When you think of Piedmont, you probably picture rolling vineyard-covered hills, sun-drenched landscapes, and long lunches filled with truffles and Barbera wine. But beyond its culinary treasures, this region is also a true paradise for anyone who loves browsing, discovering, and stumbling upon unexpected gems: the antique and vintage markets.
As the owner of Viva! Villas in Vineyards, I’m often on the road exploring this beautiful area. And honestly, nothing beats a Sunday morning when the piazzas fill with stalls overflowing with curiosities—old books, lace tablecloths, gleaming coffee pots, and occasionally even a Vespa from the sixties.
Let me take you to five of my favourite markets—with their charming names, the best spots nearby to enjoy a coffee or delicious lunch afterward, and a few of my own personal finds.
1. Nizza Monferrato – Mercatino dell’Antiquariato
On the third Sunday of every month, Nizza Monferrato transforms into an open-air museum filled with brocante treasures and antiques. It’s one of the largest and best-known markets in Piedmont, so if you’re hoping to uncover something truly special, it’s worth arriving early.
I’ve already found a few wonderful pieces there myself: a beautiful 1950s lipstick mirror—now proudly displayed in my home in Piedmont—and a small statue of a bather that I gifted to a friend for her birthday. To our surprise, the statue even turned out to be of Belgian origin, which made the find even more meaningful.
And when you’re tired from treasure hunting, take a seat at Caffè San Carlo. Located right on the market square, it’s a lively meeting point for locals—always buzzing, always cheerful. The perfect spot to enjoy a cappuccino while watching the vibrant market life pass by.
2. Santo Stefano Belbo – Mercatino Senza Tempo
In Santo Stefano Belbo, famous for its Moscato wine and as the birthplace of writer Cesare Pavese, you’ll find the charming Mercatino Senza Tempo—the “timeless market.” It’s an intimate, almost nostalgic little fair that feels as though you’re rummaging through the attic of an old Italian villa. Because it’s small and easy to navigate, you’re more likely to stumble upon something truly unique.
I once brought home an old sewing table from this market; it now serves as a desk in my Piedmont home. From running stitches to keyboard clicks—it works surprisingly well.
After browsing, I love walking over to Bar Roma, tucked beneath the porticoes in the heart of the village. The two brothers who run it greet you with infectious humour and make you feel like a regular from the moment you step inside. Surrounded by a playful décor full of winks to Cesare Pavese, you can enjoy a perfect espresso—and, somewhat unexpectedly, a very good lunch.
Site: mercatino senza tempo
3. Asti – Mercatino dell’Antiquariato di Ast
Every fourth Sunday of the month, Asti, the lively city nestled in the Piedmont hills, transforms into a paradise for lovers of antiques, curiosities, and vintage treasures. At the Mercatino dell’Antiquariato di Asti, held on Piazza Vittorio Alfieriand the smaller adjoining Piazza della Libertà, you’ll find around 100 to 150 stalls. The selection is wonderfully diverse: antique furniture, silverware, old books, prints, toys, and mid-century design classics from the 1950s and ’60s.
What makes this market truly special is the mix of quality and atmosphere. It’s not your typical flea market, but a carefully curated gathering where professional antique dealers stand side by side with small collectors. As you wander between the stalls, the medieval towers of Asti rise in the background, and you can pause for a cappuccino or a glass of Barbera d’Asti at one of the many cafés.
A lovely place to settle down during or after the market is Bar Cocchi, close to Corso Alfieri. This historic bar carries the spirit of old Asti: a wooden counter, classic mirrors, and the pleasant bustle of locals enjoying their morning cappuccino or ordering an aperitivo.
What makes it even more special is that Bar Cocchi is known for its refined pastries and tramezzini—small sandwiches that are practically an art form here. For me, it became an unexpected highlight: after a morning strolling past the stalls with a bag full of little finds, I ended up there with a glass of local Cocchi Vermouth (which originates right here!). It was one of those moments when you feel that Asti doesn’t just breathe history and antiques, but also a rich, living tradition of enjoyment.
An absolute must to complete your market day in Asti.
Site : Mercatino Asti
4. Cherasco – Antiquariato e Collezionismo a Cherasco
Cherasco is not only famous for its baci di Cherasco (its irresistible chocolate truffles) and its lumache (snails), but also for the lively antique and collectors’ market that fills the entire town centre five times a year. In 2025, the market will take place on Palm Sunday (as tradition dictates) and again on 11 May, 14 September, 12 October, and 14 December.
