umbria places to visit

36 Wonderful Things to do in Umbria, Italy (PLUS Map of Umbria)

From medieval hilltop hamlets to the world's tallest man-made waterfall, here are the very best things to do in umbria - italy's green heart.

One thing’s for sure is it’s practically impossible to run out of things to do in Umbria. From exploring walled medieval hamlets to hiking in beautiful nature parks, it’s less about finding things to do than narrowing your list down!

So, where do you start in this magnificent Italian region? Don’t worry, I’ll share everything you need to know. In this comprehensive travel guide, I’ve gathered a bucket list of 36 of the best things to do in Umbria . There’s a good chance you won’t be able to fit them all into one trip, which is a great excuse to plan anotlher one.

To help you plan your Umbrian adventure, I’ve included a map of Umbria indicating all the places and activities mentioned in this guide. Make sure you save it in your Google account so you can easily access it during your trip.

Why you should visit Umbria

Across this corner of Italy, you’ll uncover exceptional natural beauty, fresco-clad churches, plates piled with cured meats, and a never-ending list of festivals. And the great thing is that, unlike its rockstar neighbour Tuscany, Umbria still maintains a wild, untouched feel, perfect for those who enjoy a slower, more laid-back pace.

How to visit Umbria and travel around

Fields of sunflowers dot the Umbrian landscape

Umbria is a relatively easy place to travel to and around. The San Francesco d’Assisi international airport in Perugia ensures connections with major European cities. Alternatively, you can fly into Rome or Florence and reach Umbria by train or with a rental car. Check availability and rent your car here.

The easiest way to explore the region is by car. This will allow you to make the most of your time there and give you the freedom to see all the best things to do in Umbria at your own pace. You can rent a car in Perugia ; from here, all key places in Umbria are within a 1-hour drive.

By public transport

Another way of travelling around the region is by public transport. There’s a good local bus network connecting the main towns and villages. Routes and timetables are available on the FS Busitalia website . Trains, too, are good options. The Frecciarossa high-speed line connects Umbria with major Italian cities. At the same time, regional trains ensure connections to all the main destinations within the region. Take a look at either the Trenitalia website or Trainline for more details and to book your journey.

You can purchase the UMBRIA.GO travel ticket which gives you unlimited trips throughout the Region. This includes urban and suburban buses, Minimetrò of Perugia, Trasimeno Lake ferry service, regional trains and the funicular in Orvieto. To get your travel pass, visit any Busitalia and Trenitalia ticket offices in Umbria or visit any of the authorized resellers here. ( Note: this page is in Italian. Click on the “ DOVE SI ACQUISTANO ” [WHERE TO BUY] tab for details)

By guided tour

Alternatively, if you’re based in any of the surrounding regions and short on time, you can join a guided day tour like this one from Rome which will ensure you see the highlights of Umbria without the fuss of organising it all yourself.

Map of Umbria

To help you plan your trip, here’s a map of Umbria that highlights everything listed in this article. You can also download it to your phone and take it with you.

Top things to do in Umbria

Umbria has so much to offer, but I’ve narrowed the list down to 36 of my favourites. You’ll find a good mix of the best natural, cultural, and historical attractions to be explored in Italy’s green region. So, here are the best things to do in Umbria that will help you make the most of the region.

1. Visit Perugia, the capital of Umbria

Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia

In the centre of Umbria, Perugia is the region’s main town. It boasts an impressive cultural history, with roots in its Etruscan past. The old town is packed with interesting sights, including the Palazzo dei Priori located in Piazza IV Novembre which hosts the prime art collection of Umbria’s National Gallery.

With one of Italy’s most prominent academic institutions and the first wine school in the world, the town has a cosmopolitan student population that makes it truly lively. Also, chocolate is an essential ingredient on local tables. The famous Perugina brand is based here and Eurochocolate , the biggest European festival dedicated to chocolate, takes place here every October.

Don’t miss: visit the Perugina Museum (Casa del Cioccolato Perugina), n ot just for the chocolate but to learn about the history of one of Italy’s beloved brands.

2. Discover Orvieto’s stunning cathedral

The town’s Gothic cathedral definitely calls attention to itself, adorning the main piazza with a grand display of spires, elaborate carvings, and stained glass, making it one of Italy’s most beautiful churches. Plus, its mosaicked facade is a visual treat.

Don’t miss: St Patrick’s Well (Pozzo di San Patrizio) is a unique piece of Renaissance engineering 200 feet deep and 42 feet wide, it was built in the 16th century to ensure the water supply was protected if the town was besieged. You can climb into it and admire the ingenious helix system of steps designed to make traffic flow efficiently. The round trip is 496 steps.

3. See Lake Trasimeno, the “sea” of Umbria

Isola Polvese Castello

Today, all is calm and blissful here. The area was made a regional park in 1995 and is now the habitat of many fish and bird species. All around the lake, olive groves, sunflower fields and vineyards frame quaint medieval towns such as Passignano and Castiglione del Lago, which are well worth a visit.

Monastero di San Secondo

Take a boat from the medieval village of Passignano site of the 14th-century Ponente tower, to reach Maggiore Island (which is still inhabited). This magnificent place with a fishing village dating back to the 15th century is also the location of the Romanesque church of San Salvatore (12th century), the church of San Michele Arcangelo (14th century) and Villa Isabella of the Marquis of Guglielmi.

Maggiore Island can also be reached from Tuoro sul Trasimeno, an ancient Etruscan city that became well-known as the battleground for the decisive stages of the battle between Hannibal and Caio Flaminio. Renaissance Palazzo Capra was erected precisely on the tomb of the Roman commander.

The largest island on the lake (there are three) is Polvese (from ‘ pol vento ‘, meaning ‘covered by wind’), which is not inhabited and is now a public park. It is also the location of the S. Secondo monastery, the Church of San Giuliano and a 14th-Century castle which was recently restored.

San Giuliano Church

Ferry around Lake Trasimeno

Don’t miss: hop on a ferry and explore two of the beautiful islands dotting the lake. Check the ferry timetable here to plan your visit.

Extend your stay and spend a night or two at Villa Polvese Resort. Each suite is elegantly designed and furnished and comes with a cosy king-sized bed. Bathrooms are spacious and luminous, with hand-decorated majolica and a wide shower cabin. After waking up to lake-side views, enjoy a continental breakfast on the sun terrace before spending your day exploring the island on foot or bike. In the evening, tuck in for a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, Dolce Agogia, for an opportunity to taste the flavours of the Lake. Check availability and book your stay here.

4. Experience traditional net fishing with a local fisherman

For a fascinating insight into Lake Trasimeno’s fishing culture and history, head to the village of San Feliciano, home of the Museo della Pesca sul Lago Trasimeno and join the fishermen of the Trasimeno Fishermen Cooperative (Cooperativa Pescatori del Trasimeno) for a memorable fishing adventure at dawn.

Here there are just 28 fisherman who engage in passive fishing, which has changed in 1,000 years. One of them, the charismatic Aurelio Cocchini (pictured below in blue), has been fishing on Lake Trasimeno since 1980. Aurelio explained to me, they simply lay down the nets and allow the fish to be caught without enticing them or rounding them up. This means each catch varies in quantity. They are then cleaned and filleteèd by hand. This is because the fish vary in size so industrial machines can’t be used even if they wanted to. This also allows for less waste, all supporting their ethos for the sustainability of the lake.

Aboard a traditional wooden boat, you’ll learn everything about lake fish and fishing techniques based exclusively on handmade nets called giacchi . The beautiful scenery around the lake provides the perfect backdrop to the experience.

Don’t miss: If you are in San Feliciano at the end of July, don’t miss the Sagra del Giacchio (Giacchio Festival) . It’s a popular event where you can enjoy delicious lake fish-based dishes.

5. See Polvese Fortress on Polvese Island Nature Reserve

Hop on a ferry from San Feliciano and visit Polvese, the largest of the three islands dotting the placid waters of Lake Trasimeno. In just 10 minutes, you’ll feel like you’re in a green paradise surrounded by wildlife, lush oak woodlands, and millenary olive groves. Check the ferry timetable here to plan your visit.

The island was first inhabited by the Romans, as evident from the remains of opus reticulatum in the small church of San Giuliano. It’s guarded by a big 15th-century fortress, whose perimeter walls are all that’s left. Following the path to the top of the hill, you’ll also find the ruins of San Secondo, an ancient monastery dating from the 11th century.

Don’t miss: Enjoy a unique dining experience at Impact 0 Beach Bar, the first place on the lake that lives off the land’s energy. Raw food is on the menu to reduce CO2 emissions, and the sound system runs entirely on solar power. Ferries run daily and depart every 40 minutes. Free parking is available at San Feliciano.

6. Explore the pretty hamlet of Monte del Lago

Poem by Vittoria Aganoor Pompilj

There are a lot of stories to tell for such a small center. Monte del Lago is where Bartolomeo Borghi wrote the first Italian geographical atlas, and where the love story of Vittoria Aganoor and Guido Pompilj took a tragic turn; after Vittoria died of cancer, Guido, very dramatically killed himself, just hours after her death. The village was also a favourite destination of composer Giacomo Puccini, who often stayed at Villa Palombaro.

Don’t miss: the Church of Sant’Andrea is worth a look if you find it open. It boasts valuable frescoes dating from the 15th century and attributed to an artist from Perugia.

7. Sample local wine at the Decugnano dei Barbi winery

Decugnano is the name of the hill on which it’s located while dei barbi is the family name of the owner. The family are the winemakers who were the first to introduce sparkling wines to Umbria back in 1978. Today, they make elegant blends from a terroir that was initially an ocean floor millions of years ago and give the wine a distinctive character.

During your visit be guided by Maurizio who will take you on a journey as you savour their rose, white and red wines. He also explains the Etruscans who lived in the area created 18 caves which were most likely tombs. These were later used to store wine which slowed the second fermentation, creating something closer to a beer or cider, it was much sweeter and this sweet taste is a characteristic in Umbrian wines.

Etruscan caves

Since this area was once on a sea bed some 3.5 million years ago, when you visit the repurposed caves, you can actually spot sea shells in the layers of the walls as the sea bed rose and rose throughout the Millenia.

Spot the sea shells in the walls

For more information and to book a tour, visit: decugnanodeibarbi.com

8. Visit an olive oil mill

What would Italian cuisine be without olive oil? And since the one produced in Umbria is appreciated worldwide for its quality and texture, visiting a local oil factory is one of the best things to do while touring the region.

The best place to learn about Umbria’s “green gold” is Frantoio Fattoria Luca Palombaro , an olive mill and farm that’s been producing high-quality extra-virgin olive oil from its estate in Monte del Lago for almost a century. The whole process is handled personally by the family, who only use olives grown on their property. The Fattoria has approximately 12,000 olive trees that reach across 200 hectares of these splendid hills that surround Lake Trasimeno in the heart of Umbria.

They produce Trasimeno DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) extra virgin olive oil, and dolce agogia which is only produced here. It’s dolce (meaning, sweet) which means it’s perfect to consume with fish dishes over meat.

Don’t miss: After the mouthwatering olive oil and wine tasting, visit the ziraia , a room filled with stone mill-wheels, antique presses, and century-old oil jars all representing Italian olive oil made according to tradition.

9. Visit the Olive Oil Museum in Torgiano

To learn about local olive oil in more detail, book a visit to the Olive Tree and Olive Oil Museum housed in an old olive oil mill in the village of Torgiano. Using archaeological finds, books, and other materials, it retraces the history of the olive tree and olive oil.

The exhibit covers the mythological origins of this plant, its production, diffusion, and different uses. There is also an extensive collection of oil lamps, with some dating from pre-Roman times, and a section dedicated to the use of oil in traditions and folklore.

Don’t miss: one of the top pieces on display is an Attic alabastron from the 5th century BC decorated with a beautiful red pattern. For more information visit: muvit.it/museodellolio

10. Enjoy old-school local cuisine at Relais La Fattoria in Castel Rigione

Castel Rigione at sunset

Relais La Fattoria is the kind of place that evokes nostalgia for the past. It’s located in the hilltop village of Castel Rigone, on the remains of an ancient stronghold that once guarded the entire valley, and with gorgeous views of Lake Trasimeno. Its restaurant, evocatively called “Da Lidia, the kitchen of the past”, serves traditional staples of Umbrian cuisine made according to tradition. On the menu, you’ll find delicacies like tagliatelle with Umbrian ragout, lamb cooked in Rubesco wine, and Norcia-style fusilli pasta.

Don’t miss: the most indulgent treat on the menu is the Perugina chocolate salami, a true delight for sweet-toothed guests.

11. Journey to the Middle Ages in Bevagna

Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo

Bevagna is one of the best towns to visit in Umbria for its Medieval character and ancient Roman roots. There are beautiful stone buildings, atmospheric alleys, and ancient monuments revealing hundreds of years of history – including a mosaic floor from a Roman public bath dating from the first century AD during the time of Emperor Hadrian.

Monastero Delle Agostiniane Di S. Margherita

In June, the village celebrates its old crafts such as hemp, money, silk and candle production with the Mercato delle Gaite , a unique festival that takes visitors on a journey into medieval daily life through the reconstruction of workshops and locals dressed in period customs.

Don’t miss: treat yourself to a delicious plate of stringozzi pasta with artichokes, pork jowl, and pecorino cheese at Le Barbatelle , a wine bar in the centre of Bevagna specialised in seasonal dishes paired with natural wines.

12. Visit Scheggino and go truffle hunting

The old town is a little jewel of stone houses and colourful alleys. A steep path leads to an ancient fortress that dominates the village from above. A top sight in Scheggino is the 12th-century Church of San Nicolò, which has frescoes by Spanish painter Giovanni di Pietro, who trained under Perugino.

Don’t miss: Visiting the town of truffle isn’t complete without some truffle-based meals, and you can’t go wrong with ristorante  del Ponte Scatolini . The menu offers a great selection of truffle dishes, from classic tagliolini to trout and omelettes. Another great truffle-filled menu is Borgo 209,  located in Piazza Carlo Urbani it has lovely views of Scheggino from its front terrace.

Why not stay the night? Boasting beautiful views of Valnerina, Torre Del Nera Albergo diffuso & Spa is a hotel with each room and apartment spread throughout the town. I stayed here for two wonderful nights in one of their country-style rooms. There are also 16 independent “houses”, each named after the original inhabitants and featuring their family crest. Apartments feature a log fire, rustic furnishings in wood and stone, and a fully fitted kitchenette. Two apartments are located in a former 13th-century lookout tower. Check availability and book your stay here.

13. Become a cheesemaker for a day

Simple, genuine, and characterful, Umbrian cheeses are a staple of local cuisine and boast an ancient history. Local pecorino, for example, was already mentioned by Pliny the Elder in the 1st century AD when describing the various cheeses known in Rome.

Visiting a cheese factory is definitely one of the best things to do in Umbria. Many organic farms and artisanal workshops open their doors to visitors who want to learn how cheese is made. One is Caseificio Broccatelli , a family-run business that has been making cheeses since the 1950s.

Don’t miss: stock up on pecorino and caciotta , the region’s most popular cheeses. These make for wonderful gifts and souvenirs! Plan your visit here

14. Explore Valnerina with a memorable mountain bike experience

Featuring ancient abbeys, medieval hamlets, and spectacular waterfalls immersed in pristine nature, Valnerina is a stunning mountain valley bordering Le Marche in southeastern Umbria. Crossed by the Nera River, it offers timeless sights like the Plain of Castelluccio di Norcia and the Marmore Waterfalls.

SpoletoNorcia MTB Experience , the biggest cycling event in central Italy, is a great way to explore this part of Umbria. Hundreds of bikers and nature lovers come here every September to ride the four different routes around the old Spoleto-Norcia railway, which range from 10km to 65km.

Don’t miss: If you can’t make it to the event, you can explore the beauty of Valnerina at any time by using the permanent trails. You can easily rent a bike at this handy bike point or bring your own and move around with the Bus & Bike service .

15. Explore Umbria on two wheels

Exploring Vallo di Nera on a bike tour

While there are do-it-yourself options, I actually recommend joining a tour with Ciclostazione who offer everything from half-day to multi-day bike tours along the old railway between Spoleto-Norcia and the Green Way of Nera River. For something more personalised, you can get a customised cycling route and itinerary based on your needs and preferences, including historical, cultural, and culinary delights. Choose from mountain bikes, and e-bikes and if you’re a family you can add a child seat. I joined a 3-hour afternoon tour along the old railway with Luca where our group chose to visit Vallo di Nera one of the borghi più belli d’italia (most beautiful villages in Italy) and wow is it beautiful! For more details , book your trip here.

16. Take the Gorges of River Nera trail

There is no better introduction to the great outdoors of Umbria than taking the Nera Gorges trail. This pathway winds along the Nera River, revealing enchanting corners. You’ll find it near the town of Narni and is one of the best things to do in Umbria for nature lovers.

The trail unfolds through the old railway tracks running along the Nera River for 5km. You can do it in many ways: trekking, running, mountain bike and horseback rides, and canoeing. All around, the landscape is fabulous and reveals exciting attractions such as the remains of a Roman harbour and caves once inhabited by hermits.

Don’t miss: Along the trail, you can see an ancient Roman port and shipyard as well as the ruins of old water mills at the hamlet of Stifone.

17. Sleep in a former monastery in Ferentillo

Chiesa dell’Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle

Ferentillo is a village of very ancient origins. Located in Valnerina Park, it’s perfect for outdoorsy types who want to try their hand at free climbing, canoeing, and rafting. There are also interesting sites to explore including the Museum of the Mummies below the Church of Santo Stefano. 

Ferentillo’s history is closely tied to that of the Abbazia San Pietro in Valle (Abbey of San Pietro in Valle), a medieval monastery built on the site of a cave where hermits lived between the 4th and 6th centuries. The Abbey Church of San Pietro in Valle is one of the most important monuments in Umbria. Here you’ll find three tombs of hermit saints and the largest collection of Roman sarcophagi of Umbria and Romanesque frescos which inspired Giotto’s work in Assisi. Thanks to its location, it boasts commanding views of the valley below.

The former monastery has been completely restored and offers luxury lodgings to travellers seeking a peaceful retreat. What could be more unique than staying in a former monastery? Now home to Relais Abbazia San Pietro In Valle, a residenza storica (historical residence), this hotel is run by three sisters (Federica, Letizia and Chiara) and is a popular choice for weddings and special events thanks to its gorgeous panoramic garden. Offering everything from standard rooms to family and decadent suites, there is something to suit all budgets. Note that the hotel is only open from April to October. Check availability and book your stay here.

18. Go underground in Narni

Located east of the Tiber river is Narni. This fine and unspoilt hilltop town is located above a bend in the River Nera and is the geographical centre of Italy. Its origins date back to the Umbri people, who founded Nequinum. The settlement was conquered by Rome in 299 BC and was renamed Narnia , after the nearby river. Its importance under the Romans derived from the fact that it was the birthplace of Emperor Nerva, in AD 32, and also a major stopping point on the Via Flaminia. The Via Flaminia was an important Roman consular road that connected Rome to Rimini.

Beneath the streets of Narni, the town that inspired “The Chronicles of Narnia”, there’s a tangle of underground tunnels and rooms that feel like another world. You’ll find remains of a Roman home, a church covered in frescoes, a cistern used to collect rainwater, a torture chamber, a Tribunal of the Inquisition and a cell with graffitied walls with a chilling message.

Benedictine church

Covered or purposely hidden for centuries, this fascinating complex was re-discovered in 1979 by Roberto Nini and his friends when he was just 17 years old! Becoming his life work, Nini established Narni Sotterranea (Narni Underground) and wrote a book about his long journey that took him to the Vatican and Trinity College in Dublin to piece together the truth behind these forgotten rooms. Roberto now offers guided tours which must be booked in advance. For more information, visit narnisotterranea.it

Roberto Nini at Narni Sotteranea

Inside cell of the condemed

Tribunal of the Inquisition

Like many other towns and villages in Umbria, Narni preserves a strikingly medieval appearance, with stone buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. Its attractions include one of the largest Roman bridges ever built and the Eroli Museum with an altarpiece by Domenico Ghirlandaio. Outside the city walls, Ponte Cardona marks the precise geographical centre of Italy. To learn more about Narni during your visit, consider joining this private guided tour.

Narnia Festival performance

Don’t miss: Every year in July, Narni hosts the famous Narnia Festival , which celebrates arts, music and culture with shows and performances by international artists.

19. Visit Cascata delle marmore – the world’s tallest man-made waterfall

In ancient times, the Velino river flowed through the highlands that surround the city of Rieti and fed a wetland in the Rieti Valley that was thought to bring illness (probably malaria). To remove this threat, in 271 BC, the Roman consul Manius Curius Dentatus ordered the construction of a canal (called the Curiano Trench) that diverted the course of the river and formed the Marmore Falls.

View from trail 2

From there, the water fell into the Nera river below. However, that solution created a different problem: when the Velino river was in flood, its water flowed toward the city of Terni, threatening its population. Over the next 300 years, other measures were taken to prevent additional flooding thanks to the construction of the Curiano Trench and in 1787, Pope Pius 6th ordered architect Andrea Vici to modify the leaps below the falls, giving the falls their present look, and finally resolving the majority of the problems.

In 1896, the newly formed steel mills in Terni began using the water flow in the Curiano Trench to power their operation. In the following years, engineers began using the water flow to generate electricity. Most of the time, the water in the canals above the Cascata delle Marmore is diverted to a hydroelectric power plant, so the flow in the falls themselves is heavily reduced.

The waterfall is controlled by a power plant and is “switched on” only at certain times during the day. Make sure you check the website before you go. Check the published schedule here.

Today, you can admire the waterfalls from different angles with a series of paths immersed in greenery by following any of the 6 scenic sentieri (paths) around the valley and area above the waterfall. Trails 1, 2, 3 and 4 are the most impressive and shouldn’t be missed. 

• Trail 1 will take you to a belvedere (viewpoint) towards the top of the waterfall with a view looking down towards the valley. Allow a 30-minute round trip.
• Trails 2 and 3 are connected and take you along the lower falls. Look out for a stunning reflection rainbow caused by the heavy flow of water and spray in the air. Allow a 15-minute round trip.
• Trail 4 is located across the road outside the main waterfall complex area. Show your ticket to a member of staff and then take the 10-minute walk up the mountain which will give you fantastic views of the waterfall.

Entrance is 10 euros and for another 3.5 euros, you can visit il balcone degli innamorati (the lover’s balcony) as part of a small guided tour. A small corridor built into the mountain opens up to a small terrace that puts you right in the waterfall. If it’s not a hot day or you don’t want to get soaked, I recommend picking up a poncho for 2 euros at the shop at the base of the waterfall. Click here for a full map of the park and paths.

20. Dine and stay the night at Borgo dei conti Resort Relais & Chateaux

This residence was erected on the site of an ancient fortress, which dates as far back as the 13th century when it was then inhabited by about 500 people. The name borgo dei conti translates to ‘village of the counts’ and as its name suggests, over the years it was owned by a succession of nobles from counts to aristocrats.

There is also an imbarcadero a kind of jetty which historically gave underground access to a stream which the Countess took to reach a lake and her private hideaway where she painted and took refuge.

imbarcadero – an ancient jetty

The private refuge of the countess on what was once a lake

Today, this converted castle offers its guests a free spa and gym, billiards room, and an on-site restaurant serving Umbrian specialities. Each room is elegantly furnished with designer bathrooms, dark-wood furniture and fine fabrics. You can even choose to stay in either the Count and Countess’ suites. Check availability and book your stay here .

21. Go whitewater rafting

Though Umbria looks peaceful and idyllic, it offers its fair share of adrenaline too. For example, there are some great spots for whitewater rafting on the Nera River, under the waterfall Marmore – the kind of adventure that any adrenaline junky visiting Umbria shouldn’t miss. Check availability and book your experience here.

Depending on your level, there are different courses you can pick, and even beginner rafters are guaranteed some seriously accelerated heartbeats. Added bonus: the river winds through some of Umbria’s most stunning scenery.

Don’t miss: besides rafting, there are tons of other sports you can practice in the area, including canyoning, hydrospeed, and thrilling river walks at night. For more information visit: umbriaexperience.it

22. Discover Umbria’s wine routes (and bring a bottle or two home)

A total of four wine routes have been designed to guide visitors through excellent wines, marvellous landscapes, and enchanting villages across the region. These are: “Strada del Sagrantino” on the slopes of Montefalco, “Strada del Vino dei Colli del Trasimeno”, “Strada dei Vini del Cantico” in central Umbria, and “Strada dei Vini Etrusco Romana” through the hills of Orvieto.

Don’t miss: Whatever route you take, make sure you stop at Arnaldo Caprai , a fantastic winery famous for its Sagrantino red. You can tour the cellars and enjoy lunch on a beautiful panoramic terrace.

23. Tour Rasiglia, Umbria’s little Venice

Rasiglia welcomes you with the soothing sound of flowing water. This town gets its nickname – “Umbria’s little Venice ” – from a fascinating system of creeks and canals that wind through the streets, providing enchanting views. Cute wooden and stone bridges are all over town, perfect for photos.

Don’t miss: In June, you can watch re-enactments of historic activities and participate in traditional workshops at “Penelope a Rasiglia”, the town’s main event.

24. Take an Umbrian cooking class

Among the many options on the market, Percorsi con Gusto in San Gemini stands out for keeping traditions alive. Home cooking is the focus of its courses, which take place in a beautiful 16th-century private residence. Another top-rated cooking class is this one where you’ll enjoy a five-course meal along with wine from the estate, as you learn about traditional recipes from Umbria. Plus you get a recipe book to take home. Book your class here.

Don’t miss: Don’t leave without visiting the village after the cooking class. San Gemini is included in the list of Italy’s most beautiful villages and offers important attractions, including a Roman archaeological area.

25. Discover the great outdoors in the Monte Cucco Regional Park

Monte Cucco at sunrise

The Monte Cucco Regional Park is the ultimate paradise for nature lovers in Umbria, on the border with Le Marche. It’s got pristine woods, waterways, and spectacular gorges. There are also some incredible underground caves where others have left their traces through the centuries.

This park is full of hermitages and quaint hamlets rich in history and culture, such as Fossato di Vico, where every year in May the Feast of the Statutes brings the village’s 14th-century Municipal Statutes back to life.

Don’t miss: Featuring 30km of tunnels, the Monte Cucco Cave is an underground system of great importance in Europe.

26. Explore the Sibillini Mountains National Park

Sibillini mountains

Stretching over 70,000 hectares between Le Marche and Umbria, the Sibillini Mountains National Park is Umbria’s natural wonderland. Legends about the Prophetess Sibyl haunt the area, making a visit all the more thrilling.

Hiking, biking, or paragliding are the best ways to see the park’s natural treasures. There are also old hamlets to explore, like Visso, which is thought to have been founded 907 years before Rome, and Arquata del Tronto, Europe’s only territory with two national parks (Monti Sibillini in the north and Gran Sasso in the south).

Don’t miss: Visit between May and July, when the lentil fields around Castelluccio di Norcia are in full bloom, turning the valley into a beautiful mosaic of colours.

