail that you’d expect to find in a major city, not in a quiet little church in Vercelli. It’s peaceful, rarely crowded, and there’s something special about standing there in the quiet, just taking it all in.
6. Museums
Museo Leone is probably the most “local” of the three, and I mean that in the best way. It’s set inside a beautiful historic building and takes you on a journey through Vercelli’s history, from Roman times all the way to the 19th century. The rooms themselves are part of the experience, with old furniture, everyday objects, and artifacts that really give you a feel for how people lived here over the centuries.
Museo Archeologico is smaller, but if you’re into ancient history and archaeology, it’s a must. It focuses on finds from the area around Vercelli—Roman inscriptions, tools, coins, and other objects that show just how long people have been living and working on this land. It’s well curated and very accessible, even if you’re not an archaeology buff.
Museo Borgogna, on the other hand, is all about art. It houses a surprisingly extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, including works by both Italian and international artists. The collection was originally a private one, and it still has that intimate feeling, like you’re walking through someone’s personal gallery.
7. Arca
If you’re into modern and contemporary art, make sure to stop by this place. It’s one of the more unexpected spaces in Vercelli. It is set inside the former Church of San Marco, right in the center and it hosts rotating exhibitions that range from big-name artists to local talent. The contrast between the historic building and the contemporary art on display makes it a really unique experience.
What I like most is that you never quite know what you’ll find inside. Sometimes it’s photography, sometimes sculpture or installations, but it’s always curated in an interesting way. The space isn’t huge, so it’s perfect for a short visit while exploring the city.
8. Teatro Civico
Right in the center of town, tucked behind the main streets, is Vercelli’stheatre, a lovely 19th-century theater that’s definitely worth a look, even if you’re just passing by. It was recently restored, and they did a beautiful job keeping its original charm intact. Inside, it’s all red velvet seats, golden balconies, and that cozy, old-theater feel that makes any show feel a little more special.
They host a bit of everything here. From classical concerts, plays, to ballet, and sometimes even more modern performances or events tied to local festivals. If you happen to be in town when something’s on, it’s absolutely worth checking out the schedule, even if you are not fluent in Italian.
9. Synagogue
Vercelli once had a vibrant Jewish community, and the synagogue stands as one of the few visible reminders of that past.
Unfortunately, it’s not open to the public on a regular basis, which is a real shame because from what I’ve seen in photos and heard from locals, the interior is absolutely stunning. Occasionally, it opens for guided tours or special cultural events, so if you happen to be in town during one of those, definitely take the chance to visit. Hopefully I’ll get to visit it soon!
10. Rice Heritage
One of the first things you notice about the area around Vercelli is the rice fields. They stretch out in every direction, and depending on the time of year, they completely change the landscape, from glassy, flooded fields in spring to tall green plants in summer and golden waves during harvest. It’s not just scenery, though this region is a major part of Italy’s rice production, and it’s something locals are really proud of.
Tenuta Colombara and Riso Acquerello
About 20 minutes from the city, you’ll find Tenuta Colombara, where Riso Acquerello is produced. It’s a quiet, countryside estate with a long history, and visiting gives you a real sense of how much care goes into growing and processing this rice. They age the rice, something you don’t usually see and the whole process happens on site, from drying to polishing.
The tour is interesting without being overly technical, and there’s also a small museum with old tools and photos that show how rice farming has evolved here. At the end, you can pick up a tin of Acquerello to take home, which is honestly a great souvenir if you like to cook (or know someone who does).
Where to Eat in Vercelli
Being in Piedmont, the food is rich, seasonal, and full of tradition. Think risotto, cured meats, cheeses, and plenty of good wine to go with it. Here are a few of my favorite spots in town, places I actually go to, not just for visitors but for everyday meals, too. Check out our guide to 10 Must-Try Dishes in Piedmont!
Aperitivo – Salsamenteria
One of my go-to spots for aperitivo in Vercelli is Salsamenteria. It’s just a few minutes from Piazza Cavour, in a quiet side street that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, and they do a really solid job with their taglieri, big boards of local salumi, cheeses, and little extras like pickles or focaccia. They’ve got a good wine list with a focus on Piedmontese reds, and the staff are always happy to recommend something if you’re not sure what to get. If you are in a bigger group, I suggest making a reservation. Check out our guide to Piedmonts best wine!
Pizza – Pupetta
If you’re craving pizza in Vercelli, Pupetta is hands down one of the best spots in town. Their pizzas are consistently great. The dough is light, and they’re not afraid to get a bit creative with the toppings. You’ll find the classics, of course, but also seasonal ingredients and combinations that are a little different (in a good way). My favorite is Pizza DOPP with burrata and anchovies during summer and Pizza Vero Uomo with gorgonzola and spicy salami during the colder times. The place is casual, friendly, and usually busy in the evenings. They don’t typically take reservations, but you can wait for your turn and sip on a beer while you do.
Pizza – 400 gradi
This pizza is my top pick for classic Neapolitan-style pizza, soft, pillowy crust with just the right amount of char from the wood-fired oven. The menu includes some really interesting options if you want to try something a bit outside the usual. Here they take reservations. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either. I switch between the two depending on my mood and how long I feel like waiting for a table!
