Gubbio: The Complete Guide

Umbria Gubbio

Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Apennine Mountains, Medieval Gubbio boasts a picturesque setting approximately 25 miles northeast of the bustling capital of Umbria, Perugia. To the north and east, the landscape stretches out into vast expanses until reaching the border with the neighboring region of Le Marche.

This ancient land, adorned with charming squares and majestic stone palaces, has been inhabited for millennia, with traces of Neanderthal tribes dating back tens of thousands of years. Gubbio stands as a custodian of the rich history of the ancient Umbri people, with its museums preserving invaluable artifacts, including a linguistic relic akin to the famed Rosetta Stone, shedding light on their enigmatic language lost to time.

The silhouette of its medieval architecture distinguishes Gubbio as one of Umbria’s quintessential hill towns, offering visitors a captivating journey through time. Beyond its historical allure, Gubbio beckons to connoisseurs of gastronomy and adventure alike, renowned as a haven for truffle enthusiasts who revel in the pursuit and indulgence of these prized culinary treasures.

History of Gubbio

The origins of Gubbio are deeply rooted in ancient history, with evidence of habitation on the surrounding hills dating back to the Bronze Age. Known as Ikuvium in pre-Roman times, it was a significant town for the Umbri people, made famous by the discovery of the Iguvine Tablets in 1444—a collection of bronze tablets constituting the largest surviving text in the Umbrian language. After the Roman conquest in the 2nd century BC, the city, retaining the name Iguvium, remained influential, as evidenced by its Roman theatre, the second-largest surviving in the world.

In the early Middle Ages, Gubbio rose to prominence, notably sending 1,000 knights to the First Crusade under the leadership of Girolamo from the notable Gabrielli family, who, according to local tradition, were among the first to reach the Church of the Holy Sepulchre when Jerusalem was captured in 1099.

The subsequent centuries in Gubbio were marked by conflict, including wars against neighboring Umbrian towns. One such conflict saw the miraculous intervention of Bishop Ubald, who secured a decisive victory for Gubbio in 1151, ushering in a period of prosperity. During the Guelphs and Ghibellines’ struggles, the Gabrielli family, including the notable condottiero Cante dei Gabrielli, supported the Guelph faction and the papacy. As the Podestà of Florence, Cante is infamous for exiling Dante Alighieri.

In 1350, Giovanni Gabrielli, Count of Borgovalle, seized power in Gubbio but was forced to surrender the town to Cardinal Gil Álvarez Carrillo de Albornoz, representing the Papal States, in 1354. A few years later, Gabriello Gabrielli, the bishop of Gubbio, declared himself lord of the town but was betrayed by noblemen, including relatives, and had to seek refuge in Cantiano.

With the political decline of the Gabrielli family, Gubbio was incorporated into the territories of the House of Montefeltro. Federico da Montefeltro, the lord of Urbino, rebuilt the ancient Palazzo Ducale in Gubbio, incorporating a studiolo veneered with intarsia, similar to his studiolo in Urbino. Gubbio’s maiolica industry flourished in the first half of the 16th century, known for its metallic lustre glazes imitating gold and copper.

In 1631, Gubbio became part of the Papal States after the extinction of the della Rovere family, to whom the Duchy of Urbino had been granted. In 1860, Gubbio was incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy along with the rest of the Papal States. The Pamphili family, a notable papal family originating from Gubbio, rose to prominence in Rome under Pope Innocent VIII (1484–1492) and is immortalized in Diego Velázquez’s portrait of Pope Innocent X.

