Explore the Enchantment of Umbria: A Four-Day Itinerary
Umbria boasts a wealth of art, treasures, and culinary delights, all enjoyed without the crowds found elsewhere. The region is vibrant with events such as the annual Umbria Jazz Festival and the 2023 celebration of the life and works of the Umbrian Renaissance master Perugino, coinciding with the 500th anniversary of his death.
Virginia DiGaetano, a resident of Umbria, has crafted a detailed plan to help you fall in love with this stunning region over an unforgettable four-day trip.
Best Time to Go
Timing your visit to Perugia is critical, as the city transforms in colors, sounds, and tastes depending on the season.
Why You Should Visit Umbria
Conveniently located between Florence and Rome, Perugia, the capital of Umbria, offers an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive. It’s a paradise for art enthusiasts, a culinary haven for food lovers, and secluded enough to entice even the most seasoned travelers with newfound discoveries. Moreover, the city serves as an ideal base for exploring the picturesque hill towns that make Umbria extraordinary, all while providing options for a variety of budgets.
Perugia is the city you’ve longed for—awaiting your rediscovery.
How to Fall in Love with Umbria in Four Days
Navigating the hill towns can be challenging, but Perugia offers a unique charm. Parking facilities are generally located outside the city center, but escalators transport you to the beautiful, elevated area. Additionally, your hotel may provide private parking; verify before arrival.
Perugia is well-connected by train to major Italian cities, making it a convenient option if you prefer to avoid traffic headaches. The train station is situated at the base of the hill, and the MiniMetro shuttle provides easy access to the city center.
Perfection in Perugia
Awake early to catch the medieval streets being refreshed by street cleaners at dawn. The vibrancy of outdoor life is pervasive here, with bars spilling onto sidewalks and lively conversations filling the air around the iconic Fontana Maggiore. Begin your day with a cappuccino at Turan Café in Piazza IV Novembre, a natural meeting point throughout your adventures.
No location in Perugia is too far from the grand Palazzo dei Priori, which serves as the cultural and administrative heart of the city. Visit the National Gallery of Umbria, home to remarkable Renaissance art, showcasing luminaries like Il Perugino and Piero della Francesca. The architecture, a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles, is as captivating as the masterpieces on display.
While a day can easily slip away in the museum, by lunchtime, the selection of local eateries beckons. Enjoy a meal at Osteria a Priori, a beloved Slow Food establishment known for its intimate setting and selection of local wines that capture the essence of Umbria.
Harmony with Nature in Solomeo
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast before heading to Solomeo, a mere half-hour drive from Perugia. Known for its connection to Brunello Cucinelli, this charming town doubles as a tribute to beauty and philosophy. Wander the picturesque streets adorned with poetic inscriptions on artisanal tiles, and experience a shopping trip redefined.
Later, return to Perugia for a scenic stroll along the Via dell’Acquedotto, an enchanting pathway lined with gardens and quaint homes. The streets glow with amber streetlights, leading you to the L’Officina Ristorante Culturale, a culinary gem offering diverse tasting menus reflective of local Umbrian craftsmanship.
A Pilgrimage to Assisi
Assisi, famed for its historical and religious significance, is just under an hour from Perugia. It attracts visitors and pilgrims alike to its stunning basilica, paying homage to St. Francis. The entire city of Assisi has been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site, revealing breathtaking views from the Rocca Maggiore castle, a worthwhile climb from the town center.
Though thrumming with tourists, Assisi maintains a serene atmosphere, revered by Catholics, boasting significant landmarks such as the Tau cross, a symbol of St. Francis visible throughout the town. Artisans craft beautiful keepsakes, including olive wood items, offering mementos of your visit.
The Rustic Charms of Lago Trasimeno
Less than an hour’s drive from Perugia, Lago Trasimeno features well-preserved medieval towns surrounded by tranquil natural beauty. Here, relaxation and serenity reign supreme, with delightful towns such as Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno. The scenic views here are unmatched and allow you to escape the frenzy of modern tourism.
For food enthusiasts, the area is a treasure trove of culinary delights, with geographically protected foods and a Slow Food paradise. A stay in Panicale, with its boutique accommodations, will ensure breathtaking views coupled with delectable local cuisine, making your time in Umbria truly remarkable.