27. Visit the earthquake-stricken town of Norcia

Despite being hit by earthquakes that destroyed many of its treasures, Norcia remains firmly on Umbria’s map as a prime spot for hikers and foodies. The town is surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Sibillini Mountains National Park, which you can explore on foot, bike, or horseback. This way, you won’t feel guilty about stuffing yourself with its delicious tasty pork-meat products and cheeses.

Norcia’s historic centre is surrounded by walls and develops around Piazza San Benedetto, the saint born here. Part of it is still inaccessible to the public, but you can see what’s left after the quakes, like the facade of the 13th-century basilica and the statue of St Benedict. But what makes this little Umbrian town so special is its people, who are fighting hard to rebuild it.

Don’t miss: Pay a visit to the earthquake-stricken shops housed inside prefabricated wooden buildings along Via della Stazione. They were moved here from the historic centre, and our support is vital for their survival.

28. Treat yourself to a fancy meal

Why not try one of Umbria’s three Michelin-starred restaurants while in Norcia? The restaurant is called Vespasia and you’ll find it inside the 16th-century Palazzo Seneca Hotel in the historic centre. Promoting an ethical, sustainable cuisine, the restaurant uses strictly seasonal ingredients from a network of local suppliers. The result is dishes that showcase local specialities without shying away from sacrificing innovation.

Don’t miss: the restaurant has three tasting menus, but if you can only pick one dish, go for the homemade Umbricelli with Norcia’s black truffles – pure heaven! For more information visit: vespasianorcia.com

29. Visit the birthplace of St. Francis in Assisi

Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi

A classic stop in Umbria, Assisi is a hilltop town best known as the birthplace of St Francis, one of Italy’s most famous patron saints. Its centrepiece is the stunning 13th-century Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, which hosts the saint’s remains and boasts a beautiful fresco cycle depicting his life. Plus, the views of Assisi’s skyline from the Basilica’s upper square are unbeatable.

While the Basilica is the main draw, Assisi also has a magnificent historic center that contributed to the town’s UNESCO listing. Other attractions worth exploring include the Temple of Minerva, the Basilica of St Chiara, and the 14th-century castle.

Don’t miss: The Calendimaggio festival in May celebrates spring and nature’s awakening with three days of historical reenactments and ancient traditions.

30. Walk the Franciscan Peace Path

One of the most interesting things to do in Umbria is walking in the footsteps of St Francis along the trail that connects Assisi to Gubbio. It follows the same route the saint took several times after returning his possessions to his father.

The trail is well marked and extends for about 50km (31 miles), perfectly capturing the spirit of young Francis. Whatever your reason for taking the walk, you’ll be surrounded by peace and beauty.

Don’t miss: look out for the small Church of Vittorina, the legendary spot where St Francis tamed the wolf of Gubbio.

For more information visit: ilsentierodifrancesco.it

31. See Todi, one of the best things to do in Umbria

The impressive Temple of Santa Maria della Consolazione is a great place to begin your exploration. The old town is full of monuments and museums, but if you can visit only one place, make it to the Duomo to see the beautiful fresco of the Last Judgment by Farraù di Faenza. It’s inspired by Michelangelo’s more famous work in the Sistine Chapel in Rome.

Don’t miss: Todi is famous for its grilled meat paired with a glass of Grechetto di Todi DOC, a fine white wine produced in the area for centuries.

For more information visit: visitodi.eu

32. Stroll around Spoleto

This town in the foothills of the Apennines also features a 1st-century AD Roman theatre often hosting ballet performances. The grand Ponte delle Torri bridge, built as an aqueduct in the 13th century, is one of the symbols of Spoleto. Possibly built on Roman foundations,  today you can walk along its elevated path to the sacred wood of Monteluco, a spot of pristine natural beauty. 

Ponte delle Torri

Don’t miss: between June and July, Spoleto stages the Festival dei Due Mondi, an annual summer music and opera event that attracts artists from all over the world.

33. Visit Spello and its flower festival

In Spello, you can see perfectly preserved Roman walls and some magnificent frescoes by Pinturicchio inside the 11th-century Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Another highlight is the 500-metre mosaic-paved area inside Villa dei Mosaici just outside the town centre.

Don’t miss: if you visit in June, you might catch Spello’s famous Infiorata . This flower festival turns the streets into canvases for locals who create beautiful displays using thousands of petals.

For more information: visitspello.it

34. Get a “fool’s licence” in Gubbio

Gubbio and Roman amphitheater

Not only is Gubbio one of Umbria’s oldest towns, but it’s also its craziest! It’s traditionally known as the “City of Fools” because of the ancient practice of awarding honorary citizenship in the form of a “fool’s license” to those who circle the Bargello fountain three times.

Crazy is also how passionate locals are about their biggest festival, the Race of the Candles , which takes place on May 15th. Three massive wooden structures (5m x 300 kg) are carried by the shoulder to the Basilica on Mount Igino. Unlike what you might think, there’s no actual race since they must follow a precise order.

Don’t miss: hop on the scenic cableway connecting Gubbio to the top of Mount Ingino for some wonderful views. Keeping with the town’s crazy vibe, the cable cars are open-air human-sized birdcages!

35. Enjoy the Umbria Jazz festival

The Umbria Jazz Festival is held in July every year in Perugia. A must for jazz lovers, it’s also one of the top music festivals in Italy. It’s been going on since the early 1970s and attracts jazz experts and music enthusiasts from across the globe.

Over ten days, every corner of Perugia’s historic centre becomes the stage for exciting Jazz performances of all kinds. The performers’ lineup is also impressive, with past editions featuring stars like Tony Bennett, Elton John, Alicia Keys, and Carlos Santana.

Don’t miss: take a look at the official program, as there are always some great free outdoor concerts around town to complement the main stage performances.

For more information visit: umbriajazz.it

36. Go on a hot air balloon ride

Among the top things to do in Umbria, taking this top-rated hot air balloon ride is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating. Flying over the verdant valleys and mountain peaks of Italy’s green heart aboard a balloon basket is certainly an adventure you’ll never forget. Tours typically take off at sunrise or sunset and last approximately a couple of hours. The ride is often complemented with a delightful breakfast or aperitif.

Don’t miss: Make sure you pack your best camera because hot air ballooning 2,000 feet up offers fantastic photo opportunities. Check availability and book your ride here.

Ready to plan your trip to Umbria? To discover more delights and get more details visit umbriatourism.it. I wish you safe travels and buon viaggio! (Have a great trip!)

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12 Best Places to Visit in Umbria, Italy

By Lauren Bailey · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Umbria is a charismatic Italian region bordered by the rolling greenery of Tuscany, Le Marche, and Lazio. Characterized by medieval hill towns, gorgeous lakes, fascinating Roman ruins, and lip-smacking local cuisine, it’s the epitome of holiday heaven.

Forage for truffles, taste fine Italian wines, and uncover the history of Italy’s Patron Saints. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual escape in ever-popular Perugia, or you’d prefer the quieter slow life of Narni, Umbria truly has it all.

Norcia is a medieval town of handsome contrasts. A walled town surrounded by lush countryside and undulating Umbrian hills, it’s the perfect spot for hikers, nature lovers, and foodies. It’s famous for its black truffles, salami, pork, and wild boar products – so famous, in fact, that they’ve been named norcineria.

Dating back to the Neolithic Age, Norcia is the birthplace of Europe’s Patron Saint, St. Benedict. Explore the mysteries of its medieval streets and the historic town center. While several important buildings – such as the Church of St. Benedict itself – were destroyed by earthquakes, you can still see the statue of Saint Benedict, Palazzo Comunale, and the 13th-century Town Hall with its photogenic Loggia Staircase and Bell Tower.

Located on the edge of Sibillini National Park in south-eastern Umbria, visitors choose Norcia for a healthy combination of food and exercise. There’s plenty of rolling countryside to explore on foot, bike, or horseback.

Don’t miss truffle season (November to March) or the dedicated festival held over the last fortnight of February. You’ll also love the three-day Prosciuti dal Mondo in November, which features prosciutto from all over Italy!

11. Monti Sibillini National Park

Tucked away within the Apennine Mountains, Monti Sibillini National Park is a wild and wonderful destination in Umbria. Dotted with medieval villages, lakes, and legends, it’s a popular destination for a host of outdoor adventures, such as hiking, biking, rock climbing, and canyoneering. Wildflowers and wildlife are abundant in the park, from orchids to wolves and birds of prey.

Dating back to medieval times, the Sibillines were believed to be a land of witches, necromancers, and fairies. Today, the legends live on, and it’s what makes this area so fascinating. Hike to the Cave of Sibyl, a sorceress said to have lured fearless knights into a life of damnation.

The perfect way to witness the parks’ beauty is by hiking up one of the peaks or hang gliding or paragliding off them. Organized treks are available, or you can follow a self-guided trail from the park’s website.

Explore the little hamlets within the park’s reaches. Visso, the park’s seat, is believed to have been founded 907 years before Rome and features the eight-sided Sanctuary of Macereto. Explore Preci, the center of spirituality, and Arquata del Tronto, Europe’s only municipality within two national parks (Monti Sibillini in the north and Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga in the south). Alternatively, have a swim in the crisp waters of Lake Fiastra and bird watch at Hell’s Gorge.

The hilltop town of Todi overlooks the picturesque Tevere Valley. Surrounded by three sets of walls, the town conceals many hidden treasures. Each wall was built in a different historical era: the innermost is Etruscan, the middle one Roman, and the medieval wall from the Middle Ages.

Explore the city’s historic center from the Piazza del Popolo. Get a classic tourist photo at the stairs of the 12th-century Cathedral, located on the ruins of a temple dedicated to the god Apollo. Visit the Town Hall, People’s Palace, and the Museum of Roman Etruscan. Don’t miss the 13th-century Captain Palace, the 14th-century Priori Palace, and St. Fortunato Church honoring the city’s Patron Saint.

Other highlights include visiting the 16th-century Consolazione Temple with its gorgeous dome, exploring the Roman-built underground cisterns, and strolling the narrow streets in search of handicrafts. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, try the pan caciato, a small loaf made with walnuts, cheese and raisins, and palomba alla ghiotta (roasted pigeon). Pair these with a glass of Greschetto di Todi DOC, one of the fine local wines, and you’re all set!

Spello is an ancient walled town with honey-colored houses cascading down the slopes of Saint Francis’s mountain, Monte Subasio. Located on the doorstep of Assisi in east-central Umbria, it’s a small town that you can explore on foot in just several hours.

Small it may be, but its civilized pace and gorgeous views make it well worth a visit. In fact, it’s easily one of the most beautiful villages in Italy! Built from Subasio marble, the entire town takes on a pinkish color around sunrise and sunset – the photos are simply gorgeous!

Three well-preserved Roman arches form the entryways to the town. Inside, you’ll find the 11th-century Church of Santa Maria Maggiore with its famous Baglioni Chapel and striking Pinturicchio frescoes. If you’re interested in churches, you’re in luck. Visit the Church of San Andrea, San Lorenzo, San Claudio, Santa Maria di Vallegloria, and Saint Jerome with its adjoining monastery. Other sights include the Roman House, Villa Costanzi with its summertime concerts, and the Piazza della Repubblica, which encompasses the 13th-century Municipal Palace and Archaeological Museum.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the Infiorata (Flower Festival) held in May and June. The streets are transformed into a colorful wonderland, dubbing Spello the ‘Capital of Flowers.’

8. Lake Trasimeno

Lake Trasimeno, with its hillside olive groves, undulating vineyards, and quaint stone villages, is one of the most enchanting destinations in Umbria. The fourth-largest of Italy’s lakes, Trasimeno is surrounded by ancient towers, fortresses, and Renaissance-style churches. On the lake itself, you’ll find pastel-colored wooden fishing boats, three scenic lake islands, and some of the most dramatic sunsets in Italy.

While the lake is located inside the region of Umbria, it’s northern shoreline hugs the border of Tuscany. The villages peppering the lake have a resort-style atmosphere. Peak season runs from April to October, when tourists descend to take advantage of the mild climate, beaches, and hiking and biking trails. Visit out of season and you’ll find many shops and restaurants closed.

Take your time exploring the lake’s islands, towns, and enjoying the decadent cuisine: wine, olive oil, fish, and legumes flourish in Trasimeno’s microclimate. Hike and bird watch in Isola Polvese’s nature park, browse the famous Irish lacework in Isola Maggiore, and visit Castiglione del Lago – the most popular town, perched on a small promontory.

Passignano sul Trasimeno, with its long stretch of beach, is perfect for sunbathing, while San Feliciano is the best spot to witness the fishermen with their traditional flat-bottomed boats. Take a drive along the scenic Percorso Storico Archeologico della Battaglia and soak up the gloriously slow pace of Monte del Lago, surrounded by lake views on three sides.

Narni is a quiet hamlet overlooking the lush Nera Valley. Known for its spectacular sunsets that take center stage over the backdrop of the Umbrian countryside, it’s one of the most romantic little villages in Italy.

But the old town has historical and cultural significance too. Admire the incredible artwork at the Civic Museum and explore Narni Sotterranea – an unbelievable underground town only discovered in 1977. Inside, you’ll find a 13th-century Benedictine church painted with amazing frescoes, a Roman cistern, a Holy Inquisition courtroom, and an eerie prison cell.

What makes this town special is that it’s not at all touristy. Yet there’s still so much to do. Stroll past the Duomo of San Giovenale, two beautiful palaces, and the 1370s Rocca fortress, and watch a summertime concert at San Domenico Church.

Just outside town, you’ll find Ponte Cardona, which marks the exact geographical center of Italy. If you have time, take a day trip to the ruins of Ocriculum, an ancient Umbrian settlement.

6. Marmore Waterfalls

Marmore Falls is one of the tallest human made waterfalls in the world. Tucked within Nera River Park – also known as Waters’ Park – it was built by the Romans back in 271 BC to divert the overflowing stagnant waters of the River Velino into the River Nero.

Today, the falls feed the Galleto Hydroelectric Power Station, which has enabled the metal-working, electrochemical, and electric industries at Terni. Yet the falls remain steeped in myth and legend. Popular belief dictates that a nymph called Nera fell in love with a shepherd named Velino.

A jealous lover called Juno transformed Nera into a river and then threw himself over the cliff in order to be reunited with her forever. This mortal jump now lingers for eternity in the sprays of the waterfall.

Whether you prefer fact or fiction, the falls are a sight to behold. The Marmore Waterfalls can be visited along five trekking routes, catering to different fitness levels, but bear in mind that the water is only released at set times. Along the way, you’ll discover travertine grottoes and opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and canyoneering. Don’t miss the Enchanted Walk and the Balcony of Lovers!

Spoleto is one of those rare non-touristy towns. Totally off the beaten path, this medieval village has a steep historical center, accessible via a travellator, that dates back to 241 BC.

Inhabited by the original Umbri tribes in the 5th-century BC who built fortifying walls that can still be seen today, it was only in 774 that it became part of the Holy Roman Empire, when one of the Dukes of Lombard made it their official residence.

Chosen as the filming location for the famous Italian soapy, Don Matteo (because it depicts a typical Italian town yet to be overrun by tourists), Spoleto promises all the best things about Italy – lovely restaurants, hearty cuisine, and fantastic wines. Don’t miss the black truffles and red wine from Montefalco!

Start at Rocca Albornoz, the symbol of the city, and admire the views across Spoleto. These views compete with those from the 13th-century Ponte delle Torre (Tower Bridge), which connects the San’Elia hill with Monte Luco.

Other notable sites include the 12th-century Romanesque Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, the Mauri Palace, the Church of San Ansano and San Gregorio Maggiore, the St. Isaac Crypt, and the Arch of Drusus and Germanicus. Don’t miss the 1st-century AD Roman theatre – perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to catch a ballet performance!

Gubbio is a medieval town in north-eastern Umbria. Despite being so close to Assisi, it’s surprisingly set off the main tourist track. Surrounded by avocado countryside and connected to Mount Ingino via a scenic cableway, this hillside Italian town is undeniably magical. When it comes to authenticity, architecture, and atmosphere, Gubbio has it all.

Dating back to pre-Roman times, Gubbio is one of Umbria’s oldest towns. The town center is a pleasing mix of medieval, gothic and Renaissance architecture built from grey limestone. It’s known as the “City of Fools” because you can obtain a “madman’s license” (and Eugubina citizenship!) by merely circling the small fountain in Largo Bargello three times.

Start with a visit to the Gothic Consoli Palace. Built in the 1300s, it’s now one of the town’s most prominent icons, home to the “big bell” and the seven Eugubine Tables, dating back to the 3rd-century BC.

Other must-do activities include a visit to Gubbio Cathedral with its 16th-century paintings and baroque chapel, the 15th-century Dukes Palace, the 1st-century AD Roman ruins just outside the city walls, and a cable car ride up to Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo. Ranghiasci Park, set along the old walls, offers one of the best views of Gubbio!

While you’re here, fill up on dishes cooked with white truffles and brustengo – fried bread served with meat, onion, and rosemary. Leave room for the local dessert – the Ganascioni of the Sisters of St. Lucia, which are served with Barcarolle (barley coffee and anisette).

Nestled within central Umbria, Perugia is the region’s thriving capital. This picturesque Etruscan town is charmingly medieval, with a backdrop dominated by Italy’s largest fortress, the Rocca Paolina. Believed to be older than Rome, Perugia definitely lives up to its steadfast reputation.

Explore Perugia’s attractive center overflowing with Etruscan ruins, including the third-century Sorbello Well. Visit Piazza IV Novembre, where the Fontana Maggiore fountain forms the centerpiece.

Other sights include the Italian art museum, La Galleria Nazionale dell’ Umbria, the church of Sant’Angelo and the monastery of Sant’Agnese. You’ll also find the Universita per Stranieri, an excellent Italian language school, as well as the first wine school in the world in Perugia!

As if all that wasn’t enough to tempt you to Umbria, Perugia is also the ‘Chocolate Capital of Italy.’ It’s home to world-famous chocolatier, Perugina, creators of the legendary Baci chocolate kisses. Visit in October and immerse yourself in the Euro Chocolate Festival with its theater and music performances, cooking demonstrations, and chocolate art exhibitions!

Perched dramatically on top of enormous tufa cliffs, the hillside town of Orvieto is picturesque. Easily reached by train or car, it’s the perfect day trip from Rome . But, there’s so much to see and do that you should allow plenty of time.

Dating back to Etruscan times, Orvieto is split in two: the old-town hilltop and the new town at the base, connected by escalators and elevators, as well as a cable car (the most scenic form of transport).

Sprinkled with ancient monuments, tombs, a necropolis, and a network of underground passageways dating back to the Middle Ages, there’s much to uncover in this hillside town. Visit the 16th-century Saint Patrick’s Well with its historic spiral staircase, discover ancient artifacts inside two archaeological museums, explore the Albornoz Fortress, and admire the Gothic Duomo Cathedral with its glittering, mosaic-adorned façade and impressive frescoes.

Sightseeing and history lessons aside, Orvieto is everything a typical Italian town should be – quiet, unassuming, and blissfully traffic free. It’s a popular location for shopping, wining, and dining.

You can browse local handicrafts and ceramics along Via del Duomo and explore the nearby vineyards for the finest Classico wines. Whatever you do, don’t leave without admiring a view of the Umbrian valley from the Torre del Moro!

Assisi is a captivating commune. With its medieval streets, sacred shrines, entrancing churches, and a spellbinding castle, it’s no surprise it’s Umbria’s most famous town for tourists and pilgrims alike. It was the city where Italy’s Patron Saint, St. Francis, lived and prayed, so it’s a spiritual experience for many.

Admire the views from the fortress of Rocca Maggiore and get great shots of Basilica di Santa Chiara and Santuario San Damiano. The two-thousand-year-old ancient Roman Temple of Minerva is also a fantastic photo opportunity.

Take a moment to reflect at Eremo delle Carceri, where St. Francis prayed in isolation. Explore the Roman Forum, stroll along Via San Francesco, and see St. Rufino Cathedral, the church dedicated to Assisi’s Patron Saint, Rufino, which is home to the 12th-century crypt of Basilica Ugoniana.

You’ll need plenty of time to uncover all of Assisi’s hidden finds – they vary from Roman ruins and medieval sites to countryside walks along the alpine trails of Monte Subasio. Get a taste of local history and culture with a visit to the 13th-century ‎Romanesque and Italian Gothic Basilica of St. Francis, which consists of two parts – the lower and the upper church. It’s here that you’ll find St. Francis of Assisi’s final resting place.

Map of Umbria, Italy

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15 Best Things To Do in Umbria, Italy

Are you planning to visit Umbria soon? There are so many best things to do in Umbria that choosing the best ones is a daunting task.

Bordering Tuscany , Lazio , and Marche, the central Italian region of Umbria — dubbed “Italy’s green heart” — is full of medieval towns, outdoor activities, and some of the country’s best food and wine.

Umbria is also a historical and cultural fusion, and as one of the smallest regions of Italy , it retains a strong sense of its past. That alone is reason enough to visit Umbria.

It’s not enough to describe Umbria in terms of “saints,” “warriors,” and “greens,” as most books and travel guides do. This is because the region is birthplace to a great number of Catholic saints.

Also, Perugia and the other cities and towns of Umbria have a rich artistic and cultural heritage, as well as an abundance of ancient landscapes that visitors can explore.

Traditions and celebrations in this region also have a significant role to play in preserving Umbria’s cultural diversity, local customs, and traditions.

Table of Contents

For your awesome experience in the region, here’s our guide to the best things to do in Umbria, Italy.

1. Spend a day or two in Perugia

Perugia, the Umbrian capital, is located in the heart of the region and is a popular tourist destination — a must when you visit Umbria.

Rocca Paolina, Italy’s largest fortress, towers over this Etruscan town, which is charmingly medieval and dominated by this fortress.

Sorbello is one of the most impressive Etruscan sites in Perugia’s historic center. Visit the Fontana Maggiore, a fountain in Piazza IV Novembre, the square’s focal point.

The Italian art museum, La Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria, as well as the Church of Sant’Angelo and the Monastery of Sant’Agnese are other notable attractions.

Perugia is also home to the Università per Stranieri (University for Foreigners of Perugia), a top-notch Italian language school , and the world’s first wine school.

Perugia is also known as the “Chocolate Capital of Italy,” and Perugina, the chocolatier behind the iconic Baci chocolate kisses, is based here. These hazelnut-filled chocolate kisses come wrapped in a love note in either English, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, or Greek. These chocolates have been around since 1922. Eat and take some home for your family and friends.

The European Chocolate Festival in Perugia is a must-experience in October, where you’ll be able to take in live performances, culinary demonstrations, and chocolate art exhibits.

2. Hang out in Umbria’s Instagram-worthy town squares

Looking for a unique way to document your trip when you visit Umbria? Taking photos of every town square you encounter is one of the fun things to do in Umbria.

With its fairytale-like towns, Umbria is a must for tourists who enjoy snapping away. Most of these little towns have central squares that are just too beautiful to not be in our Instagram feeds.

It’s easy to get lost in Umbria’s beautiful medieval towns, each with a charming main square where you can grab a coffee and people-watch.

Check out the pretty town square of Spello, said to be the most beautiful town in Umbria. You will appreciate the Gothic charm of Gubbio’s town center or the medieval splendor of Montone.

Wherever you go when you visit Umbria, spend some time in a beautiful town square. You will not regret it.

3. Stop by Umbria’s hill towns

In the eyes of people who visit Umbria, medieval “hill towns” are like towns from a fairy tale that have been forgotten by the passage of time.

Instead of growing into bustling cities, they have preserved their charming characteristics such as narrow streets, massive gates, stone buildings, and so on. Umbria has a lot of these towns, a must-visit to fully appreciate this gorgeous region.

Here are three most famous medieval hill towns for you to check out when you visit Umbria:

Assisi’s hidden treasures range from ancient Roman and medieval ruins to the alpine trails of Monte Subasio’s countryside.

You can get a feel for local history and culture by visiting the lower and upper churches of the 13th-century Romanesque and Italian Gothic Basilica of St. Francis. St. Francis of Assisi’s final resting place can be found here. It’s one of the top destinations when you visit Umbria.

One of Umbria’s oldest towns, Gubbio has been inhabited since the pre-Roman era. Gray limestone dominates the town’s historic core, which is a pleasing blend of medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

People call it “the City of Fools” because of the “madman’s licence” (and Eugubina citizenship!) that can be obtained by simply going around the small fountain in Largo Bargello three times.

With many ancient monuments and an underground network of passageways dating back to the Middle Ages, this hillside town is a treasure trove for history lovers.

For history buffs, visiting Saint Patrick’s Well, a 16th-century well with a historic staircase, is one of those things to do in Umbria that you should not miss.

Explore two archaeological museums and the Albornoz Fortress for a glimpse into the history of the region. Visit the Duomo di Orvieto, a Gothic cathedral with a mosaic-adorned façade and awe-inspiring frescoes.

4. Get close to nature and enjoy outdoor activities in Monte Cucco Regional Park

In northeast Umbria, the Monte Cucco Regional Park is an unspoiled natural haven that’s ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors.

There are numerous caves, karsts, and underground rivers which delight many caving enthusiasts. If you’re planning to visit Umbria and explore what it has to offer to outdoor enthusiasts, you will never be disappointed.

Now if that’s not your cup of tea, you can take a walk through the park’s pristine beech woods and meadows.

5. Visit Umbria’s borghi più belli d’Italia

Aside from the major centers of the region, there is a slew of smaller towns and villages that are well worth a day trip or two. Visit Umbria’s smaller villages if you want to get the most out of your trip there.

Umbria is home to a large number of “ borghi più belli d’Italia ,” or the most beautiful villages in Italy. A few of the places that got this distinction are the cities of Bevagna, Castiglione del Lago, and Bettona, as well as the towns of Arrone, Corciano, Massa Martano, Montefalco, Paciano, and San Gemini.

Check out their official website to see a complete list of the towns and make travel arrangements when you visit Umbria.

6. Visit Umbria’s famous churches and religious sites

The region may be small, but it’s not short of interesting churches and cathedrals to visit. It is home to a good number of these religious sites.

Dubbed the “land of saints,” it’s not surprising that Umbria is filled with religious sites. Some of these saints include St. Francis of Assisi, St. Clare of Assisi, St. Rita of Cascia, St. Ubald of Gubbio, St. Benedict of Nursia (Norcia), St. Veronica Giuliani, and St. Clare of Montefalco.

Here are our top picks of religious sites you should see when you visit Umbria:

• The Church of San Damiano — Assisi, Italy

Located in Assisi, the small and modest rustic-style Church of San Damiano and its cloisters were built in the 12th century. This church is said to be where Christ spoke to St Francis. The church was restored by St. Francis of Assisi and later served as home for St. Clare.

The Church of San Damiano has a significant role not only in Christianism but in Italian literature as well. This is where St. Francis wrote the religious song Laudes Creaturarum (Canticle of the Sun or Canticle of the Creatures). Laudes Creaturarum is deemed the earliest known vernacular literature written in the Umbrian dialect.

• Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi — Gubbio, Italy

Located in Gubbio, the hometown of one of the region’s famous saints, Sant’Ubaldo (St. Ubald), this basilica houses the embalmed body of Sant’Ubaldo himself. A visit to the saint’s shrine is a must!

• Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi — Assisi, Italy

This gorgeous 13th-century basilica is located on a hill in Assisi, the place where St. Francis was born and died.

