Piemonte (or Piedmont) is the second largest region of Italy, found in the north west of the country. Its largest city and the original capital of Italy is Turin, the bustling business and culture hub of northern Italy. Turin is filled with a mixture of 16th and 18th century renaissance, baroque and neo classical architecture. More up-to-date, it is also home to Juventus FC, one of Italy’s best football teams.

Moving away from the cities, Piedmont is known for its connection to the Alps. Almost half of the region is covered by mountains, making it one of Italy’s top skiing destinations. The geography of the region generates great agricultural farm land and it is best known for its grapes and wine production. Barolo and Barbaresco red wines are made from the Nebbiolo grape, and the sparkling Asti Spumante comes from the Moscato grape.

Besides wine, the region also produces a vast amount of Italian risotto rice. Arborio, Carnaroli and 11 other varieties of rice are grown in paddy fields, irrigated by river water.