Visiting Gubbio for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Gubbio on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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11 Best places to See in Gubbio

This complete guide to Gubbio not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Gubbio and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Fontana del Bargello

Fontana Dei Matti
CC BY-SA 3.0 / trolvag
Nestled within the charming medieval streets of Gubbio, Italy, stands a unique landmark that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike for centuries: the 16th-century fountain affectionately known as the "Fountain of the Madmen." Officially titled the Fontana del Bargello after the grand palace it graces, this fountain holds a central position in the heart of the old…
Location: Fontana del Bargello, Via dei Consoli, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Fontana del Bargello

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Teatro Romano, Gubbio

Antiquarium Del Teatro Romano
In the municipality of Gubbio, nestled within the archaeological enclave of Guastuglia, lies a captivating relic of ancient Roman civilization: the Roman theatre. Constructed around 20 BC under the stewardship of magistrate Gnaeus Satrius Rufus, this monumental edifice stands as a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of Roman engineering. Crafted from imposing limestone blocks expertly hewn into rustic ashlar,…
Location: Museo del Teatro Romano, Viale Teatro Romano, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 8.30am – 7.30pm, last admission allowed at 7pm: 00. Closed on Monday and Tuesday. | Price: €3,00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Teatro Romano, Gubbio

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Gubbio . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Logge dei Tiratori

Gubbio Logge Dei Tiratoi
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
The long building, featuring an arcade and situated next to the Church of Santa Maria dei Laici, was originally St. Mary's Hospital, established in 1326 by the confraternity bearing the same name. In 1505, other hospitals in the town were merged with it, and the building became known as the "Spedal Grande," a name that remained in use until 1628.…
Location: Logge dei tiratori, Piazza dei Quaranta Martiri, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Logge dei Tiratori

Click here to read our blog about Gubbio in One Day: Self-Guided Tour ([YEAR])!

Piazza Grande, Gubbio

Piazza Grande Gubbio
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Superchilum
Piazza Grande in Gubbio, one of the most striking examples of medieval urban planning, began construction in 1321. It was designed at the heart of the city, with significant engineering efforts to support the expansive roof structures and the surrounding buildings, which appear almost monumental in scale compared to the rest of the historic center. The Palazzo dei Consoli is…
Location: Piazza Grande, Gubbio Province of Perugia, Italy | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Piazza Grande, Gubbio

Palazzo dei Consoli

Palazzo Dei Consoli Piazza Grande Gubbio
Easily recognizable from a distance, the Palazzo dei Consoli is situated in the heart of Gubbio's historic center, its imposing facade overlooking the picturesque Piazza Grande, a pivotal hub of political activity during the fourteenth century. Beyond its captivating exterior, the Palazzo dei Consoli beckons visitors with its remarkable art collections housed within. Serving as the seat of both the…
Location: Palazzo dei Consoli, Piazza Grande, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: From April to October: monday to friday: 10 am – 1 pm / 3 pm – 6 pm , weekend: 10 am – 6 pmFrom November to March: monday to friday: 10 am – 1 pm / 2.30 pm – 5.30 pm , weekend: 10 am – 6 pm | Price: € 7,00 | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Palazzo dei Consoli

Palazzo Ducale di Gubbio

Palazzo Ducale Gubbio
CC BY-SA 42.0 / Superchilum
The Ducal Palace in Gubbio was commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro and constructed in the area known as Corte Vecchia, directly across from the Gothic Cathedral dedicated to Saints Mariano and Giacomo. Built between 1476 and 1480, likely designed by the Sienese architect Francesco di Giorgio Martini, the palace represents the first example of Renaissance architecture in Gubbio. Its distinctive…
Location: Palazzo Ducale di Gubbio, Via Cattedrale, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Mondays from 2:00 pm to 7:30 pm (last admission at 7:00 pm) from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm (last admission at 7:00 pm) | Price: €5.00 | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Palazzo Ducale di Gubbio

Duomo di Gubbio

Duomo Di Gubbio Presbiterio
CC BY-SA 4.0 / William.lugli
The Duomo di Gubbio, dedicated to Saints Mariano and Giacomo, is situated at the base of Mount Ingino and was constructed on the foundations of an earlier Romanesque church, remnants of which can still be seen on the right side of the facade, dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The facade features a pointed portal topped by a…
Location: Cattedrale dei Santi Mariano e Giacomo, Via Sant'Ubaldo, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Duomo di Gubbio