Assisi’s Basilica of St. Francis stands on a hill that used to be called Hell’s Hill because death sentences were carried out here. After the canonization of St. Francis, the hill’s name was changed to Paradise Hill. This is also where you can find the saint’s final resting place.

• Basilica di Santa Chiara — Assisi, Italy

Constructed onto the original Chapel of St. George, this 13th-century church has a striking pink-and-white façade. This is where the remains of St. Clare of Assisi have been kept in a crypt since 1872.

7. Explore some of Umbria’s most important museums

Museums are the best way to learn about a particular place’s history, art, culture, and others. The region of Umbria is home to a significant number of museums.

Step inside one or some of them for an opportunity to get better acquainted with this fascinating Central Italian region. Here are the best ones we’ve handpicked for you:

• National Gallery of Umbria

The National Gallery of Umbria keeps the largest collection of Umbrian works of art as well as some of the most significant works of art in central Italy from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It is an Italian state museum located in the Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia.

• Museo del Fiore

Museo del Fiore is a small naturalist and multimedia museum in the woods rich in plants and wildlife — at Monte Rufeno Natural Reserve in the village of Torre Alfina in the province of Viterbo, near the Tuscany and Umbria border.

An educational play museum, Museo del Fiore deals with complex scientific issues in an easy manner. This museum is a must for families visiting the area.

• Torgiano Wine Museum

Situated in Torgiano between Assisi and Perugia, this private wine museum was established in 1974. Torgiano Wine Museum is deemed one of the most important museums of its kind in Italy.

• Claudio Faina Etruscan Museum

Located in the Faina Palace in Orvieto, this archaeological museum houses an exquisite Etruscan collection with a stunning view of the Orvieto Cathedral. Must not miss!

8. See Marmore Falls

As one of the world’s tallest man-made waterfalls, Marmore Falls (Cascata delle Marmore) tower over the surrounding landscape.

The Romans built Marmore Falls in 271 BC to divert the Velino River’s overflowing and stagnant waters into the Nero River. As a result, Terni’s metalworking, electrochemical, and electric industries have been made possible thanks to the falls feeding the Galleto Hydroelectric Power Station.

Note that the Marmore Waterfalls can only be accessed via a series of hiking trails that cater to a variety of fitness levels. Travertine grottoes and kayaking, rafting, and canyoneering opportunities await you on the way.

One of Italy’s best waterfalls , Cascata delle Marmore is located within Nera River Park, also known as Waters’ Park. The enchanted path and the balcony of lovers are not to be missed!

9. Head to the beach for an afternoon of water sports

Umbria is a landlocked region, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go to the beach for the day. Several beaches line the shores of Lake Trasimeno in Perugia. There are also a variety of calmer water sports available for you to try your hand at.

On the lake, activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wakeboarding are becoming increasingly popular.

For more experienced wakeboarders looking to put their skills to the test, Perugia also has a custom towing system and ramps.

For those interested in sailing, schools near Lake Trasimeno provide lessons for those who want to learn the sport. Take a trip to one of the many sailing clubs in Castiglione del Lago, Passignano, or Tuoro Sul Trasimeno.

10. Forage for truffles

Nicknamed “black diamonds” for their rarity and high value, truffles are the true culinary treasure of Umbria. There’s no better way to learn about truffle hunting’s history and technique than by actually participating in a hunt.

Hunting for truffles in the countryside is best done with the assistance of an expert truffle hunter and his truffle-hunting dogs .

11. Visit Umbria’s vineyards

Tuscany, which borders Umbria, is known for its excellent wine production, but Umbrian wine is also becoming increasingly popular both domestically and abroad.

For a fraction of what you’d pay in Tuscany, you can buy high-quality wines directly from the vineyards when you visit Umbria. The Caprai Winery in the Montefalco region, for example, is a world-class vineyard with a Sagrantino red wine as its signature product.

Reservations in advance are recommended for a tour and lunch on the terrace. An unforgettable experience is guaranteed thanks to the combination of vineyard views, mouth-watering food, and fine wine.

Check out their website for more details.

12. Go hiking to explore more of the region

We recommend three best hiking trails for you to explore when you visit Umbria, depending on your hiking skill level — from easy to intermediate to expert.

• Belvedere Pennarossa superiore

Belvedere Pennarossa superiore is a scenic viewpoint near the Piazzale George Gordon Byron in Terni.

This trail requires expert hiling skills.

• Vista Piano Grande

The Piano Grande or the Great Plain in the Central Italian Apennines is a large plateau planked by the Sibillini Mountains. While there, you may as well stop by Castelluccio, a village perched on a tall rock in the plateu’s center.

The Vista Piano Grande requires intermediate hiking skills.

• Rocca Albornoziana

Rocca Albornoziana is a fortress atop the Sant’Elia Hill overlooking the city Spoleto. Make sure you are truly fit before you hike this one.

The Rocca Albornoziana trail requires expert hiking skills.

13. See the stunning wildflower fields in Casteluccio di Norcia

Known locally as la fioritura , this annual flowering is a sight to behold across Castelluccio di Norcia’s plateau. Here you will witness a stunning polychromatic visual of wildflowers in bloom across this part of the region.

The blooms you can see are violets, daffodils, shamrocks, clovers, gentianellas, buttercups, and poppies.

This beautiful explosion of nature’s colors takes place each year between late May and early July. This is one of the most beautiful spectacles you will see when you visit Umbria during these months.

14. Visit the village markets

There are numerous weekly markets in Umbria, where you can have an authentic and fun shopping experience. All kinds of delicious food and clothing, as well as shoes and leather goods, can be found in these markets.

If you’re looking for the best Umbrian markets, the best place to start is at your local tourist information office. To get the best selection, go to the market early in the morning.

You can find markets in Assisi and Marsciano every Monday and Tuesday, in Gubbio every Thursday, in Citta di Castello every third Saturday, and in Spoleto every Sunday.

There are also markets in Bastia Umbra every Friday and Orvieto every Saturday, as well as markets in Citta di Castello and Spoleto every third Saturday and second Saturday.

Perugia and Terni, two of Italy’s largest cities, both have permanent covered food markets that are open daily. Take note of these when you visit Umbria.

15. Sample Umbria’s “cucina povera”

Food is always a top must when you’re visiting any regions of Italy . Umbrian cuisine is interesting so partaking in it should be high on your list of things to do in Umbria.

The rustic Umbrian cuisine is often said to be “ cucina povera ” (“peasant cooking”), meaning it requires very few ingredients and simple preparations. However, despite its simplicity, the region’s cuisine is seen as one of Italy’s culinary treasures.

Here are some of the region’s traditional foods you should partake when you visit Umbria:

• Porchetta

Umbria’s porchetta is stuffed pig with its entrails seasoned with lard and garlic, plus lots of salt, pepper, and fennel. The pig is rolled, tied up, then slow-roasted for several hours. This dish is best paired with Umbria’s Montefalco Rosso wine.

• Pasta alla Norcina

This pasta dish uses sausage and cream based sauce, with white wine and tons of Pecorino Romano. Pasta alla Norcina hails from Norcia, a town and province known to produce some of Italy’s best sausages .

This traditional Umbrian dish is made with sautéed fava beans, artichokes, peas, asparagus, Swiss chard, and onion. Poached eggs may also be placed on top of it.

This dish doesn’t require cheese , but you may put some grated Parmesan if you wish!

• Torta al testo

Literally translated as “cake of the tile,” in some areas of the region this dish is called “caccia” or “crescia.”

Torta al testo is a simple sandwich with cheese and Umbrian cured meat stuffing, traditionally served alongside soups and stews.

Check out Umbria group tour deals here .

Looking for a place to stay in Umbria, Italy? Check prices and see pictures here:

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UMBRIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Known as the green heart of Italy, Umbria is a region in Central Italy that begs to be discovered. Keep reading to find out why in our Umbria travel guide. 

Best known for the city of Assisi, the region has much more to offer than simply being the birthplace of Saint Francis. It’s a little more wild than its Tuscan neighbor, and a trip to the area leaves you with a sense of deep, inner relaxation.

Whether you’re a lover of truffles , shimmering lakes, lush mountains, full-bodied red wines, hilltop towns with incredible vistas, sagra (unique food festivals), or simply searching for a lesser traversed part of Italy, you’ll find it all right here in Umbria. 

Where is Umbria

Umbria is located in Central Italy and borders Tuscany, Lazio, and Le Marche. Whilst it’s a landlocked region, there are many beautiful lakes to discover including the best known Lake Trasimeno. It’s south of Florence, Milan, and Venice and north of Rome.

By car, it takes just under two hours to reach the capital, Perugia, from Florence and an hour and a half to reach Orvieto from Rome. 

Map of Umbria

Main cities and towns in umbria.

There are so many beautiful cities and towns to discover when visiting Umbria. Have a listen to our podcast episode with author Michele Damiani on some of her favorite Umbrian towns to discover. Some of the most important or interesting towns to add to your trip include: 

• Orvieto : This beautiful hillside city is famous for its magnificent Duomo. Hop on an underground tour to explore more of Orvieto’s Etruscan roots or simply relax at one of the many restaurants and enjoy the local food and wine.
• Assisi : A UNESCO World Heritage Site , you can’t miss a trip to the Basilica di San Francesco. It’s been on the pilgrim route since the 13th century as the birthplace of St Francis. Assisi is another great place to try Umbrian cuisine. The best meals are to be had on an outdoor terrace as the sun casts a glow over the valley below.
• Perugia : The Medieval capital of Umbria is well-known for its fantastic chocolate, and University for Foreigners of Perugia where many come to study the Italian language. Each year the city’s famous jazz festival is a highlight of the region’s calendar.
• Spello : This town is seriously flower-obsessed.  So much so that they host the Infiorata festival every year where the town is decorated in flower tapestries created by competing teams from the community to celebrate the feast of Corpus Domini. 
• Todi : A gorgeous Medieval hillside town dating back to the 8th century BC, Todi is rich in art and nature and gloriously free from crowds. It’s a great place to shop for artisan-made wares like linens and ceramics.
• Gubbio : One of the most ancient towns in the region, Gubbio is renowned for its Roman ruins, Medieval aqueduct and charming hillside streets. Take the birdcage chairlift to the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo for wonderful views over the town.

Top things to do in Umbria

There is a broad range of activities to suit every kind of traveler in Umbria. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or nature lover, prepare to be wowed with the kinds of experiences you can have in the area. Some of the best activities on a trip to Umbria include: 

Explore hilltop towns

Get lost in the Medieval streets in one of the many hilltop towns in the area like Gubbio, Todi, and Orvieto. Make sure your camera is handy at golden hour to capture the incredible views and magical light.

Go truffle hunting

Did you know Umbria is famed for its black truffles? Book a trip with a truffle hunter for an unforgettable experience watching the hunter and his trusty dog hunt through the forest for delicious truffles in the Umbrian hills. Then enjoy your finds shaved over pasta.

Enjoy tasting local wines

Umbria is renowned for its full-bodied Sagrantino red wines and Montefalco Rosso. Head to one of the many wineries around Montefalco for a tasting, like biodynamic Fongoli or if you prefer white wines, try Grechetto and Trebbiano near Orvieto at family-run Cantine Zanchi . 

If you like your wine tasting with a view, check out this picnic experience at Saio Assisi. 

Visit incredible churches

Take a guided tour and admire the architecture and splendid art of the Duomo (Cathedral) of Orvieto , the Basilica of St Francis , the Duomo of Spoleto, and so many more. 

Go swimming in Lake Trasimeno

Umbria gets very warm in the summertime so there’s nothing better than a refreshing swim in the cooling waters of Lake Trasimeno. There are nine beaches around the lake to swim at however try those near Castiglione del Lago for the best options.

Pull on the boots and go hiking

If you want to make the most of Umbria’s breathtakingly beautiful landscape, it’s a perfect destination for hiking. Try the hike along the Roman Aqueduct between Collepino and Spello or hire a mountain bike! Discover some of the many hiking itineraries you can enjoy on the Umbria Tourism website . 

Go Olive Oil Tasting 

Besides truffles and wine, the Umbria is renowned for their delicious liquid gold, aka Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Visit a frantoio , or olive mill, whilst visiting Umbria to learn more about why oil is so important to Umbrians, how it’s made, and of course to taste the final product. Try Frantoio Guadenzi near Trevi for award-winning oil!

Enjoy Ceramic shopping 

If you love ceramics or artisan-made products, then you absolutely need to include a stop in Deruta. It’s the major center for the production of maiolica (painted tin-glazed earthenware) with a ceramic history dating back to the Middle Ages. Consider a visit to Grazia Maiolica – the oldest ceramic store in town.

What to eat and drink in Umbria

The style of food in Umbria is very rustic, hearty, and all-round delicious! There is an abundance of tasty Umbrian dishes to try with the best local produce including pork sausages and cured meats, legumes, farro, truffles, olive oil, fantastic cured meats, Pecorino cheeses, great bread and interesting wines .

When visiting Umbria, don’t miss trying the following dishes: 

• Stringozzi with truffles : The typical pasta of Umbria is made with no or little eggs and paired with a delicious shaving of black truffles when in season.
• Porchetta : Suckling pig is everywhere in Umbria. Try it in a tasty panino with a glass of Umbrian craft beer
• Cacciatore chicken :  hunter-style chicken with no tomatoes. Think tender braised chicken with onion and garlic, juniper berries, sage, rosemary, wild fennel (seeds if you can’t get fresh), capers, olives, and some white wine and a squeeze of lemon.
• Ciaramicola : Known as “fiancé cake” this sweet treat is shaped into a ring. The dough is made with a special liquor called Alchermes and coated with lemon meringue that signifies purity.  
• Torta al Testo / Crescia : A thick flatbread cooked on a cast iron skillet filled with grilled sausages and cooked spinach or other steamed vegetables and prosciutto.   
• Sagrantino or Montefalco Rosso : The typical wine of Umbria is a full-bodied red, tannin-rich Sagrantino best known for its savory and spicy red berry notes. Otherwise look out for Montefalco Rosso DOC, which is a blend of Sangiovese and Sagrantino.

Where to stay in Umbria

Given Umbria is a lesser-known region, there can be somewhat limited accommodation options in the smaller towns. Whilst the region offers a range of choices including bed and breakfast, luxury hotels, Relais spa hotels, and agriturismi, you won’t necessarily find the full suite of choices available in each town. For that reason, the best bases include Perugia, Orvieto, and Todi.

If your trip includes visiting Assisi, Spello, Gubbio, and the lakes, a home base in Perugia is the perfect choice. There are many great accommodation options to choose from in the city and a variety of comfort and price points. Try the luxurious Sina Brufani , for a 5-star experience in the city centre.

Alternatively, if your trip takes in Tuscany, consider staying in Orvieto as you’ll find easy access to the Val d’Orcia in the Southern part of Tuscany. There are a few hotels in town like 4-star Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini as well as a range of farmhouse and B&B style accommodation.

Or, if you’re looking to be immersed in a smaller hilltop town, consider basing yourself in Todi. There’s the fantastic Tenuta di Canonica , Residenza D’Epoca San Lorenzo Tre and boutique B&Bs like Il Ghiottone who also offer marvelous cooking classes. 

To soak up the beautiful countryside, stay in an agriturismo off the beaten track in the Umbrian hills.

When to go to Umbria

The real question is when not to go to Umbria – it’s fabulous at any time of year! Umbrian people are famed for their love of flowers which makes Spring a beautiful time to visit before the weather gets too warm.

The hilltop towns come to life during the summertime and this is one of the best times of year to experience the sagre or ‘food festivals’ in the region. In particular watch out for the Infiorata in Spello, the Umbria Jazz Festival held in Perugia in July or the medieval festivals in Bevagna. The summer season does get very warm, so consider staying somewhere with pool access to cool off.  

If you want to experience Umbria in June, our small group summer tours of Umbria depart from Orvieto and visit hilltop towns and Medieval cities, meeting wonderful local people and experiencing the best Umbrian food and wine along the way.

Autumn is another beautiful time to visit with the wine harvest in September and the olive harvest in October/November. A very particular sagra to visit is the Black Celery Festival in Trevi which runs for two days in October. Don’t miss the L’oro di Spello in late November where they celebrate with the new olive oil on bruschetta!  

We love the region so much at this time of year and are excited to take you on a cozy fall tour of Umbria to enjoy truffles, chocolate making and more. If you’re interested in the harvest processes and connection to the land, it’s the perfect time to visit.

Christmas time is another marvelous period to consider visiting Umbria. There is the largest Christmas Tree in Italy to see in Gubbio, markets in Perugia and sparkling illuminations in Assisi. Whilst it does get cold, it enjoys a Mediterranean climate so it’s not freezing temperatures to contend with. If you’re hoping for snow, January is your best bet. 

How to get to Umbria

Getting to Umbria is easy to reach by plane, car, or train. For travelers coming from Rome, you can reach Orvieto in just a short hour and ten minute train ride, or the capital Perugia, in a couple of hours by car. If you’re traveling south from Florence, it takes just two hours by car to reach Perugia.

There is one main airport in Umbria giving you the option to take a connecting flight from other key cities in Italy like Rome, Florence, Milan, or Venice. Travelers coming from London or other European cities will find it easiest to fly directly into the Perugia International Airport . 

How to get around Umbria

Generally speaking, a car is the best way to get around Umbria and visit some of the smaller towns, wineries and olive oil mills. Take a look at Auto Europe or Car Rental by booking.com  for car rental options – consider picking up your car from Perugia Airport , or the Orvieto train station. Whichever you choose, make sure to check out our guide to renting a car in Italy for useful tips.

For those not keen on driving, it is possible to use trains and local buses to access some of the main towns including Orvieto, Perugia, and Assisi. The train from Rome to Orvieto is very quick and will see you there in just over an hour. You can check the latest schedules and pricing on the Omio website and app .

Meanwhile, regional trains run from Perugia to Orvieto with the quickest taking just under two hours. The train ride from Perugia to Assisi is a very quick 20 minutes, however, you’ll need to take a local bus or taxi to reach the city center as it’s 5kms away. Check out this article for more information on traveling by train in Italy.

Let’s go to Umbria!

Inspired to visit Umbria? Learn more about the region with our podcast episodes Uncovering Umbrian Towns and Villages , Reasons we love Umbria , and Amazing Assisi and on the amazing food and produce in Wine and Wandering in Umbria ,   Dishes of Umbria and Umbrian food experiences .

Want to discover Umbria with us? For a deeper local connection, why not join one of our Umbria small group tours .

MORE TIME TO TRAVEL

Explore new places and savor new tastes

Best Places to Visit in Umbria: A Guide for First-Timers

Umbria is one of the smallest regions in Italy but one that offers an abundance of things to see and do—whatever one’s interests. It has no large cities and its overall population is less than one million people.

The region hasn’t achieved the same celebrity and allure in pop culture (film, novels, lifestyle magazines) as its glamorous neighbor to the west, Tuscany.

But what. might be seen as Umbria’s “shortfalls” prove to be advantages to visitors interested in experiencing Italian art, history, culture, and cuisine.

With fewer tourists, the cities in Umbria have remained more authentic and less pretentious. With shorter distances and less traffic, it’s an easier region to navigate between cities by car. Costs of both accommodations and restaurants tend to be more affordable than those in Tuscany.

And Umbria is blessed with extraordinary natural beauty. Dominated with freshwater lakes, rolling valleys, and picturesque forests whose colors change with the seasons, the region has been dubbed Italy’s “green heart.”

Active travelers will enjoy its opportunities for hiking, trekking, mountain biking, free climbing, caving, paragliding, and canyoning.

The culinary riches of Umbria—such as truffles, local prosciutto ( Prosciutto di Norcia IGP), sausages, handmade pasta, extra virgin olive oils, mushrooms, game, and cow and sheep milk cheeses—will dazzle food enthusiasts.

The region is dotted, too, with wine estates and vineyards that offer tastings of local varietals. A hearty meal might be paired with Umbria’s most popular red wine, Sagrantino di Montefalco.

An insider glimpse into the best places to visit in Umbria

Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli are co-founders of Fuoritinerario: Discover Your Italy , a boutique tour company that designs personalized itineraries so visitors can experience authentic Italy.

Although their tours cover all of Italy, the company is based in Perugia, which is both a city and province in Umbria.

The couple recommended five must-see destinations for first-timers, just a sample of what this under-the-radar region has to offer. Here are their suggestions of the best places to visit in Umbria: 

Perugia, the largest city in Umbria, has a fascinating old town perched atop a high cliff with steep slopes.

An escalator allows visitors to reach the top that offers breathtaking views of the facades of medieval palaces and churches as well as the Umbrian hills, depicted by Renaissance painters such as Perugino, Pinturicchio, and Raphael.

The city is home to several significant museums, including the National Gallery of Umbria, with its collection of Renaissance paintings, and the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria, which holds artifacts from Etruscan, Umbrian, and Roman civilizations.

A lively city, Perugia hosts a variety of cultural events dedicated to music, literature, journalism, and food and wine throughout the year.

Among the most popular are the Umbria Jazz Festival and the Eurochocolate Festival, inspired by the city’s historic Perugina chocolate factory.

One of the most ancient settlements in central Italy, Orvieto is built at the top of a towering cliff made of volcanic stone, called tufo .

Etruscans chose this spot because of its strategic defensive position. When forced to escape Rome during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Popes arrived here for the same reason.

The city has a unique underground city with thousands of caves and tunnels, parts of which can still be visited.

The Orvieto Cathedral—one of the most visually stunning in all of Italy—has a rose window and intricate mosaic façade with Signorelli frescoes inside.

Visitors strolling the maze of narrow streets will be charmed by handicraft workshops, art galleries, food markets , wine bars and family-owned restaurants offering local cuisine and Orvieto Classico, the region’s renowned white wine.

Assisi, the most visited destination in Umbria, is the legendary birthplace of St. Francis.

Here, early communities of Franciscan Friars began to spread their message of poverty, charity, and brotherhood. The Basilica that houses his tomb is visited both by pilgrims and art lovers from around the world who come to see its decorations created by some of the most important painters of that time (including Cimabue, Giotto, Lorenzetti, and Martini). 

In Spoleto, visitors can enjoy the slow pace of local life in an enchanting small town that was once surrounded by ancient city walls.

Dominating the city center is La Rocca Albornoziana, an imposing 14th-century fortress built at the top of the hill. The Towers Bridge is another impressive medieval construction built to carry water into the city through an aqueduct.

Spoleto is famous for a summer cultural festival, named “Festival of 2 Worlds” or simply “Spoleto Festival,” founded in 1958, that offers an inspiring mix of three weeks of classical music, opera, theatre, and ballet as well as art exhibitions.

Set in a secluded corner of northern Umbria bordering the Marche region, Gubbio has maintained its charm over many centuries.

The almost vertical expansion of the old town along the steep slope of Mount Ingino is an example of the skillful ability of builders of the Middle Ages who developed the city within its defensive walls.

Gubbio still preserves one of the most authentic religious events, the “Corsa dei Ceri,” a race dividing participants into three groups, each one supporting one of the three patron saints of the city: St. Ubaldo, St. Giorgio, and St. Antonio. As they run, the groups carry towering pedestals with statues of one of the saints on top. Locals are truly involved in the event, which more than a reenactment, is an authentic expression of popular devotion.

For more than 13 seasons, the popular Italian TV series, Don Matteo , starring Terence Hill was filmed in Gubbio and other locales in Umbria.

Take a road trip in Umbria

If you take a road trip to Umbria, you’ll discover that some of the best places to visit in Umbria are also all the small villages and towns in between these cities 

For additional information on the best places to visit in Umbria:

• Umbria Tourism
• Discover Italy
• Fuoritinerario: Discover Your Italy

Save to Pinterest!!

Also on More Time To Travel:

Tasting Umbria: The delectable foods of a less-traveled region

Madrevite: Umbrian Wines Link the Past and Present

TV Biopic Brings Luisa Spagnoli Story To Life

Market Visit: Piazza del Popolo Market in Orvieto, Italy

Note: This is a revised and updated version. of a story that I previously wrote for Forbes.com .

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The Perfect One Week In Umbria Itinerary

Looking to plan a trip to Umbria?

This one week in Umbria itinerary is the perfect way to experience the “green heart” of Italy’s landlocked region, which remains largely untouched and dotted with medieval towns and fortifications.

Umbria’s stunning landscapes boast lush green farmlands, fields of sunflowers, and forested mountains, much like those depicted in Renaissance-era frescoes by artists like Giotto.

This makes Umbria an ideal destination for a road trip that allows you to fully appreciate the region’s natural beauty.

Ancient Umbria looks a lot like Tuscany did before it became, understandably, overcrowded with tourists.

Umbria is becoming more well know. But It’s a still somewhat off the beaten path region of Italy filled with idyllic towns you’ll have all to yourself, or mostly to yourself. Except in summer.

To help you have the best experience, I’ve put together a step-by-step one week in Umbria itinerary.

Umbria is not a large area. It’s just over 3,000 square miles, smaller than Connecticut. But seeing all the highlights requires some careful planning.

Overview Of One Week In Umbria Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see on my recommended 7 days in Umbria itinerary.

• Day 1 : Perugia
• Day 2 : Gubbio
• Day 3 : Assisi + Spello
• Day 4 : Bevagna + Montefalco, and/or Deruta
• Day 5 : Todi + Spoleto
• Day 6 : Orvieto
• Day 7 : Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio, and/or Narni

This Umbria itinerary assumes you have 7 full days in the region.

Plan to arrive at your accommodations the evening before, so you can get settled be ready to go the next morning.

This itinerary goes from northern to southern Umbria. But you can rearrange the order of days based on where you’re staying.

As with all of my suggested itineraries, I recommend that you use this one week in Umbria itinerary as a guide. You can tailor it to suit your individual interests, needs, and pace of travel. 

You may want to take a day off mid-trip just to relax. Or extend this one week in Umbria itinerary into a 10 day or two week itinerary.

Tips & Logistics For Spending One Week In Umbria

But, first, let’s get into some tips for visiting Umbria.

1. How To Get To Umbria

The best way to reach Umbria is by car. You will really need to rent a car to get around Umbria properly and explore all its adorable towns. Here are my tips for renting and driving a car in Europe .

If you fly into Rome Fiumicino Airport, it’s just over a 2 hour drive to Perugia, the capital of Umbria. Or you can book a private transfer from Rome to Perugia.

You can also take the high speed train from Rome to Perugia (3 hours) and pick up your car in Perugia. Alternatively, you can take the train from Rome to Orvieto and start in southern Umbria.

If you’re coming from Florence, the drive takes 2:20.

Using public transportation in Umbria can be tough and tricky. Many of the hill towns don’t have train stations.

Or you may have to switch trains to get to your destinations and then have a hike into town. Or you may need to use train + bus to get there.

All that eats into valuable sightseeing time. So I highly recommend driving.

2. Driving In Umbria

I thought driving in Umbria was fairly easy, though the roads in Umbria aren’t as well paved or maintained as in Tuscany. With Umbria’s mountains, they can also be windy.

Our GPS worked well and we only took a few wrong turns, which you would expect in Europe.

It can be difficult to drive in Umbria at night, as the roads aren’t well lit. But we drove at night a few times and managed fine.

Try to get a compact car. The roads are narrow and parking places can be tight to get into.

