Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Perugia, Italy

Perugia has the honour of being both the capital of the Umbria region and of the Province of Umbria. Located in the centre of the country, Perugia is approximately equidistant from both Florence and Rome and sits in a hilltop region surrounded by valleys and mountains.

During the Etruscan era in Italy, Perugia was one of the main cities and prospered greatly due to its central location. Throughout the Middle Ages, it emerged as a prominent University City, celebrated for its commitment to the advancement of arts and culture. Today, the city continues this tradition, hosting numerous festivals and events such as the Umbria Jazz Festival.

When visiting Perugia, one can anticipate encountering a plethora of exquisite churches and historical structures, as well as exceptional museums and attractions like the Perugina Chocolate Factory. Additionally, the surrounding countryside is abundant with breathtaking scenery and lush national parks, catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Therefore, as a tourist destination, Perugia offers a remarkable array of experiences, seamlessly combining historic and natural attractions that will engage visitors for days.

Let us explore the best things to do in Perugia:

1. San Lorenzo Church

There are numerous notable examples of cathedrals that have remained incomplete throughout Italy, and the Perugia Cathedral is one such structure.

Originally built in 1587, this cathedral is distinctive for its front façade, which does not face the main square where it stands.

The unfinished front façade provides the church with a peculiar appearance.

However, the interior is fully completed and extravagantly adorned.

A series of marble columns support the ornate ceiling, which is embellished with stunning frescoes.

Additionally, one of the chapels houses the tomb of Pope Martin IV, along with several religious relics associated with Pope Innocent III and Urban IV. Lastly, the cathedral also contains a small museum showcasing an array of intriguing religious artefacts and relics.

2. Piazza IV Novembre

Piazza IV Novembre serves as the primary square in the heart of Perugia, featuring an abundance of remarkable historical buildings alongside the beautiful Fontana Maggiore.

In this splendid square, one can find the impressive Cathedral of Perugia, the Palazzo dei Priori, the Comune di Perugia, and the Logge di Braccio.

At the centre of the square lies the Fontana Maggiore, which showcases a series of ornate statues and a central bronze bowl that spills over with water.

This charming square provides an excellent setting for appreciating historic architecture or serving as a base for initiating a walking tour of Perugia.

3. Palazzo dei Priori

Designed in an ornate Gothic style, the Palazzo dei Priori is a sizable edifice positioned across from the Cathedral in Piazza IV Novembre.

This ancient structure has stood in the city’s centre since the 1300s and has played a pivotal role in the political landscape of Perugia.

The front of this building is adorned with a large circular staircase and a series of ornate arched windows; the upper section of the palace is lined with crenellations, lending it a castle-like appearance.

Inside, visitors will find opulent decorations, including vibrant frescoes depicting various biblical scenes.

4. Oratorio di San Bernardino

Situated adjacent to the Church of San Francesco, the Oratorio di San Bernardino is acclaimed for its stunning front façade and multicoloured design.

This impressive structure is located in the eastern section of the old town, approximately a 10-minute walk from Piazza IV Novembre.

Its façade, crafted from coloured polychrome marble, is regarded as one of the most significant examples of Renaissance art in Perugia.

The interior of this charming oratory is equally ornate, adorned with several exceptional works of art and an abundance of gold detailing.

5. Church of San Pietro

This historic church and monastery complex has existed since the 11th century, serving as a significant locus of power for Perugia’s leaders throughout the years.

Located in the southern part of the town centre, the complex features a tall bell tower and a beautiful inner courtyard that includes a small fountain.

Inside the church resides an important collection of art, including a colourful fresco of Saint George and the Dragon, alongside additional works from various Renaissance artists.

The walls, arches, and ceilings are elegantly decorated, making it a stunning sight to behold.

6. Museo Archeologico

This inviting museum, located in Piazza Giordano Bruno, is housed in the historic Convento di San Domenico.

Redesigned in 2009, the museum adopts a chronological approach that commences with prehistoric times and proceeds through the Roman period.

Within its diverse collections, one can discover a splendid array of artefacts collected from the Umbria province, such as Neolithic ceramics, Bronze Age carvings, weaponry, and funerary items from Perugia, as well as a series of Roman manuscripts.

Moreover, there is a reconstruction of an ancient Etruscan tomb discovered just outside the city.

