How to get to Alba: train, plane, car and bus

How to get to Alba

Alba, capital of the Langhe and of the white truffle, is nestled among the UNESCO-listed hills of southern Piedmont. Despite its modest size, it is well connected thanks to its proximity to Turin and the motorway network. Getting there means immersing yourself in one of Italy's most celebrated food and wine landscapes.

Getting there by train

Alba station is on the Cavallermaggiore-Bra-Alba railway line, served by regional trains. From Turin Porta Nuova, you can reach Alba in about 1 hour and 30 minutes with a change at Cavallermaggiore or Bra. Services are frequent during peak hours but thinner in the evening.

From Milan Centrale, the journey takes about 3 hours with a change at Turin or Asti (Asti-Alba line, about 30 minutes). From Genoa, the route goes via Asti with a total travel time of about 3 hours.

In autumn, during the International White Truffle Fair (October-December), Trenitalia often runs special trains and extra services from Turin.

Practical tips

• Alba station is 10 minutes' walk from the historic centre and Piazza Risorgimento
• To explore the Langhe by train, the Bra-Alba-Nizza Monferrato line runs through stunning vineyards
• Always check timetables on the Trenitalia website: some services are replaced by buses

Getting there by plane

Alba does not have its own airport. Turin Caselle Airport (TRN) is the nearest, about 80 km away and reachable in 1 hour and 15 minutes by car. From the airport, you can take the shuttle bus to Turin Porta Nuova and then the train to Alba.

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is an alternative with more international flights, about 180 km away. From the airport, the Malpensa Express reaches Milan Centrale, from where you continue by train to Alba.

Cuneo Levaldigi Airport (CUF) is the closest as the crow flies, about 55 km, but has a limited number of flights, mostly seasonal.

Getting there by car

A car is the most practical means of reaching Alba and especially for exploring the Langhe. From Turin, take the A6 Turin-Savona motorway, exit at Marene, then continue on the SP662 to Bra and Alba: about 65 km in 1 hour.

From Milan, the fastest route follows the A21 Turin-Piacenza motorway, exit at Asti Est, then the SS231 to Alba: about 170 km in 2 hours. From Genoa, take the A26 and A21 with exit at Asti: about 180 km in 2 hours.

The hilly Langhe roads are scenic but winding. In autumn, morning fog in the valleys is common: drive with caution.

Parking

• Piazza Medford car park: free and spacious, 5 minutes from the centre
• Area Incontro car park: useful during the Truffle Fair
• The historic centre has restricted traffic zones: use the perimeter car parks

Getting there by bus

FlixBus connects Alba with Turin, Milan and other Italian cities, with stops at the bus station in Piazza Medford. Regional Bus Company services connect Alba to Bra, Asti, Cuneo and the Langhe villages.

During the Truffle Fair, shuttle services operate from Turin and from park-and-ride facilities outside the city.

Bus services for the Langhe

• Bus Company lines to Barolo, La Morra, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba allow you to visit wineries without a car
• In summer and autumn, special services connect Alba to the wine villages
• Services are limited on public holidays: check timetables

Getting around the city and the Langhe

Alba's historic centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, dominated by medieval towers and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Piazza Risorgimento is the heart of the city, the starting point for strolling through the centre's streets.

For exploring the Langhe, a car is almost essential. The roads between Barolo, La Morra, Serralunga and Monforte offer extraordinary views over the vineyards. Alternatively, several local companies organise tours with a dedicated driver, ideal for those who want to taste without worrying about driving.

E-bikes are becoming popular for exploring the hills: several rental outlets operate in Alba and nearby villages.

Discover Alba

Now that you know how to get there, plan your stay:

• Where to stay in Alba for finding the ideal accommodation between Langhe and Roero
• What to see in Alba in 2 days for an itinerary between truffles and vineyards
• Where to eat in Alba to discover Piedmontese cuisine at its finest