There are some toll roads, called the  autostrade , though most roads aren’t.

You may want to get a telepass from your rental car agency to help you speed through the tolls. Otherwise, when entering the toll area to pick up your ticket, head to the lane marked “biglietto.”

You then pay when you exit the toll road. There are separate lanes for paying with cash and credit cards.

The booths won’t be manned. There’s a different slot for entering your ticket and for your cash or credit card.

If the Italians are driving faster than you, just pull over and let them pass. There are quite a few speed cams, and you don’t want to get a ticket.

3. Where To Stay In Umbria: What Base?

The best option is to rent a secluded villa in the countryside for one week in Umbria and use that as your base.

You’ll have to do some driving to get to your day trip destinations. But I think it’s worth it to come home every night to your own place.

You don’t have to to move around and pack and unpack. Plus, you won’t have to eat out every meal.

If you want to rent a villa, I would recommend looking for something in central Umbria. You may want to stay near Bevagna, Montefalco, Spello, or Assisi. These are all fairly centrally located for sightseeing.

Another option is to pick a couple different hotels or house rentals to use as your base. You could split your time between northern Umbria and southern Umbria.

In northern Umbria, you could pick something north of Perugia. In southern Umbria, you could stay near Todi or Spoleto.

On my recent visit, I stayed near Umbertide (north of Perugia) for a week, mostly because I was enamored with this lovely villa . I had no problem day tripping to where I wanted to go, though visiting southern Umbria was a long day out.

Northern Umbria also has the advantage of allowing you to take a day trip to Tuscany’s gorgeous Val d’Orcia region, which is just across the border.

For example, you could easily visit both Montepulciano and Pienza , which I did one day.

READ : One Week In Tuscany Itinerary

Make sure you’re not too far afield from a town, so that you can go to the town’s conad (grocery store). In the hill towns, the conads are usually in the lower and more modern part of the town.

You can typically pick up produce, cured meats, cheeses, and pasta in the historic centers.

If you’re more of city person, you could opt to stay at hotels in Perugia ( Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel or Castello di Monterone ) and/or Orvieto ( Palazzo Piccolomini or La Badia di Orvieto ).

Some other lovely hotels in Umbria that you might want to consider are:

• Palazzo Bontadosi Hotel & Spa (Montefalco)
• Borgo della Marmotta (near Spoleto)
• Castelo del Reschio (near Umbertide)
• Nun Assisi Relais & Spa (Assisi)
• Borgo dei Conti Resort Relais & Chateaux (near Perugia)
• Valle di Assisi Hot el & Spa (near Assisi)

4. What To Eat In Umbria

Umbria is one of Italy’s best culinary secrets, specializing in farm to table cuisine. The region is not known for elegant dining.

Instead, it’s simple, honest, and tasty. You’ll find some amazing traditional trattorias.

You can sample gold-green olive oil, rich red wines, roasted pork, diverse grains, and unmatched salumi. Many dishes involve precious ingredients like black truffles from Norcia, which are lavishly used in season.

The classic Umbrian dish is porchetta, which is a juicy roast of pork tightly rolled around garlic and herbs and cooked on a spit.

In Umbria, fresh pasta is made of nothing more than flour and water. Even without the eggs, the past is tender and springy. The different types include ciriole , strangozzi , umbrici , and picchiettini .

The best wines in the region are the Montefalco Sagrantino and the Forgiano Rosso Reserve.

5. When To Visit Umbria

July and August are the busiest months in Umbria. I wouldn’t go then. It’s also ungodly hot in the summer with temperatures over 100 degrees.

Try to visit in the shoulder season — April, May, Or October. I was just there in May and it was already in the 80s by mid day. I also didn’t have a drop of rain.

One Week In Umbria Itinerary

Now, with that preamble, let’s get down to business.

Here’s how I suggest spending one perfect week in Umbria. I also give you tips on where to eat and where to stay (other than the hotels mentioned above).

Day 1: Perugia

Begin your Umbria vacation in the historic town of Perugia, the capital of the region and the only city in Umbria.

Perugia has a rich history dating back to the Etruscan era and is often overlooked as a tourist destination. Despite this, it is one of Italy’s most vibrant and fascinating cities.

To access the ancient underground city of Perugia, take the modern-day escalators from Piazza Partigiani to Piazza Italia. Perugia sits atop a steep hill, and its streets resemble long stairways.

The medieval Baglioni district, which is car-free, is completely underground and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Perugia.

Piazza IV Novembre is Perugia’s lively main square, home to Perugia Cathedral and the Palazzo del Priori. The 13th century fountain is a masterpiece with carvings described as “one of the most powerful medieval representations of human life.”

For a nice view of the square, hang out on the steep steps of Perugia Cathedral. The interior of the church isn’t all that interesting. But the complex houses a museum with masterpieces by Luca Signorelli and Arnolfo di Cambio.

The Palazzo del Priori is a magnificent building between the Piazza Novembre IV and Via Vannucci, Perugia’s main drag. It houses the Town Hall and the National Gallery of Umbria (on the third floor).

You can admire late 13th century frescoes in the notaries’ chamber of the palace. The chapel, the Capella dei Priori , was frescoed by Perugino, Perugia’s native son. He was the teacher of Raphael , who would later work in the Vatican Museums .

The National Gallery is the best museum in Umbria. It may be the least known of Italy’s best museums .

The museum houses works from the 13th to 19th centuries. You’ll find works by such luminaries such as Duccio, Pisano, Arnolfo di Cambio, Perugino, and Pinturicchio.

After you get your art fix, take a stroll down Corso Vannucci. It’s Perugia’s busiest and most elegant street.

Like so many Italian destinations, Perugia is home to a handful of beautiful churches besides the cathedral that are worth a visit.

South of the centro storico is the atmospheric 10th century Basilica of San Pietro complex. The entrance courtyard is dominated by a Gothic-Renaissance campanile.

Inside, you’ll find a 16th century coffered ceiling, a richly carved wooden choir, 5 paintings by Perugino, and works by Guido Reni.

If you’re a history buff, you may want to visit Perugia’s Archaeological Museum. This delightful little museum is located in the Piazza Giordano Bruno in the old convent of San Domenico.

The entrance is to the left of the church. The museum has two sections, the Etruscan-Roman section and another dedicated to prehistorical artifacts.

One notable piece is the bronze statue of the Roman general Germanicus from the 1st century.

If you want a climb, head to the Sciri Tower. It’s the only medieval tower in Perugia and you’ll have fine views from the top.

For restaurants in Perugia, check out Osteria a Priori or, for a splurge, the Michelin-starred restaurant Casa Vissani .

While you’re in Perugia, you can take a guided walking tour to learn about Perugia’s history and attractions. You can also book a guided food tour or take a market tour and cooking class .

Perugia is known for its beloved chocolates and pastries. Those with a sweet tooth can tour the  Perugina Chocolate Factory just outside the city.

It produces the famous silver wrapped chocolate and hazelnut candy known as “Baci” (which means kisses in Italian).

Day 2: Gubbio

Gubbio is a gorgeous medieval town with a spectacular setting in northeast Umbria. It’s a must visit destination with one week in Umbria.

The stony town is practically carved into the side of Mount Ingino. I just loved it!

Gubbio seems trapped in the Middle Ages, with block after block of pinky-beige Romanesque and Gothic architecture.  

The town is famous for its Roman ruins, beautiful Piazza Grande, Palace of Consuls, and the thrill-inducing funicular ride up to the Basilica of Saint Ubaldo.

The Roman Theater was built in the middle of 1st century B.C. The theater is the second largest surviving Roman theater in the world. It’s still used today as a concert or performance venue, seating almost 6,000 people.

You can visit the ruins for 3 euros. You’ll get a token to put in the turnstile for entry. There are also public restrooms around the corner from the ticket office.

Piazza Grande is Gubbio’s beautiful showpiece square. This “suspended square” was the result of an ambitious 14th century urban development plan.

It was conceived as a monumental churchyard, connecting the Palazzo dei Consoli with the Palazzo del Podesta.

On the south side of the piazza, you have a panoramic views over the lower town and valley beyond. On the other side, you’re ushered in to the Gubbio’s charming cobbled streets.

You should definitely visit the 14th century Palace of the Consuls . It’s a striking and well preserved medieval civic building designed by Angelo da Orvieto. 

In the Middle Ages, the palace was the seat of the courts and the consuls who governed the city. Today, the palace houses the town’s Civic Museum.

The most significant pieces in the collection are the 2nd century B.C. bronze Iguvine tablets. They’re effectively the Rosetta Stone of Umbria’s ancient language.

Don’t forget to step out on the viewing terrace for lovely panoramic views. The museum is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. The ticket price is 7 euros.

While in Gubbio, don’t miss the chance to explore the town’s impressive collection of churches, including Gubbio Cathedral, the Basilica of St. Francis, and the Church of St. John the Baptist.

For a breathtaking view of the town and surrounding countryside, take a ride on the funicular up to the top of Mount Ingino. However, be aware that the iron bird cage that carries you up the hill can be intimidating for those with a fear of heights.

Once at the top, you can visit the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo, dedicated to the town’s former bishop and patron saint. Take your time to enjoy the stunning panoramic views before making your way back down to town.

To get the full scoop on Gubbio’s must see sites, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

If you want to stay in Gubbio, a excellent option is the  Park Hotel ai Cappuccino . It’s a small luxury hotel that is just beyond the city walls. Gubbio’s  Hotel Relais Ducale   is another option, set inside the ducal palace. 

Day 3: Assisi + Spello

On day 3 of your 7 days in Umbria, you’ll visit Assisi and Spello. The towns are only 7 miles apart. So, if you start early, you should be able to see both easily.

The pilgrimage town of Assisi is probably the best known town in Umbria. It’s a beautiful UNESCO-listed town perched on Mount Subasio. The  centro storico  is off limits to vehicles except for residents.

The best parking places are at the Port Nuova or Matteotti lots. You’ll see signs as you approach the city.

Assisi is home to Roman ruins, frescoed churches, sun-bleached piazzas, and a craggy lookout fortress. Assisi has a perfectly preserved medieval quarter where bougainvillea vines tumble over limestone.

Assisi is famous as the birthplace and home of Saint Francis, a medieval monk and mystic. He is Italy’s most penitent saint, a man who dedicated his life to poverty, humility, simplicity, and anti-materialism.

Upon Francis’ death, a great basilica was built in his honor. It’s the top attraction in Assisi.

Visiting the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is a must do and is absolutely free. But you have to have your arms and knees covered. They will, however, give you a disposable cloth to cover yourself if you’re in shorts.

You can visit the crypt (where St. Francis is buried), the lower basilica, and the upper basilica.

The church is spectacularly covered in vibrant frescos by some of the most famous artists of the early Renaissance — Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, Cimabue, Pietro Cavallini, and (possibly) Giotto.

Here’s my complete  guide to the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi . Aside from the beautiful basilica, Assisi has loads of other attractions.

Piazza del Commune is Assisi’s main square. It’s a bustling hive of activity, filled with cozy restaurants, panini shacks, ceramic shops, and the smell of roasted chestnuts. You’ll also find huge caches of Franciscan knick-knacks, if you need a souvenir.

The piazza is home to the Temple of Minerva, ruins of the Roman Forum, and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and its tower.

The temple was once the centerpiece of Assisi. It dates from the 1st century B.C. and dominated Assisi’s Roman Forum.

It was likely dedicated to Caster and Pollux. The temple has six massive Corinthian columns at the front that rest directly on the steps.

The ruins of Assisi’s Roman Forum are under the Piazza del Commune. The forum was once the hub of the social, economic and political life of ancient  Asisium.  

The central part of the forum contains the remains of a tribunal and podium, where speeches were given.

You’ll also find a monumental cistern, a small temple dedicated to Castor and Pollux, a monumental fountain, the remains of a few shops, and some ancient statues.

Assisi’s Duomo is the Cathedral of San Rufino. It’s where St. Francis and St. Clare, his female cohort in spreading the Franciscan word, were baptized. 

Inside, you can visit the crypt where St. Francis once prayed. And you should definitely climb the bell tower for great views.

Then, head over to the Basilica of St. Clare. The church is made of pretty pink and ivory marble.

Inside, the church is dark and decorated with Giotto-esque type frescos. You can also visit Clare’s tomb.

No visit to Assisi would be complete with out a hike up to Rocca Maggiore. It’s a craggy castle begun by Charlemagne in the 13th century. There are plenty of places to get lost, tunnels, and a claustrophobic turret to climb.

To get there, you’ll have a steep hike. But it’s worth it for the majestic views of Assisi, its churches, and the Spoleto valley.

The fortress closes at 4:00 pm, so keep that in mind when planning your Assisi day trip.

Just outside the centro storico of Assisi is another St. Francis site — the Porziuncola.

It’s a tiny stone chapel on display inside the Church of St. Mary in Assisi. It’s the place where St. Francis launched his religion.

If you want to grab lunch in Assisi, Il Vicoletto  is a cozy spot located down a tiny lane with great food.  Locanda del Podesta  is a quaint restaurant with old world charm near the Basilica of St. Francis.

When I visited Assisi, I booked this  2.5 hour private Assisi tour , which was fantastic. The guide was a fount of knowledge about Assisi and its history.

You can also book a  3 hour small group walking tour .

Spello is about 15 minutes from Assisi.

It’s a stunning village with pink limestone buildings, cobbled streets, and flowers galore. It holds the official designation of one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.

You enter the town through the Roman Porta Consolare. The town seduces with winding medieval streets, crumbly old churches, and Roman ruins. Every street in Spello is a postcard perfect feast for the senses.

You’ll be dazzled by rose-colored stone walls, bright terracotta roof tiles, stone pathways, and weathered wooden doors.

The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is the top attraction in Spello. It houses a Madonna and Child  and a  Pietà  by Perugino.

You can also visit the spectacular Baglioni Chapel. It closes at 4:00 pm, so make sure you arrive in Spello before then and make it your first stop.

The chapel is famous for its 16th century Renaissance frescos by Pinturicchio, telling stories of the life of Mary and Jesus. The chapel also has a pavement of Deruta ceramics.

You should also visit the Villa of Mosaics. Discovered by chance in 2005, it’s one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the last 20 years.

After excavation, the museum opened 2018. There’s a series of rooms named after their mosaic decoration.

You can book a guided walking tour in Spello to learn about the town’s Roman mosaics and Renaissance masterpieces.

If you want to stay in Spello for dinner, check out La Cantina di Spello or Il Pinturicchio . If you want to overnight in Spello, check out La Bastiglia .

Day 4: Bevagna + Montefalco

On day 4 of your one week in Umbria itinerary, visit the towns of Bevagna and Montefalco.

The towns are only 10 minutes apart. These off the beaten path towns will give you a taste of authentic Umbria.

Bevagna is a beautiful medieval village that still bears signs of its Roman origins. In the 1st century, it was a Roman municipality on the Via Flamina.

A Roman arch, the Porta Foligno, beckons you into Bevagna’s cobbled streets . The quaint medieval town has Romanesque churches, Roman mosaics, a cinema ready piazza, and excellent trattorias.

Piazza Silvestri is the town’s central medieval square. It’s home to the 12th century Palazzo dei Consoli, the Collegiate Church of S. Michael, and the 19th century Teatro Torti.

The most important Roman landmarks in Bevagna are the Roman Theater and the Roman Temple. The temple is where you’ll find black and white mosaics dating from the 2nd century mosaics depicting sea creatures.

A good place to eat in Bevagna is La Bottega di Assù . You can also book an olive oil tasting tour , to try out Umbria’s “green” olive oil. Or, take a combination biking and food tour .

Just 5 minutes from Bevagna is the adorable town of Torre del Colle. You could also pop in there for lunch at Serpillo on your way to Montefalco.

After a satisfying lunch, make your way to Montefalco. This charming village, perched atop a mountain in the Clitumnus Valley, is often called the “Balcony of Umbria” for its stunning vistas.

From within the walls of this 14th-century town, you can gaze out for miles, taking in views of Perugia to the north and Spoleto to the south. For the best view, head up the arduous climb to the Torre Communale. Trust me, the effort will be worth it.

Once you’re back on solid ground, take a stroll through Piazza del Communale, the village’s central square.

Surrounded by magnificent palaces dating back to the Middle Ages, such as Palazzo Langeli and Palazzo Comunale, the piazza is also dotted with coffee shops and wine bars.

Seven streets radiate out from here, so take your pick and explore to your heart’s content.

No visit to Montefalco would be complete without stopping at St. Augustine’s Church. This massive Gothic structure boasts faded frescoes from the 14th to 16th centuries and is a true treasure.

Montefalco also has a rather good museum for its diminutive size, the Museo di San Francesco. It’s housed inside a former 14th century Franciscan church.

You’ll find important work by Benozzo Gozzoli and Perugino. For example, Gozzoli painted scenes from the life of St. Francis and St. Jerome.

You may want to book a guided walking tour of Montefalco’s top medieval attractions.

If you want to grab dinner in Montefalco, L’Alchimista is a good restaurant on Montefalco’s main square. Ristorante Il Coccorone also offers up traditional Umbrian cuisine in an elegant setting.  

Be sure to sample a glass of the town’s wine, Sagrantino. You can also book a wine tasting tour at a winery .

If you love ceramics, you might consider adding in a side trip to Deruta. It’s about a half hour drive from Montefalco.

Since the 14th century, Deruta has been a major ceramic center with astonishing output.

Deruta pottery dates from 1290. The pieces are characterized by a unique mother-of-pearl metallic luster.

They are decorated with floral or grotesque patterns. At first, the pottery was green and brown. But, over time, the dominant colors became yellow, orange, and blue. (Though I just purchased pasta bowls in a red peacock style.)

Most of the ceramic shops are on Via Tibernia, the main Street in the lower town. You can also visit the Museo Regionale della Ceramica .

It’s housed in the former monastery of the Church of San Francesco. Over 6,000 pieces are on display.

Day 5: Todi + Spoleto

On day 5 of your one week in Umbria, you’ll visit the enchanting towns of Todi and Spoleto. The towns are about 45 minutes apart.

Perched on a shelf-like hill, Todi is a beautiful town in Umbria that was once overlooked. But now it’s become quite fashionable, especially for a villa getaway.

Todi is a collage of stone houses, palazzi, and steep cobbled streets pasted onto a hillside. Much of the town dates from the Middle Ages, but there are also a few Renaissance palazzi.

Few towns are as picturesque as this warren of narrow medieval streets twisting and plunging off at every angle. 

Every corner is spectacular, often filled with bright red geraniums. Streets end with iron railings, offering up panoramic vistas across the valley. 

The beautifully austere Piazza del Popolo is Todi’s main attractions and one of Umbria’s prettiest squares. It’s flanked by palazzi, a duomo, and an art museum. It’s a place to sit outside with an espresso or ice cream.

The 13th century Duomo sits at the top of a broad staircase, dominating the town’s heart.

Another church to visit is the massive Franciscan shrine of San Fortunato. Inside, you’ll find rare frescoes by Masolino. You can also climb the 14th century bell tower for stunning views.

Just outside the town is the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, built between 1508-1609.

Some historians attribute it to Roman architect Donatao Bramante and the structure does indeed have his classicizing style. The church is also a good place to park when you’re visiting Todi.

If you visit Todi, you may want to book a  2 hour walking tour or take a wine tasting class .

Then, drive over to beautiful Spoleto . It’s a gorgeous and endlessly intriguing Umbrian hill town. Presided over by a formidable medieval fortress and backed by the broad-shouldered Apennines, Spoleto is visually stunning.

The Etruscans and Romans each left their tangible ruins — a Roman amphitheater, a 4th century house, a simple 6th century Roman church.

Spoleto’s pale stone Duomo is photogenically set on a graceful hillside piazza. The exterior is a mix of Romanesque and Renaissance styles.

The interior received a 17th century Baroque facelift. You’ll see a beautiful Cosmati marble floor and frescoes by Pinturicchio and Fra Lippo Lippi.

The other attention grabber in Spoleto is the Ponte delle Torri. It’s a 10 arch bridge that spectacularly spans a steeply wooded gorge.

Spoleto is famous for its F estival dei Due Mondi , Spoleto Festival. It’s one of Europe’s most beloved carnivals with contemporary music, art, dance, and theater. 

There are stunning online photos of some 15,000 or so attendees crammed into the piazza in front of the Duomo. But this is a spectacle I have seen only on postcards.

For dinner in Spoleto, head to Ristorante Il Tempio Del Gusto . The local pasta is a wide-cut pasta called strangozzi .

If you want to overnight in Spoleto, check out Palazzo Leti Residenza d’Epoca or Palazzo Sant’Angelo Boutique B&B .

Day 6: Orvieto

Your next destination on this one week in Umbria itinerary is the stunning town of Orvieto. Perched on a volcanic tufa plateau, Orvieto boasts an impressive architectural and historical heritage that’s well-preserved.

This “island in the sky” city will enchant you with its gorgeous Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings in honey-colored hues.

As you wander through the ancient streets, you’ll be greeted by colorful flowers and charming ceramic shops.

The star of the show in Orvieto is undoubtedly the grand cathedral, one of the most breathtaking churches in the world. You’ll also find countless noble palaces, monumental churches, and museums with collections of treasures.

Here’s my guide to spending one day in Orvieto , which covers all the town’s top attractions actions. It also give you tips on where to stay and where to eat in Orvieto.

I started my visit to Orvieto with a  2.5 hour guided private walking tour . My guide was Emma and she was excellent, making the cathedral and its beautiful art works come to life. 

You can also book a  3 hour small group walking tou r  that includes the cathedral, the old town, and Orvieto’s underground.

If you haven’t booked a tour, the first thing to do in Orvieto is make a beeline to the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral . The church has one of Italy’s most beautiful facades.

It’s a glittering confection of spires, spikes, golden mosaics, statuary, stained glass, and black and white striped marble. 

Inside, there’s a chapel containing a holy relic and another famous one covered in stunning early Renaissance frescos painted by Luca Signorelli.

The frescos are considered Signorelli’s masterpiece, his greatest and most complex work. With brilliant colors and sweeping designs, they’re one of the most ambitious and inventive depictions of the apocalypse and last judgment in Italian Renaissance art.

When you’re done admiring the cathedral, pop into the cathedral museum, the Museo del’Opera del Duomo. It’s included in your Duomo ticket.

It holds important pieces of painting and sculpture from the Duomo dating from the 13th to 17th century. There are works by Simone Martini, Andrea Pisano, and Signorelli.

Day 7: Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio, And/Or Narni

You have several options for the last day of your one week in Umbria.

You could continue sightseeing in Orvieto with an afternoon jaunt to Civita di Bargnoregio. Or, combine Orvieto or Civita with the charming hidden gem of Narni.

Orvieto is a town that’s usually visited on a day trip. But you may enjoy it more if you take your time and spread your visit over 2 days.

On your next morning, explore Orvieto’s fascinating underground. You can start with a visit to Saint Patrick’s Well. The seemingly bottomless well is a masterpiece of engineering. It’s 175 feet deep and 45 feet wide. 

The well was built by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger for Pope Clement VII. The pope often sought refuge in a fortified Orvieto after the Sack of Rome.

If you want to hike up and down, the round trip is 497 steps (some are uneven).

The  Pozzo della Cava  is one of the town’s most important archaeological sites centered around a deep well. The  Pozzo  itself is 118 feet deep. 

The complex adjacent to the well includes dozens of caves, rooms, Etruscan tombs, pottery, shafts, etc.

You may want to book a  guided walking tour  to have a guide “read” the grotto-like rooms for you. 

The necropolis, the Crocifisso del Tufo, is a small “city of the dead” located outside the city walls. It dates from the 8th to 3rd century B.C.

Civita di Bagnoregio

After visiting Orvieto, take a short 30 minute drive to the charming village of Civita di Bagnoregio.

Of all the picturesque hill towns in Italy, Civita di Bagnoregio is perhaps the most surreal and dreamlike.

This tiny village appears to be suspended in midair, like an architectural masterpiece on a tufa hilltop in a vast canyon.

To reach the village, you must cross a dramatic cantilevered bridge that rises steeply to meet the village walls. The bridge adds to the village’s mystique and is a breathtaking sight in itself.

Once inside the village, the charms of Civita are subtle. There’s nothing special to do but wander around in this step-back-in-time rural village. It’s just romantic and unadulterated old world Italy. 

Stroll aimlessly down charming lanes, where every nearly every inch of space is festooned with flowers.

Have a seat on the steps of San Donato Church. Admire the flowerpots and warm stone walls that glow in the sunshine.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Civita di Bagnoregio .

If you’d like a guided tour of the town’s sites and history, you can check out this  1.5 walking tour .

If you decide to visit Narni, the drive down south to the town is stunning.

Narni is a tiny hamlet, tucked away in a lush, almost wild, landscape. It was built on a rocky spur overlooking the Nera Gorge.

The town’s medieval heritage is entirely intact. You can wander through the charming squares and narrow streets and climb the stone steps.

Narni Fortress, the Rocca , dominates the whole town. It was built by Cardinal Albornoz as a symbol of papal power.

The central square is Piazza Garibaldi. This is where you’ll find the Narni’s 11th century Duomo. It has a simple facade with an elegant arched portico.

The Piazza dei Priori is home to both the Palazzo dei Priori and the Palazzo del Podesta (the Town Hall).

Like Orvieto, Narni has a network of underground sites, Narni Sotterranea . It was only discovered in 1979.

You can see a 12th century chapel smothered in frescos, secret tunnels, an Inquisition torture room, and a prison cell covered in graffiti.

If you’d like to book a walking tour, this 2 hour guided tour covers Nani’s history and attractions.

If you need to grab a meal in Narni, try Rustico or Osteria Monte del Grano .

