Comprehensive Todi Travel Guide: Explore the Hidden Gems

Todi is a 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. The central piazza, originally the Roman forum, features several beautiful medieval buildings. Sights are close together, providing plentiful opportunities to linger, enjoy the views, and soak in the ambiance. Todi or its surrounding countryside would make a tranquil base for exploring southern Umbria.

Todi Location

Todi is located in the southern part of the Umbria region, positioned centrally in Italy. Like neighboring Tuscany, Umbria is adorned with charming hill towns, yet it attracts fewer tourists, making it an appealing destination. Todi is conveniently accessible as a day trip from nearby towns such as Spoleto (44 km), Orvieto (38 km), or Perugia (46 km). The town overlooks the Tiber River and the stunning Tiber Valley. For a reference of its location, you might want to check the Umbria Map on an Europe travel site.

The local tourist information office is located at the Palazzo dei Priori on the Piazza del Popolo, right in the heart of town.

Todi Attractions

• Piazza del Popolo: This large central square is built over Roman cisterns (open for visits). It was the site of the Roman forum and features the cathedral along with three public buildings from the 13th century. Palazzo del Popolo is among Italy’s oldest public buildings, though it underwent restoration in the 19th-20th centuries. The Palazzo dei Priori showcases an unusual trapezoid-shaped bell tower. Enjoy a drink at the nearby bar on the piazza.
• Palazzo del Capitano: Adjacent to Palazzo del Popolo, this grand building boasts elaborate windows built over a portico. It houses the Etruscan-Roman Museum and the Pinacoteca art museum, though note that the museums are closed on Mondays.
• The Duomo: Initiated in the 12th century, it was constructed over an ancient Roman temple and features an outstanding central rose window. Inside, it showcases a 14th-century altarpiece, frescoes, and intricately inlaid wood choir stalls. Behind the Duomo lies a Roman house with a mosaic floor.
• Tempio di San Fortunato: Located on Piazza Umberto, this temple was erected in 1292 at the site of an older church and features a Gothic doorway adorned with sculptures. Inside, visitors will find 13th-14th century frescoes and exquisite inlaid wooden choir stalls. The crypt holds the tomb of Jacopone da Todi, a revered medieval poet and mystic.
• Santa Maria della Consolazione: Situated below the town near the edge of the 13th-century walls, this impressive 16th-century church features four apses and a beautiful dome, hailed as one of central Italy’s finest Renaissance churches.
• Santa Maria in Camuccia: Erected in the 7th-8th centuries and restored in the 13th century, this structure sits between two Roman perimeter walls. An archaeological excavation site lies underneath the church.
• The former Church of the Trinita’: Now hosts a small museum for visitors to explore.
• San Nicolo’ de Cryptic: Built in 1093 on the remains of a Roman amphitheater, which is visible in the courtyard.
• Piazza del Mercato Vecchio: Also known as the old market, features some Roman remains to explore.

Todi Festivals and Events

During late summer, the Todi Festival encompasses art exhibits, drama, opera, and performances of both classical and modern music. Throughout the summer, “summer evening” events are scheduled, enhancing the cultural atmosphere. July brings the Gran Premio Internazionale Mongolfieristico, an international ballooning competition featuring up to 50 hot air balloons from Europe and the US. Additionally, Carnevalandia is a lively carnival festival typically held in February, while theater performances take place in the Teatro Comunale from November through April. Ice skating is available in the main square from December 1 through mid-January.

Todi Hotels and Farmhouses

Among the accommodation options, the 4-star Hotel Fonte Cesia is situated in a 17th-century building right in the historic center, with an array of rooms offering stunning valley views.

Hotel Tuder is a comfortable 3-star hotel located 800 meters from the historic center, featuring parking and a restaurant for convenience.

In the picturesque countryside surrounding Todi, the delightful country house Hotel Villa Luisa, farmhouse Tenuta di Canonica, and the upscale Roccafiore Hotel & Spa await travelers, all boasting relaxing swimming pool facilities.

Todi Transportation

Todi is accessible via bus from Perugia, with local buses serving the perimeter and the center of town. The Todi Ponte Rio train station is conveniently connected by bus as well. For those driving, Todi can be reached via the E45, located approximately 40 km east of the A1 autostrada. A large pay parking area, Porta Orvietana, lies below the town center, equipped with a lift for easy access to the town. The nearest airport is in Perugia for flights within Europe, while Rome Fiumicino serves as the closest major airport, situated around 130 km away.