A place to immerse yourself in a typical Italian day
A day in Acqui Terme
One of our favourite things to do while staying at Villa Verdini is to spend a day in Acqui Terme. It is big enough to offer a proper variety of restaurants and typical shops for clothes and food, yet small enough to still feel entirely Italian. Our tip: go on a Tuesday or a Friday, when the weekly market takes over the town.
Getting there
Acqui Terme is around a twenty five minute drive from Villa Verdini, through vineyards the whole way. We suggest parking on the edge of the old town at Piazza Don Piero Dolermo, from where it is only a two minute walk in. One tip worth knowing: only the white marked spaces are free parking. Every other colour means a paid slot.
Into the market
Walking towards the centre on a Tuesday morning, you will first pass through the clothing market. It is a proper local market, offering everything from underwear and socks to dresses and bags. From time to time, we still find a beautiful summer dress here. Take your time and simply browse through the atmosphere.
If you have also come for vegetables, fish, cheese or meat, walk a little further into town, towards the piazza on the other side. This is where the local farmers set out their stalls.
First Coffee
Our first stop is always coffee. Two of our favourite spots both look out over the market and let you enjoy the morning sun while the town wakes up around you.
The Bollente
From beneath the arcades, take a moment to look along towards the Bollente, Acqui Terme's own natural landmark. It is a small marble fountain where sulphur spring water still rises at a constant seventy five degrees, the same warm water the town was built around. Even from a distance, you can see the faint steam and catch its mineral scent on the air.
Enjoying Lunch
Once you are ready, take a slow walk through the remaining stalls and small shops, then carry your shopping back to the car. By now, it is usually about time for lunch before heading home.
One of our favourite restaurants in town is a short walk from the main street. It's called Ristorante Da Nonna Gina. On market days it is always full, so if you are a larger group, it is worth calling ahead to book a table. The chef here cooks proper, typical Piedmontese food, and the tartare and rabbit starter are particularly good. Inside it is pleasantly cool, while outside guests sit right on the pavement. Being just off the main street, it draws mostly locals, families out for lunch together, especially through the quiet weeks of the August break.
Our Recommendation
Do not miss the market in the morning. It makes the city so vivid and charming. If you are lucky enough the farmers make you try their cheese and fruits.
Parking at Piazza Don Piero Dolermo: Location
Clothing Market: Location nearby this bar
Cafe: Location
Food Market: Location
Ristorante Da Nonna Gina: Location