And that’s a wrap. I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week in Umbria itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• Hidden gems in Rome
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Venice
• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• 1 day itinerary for Siena
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 10 day itinerary for Italy’s classic cites
• 11 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 30 beautiful towns in Italy

If you need a 1 week in Umbria itinerary, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Must-see attractions in Umbria

Basilica di San Francesco

Visible for miles around, the Basilica di San Francesco is the crowning glory of Assisi's Unesco-listed historic centre. The 13th-century complex is…

Nothing can prepare you for the visual feast that is Orvieto's soul-stirring Gothic cathedral. Dating from 1290, it sports a black-and-white banded…

Funivia Colle Eletto

Although the Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo, perched high on Monte Ingino, is a perfectly lovely church, the real adventure is getting there on the funivia. The…

Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria

Umbria's foremost art gallery is housed in Palazzo dei Priori on Perugia's main strip. Its collection, chronologically displayed over 40 rooms, is one of…

Palazzo dei Priori

Flanking Corso Vannucci, this Gothic palace, constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries, is architecturally striking with its tripartite windows,…

Piazza del Popolo

Just try to walk through Piazza del Popolo without trying to photograph it from every angle. The rectangular piazza is one of Umbria's finest medieval…

Piazza IV Novembre

In Perugia all roads seem to lead to Piazza IV Novembre. This historic square, flanked by Palazzo dei Priori and the Cattedrale, has been at the heart of…

Piazza Grande

This panoramic piazza, the result of an ambitious 14th-century urban development plan, is medieval Gubbio's showpiece square. Commanding huge valley views…

Narni Sotterranea

Narni’s main drawcard is this extraordinary subterranean underworld. Discovered by a group of young speleologists in 1977, and originally accessed through…

A flight of steps sweeps down to Spoleto's pale-stone cathedral, photogenically set on a graceful hillside piazza. Originally constructed to a Romanesque…

Nobile Collegio del Cambio

Seat of Perugia's Moneychanger's Guild between 1452 and 1457, the extravagantly adorned Nobile Collegio del Cambio has three rooms: the Sala dei Legisti …

Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo

Also known as the Chiesa or Tempio di Sant'Angelo, this 5th-century Romanesque church is one of the oldest in Italy (and the most appealing in Perugia)…

Ponte delle Torri

Many people gasp the first time they glimpse the medieval Ponte delle Torri, a 10-arch bridge that spectacularly spans a steeply wooded gorge – a scene…

Basilica Superiore

The upper church of the Basilica di San Francesco was built after the Basilica Inferiore and consecrated in 1253, and the change in style and grandiosity…

Basilica Inferiore

The lower and earlier of the two churches comprising the Basilica di San Francesco, this basilica was commissioned by Pope Gregory IX in 1228, just two…

Cattedrale e Abbazia di San Pietro

South of the town centre, past the Porta di San Pietro, is this atmospheric 10th-century basilica complex. The basilica, overlooked by a landmark bell…

Eremo delle Carceri

Perched on the forested slopes of Monte Subasio, this monastery is set around the caves where St Francis and his followers prayed and contemplated…

Chiesa di San Damiano

Set amid lush olive groves 1.5km southeast of Assisi's historic centre, this atmospheric sanctuary is where St Francis is said to have heard the voice of…

Museo Civico

Housed in Palazzo dei Consoli, this museum is home to the celebrated Iguvine Tables (also known as the Eugubian Tables or Tablets), seven bronze tablets…

Rocca Albornoziana

Dominating the skyline above Spoleto, this formidable fortress was built on the summit of Colle Sant’Elia as part of a 14th-century campaign to reassert…

Isola Polvese

Lago Trasimeno

This island, accessible by ferry from San Feliciano, is a delight – not so much for its sights, of which there aren't many, but for its glorious unspoiled…

Belvedere Cappuccini

Head to this viewing balcony at the top of town for a living postcard view across the bucolic countryside below – on a clear day you can make out Assisi …

Tomb of St Francis

Hidden for almost 600 years, St Francis' tomb was discovered beneath the Basilica di San Francesco in 1818 following a 52-day dig, and painstakingly…

Basilica di San Salvatore

Spoleto's Romanesque basilica, listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site as part of the 'Longobards in Italy, Places of the Power (568-774 AD)' group, dates…

Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore

The impressive 12th-century Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore houses Spello's main draw – a wonderful cycle of frescoes by the Perugia-born artist…

Campanile di San Fortunato

Climb the 14th-century bell tower of the Chiesa di San Fortunato for exhilarating views across the hills and castles surrounding Todi.

Orvieto Underground

The coolest place in Orvieto (literally), this series of 440 caves (out of 1200 in the system) has been used for millennia by locals for various purposes …

Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

Lording it over Piazza IV Novembre is Perugia's stark medieval cathedral. A church has stood here since the 900s, but the version you see today was begun…

Palazzo Ducale

The 15th-century Palazzo Ducale was built by the Duke of Montefeltro’s family as a scaled-down version of their palatial residence in Urbino. Its walls…

Piazza San Benedetto

Centred on a statue of St Benedict, Norcia's most famous son, this small piazza is flanked by the town's most impressive medieval buildings, many of which…

Casa del Cioccolato Perugina

To visit the Wonka-esque world of Perugian chocolate, sign up for a 1¼-hour guided tour (in Italian or English, times vary) of the House of Chocolate…

Parco Regionale del Monte Cucco

In Umbria's wild northeastern fringes, the Parco Regionale del Monte Cucco is a gorgeous swathe of wildflower-speckled meadows, gentle slopes brushed with…

Basilica di Santa Chiara

Built in a 13th-century Romanesque style, with muscular flying buttresses and a striking pink-and-white striped facade, this church is dedicated to St…

Grotta Monte Cucco

Deep in the Parco Regionale del Monte Cucco is one of Europe's most spectacular limestone caves, with 30km of galleries reaching depths of 900m. Those up…

Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo

Perched high on Monte Ingino, and accessible by the funivia or a steep 30-minute walk from Palazzo Ducale, this landmark basilica has housed the body of…

Palazzo Collicola Arte Visive

The 18th-century Palazzo Collicola houses Spoleto's premier collection of modern art. The collection, named after its late former director and noted art…

Fontana Maggiore

The centrepiece of Piazza IV Novembre, the delicate pink-and-white marble Fontana Maggiore was designed by Fra Bevignate and built by father-and-son team…

Casa Museo di Palazzo Sorbello

This exquisite 17th-century mansion, once owned by the aristocratic Sorbello family, has been restored to its frescoed, gilt-clad, chandelier-lit, 18th…

Ipogeo dei Volumni

About 5km southeast of the city, the Ipogeo dei Volumni is part of the Palazzone necropolis, a vast 2nd-century-BC Etruscan burial site. The tomb, which…

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

The enormous domed church you see as you approach Assisi along the Tiber valley is the 16th-century Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, some 4km beneath…

More destinations you need to see

The best towns in Umbria

Exploring Umbria’s towns is one of the best ways to experience this beautiful region

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: October 6, 2023

With dozens of beautiful towns, many of them enclosed within medieval walls at the top of hills, there's plenty to see in Umbria.

To help you plan your visit, these are my tips for the best places to visit in Umbria.

Città di Castello

Castiglione del lago, valfabbrica.

Medieval hilltop towns rise up from the lush landscapes of Umbria, known as the ‘Green Heart of Italy’. Within them, majestic cathedrals guard the piazzas, charming streets lead to local authentic restaurants, and panoramic views stretch out below.

One of Italy’s most underrated regions, there’s so much to see and do here, but it’s really the towns of Umbria that are the highlights.

While neighbouring Tuscany gets much more attention (with destinations like Florence , Siena , and Pisa ), there are plenty of things to do in Umbria – and it offers it in a more authentic way and without the crowds.

At first glance, it may seem like the best Umbrian towns are quite similar. Yet, look closer, and you’ll realise they are unique, each offering something special for travellers who take the time to visit and explore.

Whether you’re basing yourself in one of them and doing day trips, or travelling through the region to see a collection of towns in Umbria, I think it’s worth heading to a few of them while you’re here.

In Assisi, I’m dazzled by the enormous basilica and the story of St Francis.

In Orvieto, I think the decorated cathedral will be the highlight until I find the local treasures in the warren of side streets.

In Spello, it’s the colourful flowers that capture my imagination, while the views from Todi are breathtaking.

And I start to feel like I belong in Perugia after spending a few days and experiencing its warm hospitality.

You can reach Umbria with just an hour’s drive from Rome, and exploring the region is relatively easy by public transport (although, as is often the case in Italy, hiring a car is an easier way to get between destinations).

As you can see from the map below, though, most of the Umbrian towns are quite close to each other, so you don’t need to travel long distances to get between them.

With dozens of towns in Umbria (big and small), it might be hard to know where to start, which is why I wanted to put together this guide.

Hopefully it helps you choose the best places to visit in Umbria on your trip.

The biggest

Let’s start with the biggest towns in Umbria – although not necessarily just the biggest in population, but also the most iconic.

If you’re short of time or just want to prioritise your visit to Umbria, then these are the three towns I would suggest prioritising.

OK, technically a city and not a town, Perugia is the capital of Umbria. It can sometimes be ignored by visitors who are put off by the sprawl of modern suburban and industrial areas, but the historic centre is one of Italy’s finest.

Starting at the Palazzo dei Priori, which houses the town hall and the region’s main gallery, the cobbled streets spread out from there, up and down staircases (and even escalators through the foundations of ancient buildings).

Behind the Gothic facades of Perugia’s main sights, there are priceless artworks on the walls, while walking along an old aqueduct takes you to quieter neighbourhoods with their own charm.

To explore Perugia with a guide, I would recommend this excellent walking tour .

As a university city, Perugia is livelier and more cosmopolitan than other nearby towns, making it a great base if you’re looking for somewhere to stay with a bit more nightlife (and good public transport connections to other towns in Umbria).

Visiting Assisi is one of the best things to do in Umbria and this is one of my favourite destinations in the region, the local white limestone giving it the appearance of radiating in the sun.

The highlight is undoubtedly the enormous Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi , dedicated to the famous saint who was born and died here. The interior of the vast church is decorated with vibrant frescoes from medieval masters, and it’s become an important pilgrimage destination along the Way of St Francis .

Beyond the basilica, there are lots of things to see in Assisi, including churches, a Roman temple, historic fountains, and an imposing tower. Even just walking along the main street through town will take you past dozens of interesting sights.

If you can time your visit with one of the town’s festivals, such as Easter, there’ll be even more going on in Assisi.

For a tour of Assisi, that includes the basilica, I would recommend this small-group tour that takes about three hours. Or there are some day trip options here:

The historic centre of Gubbio is set so far up the hill that many people reach it using the elevators that go up through the middle of the town. Once there, it’s rarely flat walking as the streets constantly rise and fall.

The most important site is the grand 14th century Palazzo dei Consoli, now an interesting museum, which stands on one side of a terrace that offers sweeping views across the countryside, but there are also lots of other things to see in Gubbio .

Nearby, there are a few interesting churches, including the small Church of St Francis of the Peace on the site where the wolf the saint is said to have tamed is buried.

Take the cable car up to the top of the mountain for incredible views and the chance to visit an old citadel-like basilica, or head to the town’s foothills to see an Ancient Roman theatre.

Through it all, you’re likely to see locals riding their bikes or drinking aperitifs – unlike Assisi, for example, most of the town is still inhabited by residents not working in tourism. You can even arrange to have dinner in a local home , along with a cooking demonstration.

The most beautiful

All of Umbria’s towns have their own charm, and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with any of them. But, still, there are some that really stand out for their beauty.

On first glance, the medieval town of Orvieto seems to have a lot – a glorious cathedral, a striking clock tower, and an ornately decorated theatre are some of the main sights.

As you explore further, you realise it has even more, because its side streets are filled with local gems like the ceramics on display (for both sale and decoration), and the traditional restaurants where you can try the local ‘gallina ubriaca’ specialty – chicken drenched in Orvieto wine.

The hillside setting offers beautiful vistas from the fortifications, while there are also quite a few Etruscan ruins for the history buffs. If you’re looking for just one town in Umbria to see a mixture of sights and local life, this is a great one to pick.

If you would like to arrange a day trip to Orvieto from Rome, there are some good tours here:

From the eastern approach, one of the most dramatic images of Spoleto is the Ponte delle Torri bridge, 230 metres of limestone that spans between a hill and a fortress. But within the town, there are plenty of other things to see.

More than some other Umbrian towns, there are quite a few Roman remains here, including arches, a theatre, and a basilica. Within the medieval centre, there are impressive churches, palazzos, and an interesting archaeological museum.

Quite a few artworks have been well preserved from the Middle Ages, including frescoes in the churches, bronze busts, and a 12th-century painting of a crucifix.

As an important city from the Roman era, to when the Lombards made it their capital in the 6th century, through to the Renaissance period, there’s a wealth of fascinating heritage here.

Green hills form the backdrop to Todi, another medieval hilltop town where the collage of houses and churches create a beautiful maze to explore the layers of history.

What makes Todi particularly special is how relaxed and quiet it is, despite its obvious beauty and heritage – particularly the main square, enclosed by two palazzos and its 11th century cathedral. The church of Santa Maria della Consolazione is another of the most important landmarks here.

Three sets of walls surround Todi, delineating the different eras of development, starting originally with the Etruscans. But it’s also worth going beyond the final walls to see some of the lush green countryside, where wild boar stew is a delicious specialty.

The town of Città di Castello has clearly been influenced by its proximity to Tuscany (just 10 kilometres to the border), with some of the best Renaissance architects and artists contributing to what you find today.

The artistic feel of the city continues in the renowned Municipal Art Gallery, housed in the Palazzo Vitelli alla Cannoniera, with works from masters like Raphael. There are also two locations showing the 20th century art of Alberto Burri.

With a civic tower, bell tower, and church spires, don’t forget to look up as you explore Città di Castello, even though you’ll find plenty of architectural treasures on street level as well.

Something different

As you’ve probably gathered by now, there are a lot of medieval hilltop towns in Umbria – and that’s certainly part of the appeal. But once you’ve seen a few of them, you might be looking for something a bit different, which is why I wanted to introduce you to these alternatives.

The first thing that makes Foligno different is that it’s big. With a population of about 60,000, it’s the third-largest town in the region so it doesn’t have the charming laidback feel of some of the other places to visit in Umbria.

The other big difference is that it’s not elevated, but set on either side of a river between foothills and agricultural plains.

There’s still a very important historical centre here, though, which was expanded by the Romans and then rebuilt and enlarged further by the Trinci family during the Middle Ages. This is where many of the impressive buildings you’ll see come from.

The cathedral is the highlight, along with the town hall and some of the other palazzos and churches. What’s interesting is that it feels much more Tuscan than places like Orvieto or Gubbio because there was more space to build more imposing building facades.

It’s also the setting of Castiglione del Lago that makes it feel very different from other places in Umbria, this time because it’s one the edge of a lake.

Lake Trasimeno is the fourth-largest in Italy (about the same size as Lake Como) and offers a beautiful waterside setting that you don’t find often in the region.

The town fills an island that has since been connected to the shore, and is surrounded by 13th century walls that enclose plenty of heritage that’s easy to discover by walking along the flat streets (again, a nice change!).

But it’s the lake where you’ll find many of the attractions, including beaches that you can swim at in warmer months. I would also recommend taking a boat out to the lake’s islands to see local fishing villages.

Much of Norcia will look like other parts of Umbria, with a fortress and basilica, churches and grand mansions. Although the town is flat and its medieval historic centre is set amongst a verdant plain, so that makes it a little different.

But what I think makes Norcia so special is its focus on food. In the ‘Green Heart of Italy’, there’s great fresh cuisine throughout Umbria, but Norcia has a particular reputation for being among the best in Italy for something – charcuterie (one of my favourite foods!)

The pork products here are said to taste particularly good because, in part, the pigs are free range in the oak forests and feed on acorns and herbs. But I’m sure a long history of making charcuterie is also a big factor. (It also helps that Umbria is Italy’s largest producer of black truffles, and they end up in a lot of the salami.)

While you can certainly come here and focus on the sights, don’t leave without trying some of the delicacies that you’ll find on offer in most of the local shops and restaurants.

You might also enjoy this fun day of hiking that includes meat and cheese tastings!

Just like most of Italy, there’s plenty of history in Umbria (as you’ve probably already gathered). But Amelia stands out in particular because it’s thought by some to be the oldest town in the region, founded in the 12th century BC.

There are remains from a range of historical eras, including a Roman cistern, Renaissance palaces, and the Baroque cathedral (founded in 872 but rebuilt after a 17th-century fire).

The main attraction, though, something that makes Amelia stand out from other towns, are its ancient defensive walls that are built with stones of different shapes, rather than traditional rectangles, giving them the description ‘polygonal walls’.

Finally, I also want to make special mention of a few of the smaller towns in Umbria that are particularly lovely. The big cities may have heaps of sights, but these ones each give you an insight into village life in the region.

It may be small, but Spello holds its own and is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful towns.

One of the reasons for this are the flowers that adorn many of the buildings in the historic centre, vibrant splashes against the old stonework. As you wander the alleyways, it’s more about the colourful cohesion than any particular sight.

Having said that, there are lots of things to see in Spello, like the large Roman gate, the church of Santa Maria Maggiore with impressive artworks, and the art shops around the town hall.

If you can time your visit for June, you may be able to catch the annual festival sees the town decorated with large carpets of flowers on the main street.

Or anytime of the year, this guided tour with a local is a fantastic way to learn about all the town’s sights.

With a population of about 3,000 people, Valfabbrica is often overlooked by visitors, but that means you’re likely to encounter few other tourists while you explore the small historical centre, surrounded by the remains of medieval walls.

As well as the imposing tower of the 13th century castle, there’s the Church of San Sebastiano which has five Baroque altars, and two other churches with interior designs from different eras.

Valfabbrica may not be as picturesque as some of the other options, but it’s an authentic village where you can stop for a coffee and be amongst local life.

Bevagna is still laid out on the original urban design of the Romans, although the buildings you’ll see today are from later periods – Romanesque churches, medieval piazzas and palazzos, and a baroque monastery.

For such a small town, there’s a remarkable number of things to see today, and the location on the bend of the river creates a feeling that you are almost amongst nature.

The streets in the historic centre, without cars, are peaceful and it’s common to see residents sitting outside on chairs chatting, and doors of the traditional craft stores flung open.

3 thoughts on “The best towns in Umbria”

We are planning a month inFebruary 2025. Want to be able to drive and explore Umbria and Tuscany on day trips. Best towns to stay? Any recommendations for specific apartments or properties to rent. budget around $2500-$3000 Canadian.

Many thanks. Great article!

Personally if you are in Umbria I think it would be a mistake not to visit Montone. Far more beautiful than citta de Costello. I have stayed in Montone 7 times in the last few times, and despite visiting many I the other towns and villages, I think this is the cutest and most beautiful. Small with friendly bar and restaurants.

My 85 year old Dad is visiting us in Italy. We are staying in centro storico of Foligno and in a guesthouse in the fields of Macchie. The visit has been planned to see a variety of Umbria but try and make sure it’s not too steep for him. We are going to visit Orvieto, Panicale, Castiglione del Lago, Bevagna and Assisi. Possibly Spoleto. Assisi has needed most planning as it’s so steep. We have specially planned Line B bus to the square for a downhill walk to the Basilica. We will also catch the hop on hop off small tour bus to get a view of the city. I would love to do Spello with him but it’s too steep. Hope this helps others Thanks for a lovely article

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• The 10 Most Beautiful Towns...

The 15 Most Beautiful Towns in Umbria, Italy

The green heart of Italy , as Umbria is known, is cherished for having fertile landscapes braided with vineyards, undulating hills bathed in poetic pale light, and richly woven history in the hill towns and villages. Throw in some of the most delicious produce in Italy, add a dash of crisp, more-ish wine, and you’ve got the essence of this brochure-beautiful region. Already packed your bags? Here are the most beautiful towns in Umbria.

Architectural Landmark

In the foothills of Mount Subasio, the walled town of Spello seduces architecture lovers and photography buffs with its winding medieval streets and crumbly old churches. The place certainly has history: founded by the pre-Etruscan Umbri people, Spello became a Roman colony in the 1st Century BC, and that legacy is still visible today. Consider the stunning sights, including the Porta Venere – a splendidly preserved Augustan-era town gate. Visit in the summer when the streets and honey-coloured homes come alive with vibrant floral displays planted by the residents with painstaking care.

Building, Natural Feature

Among Umbria’s most beautiful hilltop towns is Orvieto , close to the border with Lazio , balancing on a volcanic butte above the scenic plains of the southwest. Its crowning glory is the cathedral, a triumph of 14th-century gothic that attracts crowds – chiefly for Renaissance painter Luca Signorelli’s awe-inspiring frescoes in the Chapel of San Brizio. Under the town is a riddle of Etruscan-era tunnels and grottos 2,500 years old, put to various purposes over the ages, from siege escape routes to wine cellars to World War II bomb shelters.

This labyrinthine medieval town in the foothills of the Apennines ticks all the boxes: squeezingly tight cobbled streets, sunny piazzas, buzzy little cafes and crumbling churches of honey-coloured stone, cool and cave-like on the inside, with ancient flaking frescoes. Cypress trees sprout up like fountains of green from behind tall stone walls. Unexpectedly, there’s a hulking 14th-century fortress on a hill overlooking the town. Until 2007 it was used as a prison. Now it is a museum dedicated to the history of Spoleto.

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Castiglione del Lago

On the shores of Lake Trasimeno, where Umbria meets Tuscany , the town of Castiglione del Lago is famous for its 13th-century Castello del Leone, whose lofty watchtowers reveal splendid views over glittery water to the countryside beyond. The town makes an ideal base for outings to water’s-edge villages and tranquil islands: the biggest, Isola Polvese, is home to the historic Church of San Guiliano and the beautiful Garden of Aquatic Plants, created by architect Pietro Porcinai in 1959. Each spring, the skies above Castiglione del Lago flutter colourfully into life during the Coloriamo i Cieli Festival, as hundreds of kites take to the air, along with leisurely hot-air balloons.

In Umbria’s northwestern reaches, Gubbio stands proud against the slopes of Mount Ingino. The town is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage – notice the ruins of a 1st-century Roman theatre as you approach. One of Italy’s oldest folklore festivals, La Festa dei Ceri , takes place in town every year on 15 May. Wander the steep, winding streets and you will, at some point, arrive at the stark, spreading central Piazza Grande, almost dwarfed by the crenellated medieval Palazzo dei Consoli with its neck-craning bell tower. Pause awhile: from here you have perfect panoramic views over Gubbio.

High on a hilltop above the winding Tiber, the pretty town of Todi is like a cartoonish cut-out in a child’s pop-up book. Narrow, cobbled streets meander slopingly, leading to beautifully preserved medieval monuments. Search for the Palazzo del Popolo, built in 1213, one of Italy’s oldest public buildings, now at home among cute cafes and boutiques. Strangely untouched by tourism, peaceful Todi presents a slice of real Umbrian life. While here, have a long lunch or dinner: culinary delicacies include slow-cooked pigeon flavoured with herbs, perfect with Grechetto di Todi , a dry white wine that has been made in the area for centuries.

Medieval Torgiano basks against horizons of olive groves and vineyards, a clear indication of what keeps the town busy (olive oil, wine production) when it’s not sleeping. The celebrated produce has given Torgiano worldwide fame, and if you’d like to find out more about its rich gastronomic history pop into the Museo del Vino and Museo dell’Olivo e dell’Olio. Catnip for gourmands, it’s also heaven for history buffs, with notable sights such as the postcard-perfect Torre Baglioni, a beautiful imposing tower on the edge of town, dating back to 1274.

With a colourful history, delicious cuisine and a singular setting in the foothills of the Sibillini Mountains, Norcia is firmly on the map for nature lovers, history buffs and anyone with a healthy appetite. At the heart of this picturesque town is the picture-book main square, Piazza San Benedetto, home to some of Norcia’s oldest buildings: notably the Castellina, a 16th-century fortress by Renaissance architect Vignola, and the beautiful Basilica di San Benedetto with its 14th-century gothic facade. And to eat? First and foremost it’s got to be a few Nero Norcia truffles and lots of local salumi .

Founded as a fortress in the 10th century by a Roman nobleman, Arrone is a lovely-looking hamlet on a hill in southern Umbria. It is divided into two distinct parts. Around the base is the newer Santa Maria quarter, home to the Chiesea di Santa Maria Assunta, a 15th-century church bearing head-turning frescoes by artists including Vincenzo Tamagni and Giovanni da Spoleto. As you ascend Arrone’s steep, meandering streets you’ll come to its oldest part, La Terra, where history reverberates about the encircling walls of this beautifully preserved medieval village.

Here’s the very epitome of an Italian hilltop town, all terraced olive groves, crumbling stone walls and church towers, set in the southwestern corner of Umbria, not far from the city of Terni. According to some scholars, it may also be the oldest town in the region, dating back to around 1000BC. The polygonal masonry of its stone walls is thought to date back to the founding of the town, while original sections of Roman road are threaded through it. You’ll find plenty more history in the archaeological museum.

Città di Castello

This beautiful medieval town on the Tiber is said by some to be the birthplace of the Renaissance (Florence may have something to say about that). In the north of Umbria, near the border with the Marche and Tuscany, it is certainly a work of art. The historic core is a warren of cart-width cobbled streets and hidden churches. The centrepiece is the Palazzo Vitelli alla Cannoniera, a 16th-century palace-turned-art gallery, containing extraordinary examples of work by Renaissance artists such as Raphael, Luca Signorelli and Andrea della Robbia.

So well-preserved are some of its historic buildings that if someone led you here blindfolded and whipped it away, you would swear you’d been teleported way back in time. Take the town’s official symbol, the immaculate Rocca di Umbertide: a medieval castle that formed the guarding entrance to the citadel. Other highlights include the church of Santa Maria della Reggia, an unconventionally octagonal building housing paintings by Niccolò Circignani; see, too, just beyond town, the Civitella Ranieri Foundation – a dramatic castle and artists’ residence.

Fossato di Vico

By Umbria’s western boundary, on the slopes of Mount Mutali, this tiny town is all climbing lanes, worn stone staircases disappearing up through archways and around corners, and unexpected windows of views across the rolling countryside below. Dark alleyways are brightened by window boxes full of geraniums, and beautiful little terraced courtyards appear as if by magic. If it doesn’t have the box-office history to magnetise the crowds, then so much the better – hang around and enjoy this place all by yourself, far from the beaten path. Alex Allen contributed additional reporting to this article.

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13 Amazing Things to do in Umbria: Explore Italy’s Green Heart

Looking for something a little different for your next trip to Italy? Umbria is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Sure, Puglia and Tuscany are hella gorgeous, but it’s time to discover Umbria.

Nicknamed I taly’s green heart, the region is brimming with medieval towns, outdoor activities and some of the best food and wine to be found in the country.

I’ve picked the best things to do in Umbria for an unforgettable trip.

Psst… Check out my video below for a sneak peek.

Top 5 Things to do in Umbria

Go hunting for truffles (then eat them) .

Umbria might be the green heart of Italy but it’s real culinary treasure likes in the “black diamonds” or truffles found in the region. What better way to learn about the history and art of truffle hunting than to go on a hunt yourself?

Head out into the countryside accompanied by an expert truffle hunter and his trusted dogs in search of the treasured delicacy. 

After the excitement is done, head back to the renowned Ristorante Piermarini and watch as the chef turns the fruit of your (not very) hard labour into a range of traditional Italian dishes for you to feast on.

Read more: The Best Things to do in Italy

Visit the Marmore Waterfalls 

Looking at the Marmore Waterfalls (Cascata delle Marmore) it’s hard to believe that they are completely man-made. The waterfalls are the second-tallest in Europe and the tallest man-made waterfalls in the world.

They date back to Roman times when the local population decided to divert the Velino river so that they could make use of more fertile land. Cascading down from a height of 165 metres, the Marmore Waterfalls are a spectacular sight.

The falls were one of the must-see spots on the “Grand Tour” taken by gentleman travellers of days past, so much so that the famous poet Lord Byron wrote a poem about them.

Walk to the far end of the observation deck and you’ll find an inscription of the poem on an open book in the place where Byron is said to have written it.

Go White Water Rafting 

The Nera River (which passes the bottom of the Marmore Waterfalls) is the go-to place to get your adrenaline rush with a spot of white water rafting. Don the (really quite fetching) protective attire and jump into your inflated raft before taking on the rapids.

There are different courses for you to pick from, depending on your level of skill but even the beginners options are guaranteed to get your pulse racing.

Book your rapids ride here

Visit a Vineyard (Then Bring a Bottle or Two Home With You) 

Neighbouring Tuscany often steals the attention for its (excellent) wine production but Umbrian wine is gaining increasing recognition both at home and internationally.