Palazzo dei Priori, Gubbio

Piazza Grande Gubbio
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Superchilum
The current seat of the Municipality, the Palazzo dei Priori (also known as Palazzo Pretorio or del Podestà), is located on the eastern side of Piazza della Signoria, directly opposite the renowned Palazzo dei Consoli. Likely designed by M. Gattapone in 1349, the Palazzo dei Priori was originally intended to serve as the seat of the Podestà, the head of…
Location: Palazzo dei Priori, Piazza Grande, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Palazzo dei Priori, Gubbio

San Francesco della Pace

San Francesco Della Pace
Tucked away on Via Giorgio Mastro, the Church of San Francesco della Pace is easily overlooked, as its exterior resembles an ordinary house with a simple wooden door and balcony. Without prior knowledge, one might pass by, unaware of the church's significance. While its interior may not be as impressive as other churches in Gubbio, such as the Chiesa di…
Location: Chiesa di San Francesco della Pace, Via Giorgio Mastro, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Fri - Sun 10:00 to 13:00 / 15:00 to 17:30 | Price: €2 | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting San Francesco della Pace

Gubbio Funivia

Funivia Colle Eletto Gubbio
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Greg Schechter
The Gubbio Cable Car (Funivia Colle Eletto) is one of the most unique and exhilarating ways to experience the breathtaking scenery of Gubbio and its surrounding landscapes. Unlike traditional cable cars, the Gubbio Funivia features open-air, basket-like cabins that can accommodate two standing passengers each, offering an unparalleled panoramic view as you ascend. The cable car takes you from the…
Location: Funivia Colle Eletto, Via San Gerolamo, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Summer: 9.30am to 7.30pm Winter: 10am-1.15pm, 2.30pm-5.00pm. Closed on Wednesdays See website for details. | Price: €6 Return | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Gubbio Funivia

Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo

SantUbaldo Gubbio
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Superchilum
Perched atop the precipitous slopes of Mount Ingino, overlooking the sprawling city below, stands the illustrious basilica that serves as the final resting place of the revered patron saint, Ubaldo. This sacred sanctuary is not only a repository for the bronze urn containing the saint's remains but also holds a special place in the hearts of the local populace as…
Location: Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo, Via Monte Ingino, Gubbio, Province of Perugia, Italy | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo

Best Day Trips from Gubbio

A day trip from Gubbio offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Gubbio provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Perugia

Umbria Perugia
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Perugia is one of the country's oldest centers, celebrated for its vibrant social life, rich university heritage, and much more. This modern city, steeped in history, stands atop a hill in the Tiber Valley and serves as the capital of Umbria. Known as a city of art and a lively cultural hub, Perugia's medieval…
Visiting Perugia
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Temple of Valadier

Tempio Del Valadier Gola Di Frasassi Genga Province Of Ancona Italy
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luca Argalia
The Temple of Valadier, perched just inside the Frasassi mountain caves in Genga, Le Marche, looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel. With its neoclassical architecture dramatically set against the rugged, natural cave walls, it seems almost mythical—like the dwelling of a magical creature. The temple, however, is very real. Built in 1828 for Pope Leone XII, a…
Location: Tempio del Valadier, Gola di Frasassi, Genga, Province of Ancona, Italy | Distance: 31.3km
Visiting Temple of Valadier

Assisi

Assisi Scaled
When UNESCO inscribed the Franciscan attractions in Assisi as a World Heritage Site, it highlighted the city's significant influence on both religious expression and European art history. This intertwining of religious and artistic heritage makes Assisi a must-visit for tourists. As the birthplace of St. Francis and the center of his life's work, Assisi is deeply connected with the Franciscan…
Visiting Assisi

Arezzo

Arezzo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Sailko
Situated in the south-eastern region of Tuscany, Arezzo is perched prominently atop a hill, at the intersection of four valleys: Val Tiberina, Casentino, Valdarno, and Valdichiana. This locale has deep historical significance within the Tuscan landscape, evidenced by the wealth of archaeological finds, such as stone tools and the discovery of the Paleolithic-era "Man of the Elm." The city's roots…
Visiting Arezzo
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San Marino