During these market days, the historic centre becomes completely car-free and transforms into a vibrant maze of hundreds of stalls. They wind through the straight streets lined with Baroque palaces, 17th-century churches, medieval towers, and quiet little squares where time seems to stand still.
Along Via Vittorio Emanuele and Via Cavour–Garibaldi, you’ll feel an authentic atmosphere of days gone by. On the stalls you’ll find an eclectic mix: antique furniture, household items, old books and prints, tools, fabrics, clothing, vinyl records, vintage pieces, and retro gems. It feels like walking through the past—sometimes nostalgic, as if you’re suddenly back in your grandparents’ living room, and sometimes surprising, with unique and valuable finds.
More Than Just a Market
The antique fair is also the perfect opportunity to discover the town itself. Palazzo Salmatoris always hosts an exhibition of modern or contemporary art. Some of the Baroque churches, such as Sant’Agostino, open their doors especially for the occasion. Even the 18th-century synagogue in the old Jewish quarter, at Via Marconi 6, is often accessible—an intimate, atmospheric place usually hidden from view.
Travelling with children? Then the Museo della Magia on Via Cavour is a must. With themed rooms, a small theatre, and magic shows, it leads both young and old into a fairytale world (more info: www.museodellamagia.it).
The Flavours of Cherasco
And, as so often in Piedmont, gastronomy plays a starring role. Cherasco is known for its snail dishes, its spicy salame al Barolo, the sweet Baci di Cherasco (a delicious combination of Langa hazelnuts and cocoa), and the creamy Robiola di Cherasco. The latter was even the first product to receive the local De.Co. label, guaranteeing authenticity and traceability.
Cherasco, the Città delle Paci (“City of Peace”), is not only a market town but also a place of art, culture, and culinary delights. It is also one of the eleven Barolo communes—which means you can end your day here perfectly with a glass of one of the world’s most iconic wines.
A Personal Find
During one of my visits, I found a small desk lamp—the missing piece that completed the wooden desk I brought home from Santo Stefano Belbo. It felt as though the puzzle finally came together: an object from Cherasco finding its place beside a discovery from another village in the Langhe. For me, it was the perfect reminder that antique markets are not just about the objects themselves, but about the stories that connect them.
Site: I grandi mercati di Cherasco
5. Saluzzo – MercAntico
Saluzzo is one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Piedmont and sets the stage for MercAntico every third Saturday of the month. Its winding streets and charming squares fill with stalls offering books, furniture, linens, and curiosities.
I once found a set of linen napkins here, embroidered with delicate initials. The vendor told me they came from a bride’s dowry—carefully kept for generations. I still use them often when hosting dinners with friends, and every time I do, I smile as I remember that discovery in Saluzzo.
After browsing the market, I love settling in at Ristorante Quattro Stagioni, an elegant restaurant housed in a historic building. The cuisine is classic Piedmontese with a refined touch—the ideal place to end a morning of treasure hunting with a leisurely lunch and a good glass of wine.
Site: MercAntico
Why You Shouldn’t Miss These Markets
For me, these markets are far more than places to buy something. They’re moments of connection with locals, little sparks of wonder, and a chance to slip into the gentle rhythm of Piedmontese life. You soak up the atmosphere, chat with vendors who often have a whole story behind their objects, and you’re almost guaranteed to go home with at least one unexpected find.
And if you don’t buy anything? That’s perfectly fine. A cappuccino, a glass of wine, or a slice of focaccia always makes the visit worthwhile.
👉 Lieve’s Tip: Always pair a market visit with a local coffee bar or trattoria. It instantly turns your Sunday treasure hunt into a perfect Italian day.
Piedmont Market Calendar – Locations & Hours
| Town | Market Name | When | Hours | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saluzzo | MercAntico | Every 3rd Saturday of the month | 8:00 – 18:00 | Medieval centre, Via Palazzo di Città & Piazza Risorgimento |
| Nizza Monferrato | Mercatino dell’Antiquariato | Every 3rd Sunday of the month | 8:00 – 18:00 | Piazza Garibaldi |
| Asti | Mercatino dell’Antiquariato di Asti | Every 4th Sunday of the month | 8:00 – 18:00 | Piazza Alfieri |
| Santo Stefano Belbo | Mercatino Senza Tempo | Every 4th Sunday of the month | 8:00 – 17:00 | Piazza Umberto I |
| Cherasco | Antiquariato e Collezionismo | April & September (twice a year) | 8:00 – 18:00 | Historic centre, Via Vittorio Emanuele II & Piazza degli Alpini |