Quality wines come at a fraction of a price of those in Tuscany, particularly if you buy them direct from the vineyards. Winery Caprai in the Montefalco region a stellar vineyard well-known for their signature sagrentino red wine.

Book ahead for a tour followed by lunch on their terrace – the combination of vineyard views, delicious food and wine guarantees a memorable experience.

Read more: Road Tripping Through Tuscany – A Foodie’s Dream

Take an Umbrian Cooking Class 

Umbrian cuisine is unlike any other. Umbrians are fiercely proud of their food (taste it and you’ll understand why).

Characterised by the not-so-humble truffle, Umbrian food also features local specialties such as artisanal prosciutto and cured sausages quite heavily.

There’s no better way to understand the flavours and ingredients of a cuisine than by taking a cooking class.

Learn to make a range of dishes with local chef  Loretta Autuori . Autuori’s expert knowledge and engaging personality combine to create an in-depth cooking class that will have you whipping up local dishes in next to no time.

Other Unmissable Things to do in Umbria

Go cycling in the countryside.

It’s too easy to spend your time being ferried from place to place on a tour bus or in a car but to really appreciate Umbria’s beauty, you should hop on a bike.

Cycling from village to town, taking in the verdant scenery in between is not only one of the best ways to get to places that are a little off the beaten track but is the best way to see the region.

Umbria is a hilly region, so we’d recommend a gentle cycle in the valley surrounding the charming medieval town of Bevagna.

Caprai vineyard (see above) offers guided tours of the region stopping in Bevagna and the small village of Torre del Colle before returning to the winery for lunch.

Take Some Time Out in a Picture-Perfect Town Square

It might sound a bit weird to recommend doing nothing as one of the best things to do in Umbria but we’re going to do it anyway.

Umbria is filled with gorgeous medieval towns (our favourite is San Gemini but everyone has their own pick), each with a gorgeous main square where you can order a coffee and watch as the world passes you by. 

Take some time out in a beautiful setting. You won’t regret it.

Discover the Great Outdoors in the Monte Cucco Regional Park

Spread out around the impressive Monte Cucco peak in northeast Umbria, the Monte Cucco Regional Park is an unspoilt natural haven that’s perfect for lovers of the great outdoors.

Filled with underground caves, karsts and underground rivers – there are few better places to go caving in the province.

If that’s not quite your thing, you can go hiking through the untouched beech woods and meadows for which the park is famed.

Visit Orvieto

If you were to conjure up the perfect medieval Umbrian town, Orvieto may well be it.

Sitting atop a large volcanic bluff with stunning views of the valley below, Orvieto is well-known for two things: its beauty and its cathedral. 

The spectacular Italian Gothic style Cathedral boasts an ornately-decorated façade replete with stained glass and mosaics and bursting with colour.  Away from the Cathedral, Orvieto’s other main draws are a deep well, named St Patrick’s Well, which extends to a depth of over 50 metres and a large network of underground caves underneath the town.

Stay for the evening, when the tour buses trundle away and you can explore the small town at ease.

Stroll Around the Hill Towns

Orvieto is not the only hill town in Umbria. Gubbio, tucked onto the sides of Mount Ingino, is one of the oldest towns in Umbria. A crisscross of old streets and alleys, walking around Gubbio is like taking a trip back in time.

No visit to Umbria would be complete to Assisi. The birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its large number of historical buildings and collections of art.

Expect crowds at the Basilica of San Francesco, but they’re worth braving if only for the magnificent frescoes contained within.

If you have the time, hire a car (or a bike if you really have the time) and go on a self-guided tour of Umbria’s great towns: in addition to Orvieto, Gubbio and Assisi, you should put Foligno, Spello, Trevi and Bevagna at the top of your list.

Read More: The Best Places to Visit in Tuscany

Take a Detour to San Pietro (possibly the prettiest spot in Italy)

The Abbey of San Pietro in Valle may well win the award for the prettiest spot in Italy.  Tucked far up the hills away from any main road and surrounded by cypress trees, the Abbey has impressive views out to the valley below.

It’s also notable for its Romanesque frescoes, which are some of the most important in Italy.

Visit the Rocca Paolina

Step into the enchanting world of Rocca Paolina – a fortress perched in the heart of Perugia. It’s quite the sight and, as you wander through its labyrinthine tunnels and secret chambers, the layers of time reveal a tapestry of the region’s past. 

Filled with both medieval ruins and Renaissance architecture, time has stood still in Rocca Paolina. Climb to the top of the fortress, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the picturesque city below.

Where to Stay in Umbria

Pallazo santi terzi.

As you may have gathered, Umbria is not short of a medieval town or two. Book your stay in Santi Terzi in the quaint town of San Gemini.

Housed in a medieval palazzo, the villa comes with its own tower, pool and gorgeous gardens overlooking the town and surrounding countryside below.

Book through Tuscany Now & More or direct . 

Hotel San Marco

At first glance, Hotel San Marco seems to be a gothic beauty – but head to your room and you’re greeted by a surprisingly light and bright space. The standard double room comes with limewashed walls, metal-framed beds and huge windows illuminating the space.

This hotel is situated in Gubbio, a gorgeous town that often flies under the radar of tourists in Umbria.

Check Rates and Availability

Visiting Umbria: Practical Tips

• Umbria’s main airport is Perugia, but it can be difficult finding direct flights. You can fly to Florence or Pisa in neighbouring Tuscany – but you will need to drive or hop on a connection to get to Umbria from there. Check flights on Skyscanner .
• Umbria still offers excellent value compared to other Italian regions such as Tuscany – perfect if you are travelling in high season and want to avoid exorbitant prices.
• It’s easiest to get about between smaller destinations in Umbria if you hire a car . It gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility to explore the region.
• If you’re not keen on booking a villa, there are plenty of high-end hotels in the region. I’d suggest using Orvieto or Assisi as a base – check hotel prices and availability . Book well ahead in high-season.

Things to do in Umbria: Map

Read more Italy Tips and Guides

• Unmissable Places to Visit in Italy
• A Tuscan Road Trip Itinerary
• Cool Things to do in Tuscany
• The Ultimate Europe Bucket List
• How to Spend 10 Days in Italy

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Perugia is the largest city and the capital of the region. Its amazing, full of history and not touristy at all. The views from the piazzas are amazing and the locals make you feel right at home. It’s definitely worth a stop or a stay if you’re in Umbria and only a half hour train ride from Assisi. And if you’re in Assisi you have to visit the Rocca Magiore. It’s the fortress there, and the views from the battlements are unbelievable!

Wonderful suggestions Amy, there’s always more to explore! It’s such a gorgeous region, thanks for the tips.

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Central Italy

From assisi to perugia, via  gubbio ,  lake trasimeno  and  marmore falls : umbria is a truly enchanting tourist destination.

Peaks covered in lush forests and large valleys outlined by rivers, lakes and waterfalls; sorrounded by villages and castles, crossed by paths steeped in history, art and culture, in a natural environment that helps to restore the body and soul: Umbria, the Green Heart of Italy, is all this and much more.

In the heart of Italy lies one of its oldest centres, Perugia, known for its vibrant social life, university heritage and much more. A modern city with traces of its prominent past around every corner: standing atop a hill in the Tiber valley, Perugia, the capital of Umbria, is a renowned city of art and an effervescent cultural centre. Built as a fortified medieval village, it is encompassed by a mighty city wall. It boasts top-notch museums and beautiful nature, not forgetting chocolate, which it produces and celebrates at the mouth-watering Eurochocolate festival.

Dual soul of the “city of steel” Terni is a city nestled in the heart of the peninsula, rich in artistic and scenic beauty. Besides the Roman amphitheatre, still partly preserved, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Romanesque tower of the Barbarasa family and the Basilica of St Valentine, where the remains of the patron saint of lovers are kept, are worth a visit. Older buildings are mixed with contemporary architecture such as the “Lance of Light”, better known as Arnaldo Pomodoro's Obelisk. It is the modern symbol of the city and depicts the evolution of the art of smelting from the raw iron of the base to the tip that appears to be made of gold. One of the most beautiful towns in the province is Orvieto, famous for its cathedral with its polychrome façade and for the Pozzo di San Patrizio: its helicoidal staircase will take you to a depth of 62 metres. Equally fascinating are the medieval Narni and La Scarzuola, Tomaso Buzzi's “ideal city”. From a landscape point of view, the Marmore Waterfalls stand out. With a height difference of 165 metres, divided into three jumps, it is one of the highest in Europe, ideal for a range of outdoor sports such as rafting, canyoning, hydrospeed and kayaking. Visiting some caves and karstic forms excavated over millennia by water is also possible. Lake Piediluco, due to the absence of currents and the presence of regular winds, is an excellent field for rowing races.

What to see in Umbria

• Art & Culture

Wine and oil, the treasures of Umbria

Umbria, on the pursuit of flavor

5 urban hikes to see 5 panoramic terraces in Perugia

The Grand Tour of Umbria by bus and bike to uncover its most hidden secrets

Perugia: a historical and artistic jewel and beacon of central Italy

Castiglione del Lago, a balcony on Lake Trasimeno

Lake Trasimeno and its villages

The Attigliano food and wine Festival

Mount Subasio Park: a protected and sacred natural area

Monti Sibillini National Park

Marmore Falls

Outdoor Umbria: family-friendly experiences

Flowers in Italy: a colour palette

Nature and animals: limelight on biodiversity in wildlife parks

Umbria: adventures among the rapids

Umbria: the scenic flight here takes place against an enchanting backdrop of villages, hills and blooming meadows

Umbria's artistic and landscape treasures by bike

Along the course of the Corno and Nera rivers, between the Sibillini Mountains National Park and the Marmore Falls

In the saddle from Umbria to Marche

Nera River Cycle Path: cycling through forests and waterfalls

The Third Paradise in Assisi, the unexpected work of art in the Bosco di San Francesco

The Longobards and Their Places of Power

La Scarzuola

Teatro della Concordia

Assisi, a sanctuary with a priceless historical heritage

Città della Pieve: a mini medieval masterpiece

Medieval Festival

Eurochocolate Perugia 2024

Inspiration for living the Italian way

The Todi Festival

Gubbio and the "Festa dei Ceri"

The best open-air cinemas to watch films during the summer and live the dream

Umbria, cycling towards Norcia: from Preci to Castelluccio

Umbria, Trasimeno Hills: a tour along the Wine Route

Umbria: a weekend filled with relaxation and beauty.

Lush valleys and pristine environments: Umbria: the green heart of Italy

The fantastically varied scenery of Umbria offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy an unforgettable holiday, in contact with nature, in search of your own inner spirit or thrilling adventures. Anyone who loves Italian cuisine will be spoiled for choice, between family-run trattorias and the restaurants of Michelin star chefs.

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Umbria Travel Map and Places to Visit in Italy's Green Heart

 Tripsavvy / James Martin

Umbria has been called "Italy's Green Heart." It is green, mainly agricultural, and more sparsely populated than its western neighbor, Tuscany. Umbria has no access to the Mediterranean but is home to one of the largest lakes in Italy. 

Umbria is for the laid-back traveler, one who would perhaps like to sip the uniquely Umbrian wine called Sagrantino in one of the many Umbria Wineries. There are plenty of interesting and historic towns to discover, including the regional capital - Perugia, Saint Francis's town of Assisi, and the Etruscan city of Orvieto.

There are interesting places to stay in Umbria. There's a restored Monastic outpost in Umbria called La Preghiera that hosts guests. Another place to consider is Fontanaro, a collection of houses forming a sort of rural cooperative where you can learn about Umbrian cooking, wine, and the making of organic olive oil. If you love to eat well and stay in a rural B&B, the Casale di Mele might be the perfect place to stay.

Umbrian cuisine is best described as farm-to-table. Foods change with the season, and when in season, you can enjoy dishes made with the highly prized truffles of the region. Deborah Mele's introduction to the cuisine, The Foods of Umbria, will give you all you need to know about the food and food traditions of Umbria.

Many arrive by bus or train and start their explorations of Umbria in the capital city of Perugia: 

• Florence to Perugia  (about 2 hours by bus or train)
• Rome to Perugia  (about 3 hours by bus or train)
• Venice to Perugia  (5 hours and 13 minutes by train)

Explorations will then take you to the countryside and towns of the region.

Perugia: The Capital of Umbria

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Perugia , the regional capital of Umbria, has visible Etruscan history, including an arch and city walls. Perugia is one of Italy's great art cities and is known for its popular jazz and chocolate festivals, yet it is almost entirely overlooked by tourists.

Perugia is situated on a hilltop and in part of a valley. From the train station, you can take a bus for the 1.5-kilometer climb into town, but the energetic person will want to take an alternative route - the moving stairway that takes you through the excavations below the city from the parking lots.

The wide Corso Vannucci that cuts through the center of town is like a gigantic piazza without car traffic, a fantastic place to take your evening stroll through the history of Perugia 's art and architecture. 

It's a special time if you come during Umbria jazz in July or Eurochocolate in the fall. And don't forget to check the Perugia Travel Weather , so you can stay informed about the weather.

The Green Heart of Italy

Umbria is the only Italian region having neither a coastline nor a border with other countries. Here you are locked into Italy's dreamy and quite green center. It's quiet and peaceful. Population density is very low, especially compared to adjacent Tuscany. Prices are low, too, comparatively.

Tobacco fields, grain fields, groves of olive trees, and vineyards are found throughout Umbria. You'll learn to spot the tobacco drying structures, now often converted into elegant and romantic lodging for tourists.

Castiglione del Lago

Rocca del Leone, the castle of this interesting city jutting out on Lake Trasimeno, has a dark passageway to roam and is often the scene of festivals and art presentations.

You eat well in Castiglione. It is, after all, one of the top towns to visit in Lake Trasimeno. You could settle down here and spend a week or more visiting the cities, islands, and wineries around the lake.

There's history, too. The shores of Lake Trasimeno were the site of the Battle of Lake Trasimeno in 217 BC, where Hannibal defeated the Romans who had intended to ambush him on his way back to Rome.

You can enjoy spending a few days or weeks in this compact little hill town within sight of Lake Trasimeno, and you won't get bored.

In the heart of town, just off the main piazza, there's great food, wine, and apartments available. Notable landmarks preserved include the city wall, towers, the church of Saint Michele Arcangelo, the Palazzo Pretorio, and the Palazzo del Podesti.

Panicale is central to some pretty impressive tourist destinations like Tuscany's ancient city of Chiusi , just 16 kilometers to the west, and Lake Trasimeno right to the north.

More Cities to Visit in Umbria

Assisi - Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis; Assisi was his birthplace. The Basilica of St. Francis is a massive, two-story church consecrated in 1253. Its frescoes portraying the life of St. Francis have been attributed to famous artists such as Giotto and Cimabue.

Orvieto - Visit this Etruscan city with the glittering Duomo in the center of town. Orvieto is famous for the white wine that bears its name. 

Spoleto - This town is famous for its summer music festival, Festival dei Due Mondi , with interesting Roman, medieval, and modern sights to keep a visitor busy year-round.

Todi - This is yet another picturesque medieval hill town in Umbria, surrounded by medieval, Roman, and Etruscan walls. Although it's a hill town, its center at the top of the hill is flat, so walking is easy. 

Gubbio  - This well-preserved medieval hill town is worth a stop.

Related Articles

More related articles.

• The 15 most beautiful villages to visit in Umbria
• Places and Tours

Come with us on a journey to discover the most beautiful villages in Umbria and less known to most visitors...

Umbria is one of the smallest regions in Italy but at the same time one of the greenest . It sprinkles with a large number of small villages with characteristic charm. 

You have probably already heard of villages such as Assisi , Gubbio , Spello , Spoleto ...places that are definitely not to be missed during a visit to Umbria , but now widely known. Assisi alone attracts thousands of tourists and religious pilgrims every year, curious to follow in the footsteps of Italy's most famous saints: San Francesco  and Santa Chiara . 

However, today we at Visit Italy want to help you discover some of the most hidden little gems , unusual villages that are absolutely worth visiting and that will make your stay in Umbria much more than authentic ! If however Umbria is a region that you don't know, start discovering it from its most popular destinations Assis i and Orvieto . 

15. Monte Castello di Vibio

Monte Castello Vibio is in the territory of the Parco Fluviale del Tevere (Tiber River Park) , which includes, in addition to the course of the river: Lake Corbara , the Forello gorges and the naturalistic oasis of Alviano . In the Park, in addition to exciting flora and fauna, there are notable cultural, archaeological and monumental remains. Along the Tiber 's banks, the Umbrian and Etruscan civilisations flourished in the past: the river was decisive in the Romanisation of the territory. 

As for the village , its tiny houses are now almost entirely uninhabited. The Teatro della Concordia , the most miniature theatre in Italy , is worth a visit: a structure with just 99 seats between boxes and stalls, designed in 1789, in the middle of the French post-revolutionary period. In 2002, the Italian Post Office also celebrated the theatre with the issue of a postage stamp in its honour in the "Italian artistic and cultural heritage" section. 

The Arrone's village owes its name to the Arroni nobles, most likely founders of the place at the end of the 9th century. It is on a rocky hill along the left bank of the Nera river, a short distance from the Marmore waterfalls . 

Arrone was a so-called 'hillock castle' from which they used to observe and defend the area. Roman mills, medieval hermitages and monasteries, and industrial archaeological buildings. Such as the lignite mine in the hamlet of Buonacquisto . 

Still visible is the original medieval castle built by the Arroni family, which houses the Gothic church of San Giovanni Battista with its admirable 15th-century frescoes. The Porta di San Giovanni (St John's Gate) is near the church, characterised by a pointed Gothic arch and connecting the medieval village with the original settlement area. Other ecclesiastical buildings include the 16th-century Church of Santa Maria Assunta with a 15th-century portal, frescoes and terracotta statues. 

It is the proper village for lovers of outdoor activities . In the Parco Fluviale del Nera (Nera River Park) , there are many sporting activities to do and a vast network of trekking trails from where you can also reach the famous waterfall.

13. Massa Martana

Massa Martana is a village in an area of extraordinary natural interest. It is at the foot of the Martani Mountains , and on their slopes, there is one of the most extensive holm oak forests in Europe . Several paths for walking, trekking, mountain biking, horse riding, and picnic areas are among the mountains. 

Also, don't forget the Sanfaustino mineral water and the Sanfaustino spa where you can relax. Cultural highlights include the Abbey of San Terenzio and Fidenzio and the Church of Santa Illuminata . 

Here you must try the Nociata , a kind of nougat made with walnuts, honey, egg whites, orange peel and then wrapped in laurel leaves. It was made in Caffè Ranucci by a waiter who returned from Copenhagen.

12. Paciano

Paciano is a delightful town protected by a 14th-century wall about 600 metres long that includes eight towers and three gates: the Fiorentina , the Perugina and the Rastrella . 

Among the things to visit is the TrasiMemo - Banca della Memoria del Trasimeno , a unique bank that preserves the products of local craftsmanship : museum rooms, exhibitions, guided tours and workshops. The "Don Aldo Rossi" Parish Museum is not far away, where you can see ancient municipal, civilisation and religious artefacts: the various 15th-century paintings and frescoes are well worth a visit. 

Don't miss the Torciglione , so-called because of its shape and which is the typical Christmas cake. Also not to be missed is its magnificent extra-virgin olive oil , made from the olive trees on its hills, appreciated worldwide and recognised by the "DOP" mark. 

11. Bettona

Bettona is a village of Etruscan origin with just over 4,000 inhabitants, part of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy association. Here you can enjoy a fantastic panoramic view from Assisi to Spello . 

You will lead to the village through an ancient wooden gateway of medieval origin. Amidst narrow streets and small squares, you should see the medieval walls, which also incorporate sections of Etruscan walls; the Municipal Picture Gallery in the Palazzo del Podestà; the historic centre of medieval origin; the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maggiore; the Oratory of Sant'Andrea; and finally, the Church of San Crispolto. 

10. Rasiglia

Between Foligno and Colfiorito is Rasiglia , a village frozen in time. One of the most beautiful places in Umbria , it is also known as Umbria's little Venice , and when you visit it, you will immediately understand why. A spider's web of small watercourses outlines the profiles of stone houses before plunging into emerald-hued pools. 

The churning of water in streams and waterfalls broke the silence. A place with an ancient, almost fairytale atmosphere!

Unfortunately, we are losing these magical atmospheres due to the many tourists Rasiglia attracts. If you are lucky enough to visit in less touristic periods, you will surely be able to appreciate its beauty and capture its true essence. 

9. Montefalco

Travelling along the Strada del Sagrantino , one stops in Montefalco , a picturesque village surrounded by olive trees and, above all, vineyards. The town is a reference point of excellence in the wine-growing area: the Sagrantino di Montefalco and Montefalco Rosso are wines produced here. 

Montefalco is a village on top of a hill where, on sunny days, it is possible to admire a 360° panorama that sweeps across the entire valley between Perugia and Spoleto . The well-preserved walls and ancient towers have allowed the historical centre to maintain its antique medieval appearance . 

Not to be missed is the almost circular Piazza del Comune , where the most important buildings stand: Palazzo Comunale, Teatro Comunale and Oratorio di Santa Maria di Platea . Within the walls of Montefalco is the Church-Museum of San Francesco , where the walls of the apse contain one of the most important fresco cycles in Italy , signed by Benozzo Gozzoli in 1452; also here is a nativity scene painted by "Il Perugino". 

Also worth seeing : are the medieval walls with the crenellated gate of Sant'Agostino, the church of Sant'Agostino, the church of Santa Lucia , the parish church of San Fortunato, the castle of Fabbri . There is also a crypt that contains numerous archaeological finds .

If you are looking for one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Umbria , you will not be disappointed in Bevagna ! Embraced by an imposing city wall that encircles its perimeter, Bevagna tells its own story from its Roman, Lombard and medieval past. It was a real leap back in its delightful, perfectly preserved historical centre. 

An intricate succession of alleyways behind which suddenly appear suggestive views. Over the years, Bevagna's charm has attracted travellers on the Grand Tour and the poet Carducci , but even today, thousands of tourists invade the village peacefully. 

Sights : the f ormer church of the Madonna delle Neve with the remains of a Roman temple, the thermal baths dating back to the 2nd century AD, Piazza Silvestri , Palazzo dei Consoli with its 19th-century theatre, the churches of San Silvestro and San Michele Arcangelo, the civic museum. 

Bevagna is known for one of the most beautiful historical commemorations, the Mercato delle Gaite . It takes place in the second half of June and reconstructs with incredible accuracy the life of the village in the medieval period. 

7. Corciano

Halfway between Lake Trasimeno and Perugia , above the hills, rises Corciano , a village included in the association of the most beautiful villages in Italy . According to popular tradition, its name means Cuore di Giano (Heart of Janus) or Colle di Giano (Hill of Janus). At the same time, according to mythology, Coragino founded the town, one of the survivors of the Trojan War and a friend of the hero Ulysses. 

The village's origins seem to date back to Roman times, if not also Etruscan. The medieval settlement developed later around the castle. 

Corciano is by an imposing wall with two entrances: Porta Santa Maria and Porta San Francesco . Going towards the main square, you can visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the bell tower, which houses two masterpieces of Italian art: the " ' Gon falone" by Benedetto Bonfigli and Perugino's "Assunta" .  

Don't miss the Church of San Cristoforo and the towers, the emblem of Corciano. Also, its palaces include the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo , the ancient residence of the representative of the dominant Perugia, the Palazzo della Mercanzia and the Palazzo dei Priori . 

As for museums, the following are very interesting: the Museo della Casa Contadina (Museum of the Peasant House) , where there is a reconstruction of a typical Corciano house from the 19th century; the Museo Paleontologico (Paleontological Museum) , inside the 16th century Palazzo Municipale (Town Hall), which houses exciting finds from the Etruscan and Roman periods. Finally, treat yourself to a relaxing break by admiring the fantastic panorama from the Sentiero dei Mandorli (Almond Tree Path) . This walk winds around the ancient walls and from where you can admire scenery ranging from Lake Trasimeno to Monte Amiata and Monti Martiani . 

6. Nocera Umbra

Nocera Umbra is a village of medieval origin that owes its name to Nuceria , a Tuscan-Umbrian toponym meaning 'New Creation', dating back to the 8th century BC.

The 14th-century Church of San Francesco is worth seeing, home to the Pinacoteca and Museo Civico . The most critical Umbrian school paintings in the town have found a worthy home, such as the frescoes by Matteo da Gualdo and the Alunno Polyptych . 

The village's main attraction is the Assumption Cathedral , which has undergone several renovations. At first, an ancient Romanesque building from the 12th century, then completely rebuilt in 1448. It contains a beautiful majolica floor and 17th-century paintings by the artist Giulio Cesare Angeli. Next to it is the Campanaccio (Civic Tower) , an imposing 11th-century tower, the only remnant of the ancient fortress.

Among the other churches in the historical centre, the neo-Gothic San Filippo Church and Santa Chiara Church , completely renovated in the 19th century, are worth visiting. Other historic buildings include the Art Nouveau-style Municipal Theatre and the Piervissani Library (containing around 50,000 texts). The Bishop's Palace also houses the Archaeological Museum , where you can admire artefacts dating back to the Stone Age, the Middle Bronze Age and the Late Middle Ages.

Nocera Umbra has an ancient tradition as a spa resort : the Bagni di Nocera , known since the 16th century for the curative properties of its waters (those of the Angelica spring). Many important historical figures have come here to enjoy the therapeutic qualities of these waters, including Francesco Redi, Vincenzo Monti and Luigi Pirandello .

If you come to visit Nocera Umbra in August , don't miss the Palio dei Quartieri : an event that takes place near the village and is a competition with parades and theatrical performances on a specific theme. Otherwise, in September , you must attend the Cavalcata di Satriano : in which knights in period costume retrace the last journey of St Francis in 1226 from Nocera Umbra to Assisi .

Nocera Umbra 's village hides another town. We are talking about the medieval city of Panicaglia , where there is an original castle of 1266 , located at an altitude of 800 metres and overlooking the Umbrian mountains . For centuries, the Mancini family owned the village: there was a bakery and a small church (still in use today).

From 2019 Borgo Castello Panicaglia is the ideal location for a stay for couples or families and an osteria open to all and offering local and 0 km products . The perfect place in which to discover the most authentic Umbria!

Then, the Umbrian god had a marvellous blue for the sky and an even more beautiful colour with which he painted the distances and the mountains. Umbria is so miraculously blue; it is the bluest of all lands. Karel Čapek

Famous throughout the world for its production of artistic ceramics , Deruta is located 15 km south of Perugia , easily reachable with the SS3bis . Included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy , Deruta is a small and delightful village, where every detail recalls the art of ceramics , a tradition handed down from the Middle Ages to today.

The tour of Deruta must start from the beautiful and scenic access staircase , each step is decorated with colored majolica that recall geographical and natural elements that blend with folklore and religion. The staircase will take you up to the city walls , beyond which the historic center of the town opens, characterized by artisan workshops and ancient ovens , look out and let yourself be conquered by one of the imaginative pieces.

4. Lugnano in Teverina

Located in the municipality of Terni and precisely in the Tiber Valley , Lugnano in Teverina , is like many of the Umbrian villages of medieval imprint , thanks to its position you can enjoy romantic panoramic views and get lost in the narrow and fresh alleys . Lugnano in Teverina is on the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy.