This museum offers a remarkable glimpse into the history of Umbria in a comprehensive manner.

7. Arco d’Augusto

Also recognized as the Etruscan Arch, this edifice is one of the remaining seven arches that served as an entrance to the city of Perugia in ancient times.

Constructed in the 3rd century BC, this arch is among the oldest architectural marvels in the city and exemplifies the remnants of the city’s original fortifications.

The front façade of the arch is adorned with an appealing design, and several of the original Latin inscriptions remain visible.

Over time, various additions have been made to the arch, giving it a more fortified appearance than that of a mere gateway.

8. Sciri Tower

This prominent tower is located on Via Priori and ranks among the tallest towers in the city.

Constructed in the 12th century, the tower rises to a height of 46 meters and was originally owned by the Sciri family.

As the sole remaining antique tower that retains its original state, this structure is of immense significance and exemplifies the architectural style of that time.

Although simple in design, the tower is imposing, and visitors have the opportunity to ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Perugia.

9. Etruscan Well

Perugia is rich in unique and fascinating sites, and the Etruscan Well is one such noteworthy attraction.

Located in Piazza Danti, this well dates back to the 3rd or 4th century BC and is a testament to architectural ingenuity.

With a depth of 37 meters and a diameter of 5 meters, this colossal well features an ornate bridge that traverses its cavity.

Visitors can descend to the well’s base to fully appreciate its immense size, and a stop at this intriguing site is essential while exploring the town centre.

10. Perugina Chocolate Factory

Italy is home to various renowned chocolate brands, and Baci Perugina is famous nationwide for its delightful chocolate kisses.

Situated just outside the city centre, the Perugina Chocolate Factory presents an excellent alternative attraction, particularly for those who enjoy sweets. A guided tour of the factory lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, during which visitors can observe the production line in action, indulge in a tantalizing chocolate tasting session, and explore the historical museum.

A gift shop is also available, where guests can purchase their desired quantity of chocolate delights.

11. Volumni Hypogeum

Another unique marvel just outside the historic city centre, the Volumni Hypogeum is an extraordinary site.

Discovered in 1840, this ancient tomb dates back to the 3rd century BC and is part of a vast necropolis containing over 200 individual tombs.

Dedicated to the Volumni family, this series of tombs includes many of the wealthy elite from Perugia in bygone eras.

What distinguishes this complex is its architectural design, resembling an ancient Roman structure adorned with multiple palisades, pediments, and ornate columns.

12. Parco Regionale del Lago Trasimeno

This expansive body of water and regional park lies to the west of Perugia and is accessible by car within approximately 25 minutes.

Covering a surface area of 128 square kilometers, it ranks among the largest lakes in the region, and indeed is the fourth largest by surface area in Italy.

The lakeside is bordered by a series of quaint coastal towns that offer delightful visits.

Moreover, boat rides are available on the protected waters.

At the southern end of the lake is the intriguing Isola Polvese, where visitors can explore a charming stone castle and an informative tourist information centre.

13. Parco Naturale di Monte Tezio

Situated to the north of Perugia, Monte Tezio rises to 961 meters and is one of the tallest mountains in the region, with slopes adorned in lush green forests.

If you seek a location for hiking and immersing oneself in the stunning outdoors of Umbria, this natural park is an excellent choice.

The mountainside offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, punctuated by various landmarks at the summit, including a radio installation and remnants of old farmhouses.

On clear days, visitors are rewarded with magnificent vistas of Perugia below.

14. Monte Vibiano Wine Tour

Perugia is encircled by picturesque countryside renowned for its viniculture.

The Monte Vibiano winery offers an excellent experience through its eco-tour, allowing visitors to explore the vineyards and taste exquisite wines.

Throughout the tour, participants will navigate the premises in electric buggies while observing daily activities such as grape and olive harvesting, along with the wine production process.

The winery’s proprietors are exceptionally welcoming, ensuring your tour is personalized and memorable.

15. Via dell’Acquedotto

This ancient pathway originally served as an aqueduct for the transportation of fresh water throughout Perugia, and it currently stands as a public footpath.

Stretching from the edge of Via Cesare Battisti to the Monastery of San Benedetto, it is possible to traverse the entire length of the aqueduct.

This delightful pathway provides a unique perspective and allows for walks amidst the historic buildings of the old town centre while simultaneously viewing the original ornate arches of the aqueduct.