Often overshadowed by Tuscany, its culturally mega-rich neighbor, Umbria is brimming with treasures of its own. Think gorgeous medieval hill-towns, plenty of art, and olive-growing and wine industries that have been thriving for thousands of years.
## Embark on a Journey of Discovery Through Umbria
Umbria, a region often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Tuscany, offers a unique and authentic Italian experience. This captivating land, known as the “Green Heart of Italy,” boasts rolling hills, verdant valleys, and a rich tapestry of art, history, and culture. While Assisi undoubtedly holds the crown as the region’s most popular destination, the capital city, Perugia, beckons with its own distinct allure.
Perugia stands as the birthplace of the Umbrian style of Renaissance painting, a school of art characterized by its delicate details, vibrant colors, and profound spirituality. This artistic heritage is brilliantly showcased in the works of Perugino, a master painter whose influence resonated throughout Italy. His legacy is further amplified by his talented students, Pinturicchio and Raphael, who went on to achieve their own legendary status in the art world. Exploring Perugia is akin to stepping into a living museum, where the echoes of Renaissance artistry resonate from every corner.
But Perugia offers more than just artistic treasures. The city is also a vibrant hub of cultural activity, playing host to one of Europe’s most prestigious and beloved jazz festivals, the Umbria Jazz festival. Every July, music aficionados from around the globe descend upon Perugia to immerse themselves in the soulful melodies and electrifying performances that fill the city’s historic streets. This festival is a testament to Perugia’s dynamic spirit and its commitment to celebrating the arts in all its forms.
Adding a touch of sweetness to Perugia’s charm is its status as the home of Baci chocolates. These iconic Italian treats, known for their hazelnut filling and romantic messages wrapped within each wrapper, have become a symbol of love and affection throughout the world. A visit to Perugia offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in these delectable chocolates and perhaps even learn about their fascinating history.
## Crafting Your Umbrian Adventure: A Guide to Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Umbria requires careful consideration of your available time and desired experiences. A week-long stay should provide you with a delightful introduction to the region’s many charms. However, if you have less time, it’s best to focus on either the northern or southern regions to make the most of your visit.
For those with a week to spare, consider starting your Umbrian journey in Perugia. Dedicate a couple of days to immersing yourself in the city’s art, architecture, and of course, its delicious chocolate. From Perugia, venture north to Gubbio, a medieval town steeped in history and architectural splendor. A day trip to Gubbio will allow you to appreciate its unique character and explore its captivating landmarks.
No trip to Umbria would be complete without an obligatory pilgrimage to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis and a site of immense religious and historical significance. Spend a day exploring the Basilica di San Francesco and the other sacred sites that make Assisi a truly special place.
If your heart yearns for more art and history, consider spending the remaining three days zipping between Spoleto, Todi, and Orvieto, each offering its own unique blend of cultural treasures. The mind-blowing cathedral in Orvieto is a must-see, showcasing a breathtaking fusion of architectural styles and artistic masterpieces.
Alternatively, for a more immersive experience of the Umbrian countryside, dedicate those three days to exploring the rural south. Embark on invigorating hikes or thrilling rafting adventures in the Valnerina, a region renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. You could also indulge in wine tasting at some of the vineyards around Orvieto, savoring the flavors of the region’s renowned wines.
### Timing Your Visit: When to Experience Umbria’s Splendor
Umbria welcomes visitors throughout the spring and summer months, but it’s important to note that this is also the busiest time of year. While the crowds may not be as overwhelming as in Tuscany, it’s still essential to make reservations well in advance, especially if you plan to travel during July and August, the peak season.
The shoulder seasons of April, May, and October offer a more tranquil experience, with fewer crowds and pleasantly warm and sunny weather. These months are ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and authentic Umbrian adventure.
Fall in Umbria is characterized by mild temperatures, although there is a higher chance of rain. Winter, while mild in the valleys, can be cold in January and February, particularly at higher elevations. Drizzle is also common during the winter months.
### Navigating Umbria: Getting There and Getting Around
Perugia Airport serves as the primary gateway to Umbria, with frequent flights to London-Stansted operated by budget carrier Ryanair. From Rome and Florence, Perugia, Assisi, Spoleto, and Orvieto are easily accessible by train.
Renting a car in Perugia provides the flexibility to explore the smaller towns and villages of Umbria at your own pace. Alternatively, a network of bus services connects these towns, although the frequency of these services may be less than that of trains.
Driving from Rome to Orvieto is a straightforward journey via the A1/E35 highway, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Perugia is another 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Orvieto.
Umbrian cities are generally small enough to explore on foot, and driving within the historic centers can be challenging. It’s best to park outside the historic centers and walk in from there.
### Unlocking Savings: Umbria Passes
For those planning to visit multiple museums and attractions, consider purchasing the Perugia City Museum Card (Card Perugia Città Museo). This card offers free entry to five museums and sights (from a list of ten), as well as discounts on other services throughout the city. The card costs Euros 14 and is valid for 48 hours. It can be purchased online, at the museums, or at the information office on Piazza Matteotti.
In Orvieto, the Carta Unica provides free entry to 11 museums and monuments for Euros 20 (Euros 17 for students and visitors over 65). This card also includes a round-trip ticket on the Funicular, rides on two city minibus routes, and discounts at shops and restaurants. The Carta Unica never expires, making it a worthwhile investment for those planning an extended stay in Orvieto.
## Unveiling Umbria’s Treasures: Highlights & Activities
Umbria beckons with a wealth of captivating attractions and activities, promising an unforgettable travel experience. From the artistic grandeur of Perugia to the spiritual serenity of Assisi, and the culinary delights scattered throughout the region, Umbria offers something for every traveler.