The pride of Lugnano is the splendid church of Santa Maria Assunta or Colleggiata from the 13th century , the church has a Romanesque style . Also worth visiting is the sixteenth-century Palazzo Farnese-Ridolfi and the surrounding convent of San Francesco , built in 1229 in memory of a miracle performed by San Francesco to free a boy attacked by a wolf.

3. Castiglione del Lago

Located in the northern part of Umbria, Castiglione del Lago is located on a hilly promontory on the western shore of Lake Trasimeno , in the province of Perugia . Castiglione del Lago is a splendid village that attracts many tourists every year thanks to its rich cultural, environmental and artistic heritage .

For the visit we suggest you start from the historic center , surrounded by the classic medieval walls , continue your visit with the castle , the Rocca del Leone , a magnificent example of Umbrian architecture of the Middle Ages , from the patrol path you can enjoy an enchanting view of the lake. Of great value, the Palazzo Ducale or Palazzo della Corgna , built in 1560 , beautiful, frescoed rooms.

2. Montecchio

Located in the Tiber Valley on the slopes of Monte Croce di Serra , Montecchio is in the province of Terni , just 15 km from Orvieto . Montecchio is a small and characteristic medieval village immersed in the thick green of the Umbrian woods , the so-called uncontaminated scrub, where nature still reigns supreme.

To see and discover the castle , the remains of the double circle of walls , the ancient Gate that was once the only access to the town formed by a round arch and surmounted by a crenellated tower and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie from the 15th century . Montecchio is a member of the Città dell'Olio Association and the Strada dei Vini Etrusco Romani .

1. Passignano sul Trasimeno

We close our roundup of the 15 most beautiful villages in Umbria , with Passignano sul Trasimeno , a village that stands on a small promontory located in the northern part of Lake Trasimeno , from which it takes its name, we are in the province of Perugia . Passignano sul Trasimeno is an ancient fishing village , near the Rocca there is also the Boat Museum .

The calm waters of the lake allow you to practice numerous water sports , such as sup , canoeing, sailing ; there are many possibilities for trekking in the surrounding area and if you want to explore the surroundings, the ferry that takes you to the islands of Trasimeno (Maggiore and Polvese islands) leaves from here.

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10 Best places to visit in Umbria Italy

Umbria is one of Italy’s most famous regions, especially for its very natural landscapes. For the most part, it is still untouched by man, and it’s only fair to wonder about the best places to visit in Umbria Italy on your next trip. The region is indeed large and provides the finest medieval towns, green mountains, and lakes. I am a big nature lover, as you might already know. Losing myself on a visit to the most famous volcanos in Italy or relaxing at the most beautiful Italian beaches is an end goal for me. That’s why I felt like sharing with you the best places to visit in Umbria, Italy.

Umbria is one of the finest Italian cities, along with, say, Florence , Rome , or Verona. The charismatic Italian region is bordered by the rolling greenery of Tuscany, Le Marche, and Lazio. Also known as ‘The Green Heart of Italy’, Umbria in Italy appeals through the sheer natural beauty of its landscape.

10 Best Places to visit in Umbria Italy

It all looks like a lush green paradise in Umbria. Stunning hill towns, gorgeous lakes , fascinating Roman ruins, and lip-smacking local cuisine. Traveling to Umbria in Italy is surely the epitome of holiday heaven, and yet, many of us don’t even know the Umbria Italy map. We’re about to switch that up, so you can discover all the dreamy places to see in the region.

It’s true that a few years ago, Umbria in Italy, was known, if at all, as Tuscany’s less alluring sister. Not any more: these days, Italy’s “green heart” is every bit as celebrated as its more famous neighbor. The reasons are simple: the region has all Tuscany ‘s attributes – and even a few more.

True, it doesn’t have the big set of pieces of Florence and Siena. Yet, it does have a coronet of far more intimate and easily visited hill towns – Gubbio, Assisi, or the famous Perugia. So, let’s dive into the list of all the cool top attractions and things to do in Umbria!

1. Best Places to Visit in Umbria Italy: Orvieto

Orvieto is a small city perched on a rock cliff in Umbria, Italy. It is a town in southwestern Umbria (Italy) located 100 km north of Rome, on a fairly flat top of a large hill. Orvieto’s art and cultural heritage are one of the richest in Italy. Orvieto tops the list of 10 best places to visit in Umbria, Italy due to its rich cultural heritage. Some of the best sights in Orvieto include the Duomo di Orvieto (Cathedral), and the Pozzo di San Patrizio (St. Patrick’s Well).

The city’s top tourist destination is definitely the Cathedral, a striking church with an unusual façade. Unlike most Italian churches with mosaics decorating their facades, this one is clearly and unmistakably Gothic in design. The Pozzo di San Patrizio is a well, 61 meters deep with two separate spiral staircases winding around the shaft to avoid a collision. One was built for the descent. The other one, for the ascent of the donkeys that brought up water from the well.

To be fair, there’s much more to see in Orvieto, and that could definitely make for an entire article. One of the coolest sights is from the Torre del Moro. The quadrangular 13th-century tower overlooks the heart of the old city, offering 360-degree views from the observation deck. An elevator can take you about halfway, but you’ll have to climb the rest of the stairs to the top. An inscription on the base of the Torre del Moro quotes Dante’s Divine Comedy, referring to fights between the rival families of the Monaldeschi and Filippeschi in medieval Orvieto.

2. Best place to stay in Umbria Italy: Spello

Spello is a picturesque Umbrian town near the more famous Assisi in the province of Perugia. Spello is a quaint, charming town with honey-colored houses cascading down the slopes of Saint Francis’s mountain, Monte Subasio. This medieval town is surrounded by walls and today, is probably most famous for its famous flower festival, the Infiorata. Though a small town of 61 square km area, Spello is one of the best places to see in Umbria Italy. All you need to explore this fascinating town is a few hours. It is as charming as the images suggest! 

As such, whatever you do, don’t miss the Infiorata (Flower Festival) held in May and June. The streets transform into a colorful wonderland, dubbing Spello the ‘Capital of Flowers’. Admire all the Flowery Windows, Balconies, and Alleys of this village making it more beautiful, thanks to the competition where citizens participate and adorn their doorways and houses facades with plants and flowers.

Still, there are other beautiful panoramic points in Spello. One is just behind Sant’Andrea church. Another one (with a view the opposite side of the valley) is next to the Roman Arch, on top of the village Plan a one-day trip to this beautiful Umbria destination and enjoy the beauty of one of the very best places to see in Umbria Italy.

3. Umbria, Italy Destinations: Marmore Waterfalls

Regarded as one of the best falls in view, Marmore falls offer panoramic, spectacular scenery. The cascade is in full verve during the monsoon season and is quite a sight to behold. Marmore Falls is one of the tallest human-made waterfalls in the world, and the riveting brilliance of God’s creation is depicted in the startling marvel of Marmore waterfalls.

This is, to me, the best place to see in Umbria Italy. The best time to visit Marmore waterfalls depends on what you want to encounter at these magical streams. October to June will give you pleasant weather and gushing, tamed water in the waterfall . Monsoon months from July to September see furious, yet exquisite water flow. Finally, from April to the end of September, there is also a paid shuttle bus service. Whether you prefer fact or fiction, the falls are a sight to behold. 

4. Best Umbria, Italy Cities: Spoleto

Off the main tourist track in Italy’s green heart, you could say that Spoleto is “a hidden gem”, to coin an overused term in travel writing. This is one of the Italian cities with rich offerings of music, theater, dance, and famous attendees in the summer months. Without a doubt, Spoleto is an Umbria destination to pass by for its rich and hearty cuisine, traditional handicrafts, and long-standing viniculture.

I’d say a dream holiday here starts with enjoying mornings drinking coffee in the square. One of the best things to do in Umbria is tasting fine wines in the surrounding countryside; the ideal town and country Italian hideaway. Vineyards of Montefalco and Bevagna are surrounded by sun-capped mountains, which makes this one of the best places to see in Umbria, Italy. 

Spoleto is most known for its historical Festival Dei Due Mondi (Festival of two worlds) which takes place the last week in June and the first two weeks in July since 1958, a tribute to various art forms. It features artists from all over the world including famous names such as Pavarotti and Andy Warhol. Additional festivals include the Festival of Colors (Spoleto in Colors) at the end of April, a wine lover’s festival at the end of Spring, and during harvest season, the Frantoi Aperti (open olive mills).

Spoleto definitely sets itself as one of the best places to stay in Umbria. It’s not all about art, olives, and vineyards. One of the best places to stay in Umbria Italy is the charming mom-and-pop place Osteria del Trivio in Spoleto. This osteria is home to a cheerful bright atmosphere with checkered tablecloths and freshly made Italian pastries .

5. Best Place to Stay in Umbria Italy: Norcia, The Trekker’s Paradise

Rich in a large historical and artistic heritage that places it among the best places to visit in Umbria Italy, Norcia is located in the lovely Valnerina Valley. Nestled in the heart of the Sibillini Mountains National Park, the town is surrounded by mountains of more than 2000 mt, a day-trippers and skiers paradise. Norcia housed goldsmith and painting workshops and used to be a town populated by artists and experts in medicine, law, and literature.

The medical care from here was well noted in ancient times and the town’s Roman name of Nursia was bestowed upon caregivers – “ nursino “. It still has artisan shops and is considered one of the most interesting places in the whole Valnerina. Shopping in Norcia is also one of the best things to do in Umbria.

Norcia also makes a place in the list of one of the best places to stay in Umbria Italy for religious people. Norcia is most famous for being the birthplace of St Benedict, the founder of modern monasticism. The statue dedicated to him is located on the main square. Start with some sightseeing, and then, shopping for local produce should be your next step. You will find a lot of gift shops and norcinerie around ( norcineria is a store with salumi, prosciutti and other products from wild boar and pork, that also sells cheese like pecorino, black truffle products, lentils and other things the area is famous for).

6. Best Things to See in Umbria: Wildlife at Monti Sibillini National Park

The Monti Sibillini National Park (Italian: Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini) is a national park located across the regions of Marche and Umbria, encompassing the provinces of Macerata, Fermo, Ascoli Piceno and Perugia. Explore the realms of wildlife in Monti Sibillini National Park – one of the rising tourist Umbria destinations. A travel experience in these parts might very well be the most realistic thing you do in your life. Nature living is rough, but here, it’s one marked by culture, that leaves the visitor with unforgettable emotions.

Some of the best things to see in Umbria had to be the natural landscapes. The Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini’s Visso is one of the best places to see in Umbria Italy. Not far away, cars and individuals alike can take a tour of the Gole della Valnerina, gullies that were dug by erosion from the River Nera. You can also hike on the massif Monte Bove (resembling more a Dolomite summit than an Apennine one). 

Wondering where are the best things to do in Umbria Italy in the National Park? For one, the Park of the Cascade offers the unique opportunity to practice sports disciplines. Trekking, caving, canyoning, rafting, climbing all perfectly belong to the list of best things to do in Umbria. Inside the park, you can practice all these extreme sports under the guidance of qualified instructors and guides. Without a doubt, rafting is one of the most adventurous and best things to do in Umbria in this national park .

7. Things to see in Umbria: Todi in Umbria, Italy

The hilltop town of Todi overlooks the picturesque Tevere Valley. Surrounded by three sets of walls, the town conceals many hidden treasures. Each wall was built in a different historical era. For instance, the innermost is Etruscan, the middle one Roman, and the medieval wall from the Middle Ages.

Todi reached its apex during the Medieval period, which you can see from the splendid municipal palaces and enchanting religious buildings. You can admire the Santa Maria della Consolazione Church, the Piazza del Popolo, and the ancient arches built in between the houses. The tradition and culture are also reflected in the walls built around, and in what is left of the amphitheater. 

In the Museo Civico, you’ll see the famous Eugubine Tablets, Umbria’s most important archeological find. It’s also worth paying a visit to the Duomo, the Palazzo Ducale, and the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo. Other highlights include visiting the 16th-century Consolazione Temple with its gorgeous dome. You might know how much I love visiting the underground, like the Sotterranea Napoli . In Todi, you can explore the Roman-built underground cisterns, and stroll down the narrow streets in search of handicrafts.

8. Best Places to see in Umbria Italy: Lake Trasimeno

If activities like boating, bird watching, and jogging tantalize your senses, then Umbria in Italy welcomes you. Lake Trasimeno, with its hillside olive groves, undulating vineyards, and quaint stone villages, is one of the most enchanting destinations in Umbria. The fourth-largest of Italy’s lakes, Trasimeno surrounds itself with ancient towers, fortresses, and Renaissance-style churches. On the lake itself, you’ll find pastel-colored wooden fishing boats . Around you, three scenic lake islands, and some of the most dramatic sunsets in Umbria, Italy cities. 

Do take your time to explore the lake’s islands, and towns, and enjoy the decadent cuisine. There is so much to taste, from wine to olive oil , fish, and legumes. They all flourish deliciously in Trasimeno’s microclimate. Hike and bird watch in Isola Polvese’s nature park and browse the famous Irish lacework in Isola Maggiore.

I’d also suggest a visit to Castiglione del Lago. That’s the most popular town, perched on a small promontory. Take a drive along the scenic Percorso Storico Archeologico della Battaglia and soak up the gloriously slow pace of Monte del Lago. A dream.

9. Best Places To Visit in Umbria Ita ly : Gubbio, The City of Fools

Gubbio is also one of the best places to visit in Umbria Italy. It lies at the foot of Mount Ingino, just northeast of Perugia. Despite being so close to Assisi, it’s surprisingly off the main tourist track. Surrounded by avocado countryside and connected to Mount Ingino via a scenic cableway, this hillside Italian town is undeniably magical. If you like losing yourself in nature, that’s one of the best places to stay in Umbria Italy. When it comes to authenticity, architecture, and atmosphere, Gubbio has it all.

Dating back to pre-Roman times, Gubbio is one of Umbria’s oldest towns. The town center is a pleasing mix of medieval, gothic, and Renaissance architecture built from grey limestone. It also bears the name “City of Fools” because you can obtain a “madman’s license” (and Eugubina citizenship!) in Gubbio. All you need to do is merely circle the small fountain in Largo Bargello three times.

Gubbio retains much of its medieval appearance. For instance, principal monuments include the Palazzo dei Consoli, housing a museum containing the famous Iguvine Tables and an art gallery; the 15th-century Palazzo Ducale; the 13th-century cathedral; and other old churches. Gubbio has two traditional medieval festivals in May. Cereals, wine, olive oil, tobacco products, cement, and brick are all local produce there. There, the craft of ceramics is highly developed, as are the crafts of embroidery, lace making, and wrought iron.

10. The Capital of Umbria in Italy : Perugia

With a pristine medieval center and an international student population, Perugia is Umbria’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Nestled within central Umbria, Perugia is the region’s thriving capital. This picturesque Etruscan town is charmingly medieval, with a backdrop dominated by Italy’s largest fortress, the Rocca Paolina. Believed to be older than Rome, Perugia definitely lives up to its steadfast reputation.

Reminders of its lively and often bloody past are everywhere, from ancient arches and medieval basilicas to Renaissance frescoes by the likes of Perugino and Raphael. As if all that wasn’t enough to tempt you to Umbria, Perugia is also the ‘Chocolate Capital of Italy.’ It’s home to world-famous chocolatier, Perugina, creators of the legendary Baci chocolate kisses.

Visit in October and immerse yourself in the Euro Chocolate Festival with its theater and music performances, cooking demonstrations, and chocolate art exhibitions! Perugia is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Umbria Italy, and to be fair, I personally think it is. If you’d consider staying in the town, make sure you check our list of the best hotels in Perugia !

Wrapping up 10 Best Places to visit in Umbria Italy

Travel while you’re still young. Lose yourself to find your own self. Live like there’s no tomorrow. And whatever you’ll explore today will last a lifetime with you. No matter how many places are on your bucket list, this list will get you dreaming of places near and far. These are not just Umbria destinations but fun places that will offer you some crazy experiences of a lifetime.

What are you waiting for? You have now got the answers to what the best things to do in Umbria are, and maybe most importantly, the best places to stay in Umbria. Now it’s time to pack your bags and set on a journey to scratch off a few destinations from your bucket list. It’s time to visit these bright cities to explore yourself on a journey and determine your favorite pick from these best places to visit in Umbria Italy! If you’d like to discover another brilliant destination to include on your bucket list, take a look at the best castles in the Lazio region , just nearby!

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Umbria, Italy: travel guide and places to visit

Visit Umbria

Umbria may not be home to lots of 'famous' places except Assisi, but has its own special charm with picturesque scenery and numerous medieval towns and villages for those that do come here

Umbria - a guide and places to visit

For a summary of the most popular sights in the region see also Umbria places to visit .

Umbria is a land-locked region in the heart of central Italy, with Tuscany to the west and Le Marche to the east. The capital of the region, Perugia, is centrally placed in Umbria, while the ancient city of Spoleto is well located for exploring the southern part of the region.

Umbria can perhaps best be thought of as 'Tuscany without the crowds', and you can discover ancient towns and villages set in beautiful rolling countryside while avoiding the crowds that tend to congregate in the most popular of the Tuscan destinations.

To help when you are planning a visit we introduce the highlights of Umbria below as three separate regions: Perugia and the north, Spoleto and the south and Assisi and the east, since you are unlikely to explore the entire region during one visit (we haven't forgotten the west - the highlights here are included in north or south Umbria according to their location!)

Perugia and the north of Umbria

Highlights to the north of Perugia include Pietralunga and its fortress, the historic centre of Citta di Castello , medieval and renaissance Gubbio and the fortress of Umbertide .

From here continue to Lake Trasimeno, an attractive and popular destination with the villages of Castiglione del Lago and Magione on the west and east edges of the lake respectively.

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Spoleto, Orvieto and the south of Umbria

Further south in Umbria be sure to visit the traditional medieval town of Narni and the town of Terni and nearby Marmore waterfall.

To the west of here you can visit the fortified town of Amelia , then an excursion to the collegiale church in Lugnano in Teverina is recommended. The medieval town at San Gemini also has a great deal of interest to visitors.

Be sure to pause to explore the medieval heart of Norcia on the way, and visit the shrine at the small town of Cascia to the south-west of here. The village of Sellano is also in a picturesque setting nearby.

The scenery of the Valnerina region south of Spoleto is equally enticing - more rolling than mountainous, and very worthy of being explored.

Assisi and the east of Umbria

To the east of Perugia, the most visited destination in Umbria is Assisi , now dominated by a substantial basilica that  commemorates the birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi.

West of Assisi the ancient village of Bettona and the interesting town of Bastia Umbra are close by while to the north and east of here highlights include Valfabbrica and Valtopina : there are a good number of small historic villages to explore in this region.

The cathedral town of Nocera Umbra and the fortress and centre of Gualdo Tadino are other highlights here.

Travelling south-east from Assisi through central Umbria there are several places of interest. First visit the cathedral and cloisters in Foligno and take a stroll around the centre of the medieval village of Spello .

We also suggest you visit the historical town of Trevi just east of the very ancient village of Montefalco . The village of Bevagna and the imposing fortress of the Borgias at Gualdo Cattaneo should also be on your list of places to visit in this part of Umbria.

Umbria highlights - a photo gallery

Most Beautiful Villages - Umbria

The following Italian towns and villages in Umbria are listed among the ' most beautiful villages in Italy ': Arrone, Bettona , Bevagna , Castiglione del Lago , Citerna, Corciano, Deruta, Giove, Lugnano in Teverina , Massa Martana, Monte Castello di Vibio, Montefalco , Montone, Norcia , Paciano, Panicale, San Gemini , Spello , Stroncone, Torgiano, Trevi and Vallo di Nera

Orange Flag Tourism towns in Umbria

The following Italian towns and villages in Umbria are listed among the ' Orange flag towns in Italy '(a national tourist award): Bevagna , Citta della Pieve , Montefalco , Montone, Norcia , Panicale, Spello , Trevi , Vallo di Nera

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Visiting Umbria: 10 Towns in Umbria You Do Not Want to Miss

Written by Caroline Muller

The region of Umbria is one of a handful of uncrowded places still to be found in Italy. Nestled in the center of the country, an easy 2-hour drive from both Rome and Florence; it is a miracle Umbria has managed to remain under the tourist radar. Exploring towns in Umbria means venturing off the well-trodden tourist path and strolling into the heart of Italy. So slow down, grab your Italian phrasebook and enjoy the ride!

Umbria in Italy is affectionately called the green heart of Italy, a term which becomes self-explanatory when driving in from the main tourist hubs Rome & Florence. Trading in crowded streets for small winding roads, lines of tourists for rows of vineyards, and slabs of stone – be it very beautiful and historically relevant stones, one cannot simply denounce THE Colloseum or the Duomo as ‘stones’ without adding a side note – for rolling hills with the occasional smallholding surrounded by olive groves. We are no longer in Kansas toto!

This guide will take you through 10 of the most beautiful medieval towns in Umbria, most of which are perched atop a hilltop, filled with ample restaurants boasting the best views – to be enjoyed over €3 pizza and €4 Aperol Spritz.

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Where is Umbria & How to Get There

Umbria is one of the 20 provinces in Italy. It is located between the tourist hotspots of Tuscany (Florence) and Lazio (Rome) and can be easily reached from either.

GOOD TO KNOW | Parts of Umbria can also be visited as day trips from Rome thanks to a very good connection with direct Trenitalia trains.

Getting to Umbria by plane

Perugia (PEG) Airport is the largest airport in the region. The airport is serviced by low-cost airline Ryanair, and as such there are plenty of affordable flight connections from all major European hubs.

It is worthy to note that Rome Fiumicino (FCO) is a mere 130 kilometers (81 miles) away and Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) is around 140 kilometers (89 miles) away. The trains of Trenitalia connect both airports to the capital of the region, Perugia.

Save your pennies: Check the cheapest flights via Skyscanner

Visiting Umbria by Public Transport

Getting to umbria (perugia) from rome .

TRAIN: Daily trains run from Rome Fiumicino (FCO) to Perugia (1 change, 3h30, tickets start at €20/$22). Check tickets and timetable.

BUS: Four busses a day depart from downtown Rome (Rome Autostazione Tiburtina) to the center of Perugia. (1 change, 3h30 ride time, tickets start at €13/$14 (one-way)). Check tickets and timetable.

Getting to Umbria (Perugia) from Florence

TRAIN : Daily trains run from Florence Peretola Airport or Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station (downtown) to Perugia (Direct or 1 stop, 2h, tickets starting at €15/$16.3). Check tickets and timetable

BUS: Multiple busses run between Florence Villa Costanza and Perugia Piazza Partigiani (Direct, 1h50 ride time, tickets start at €15/$16.3) Check tickets and timetable

10 Medieval Umbrian Towns to Explore

Paradoxically the best plan for exploring Umbria is to have no plan. Aside from Perugia and Terni there are no other large cities in the region – the term large being relative as both cities have just over 100K inhabitants. The region is instead dotted with little medieval towns, usually clinging for dear life to the side of a hill. Many of these villages have a couple of thousand inhabitants and are not mentioned in any guidebook. They merit stumbling upon while you leisurely explore the Umbrian countryside. Yet as time is often finite on holiday (alas!), these are the best towns in Umbria to get a true feeling of the region: architecture, gothic churches, and ankle-biting ascents await!

Foodie Tip: Make sure to include enough time to try some of the traditional Umbrian dishes .

Most beautiful towns in Northern Umbria

Perugia is the capital of Umbria and one of the largest cities in the region. The city houses both the regional & provincial governments as well as the Public University of Perugia. The highlight of Perugia is without a doubt the medieval Centro Storico (historic center). Walk around the Piazza IV Novembre and visit the San Lorenzo Church, take in the best panorama of the city at the Porta Sole or the Giardini Carducci, and watch the sunset from the Sciri Tower. The city holds a lot of history, which is why we decided to take a guided (& affordable) 2-hour walking tour . Make sure to try strangozzi (a type of pasta) with truffle at the popular Osteria Cardinale . Or try your hands at making strangozzi yourself in a traditional Italian cooking class . Perugia is one of the best towns in Umbria to use as a base for exploring the rest of the region.

Find a local agriturismo in Perugia

Set on the slopes of Mt. Subasio, Assisi is the home and final resting place of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order. To this day Assisi is a very important pilgrimage site both nationally and internationally and is recognized as such by UNESCO.  Pilgrims flock to revere the remains of Saint Francis, who was laid to rest in the Basilica di San Francesco.

While the façade of the Basilica might exude self-effacing piety, the inside tells a different story. The large complex is decorated with exquisite frescoes, painted across the walls and ceilings of the many chapels, the detail of which could rival those of the Sistine Chapel. It goes without saying that when out exploring Umbria, a visit to the Basilica is an absolute must. If you have some spare time make sure to pop into the other UNESCO-recognized basilica in the vicinity of Assisi: Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli Visiting Assisi and the Saint Francis Basilica can be done without a guide (the town is very easy to navigate). Those looking to get a bit more of a backstory might want to consider investing in a tour.

$: VALUE FOR MONEY: A small-group 3-hour walking tour through the town of Assisi, including a guided visit of the Saint Francis Basilica and other highlights Assisi has to offer.

$$: TOP RATED TOUR : This top-rated private 3-hour walking tour explores the historical monuments of Assisi, the Saint Francis Basilica as well as a host of hidden courtyards and alleys in the town of Assisi that most tourists often overlook.

Find a locally run guesthouse in Assisi

A short 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away from Assisi lies the picturesque town of Spello, heralded as “the most beautiful village in Italy”.  Although small in size – a mere 9000 people call it home –  Spello has a lot to offer. To start off with it is one of the best towns in Umbria to get a real medieval vibe. This can be best experienced by walking through the Centro Storico (historic center). Enter the historic center through the ancient Roman gate and follow the pink signs reading Percorso Consigliato (recommended routes) to explore the town’s wonders.

Meander through ancient honey-colored houses decorated with flowers in every color of the rainbow, gaze at the vineyards sprawled out in front of the Belvedere Cappuccini and treat yourself to the local specialty: Gelato made from various flowers, the lavender flavor is worth its weight in gold!

Find a guesthouse in the Historical Centre of Spello

Continue exploring Umbria by driving North to the medieval town of Gubbio, home to the remains of the second-largest Roman theatre in the world – located just outside of town. Make your way from the Roman theatre up to the Piazza Grande, and fuel up with a torta al testo before visiting the Medieval Palazzo dei Consoli. Find reprieve from the searing summer heat in the little alleyways of the Centro Storico (historic center), neatly lined with cookie-cutter 14th-century stone houses topped with terracotta-tiled rooves. Walk up to the Gubbio Cathedral and marvel at the small but ornate baroque temple. The best views of the town are seen from the Saint’ Ubaldo Basilica, perched atop Mount Igino, and easily accessible via the Funivia Colle Eletto (return tickets cost €6/$6.5).

Find a quaint agriturismo just outside of Gubbio

Most beautiful towns in Southern Umbria

We opted to stay in a family-run agriturismo (guesthouse) just outside of Todi. Casale Dei Frontini was a great spot to stay in while we explored Southern Umbria. With a vineyard, sunflower field, and a pool with views over Todi we honestly could not have been better off. The fact it was locally run by the kindest family was the proverbial parmigiano on the pasta!

