This Magical Christmas Village Is Piedmont's Secret Winter Wonderland
Don't miss Il Magico Paese di Natale at Govone.
Every December, the hills around Alba and Asti fill with Christmas markets, festive shows, and seasonal events spread across Govone, Asti, San Damiano d’Asti, and Santo Stefano Belbo.
Govone makes a wonderful day out for all the family, as the entire medieval village turns into a winter wonderland.
Streets, castle gardens, and viewpoints all transform, creating an immersive storybook experience that can keep little ones entertained for hours while making magical Christmas memories.
Here’s how to plan your visit.
Wondering what to pack for your winter Piedmont trip? Check out my one-week packing list.
What Is the Magic Christmas Village in Govone?
Clinging to a hilltop in the Roero, Govone boasts stunning views of the snow-capped Alps. In December, it becomes Il Magico Paese di Natale, and those views are framed by lights, reindeer, elves, and festive installations.
Rather than a single market square, stalls are spread throughout the village. Artisans from across Piedmont sell cheeses, cured meats, sweets, honey, tea, panettone, and Christmas decorations. We picked up a delicious crema di gorgonzola and an artisanal panettone.
In the piazza below the castle and throughout the gardens, kids can play traditional wooden games, visit Santa in his hut, join an elves’ workshop, and pose for photos in the large festive frames dotted around the grounds.
Most of these are paid activities for children, which you’ll need to book in advance via Ciao Tickets. Prices are reasonable: €6 to visit Santa, €7 for the elves’ workshop, and €6 for Christmas decoration-making.
While children are busy, adults can browse the stalls and pick up beautiful, locally made gifts.
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A selection of the stalls at Govone Christmas market. Photos by Secret Piemonte
Where Is Govone?
Govone is a village in southern Piedmont, roughly halfway between Alba and Asti, and is about a 20-minute drive from each, making it an easy day trip from Alba, Asti, or Turin. From Turin, allow around two hours by public transport, or about an hour by car.
Getting There, Tickets & Entry
In 2025, Il Magico Paese di Natale runs every weekend from 15th November to 21st December, plus Monday 8th December, from 10.00 am to 6.45 pm.
Entry to the village is free. If you’d like to visit the castle (which is also decorated inside), you’ll need to book tickets online in advance.
Temporary car parks are set up along the main road between Alba and Asti, and as you approach Govone, stewards will direct you to one of them. From there, a shuttle bus will take you up to the village.
Although the uphill journey is free, there’s a €1 fee for the return trip, payable at the information point (market stall #1). Make sure you take note of your car park number so you can catch the correct shuttle back down.
If you’re travelling by public transport, take the train to Asti. From Piazzale Medaglie d’Oro outside the station, buses run to Govone at 20 minutes past the hour from 9.20 to 17.20, with return buses leaving Govone at 10 minutes past the hour from 10.10 to 18.10. Tickets cost €3.70 each way.
Wondering how to get to Piedmont? This guide covers air, road, and rail transport options.
What to Eat and Drink at the Magic Christmas Village
Food stalls are clustered in the main market area, serving dishes such as agnolotti, gnocchi, burgers, and fries, alongside local beer and wine.
Queues can be long, particularly around lunchtime and late afternoon, so it’s worth eating slightly earlier or later if you can. Having snacks on hand is a good idea if you’re visiting with children.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Govone’s Christmas Village?
Il Magico Paese di Natale is only open on weekends, plus Monday 8th December. Shuttle buses from Asti and the nearby car parks run all day, which means there’s a steady flow of visitors rather than a single peak time.
I visited in the late morning and around lunchtime and found it crowded but not overwhelming. Crowd levels seemed fairly consistent throughout the day, with people arriving and leaving continuously. Expect some queuing for food, stalls, and shuttle buses at most times.
I was lucky with the weather, as it was a beautiful sunny day, but I recommend bringing layers, as December in Piedmont tends to be cold even when it’s sunny.
Looking for more winter festivals in Piedmont? Here's a guide to visiting the Fat Ox Fair in Carrù.
Is the Govone Magic Christmas Village Worth Visiting?
Govone is best suited to families with young children and visitors who want a festive experience that goes beyond shopping. The decorated castle, kids’ activities, and panoramic views make it more immersive than other markets.
If your main priority is browsing a wide variety of stalls, Asti’s Christmas market is bigger and may suit you better. But for atmosphere, setting, and a slow-paced visit with kids, Govone is hard to beat.
Have a Magical Christmas in Piedmont
Govone makes a lovely winter day trip in December, especially if you’re travelling with children or looking for something a little different from the usual Christmas markets.
It pairs well with a visit to Alba, Asti, or Turin, and can even be combined with skiing in the nearby Alps or wine tasting in the surrounding Roero.
If you’re planning a December trip, this guide to Piedmont in winter covers Christmas markets, food festivals, and cosy seasonal experiences.