### Perugia: A City of Art, Culture, and Chocolate
Perugia, the vibrant capital of Umbria, stands as the region’s only major city, offering a compelling blend of urban culture and artistic heritage. Here, you’ll find boutique shopping, lively nightlife, and a plethora of exceptional restaurants, alongside a wealth of artistic attractions and magnificent Gothic palaces.
The elegant main thoroughfare, Corso Vannucci, stretches between the 19th-century Piazza Italia and Perugia’s magnificent main square, Piazza IV Novembre. This bustling square is anchored by the Fontana Maggiore, a stunning fountain adorned with panels and figures carved by Gothic master sculptors Nicola Pisano and his son Giovanni in the 13th century.
Perugia’s National Gallery houses the world’s largest and finest collection of Umbrian art, including numerous paintings and altarpieces by Perugino, as well as a masterpiece by Piero della Francesca, the Polyptych of Perugia.
Nearby, the Nobile Collegio del Cambio, the former meeting rooms of Perugia’s Moneychanger’s Guild, are adorned with captivating frescoes by Perugino. Perugino’s protégé, Raphael, painted the Cappella di San Severo in 1505. Although partially damaged, the upper half of his work survives, with Perugino adding the six saints along the bottom.
### Indulge Your Senses: Chocolate Tasting in Perugia
Chocolate lovers will rejoice at the opportunity to tour the “Casa del Cioccolato Perugina” factory, located just outside Perugia. Here, you can learn about the history and production of Perugina’s famous Baci chocolates, with plenty of free chocolate samples to savor. Perugina also operates a shop at Corso Vannucci 101 in the city center, selling a wide array of chocolate goodies.
### Assisi: A Pilgrimage to Spiritual Serenity
Arriving in Assisi early, before the tour buses arrive, allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of its medieval churches and homes clinging to the slopes of Monte Subasio. The Basilica di San Francesco, a massive 13th-century structure built to honor St. Francis, stands as the biggest draw and a major Christian pilgrimage site. The saint is buried in the crypt. The basilica is also a testament to the genius of pre-Renaissance painter Giotto, who, along with his assistants, frescoed several chapels, most notably the Upper Church with his Life of St. Francis.
The rest of Assisi is a delight to explore, centered around the Piazza del Comune, where the Roman Tempio di Minerva has been transformed into the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. The Basilica di Santa Chiara, the resting place of St. Clare, houses the miraculous 12th-century crucifix from which Christ is said to have spoken to St. Francis. A hike up to the Rocca Maggiore, the honey-colored ruins of a 14th-century fortress high above the city, offers stunning panoramic views.
### Spello: A Hidden Gem of Art and Beauty
With its ruined castle and small piazza perched high above the Vale of Spoleto, the warm-pink towers and homes of Spello are visible for miles. This town is an essential half-day trip for art lovers, located just 9 miles south of Assisi. The church of Santa Maria Maggiore houses an enigmatic Madonna and Child and a Pietà by Perugino, as well as the spectacular Cappella Baglioni, frescoed by Pinturicchio.
### Montefalco: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Wine enthusiasts should head to Montefalco, an enticing hill town nestled amidst wine trellises and olive groves. Wander the enchanting streets and sample the delicious local vino, Sagrantino di Montefalco, made with 100 percent local Sagrantino grapes.
### Gubbio: A Timeless Medieval City
Gubbio embodies the essence of a classical Umbrian hill town, a magical, medieval city of sharp-edged fortress-like buildings, stacked at the base of a monumental forest-smothered mountain. Piazza Grande, Gubbio’s main square, offers panoramic views over the lower part of town and the valley beyond. Explore the city’s atmospheric streets, soaking up its unique character. The museum inside the imposing Palazzo dei Consoli houses the Eugubine Tables, the only existing record of the Umbri language transposed in Etruscan and Latin letters. These bronze tablets were inscribed between 200 and 70 BC.
### Lago Trasimeno: A Tranquil Lakeside Escape
For a change of pace, escape to the sleepy resorts along the shores of Lago Trasimeno, Italy’s fourth largest lake. Castiglione del Lago, a handsome medieval town perched high above the water, offers tipico shops, a small fortress, and a hands-on museum documenting the history of the lake. From here (or the lively shore town of Passignano), ferries transport visitors to the tranquil lake islands. Isola Maggiore is known for its lace handicrafts and St. Francis connections, while Isola Polvese is an environmental education center and nature reserve.
### Orvieto: A City Crowned by a Magnificent Cathedral
Orvieto, a wonderfully preserved medieval town perched atop a volcanic plug some 1,033ft above the plain, is home to perhaps the most magnificent cathedral in all of Italy. The facade of the Duomo is a mesmerizing blend of mosaics, pointed arches, and intricate Gothic stone carving. Inside, the Cappella di San Brizio houses one of the Renaissance’s greatest fresco cycles, depicting the Apocalypse and the Last Judgment. Fra’ Angelico began the project in 1447, Pinturicchio worked on them briefly, and Luca Signorelli finished it between 1499 and 1502.
Explore the Orvieto Vie museum, which chronicles the history of the region. Ascend the medieval Torre del Moro for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Embark on a tour of the Grotte della Rupe (Etruscan Orvieto Underground), exploring the vast network of tunnels honeycombing the tufo subsoil. Don’t forget to sample the local wine, a pale straw-colored white known simply as Orvieto Classico.
### Todi: A Picturesque Medieval Warre
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