Todi is renowned for its unrivaled bucolic charm. Like many of its fellow Umbrian towns, it is perched on a natural pedestal above the river Tiber, surrounded by the occasional patch of sunflowers, vineyards, and iconic olive groves. Start your visit at the Church of Saint Mary of Consolation and walk (or take the mini-bus) up to the medieval Piazza del Popolo , set aside a little time to wander around in Todi’s Gothic Cathedral. A private walking tour is a great option for those interested in the history and architecture of the town. The best views over the town can be found from the top of the Campanile di San Fortunato, they do require a steep climb up. An alternative viewpoint can be found at Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi – the perfect spot the watch the sunset & enjoy a glass of wine at one of the bars right on the square.

Book a romantic dinner at the Ristorante Pizzeria Cavour, where you can go straight for the €4 pizza or try the antipasti plate filled with local specialties.

Find a locally run agriturismo in Todi

Spoleto is one of the best towns in Umbria to witness the importance of the region throughout history: Roman arches & a virtually intact Roman theatre; Romanesque cathedral and churches protected by a medieval fortress and city walls. Various eras of history reside side by side making Spoleto a historical treasure trove to walk through. And walk you shall! Up and down the little streets, covered by medieval arches. Grab lunch on top of the hill at one of the restaurants just under the medieval fortress to enjoy the best views over Spoleto. Make sure to leave enough room after lunch/dinner to try the local desert Crescionda .

Tip : Visiting Umbria without seeing famous waterfalls would be truly a pity! Venture 30 minutes out of Spoleto to The Marmore Falls , a 2000-year-old man-made waterfall with its very own working hours (be sure to check in advance to avoid the disappointment of turning up to a non-functioning waterfall).

Stay in the medieval historical center of Spoleto

The little town of Amelia is not usually on tourist routes when exploring Umbria, yet it is one of the oldest towns in the region dating back to the 11 th century BC. The centro storico (old town) can be accessed by walking through the main gate: the medieval Porta Romana. Make your way up to the Piazza Marconi and visit the beautifully preserved Cathedral of Amelia. Upon completing your visit, take some time to take in the views at the Belvedere in front of the Cathedral.

Find a guesthouse in Amelia

A true highlight of Umbria, Orvieto is a small but wonderful town in Umbria to spend the day in. Great for lovers of architecture and those who love getting lost in little medieval alleyways. The centro storico (historic center) is a postcard medieval town that holds one of Italy’s most underrated wonders: A medieval Duomo encasing the show-stopping Cappella di San Brizio decorated with 15th century – slightly disconcerting –frescoes depicting The Last Judgement. While not as ornate as churches in Palermo it is certainly worth a visit! From the Duomo walk over the Pozo della Cava and explore one of the 1200 caves that form the underground of Orvieto. Get that typical Umbrian hilltop town feel while climbing the Torre del Moro , the undisputed best viewpoint over all of Orvieto and its valley.

Combine history, architecture, and local food and wine by taking an e-bike tour or one of the many walking tours available (affordable locally run small-group walking tours or private walking tours ).

Tip: Looking to get to know the Umbrian wines a little better? Book an e-bike tour from Orvieto. On this day tour, cycle to three wineries around Orvieto and taste the local specialties!

Stay in a castle: Looking to stay in a traditional Umbrian castle? Check out the charming Castello di Titignano .

Stay in the small town of Orvieto in one of the guesthouse s

The little town of Norcia was badly destroyed by the 2016 earthquake that struck Central Italy. At the time of visiting (2021), the town was still very much in disrepair with shops taking up temporary residences just outside the medieval walls. What it lacks in solid infrastructure is made up for in utter charm and genuinely friendly locals. One of the villages in Umbria that could really use an influx of tourists, and subsequent tourist spending to help aid the repairs in the village. This part of Umbria is known for its delicatessen: Black truffle, Castelluccio Lentils, and Prosciutto di Norcia (meat) – which can be bought in one of the many delicatessen stores in town . Non-vegetarians can try the typical Pasta a la Norcina (penne, Norcia sausage, onions, white wine, cream, pecorino cheese) in one of the local restaurants.

If you happen to be visiting Umbria during early spring, drive 35 minutes east from Norcia towards the plains of Castelluccio di Norcia to catch the fiorita (the flowering of the lentil fields) which is without a doubt one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Italy .

Find a great guesthouse in Norcia

10. Montefalco

Surrounded by vineyards as far as the eye can see, with an exquisite view over the plains of Topino sits the hilltop town of Montefalco. One of the few medieval towns in Umbria where wine was produced both in and outside of the city’s protective walls for centuries. If you are looking for a wine tasting, Montefalco might just be one of the best towns in Umbria to do so: Sagrantino di Montefalco and Rosso di Montefalco are both cultivated in the region. Take a guided t our combining the various vineyards or look up your favorite wine producer and give them a ring. Chances are they are more than happy to give you a private tour of their vineyard. An integral part of exploring Umbria is without a doubt savoring the local cuisine.

Stop by the restaurant of TV chef Giorgio Barchiesi for a taste of true Umbrian hospitality. The menu is fixed (call upfront if you are a vegetarian/vegan) and portion sizes are extremely large so best to come hungry.

Find a locally hosted stay in Montefalco

Map of Towns and Villages in Umbria

Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all these beautiful Umbrian villages are located in Italy. Or take a peek at the below map.

How to Get Around the Prettiest Towns of Umbria

The region of Umbria is easier to navigate via public transportation than many other provinces in Italy. Larger towns are connected through a network of buses and trains that run daily. Smaller towns in Umbria however are harder to reach with public transport. While I am a big proponent of public transport as a means of sustainable travel , we were under a bit of a strict timeframe and we were hoping to catch a few smaller towns in the region, so in all transparency, we used the car to get around.

Public Transportation in Umbria

If you are going to rely on public transport to travel around Umbria, look into the Umbria GO pass. This pass allows you to get on (sub)urban buses, trains, and even the ferry on Lake Trasimeno.  Passes can be purchased for 1,3,7, 30 days, and prices start at €15 and go up to €120 ($16.3-$130).

The pass cannot be purchased online, but it is available at the Trenitalia or Busitalia ticket offices all over Umbria and a few select sales points. Information on these select sales points was only available in Italian

Renting a car in Umbria

Renting a car in Umbria will cost anywhere between €60 and €100 ($65-$109) euro a day depending on the type of car & insurance you choose. Prices can get expensive, compare rentals via  Auto Europe and be sure to book in advance! Pickup locations are usually from the largest town in the region: Perugia

Documents needed for renting a car Umbria

• When renting a car drivers need to be at least 19 years old, drivers between 19 and 25 ýears old will most likely need to pay an additional fee (young driver surcharge)
• Valid Drivers Licence: Renting a car from outside of Europe? You will need to have an International Drivers Permit (IDP)
• Insurance: According to Italian Law, you need to be in possession of a Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection insurance for your car. These usually come in the standard rental package, though best to check in advance.

What type of car should I rent to travel around Umbria

There are not many electric charging points in Umbria, most of the charging points that are available are located around Perugia ( check map ). If you intend to be driving inside the towns in Umbria I highly recommend getting a small car. The medieval towns were not built with cars in mind and the small roads are anything but easy to navigate (even in a small car).

Watch out: Most historical towns in Umbria are closed off during select hours of the day. Look for signs indicating ZTL (low emission zone) at the entrance of the town. This will tell you exactly when you can/cannot drive in the historical center. Every town we visited had ample parking on the outskirts so we simply popped the car there and walked into the historical center.

Find the cheapest option: Check the various options on Auto Europe and compare prices.

Is it Worth Taking a Tour to the Various Villages in Umbria?

If you are looking to dip your toe into the region of Umbria from Rome or Florence or want to get a deeper understanding of the region, then taking a tour is worth it! Below are a select few locally run tours that will allow you to explore Umbria.

Tours to towns in Umbria leaving from Rome & Florence

$: ASSISI & ORVIETO DAY TOUR :   The UNESCO-classified towns of Assisi and Orvieto are the undisputed starlets of the region and by far the prettiest towns in Umbria to visit. This full-day tour includes a local lunch and tasting of Umbrian wines as a visit to a few hidden gems in Umbria. Departs from Rome. $: ASSISI & CORTONA DAY TOUR: This full-day tour takes you to the UNESCO-classified village of Assisi where you will visit the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi and the much lesser-known Santa Maria degli Angeli. The next stop is the Etruscan town of Cortona with its renowned panoramic views. Departs from Florence.

Tours to villages in Umbria leaving from locations in Umbria

$: E-BIKE TOUR ORVIETO : Bike from Orvieto to the cliff-top village of Civita and explore the very best of the beautiful Umbrian countryside, castles, and food. A delicious local lunch is included in the price of the tour. Departs from Orvieto.

$$: BIKE AND WINE TASTING: Explore the Umbrian countryside on a bike! Ride through cobblestoned streets, the lush countryside, and all the way to a small, locally run vineyard to taste the very best Umbrian wines. A traditional lunch is included in the tour. Departs from Torre del Colle.

Exploring Umbria vs Exploring Tuscany

In truth, both regions are very similar in geography, history, and cuisine. Tuscany is the poster child for “la dolce vita”, many a-movie depicts a classic Fiat 500 car driving through the bucolic landscape of Tuscany:  winding roads, lined with cypresses and vineyards, dotted with rustic agriturismo run by an Italian nonna (grandma).

The stark reality is, that while this might have been Tuscany many years back. These days the region is positively heaving with tourists on their quest for the true Dolce Vita and paying a hefty price for it. The region is still very beautiful, and those who seek will still find authenticity though it is becoming increasingly hard.

Exploring Umbria and driving through the many little towns in Umbria however, will provide you with ample opportunity to catch a glimpse of that traditional Italian way of life. Umbria is perfect for those looking to slow travel and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Visiting Umbria Travel Tips

I truly hope this guide has convinced you to travel to Umbria and explore all this region has to offer. A few additional tidbits of information on what foods to try, when to visit and a budget estimation can be found in the below section.

Foods in Umbria to try

Umbria is the capital of the slow food movement in Italy. In short, it means plenty of organic foods (farm-to-table), made using age-old traditional recipes.  Umbrian food is delicious and offers a great variety for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. These are some of the traditional Umbrian dishes to try on your trip through the region:

• Farrecchiata di roveja : Delicious lentil soup
• Torta al testo : The traditional focaccia of the region
• Pasta alla norcina : Pasta with onion, garlic, pork sausage, ricotta cheese, black pepper, and local black truffle
• Strangozzi : A typical pasta from Spoleto (to be eaten with norcina sauce or truffles)

Is visiting Umbria expensive?

As Umbria is a more off-the-beaten-path region in Italy, it is a lot less expensive. FOOD : Our budget was €15 per meal/person which was more than enough. Often lunch even came in under budget. To give you an example a pizza Marguerita will cost €4 (compared to €8 – €12) in Rome and Florence. ACCOMMODATION : Hotels and Agriturismo will cost around €50-€100/$55-$109 a night (for 2 people), with city centers being on the higher end of the budget and accommodations in smaller towns being on the lower end of the budget.

Go local: Many local agriturismo are not on large booking sites. Try searching “agriturismo Umbria” to find locally run hotels and book directly via them.

Best time to explore Umbria

Umbria has something to offer travelers in each season, though it depends on what you are looking to get out of your holiday, my personal favorite seasons to visit Italy’s green lung are in spring and autumn: temperatures are mild and vegetation lush.

SPRING: Average temperatures vary between 15°C/59°F (March) and 25°C/77°F (May). Bring a sweater with you as the evenings tend to get chilly.

SUMMER: Average temperatures hover around 30°C/86°F. Plan to explore in the morning and after 4.00 PM, spend the warmest hours of the day relaxing in your agriturismo. The beginning of summer has the hills of Umbria carpeted in sunflowers as far as the eye can see.

AUTUMN: Average temperatures vary between 26°C/79°F (September) to 15°C/59°F (November). Enjoy mild temperatures and no tourists! This is the season the grapes and olives are harvested in the region. Wine lovers have ample opportunities to partake in the harvesting of grapes at local vineyards (book in advance).

WINTER: Average temperatures hover between 9°C/48°F (December) and 11°C/52°F (February). It does on occasion freeze and the region is known to get snow. If you are visiting in winter, make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes.

Sustainable & Responsible Tourism in Umbria

HEAD OFF THE BEATEN PATH : Italy has a wealth of amazing little towns, cities and natural attractions to offer the discerning traveler. Yet, the vast majority of people tend to stick to the same Itinerary. Umbria has managed to remain wonderfully authentic and is a great place to explore the tiny town.

TAP WATER : Tap water is drinkable all over Italy. Bring a reusable water bottle with you on your travels.

DRESS CODE : Most visitors will pop into at least one church when in Italy if only to see the majestic architecture. Make sure to dress appropriately for your visit: Cover your shoulders and knees.

STAY LOCAL : Heading out to explore a few of the natural parks in Italy, or embark on a hike in the epic Dolomites? Make sure to leave not a single piece of trash behind.

TRY DOP PRODUCTS : Products labeled with DOP or the “Denominazione di Origine Protetta” are regional products using ingredients coming from a specific location and/or family and adhere to the highest standard of quality.

Towns in Umbria in Conclusion

Umbria is a true hidden gem in Italy, wedged between two of the country’s main tourist attractions it is easy to add to any Rome or Tuscany Itinerary and will cost half of the budget. Visiting Umbria is perfect for the traveler looking to slow down and get a true taste of the Italian “Dolce Vita”, served with a side of delicious Truffle Pasta and washed down with the very best Umbrian wine. Enjoy!

MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING ITALY

NORTHERN ITALY: Northern Italy road trip one to two-week itinerary DOLOMITES: Most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites DOLOMITES: Find the perfect accommodation in the Dolomites SICILY: Picture perfect Sicilian villages you simply cannot miss SICILY: Where to stay in Sicily for a relaxing getaway SICILY: Traditional Sicilian dishes to try on your trip to Sicily SICILY: Streetfood in Palermo

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Caroline Muller is an award-winning travel blogger. She writes and photographs full-time while oscillating between Sicily and Brussels as a home base.  She has documented over 60 countries across six continents and does not plan to stop any time soon. A staunch vegetarian for over 25 years, she loves exploring local cuisine in search of that perfect (plant-based) mouthful. With this blog, she hopes to help you travel slower, more sustainably and a hella lot more meaningfully. Pack your bags!

Thanks for taking the time to put this comprehensive and useful guide together–you have inspired me to visit Umbria!

Thanks Deborah for your kind words. I hope you enjoy beautiful Umbria just as much as I did!

Hello, i am planning to spend a month in Spoleto to attend an Italian language course at the ArteLingua School in the month of September 2023. I am expected to have a full schedule Monday through Friday but will have some time on the weekend to explore on my own the surrounding villages of Umbria ( Spello, Gubbio, Todi,Orvieto, Norcia, Montefalco, Amelia)- I am reaching out to find out whether you could provide me with travel services to these villages. Thank you for your prompt reply.

Hi, I do not unfortunately. But getting around Umbria is pretty easy with busses :).

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Thanks for dropping in! My name is Caroline , and I am a full-time writer & photographer. With this blog, I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism , and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. Adventure awaits!

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Often referred to as “the green heart of Italy”, Umbria is a predominantly beautiful and – despite the many visitors – largely unspoiled region of rolling hills, woods, streams and valleys. Within its borders it also contains a dozen or so classic hill-towns, each resolutely individual and crammed with artistic and architectural treasures to rival bigger and more famous cities. To the east, pastoral countryside gives way to more rugged scenery, none better than the dramatic twists and turns of the Valnerina and the high mountain landscapes of the Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini.

Brief history of Umbria

Umbrian cuisine, lago trasimeno, città di castello, the valnerina.

Historically, Umbria is best known as the birthplace of several saints, St Benedict and St Francis of Assisi being the most famous, and for a religious tradition that earned the region such names as Umbra santa, Umbra mistica and la terra dei santi (“the land of saints”). The landscape itself has contributed much to this mystical reputation, and even on a fleeting trip it’s impossible to miss the strange quality of the Umbrian light, an oddly luminous silver haze that hangs over the hills.

After years as an impoverished backwater, Umbria has capitalized on its charms. Foreign acquisition of rural property is now as rapid as it was in Tuscany thirty years ago, though outsiders have done nothing to curb the region’s renewed sense of identity and youthful enthusiasm, nor to blunt the artistic initiatives that have turned Umbria into one of the most flourishing cultural centres in Italy.

Most visitors head for Perugia , Assisi – the latter with its extraordinary frescoes by Giotto in the Basilica di San Francesco – or Orvieto , whose Duomo is one of the greatest Gothic buildings in the country. For a taste of the region’s more understated charms, it’s best to concentrate on lesser-known places such as Todi, an increasingly chic but still unspoiled hill-town; Gubbio , ranked as the most perfect medieval centre in Italy, and Spoleto , for many people the outstanding Umbrian town. Although there are few unattractive parts of the Umbrian landscape (the factories of Terni and the Tiber Valley being the largest blots), some areas are especially enticing: the Valnerina, a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains and remote hilltop villages; the Piano Grande, a vast, featureless plain best visited in spring, when it's carpeted with wild flowers; and Lago Trasimeno, the largest lake in the Italian peninsula, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and watersports.

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Umbria was named by the Romans after the mysterious Umbrii, a tribe cited by Pliny as the oldest in Italy, and one that controlled territory reaching into present-day Tuscany and Le Marche. Although there is scant archeological evidence about them, it seems that their influence was mainly confined to the east of the Tiber; the darker and more sombre towns to the west – such as Perugia and Orvieto – were founded by the Etruscans, whose rise forced the Umbrii to retreat into the eastern hills. Roman domination was eventually undermined by the so-called barbarian invasions, in the face of which the Umbrians withdrew into fortified hill-towns, paving the way for a pattern of bloody rivalry between independent city-states that continued through the Middle Ages. Weakened by constant warfare, most towns eventually fell to the papacy, entering a period of economic and cultural stagnation that continued up until the very recent past.

The cuisine of landlocked, hilly Umbria relies heavily on rustic staples – pastas and roast meats – and in the past tended to be simple and homely. The region is also the only area outside Piemonte where truffles are found in any abundance, and their perfumed shavings, particularly in the east of the region, find their way onto eggs, pasta, fish and meat – but at a price that prohibits overindulgence.

Meat plays a leading role – especially lamb and pork, which is made into hams, sausage, salami and, most famously, porchetta, whole suckling pig stuffed with rosemary or sage, roasted on a spit. Game may also crop up on some menus, most often as pigeon, pheasant or guinea fowl. The range of fish is restricted by the lack of a coast, but trout can be caught from the Nera River and Clitunno springs, while the lakes of Piediluco and Trasimeno yield eel, pike, tench and grey mullet. Vegetable delicacies include tiny lentils from Castelluccio, beans from Trasimeno, and celery and cardoons from around Trevi. Umbrian olive oil, though less hyped than Tuscan oils, is of excellent quality – about 90 percent is extra virgin – particularly that from around Trevi and Spoleto .

As for desserts, Perugia is renowned for its chocolate and pastries. Cheeses tend to be standard issue, although some smaller producers survive in the mountains around Norcia and Gubbio .

Umbria used to be best known outside Italy for fresh, dry white wines. Orvieto , once predominantly a medium-sweet wine, has been revived in a dry style. The wine was beloved of the artists and architects of Orvieto’s Duomo: Luca Signorelli requested a thousand litres per year by contract. In recent years the pre-eminence of Orvieto in the domestic market has been successfully challenged by Grechetto, an inexpensive and almost unfailingly good wine made by countless producers across the region. Umbria’s quest for quality is also increasingly reflected in a growing number of small producers, many of whom have followed the lead of Giorgio Lungarotti, one of the pioneers of Umbrian viticulture (any wine with his name on is reliable), and in some outstanding reds, notably the Torgiano Rosso Riserva DOCG and the Sagrantino DOCG of Montefalco. The region has four wine routes ( strade del vino ): the Strada del Sagrantino, around Montefalco; the Strada dei Vini del Cantico between Todi, Perugia, Torgiano, Spello and Assisi ; the Strada del Vino Colli del Trasimeno; and the Strada dei Vini Etrusco-Romano, in the province of Terni .

The most tempting destination around Perugia – whose surroundings are generally pretty lacklustre – is Lago Trasimeno, an ideal spot to hole up in for a few days, and particularly recommended if you want to get in some swimming, windsurfing or sailing. The lake is about 30km from Perugia and is easy to get to on public transport. It’s the biggest inland stretch of water on the Italian peninsula, though you wouldn’t think so to look at it, never deeper than 7m – hence bath-like warm water in summer.

A winning combination of tree-covered hills to the north, Umbria’s subtle light, and placid lapping water produces some magical moments, but on overcast and squally days the mood can turn melancholy. Not all the reed-lined shore is uniformly pretty either; steer clear of the northern coast and head for the stretches south of Magione and Castiglione if you’re after relative peace and quiet.

On the trail of Hannibal

Somewhere along the Lago Trasimeno shore towards the rambling village of Tuoro, probably at Sanguineto (“the Place of Blood”) or Ossaia (“the Place of Bones”), is the spot where the Romans suffered their famous clobbering at the hands of Hannibal in 217 BC. Hannibal was headed for Rome, having just crossed the Alps, when he was met by a Roman force under the Consul Flaminius. Things might have gone better for Flaminius if he’d heeded the omens that piled up on the morning of battle: first he fell off his horse; next the legionary standards had to be dug out of the mud; and finally – and this really should have raised suspicions – the sacred chickens refused their breakfast. Poultry accompanied all Roman armies and, by some means presumably known to the legionnaire in charge of chickens, communicated the will of the gods to waiting commanders in the field. Hannibal lured Flaminius into a masterful ambush, with the only escape a muddy retreat into the lake. Sixteen thousand Romans, including the hapless commander, were killed.

A hard-to-find drive and walkway have been laid out, starting and finishing just west of Tuoro on the road to Cortona, which take in salient features of the old battlefield; Tuoro's irregularly open Pro Loco office has some information on the site, walkway and drive, and occasionally offers guided tours.

Activities on Lago Trasimeno

There are plenty of things to do on Lake Trasimeno from operators based in Castiglione del Lago, including windsurfing (contact Club Velico ), canoeing, waterskiing and horseriding (ask at the tourist office for recommended operators). You can rent bikes at Cicli Valentini .

The best of the little beaches is at the public lido on the southern side of Castiglione’s promontory, with pedalos for rent and boat trips, including regular excursions to the strangely rectangular island of Isola Maggiore, a fun ride if you don’t mind the summer crowds. There’s a pretty walk round the edge of the island, and one good, popular hotel, the three-star Da Sauro , Via Guglielmi 1, which also doubles as a fine restaurant.

Città di Castello is a charming and relatively little-visited town 56km north of Perugia in the Upper Tiber Valley, with a sedate and ordered medieval centre that’s well worth a few hours. It’s also the focus for visitors staying in the many rented villas and farmhouses in the hills to the east and west. In late August and early September the town becomes busier than usual during its renowned Festival of Chamber Music , dedicated to a different country each year.

Once an important Roman centre – the gridiron of streets is virtually the only legacy – today the town preserves just a handful of fairly mediocre medieval monuments. Its main attractions are its museums and art galleries, along with some quiet, pleasant medieval streets.

The Valnerina is the most beautiful part of Umbria. Strictly translated as the “little valley of the Nera”, it effectively refers to the whole eastern part of the region, a self-contained area of high mountains, poor communications, steep wooded valleys, upland villages and vast stretches of barren nothingness. Wolves still roam the summit ridges and the area is a genuine “forgotten corner”, deserted farms everywhere bearing witness to a century of emigration.

Mountains in the region are 1500m high, creeping up as you move east to about 2500m in the wonderful Monti Sibillini, the most outstanding parts of which fall under the protection of the Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini. It’s difficult to explore with any sort of plan (unless you stick to the Nera), and the best approach is to follow your nose, poking into small valleys, tracing high country lanes to remote hamlets. More deliberately, you could make for Vallo di Nera, the most archetypal of the fortified villages that pop up along the Lower Nera. Medieval Triponzo is a natural focus of communications, little more than a quaint staging post and fortified tower (and a better target than modernish Cerreto nearby).

Norcia for foodies

Meat-eaters would be daft not to try the deservedly famous local pork products. Anything that can be made from a pig, the Norcians apparently make – and supposedly better than anyone else. For this reason, alimentari throughout Italy who pride themselves on their hams and salamis will call themselves norcineria. If finances stretch, you could also indulge in the area’s prized black truffle. The season runs from January to April (though you may come across the lesser-prized white summer truffles too). Plenty of shops, an attraction in themselves, are on hand to sell you all manner of local specialities, not just truffles, but also hams, the famed lentils of Castelluccio and lots of rare mountain cheeses.

The Piano Grande

The eerie, expansive Piano Grande, 20km east of Norcia, is an extraordinary prairie ringed by bare, whaleback mountains and stretching, uninterrupted by tree, hedge or habitation, for miles and miles. A decade or so ago, it was all but unknown: now, in summer at least, it can be disconcertingly busy. It’s much photographed – especially in spring when it’s ablaze with wild flowers of every description – and was used by Zeffirelli as a setting for his Franciscan film Brother Sun, Sister Moon. The desperately isolated village of Castelluccio hangs above it at around 1400m, and although no longer the sole preserve of shepherds, it remains an unspoilt base and the ideal starting point for any number of straightforward mountain walks. To plan routes, get hold of the 1:50,000 Kompass map no. 666 or the more detailed 1:25,000 CAI maps (the latter are often available in Norcia’s or Castelluccio’s bars).

Note that there's no public transport into the area (save for one bus in and out on a Thursday, market day in Norcia), though you might try your luck at catching lifts in high season.

Narni claims to be the geographical centre of Italy, with a hilltop site jutting into the Nera Valley on a majestic spur and crowned by another of Cardinal Albornoz’s formidable papal fortresses. Commanding one end of a steep gorge (about ten minutes of fairly spectacular train travel), it was once the gateway into Umbria, the last post before the Tiber Valley and the undefended road to Rome. However, while the town retains a fine medieval character, the views from its heights are marred by steel and chemical works around Narni Scalo, the new town in the valley below.

The heart of the old town has all the standard fittings: the medieval piazzas, the warren of streets, a modest art gallery, the usual crop of Romanesque churches and a huge rocca, open for occasional events. There’s a Roman bridge on the outskirts, the subject of considerable local hype; when Goethe arrived in Narni in the middle of the night he was peeved not to have seen it but he was only missing a solitary arch in the middle of the river – just as easily viewed from the train.

Todi is one of the best-known Umbrian hill-towns, its central Piazza del Popolo widely held to be among the most perfect medieval piazzas in Italy, and the town itself to be the country’s most liveable. At heart a thriving and insular agricultural centre, Todi is also a favoured trendy retreat for foreign expats and Rome’s arts and media types. In the way of these things the visitors haven’t been far behind, but neither fact should deter you from making a day-trip: few places beat it for sheer location – its hilltop position is stunning – and fairy-tale medievalism. Many festivals and events are held in Todi throughout the year, including the increasingly popular Todi Festival (late Aug or early Sept).

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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