Restaurant – Cin Cin
If you would like to have a proper dinner out, I suggest this place. It’s a bit more on the expensive side compared to the usual trattorie, but totally worth it for the quality. The menu focuses on traditional Piedmontese dishes, like risotto, brasato, and vitello tonnato, but with a modern, well-balanced twist. Ingredients are seasonal and carefully chosen, and everything is plated with attention to detail without feeling overly fancy. Ideal for a date night or a special treat while you’re in town. But don’t forget to make a reservation in advance!
Gelato – Angolo del Gusto
In my opinion, L’Angolo del Gusto serves the best artisanal gelato in Vercelli. It’s perfectly located between Piazza Cavour and Piazza Palazzo Vecchio, right along the little alley that connects the two, so I often end up stopping there “by accident” while walking through town. The flavors are rich, creamy, and clearly made with high-quality ingredients. They’ve got all the classics, but also a few seasonal or creative ones that are worth trying.
My favorite one is Ricotta with almonds and Chocolate with Maldon salt.
Breakfast – Pasticceria Taverna & Tarnuzzer
If you happen to have the chance to have breakfast in Vercelli, this is the spot. It’s right on Piazza Cavour, so you can sit outside and enjoy your cappuccino with one of the best views in town. The pastries are always fresh, croissants, cream-filled delights, and seasonal specialties, and the coffee is spot on Italian. Simple, classic, and exactly what you want from an Italian breakfast.
How to Get to Vercelli
By Car
Vercelli sits right along the A4 motorway, which connects Milan and Turin, making it super easy to reach by car. Parking is usually pretty manageable, especially compared to bigger cities. But it’s helpful to know what the different parking line colors mean so you don’t accidentally get a fine.
- Blue lines: These are paid parking spots. You’ll usually find a nearby machine where you can pay with coins or card, and sometimes you can use an app. Check the signs for the exact hours and rates, most areas are free during lunch hours and in the evening after 19:30.
- White lines: These are free parking spots, though sometimes they’re time-limited. If that’s the case, you’ll need to use a parking disc (disco orario) to indicate your arrival time. You can usually find one at gas stations or local shops if you don’t already have one.
- Yellow lines: These are reserved, usually for residents, deliveries, or people with disabilities. Best to avoid these unless you’re sure you’re allowed to park there.
Most of the central areas, like around Piazza Cavour or near the train station, have a mix of paid and free spots. If you’re staying for a while, it might be worth checking if your hotel offers parking or can recommend nearby long-term options.
By Train
The train is probably the most convenient option if you’re coming from Milan or Turin. Regional trains run regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes less than an hour from either city.
- From Milan: A regional train (Treno Regionale) from Milano Centrale to Vercelli typically costs around €7.50 one way. The journey takes about 50 minutes, and there are multiple departures throughout the day.
- From Turin: Coming from Torino Porta Susa or Torino Porta Nuova, tickets usually cost between €5.50 and €7.00 one way, with a travel time of about 40 to 45 minutes on a regional train.
Tickets can be purchased at the station, on Trenitalia’s website, or via their app. If you’re buying at the station, don’t forget to validate your paper ticket before boarding by stamping it at the little green or yellow machines on the platform. If you book online or through the app, you’re good to go, just keep the QR code handy for inspection.
The train station is just a short walk from the center, so you can start exploring right away without needing any extra transport.
By Bus
There are also several regional bus lines that connect Vercelli to surrounding towns and smaller villages. It’s a good option if you’re traveling locally within Piedmont or coming from places not directly linked by train.
For example, there are regular buses from Biella, Casale Monferrato, Crescentino, and other towns in the province. The bus station (Autostazione) is located near the train station, making it easy to switch between the two if needed.
Ticket prices vary depending on the distance, but for short to medium routes, you can expect to pay anywhere between €2 and €5. Tickets can usually be bought at the station, at newsstands or tobacconists (look for a “Tabacchi” sign), or directly on board (though it’s often slightly more expensive if you buy from the driver).
Buses tend to run less frequently than trains, especially on weekends and holidays, so it’s a good idea to check schedules in advance on the official ATAP or Arriva websites.
Quick Summary of What to See in Vercelli, Italy
- History & Landmarks: Visit the stunning Basilica di Sant’Andrea, the peaceful cloister of the Duomo di Vercelli, and discover hidden gems like Chiesa di San Cristoforo.
- Museums & Art: Explore Museo Leone for local history, Museo Borgogna for art, and ARCA for contemporary exhibitions inside a former church.
- Food & Drink: Don’t miss Panissa (typical rice dish from Vercelli), aperitivo at Salsamenteria, and gelato from L’Angolo del Gusto. Try Pizza at Pupetta.
- Rice Culture: Out of the City Tour Tenuta Colombara, home of Riso Acquerello, and take in the seasonal beauty of the rice fields.
- Getting There: Easily reachable by train from Milan or Turin in under an hour.
Final thoughts
Vercelli isn’t the kind of place that makes it onto every Italy itinerary and that’s part of the charm. It’s a quiet city with a lot more to offer than most people expect, especially if you take the time to slow down and explore.
If you have questions, need more recommendations, or end up visiting any of the places I mentioned, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to drop a comment or reach out. Vercelli has a way of surprising people, and I’d be thrilled if it surprised you too.
Thanks for reading, and buon viaggio!