Visiting San Marino
San Marino's origins are rooted in the captivating legend of Saint Marinus, who established the community and republic in AD 301 after seeking refuge on Mount Titano. The sovereignty of San Marino was confirmed after Italian Unification, possibly in recognition of their assistance to Garibaldi, a prominent leader in the Risorgimento movement. With the exception of Vatican City, San Marino…
Visiting San Marino
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Rimini

RiminiItaly
Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Rimini boasts a rich history dating back to its Roman foundation in 268 BC. This coastal gem spans over 15 kilometers of pristine beaches, rendering it a favoured destination for seaside enthusiasts. Notably, the renowned filmmaker Federico Fellini hailed from this city, which is celebrated for its lively nightlife and historic landmarks, including the iconic…
Visiting Rimini
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Siena

Piazza Del Campo Siena
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Massimo Catarinella
Visiting Siena is like stepping into a timeless Italian dream, where medieval streets wind through a city rich in culture, charm, and breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Siena captivates visitors with its warm, earthy-toned buildings, stunning Gothic architecture, and lively piazzas. Whether you’re strolling through its narrow alleyways, savoring a meal at a traditional trattoria, or simply…
Visiting Siena
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Florence

Florence
Florence, one of Italy's most renowned cities, is a must-visit destination on the tourist circuit. Its breath-taking Renaissance architecture, charming streets, and picturesque buildings make it a captivating spot for travellers. Art lovers will find themselves in paradise with an abundance of galleries to explore, offering a diverse range of masterpieces. The city's magnificent Renaissance churches also provide a fascinating glimpse…
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Ravenna

Ravenna
Situated on the eastern coast of Italy, nestled between San Marino and Bologna, Ravenna serves as the capital of the Ravenna province and stands as one of the larger cities in the Emilia-Romagna region. Throughout its illustrious history, Ravenna has held a position of great importance under various empires, including serving as the capital of the Western Roman Empire and…
Visiting Ravenna
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Tivoli

Tivoli Waterfall
While Tivoli's allure as a day trip from Rome is undeniable, those who opt for a longer stay are rewarded with a deeper exploration of this enchanting hill town's rich history and vibrant culture. Beyond its renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hadrian’s Villa and the Villa d’Este gardens, Tivoli boasts a tapestry of historical treasures, from Roman ruins to…
Visiting Tivoli
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Bologna

Bologna
Bologna, a captivating city, holds the distinction of being the capital and largest city of the Emilia-Romagna region. Renowned by many Italians as the second most beautiful city after Venice, it boasts a rich heritage and a vibrant atmosphere. Bologna's charm lies in its relaxed and stress-free lifestyle, accompanied by a warm and lively ambiance. Its historic center, one of…
Visiting Bologna
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Where to Stay in Gubbio

Staying in the medieval town center offers an authentic experience, with boutique hotels and historic guesthouses set among ancient stone buildings and cobbled streets. For a more rural escape, accommodations in the Umbrian countryside provide agriturismo stays with breathtaking views and farm-to-table dining.

A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Gubbio’s medieval streets, the Palazzo dei Consoli, and the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo. A 4-day stay allows for day trips to Perugia, Assisi, or the scenic Monte Cucco Park for outdoor adventures.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Gubbio. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Gubbio Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Gubbio

Visiting Gubbio, Italy, offers unique charms in each season, providing visitors with diverse experiences depending on the time of year they choose to explore this medieval hill-town:

Spring (March to May): Spring is a delightful season to visit Gubbio, as the countryside blooms with wildflowers and the weather begins to warm. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking in the surrounding Apennine Mountains. The town also celebrates several traditional festivals, including the famous “Festa dei Ceri” on May 15th, a vibrant event with historical races and colorful processions that fill the medieval streets with energy and excitement.

Summer (June to August): Summer in Gubbio can be quite warm, but it remains a popular time for tourists. The sunlit days are perfect for exploring the architectural wonders and ancient ruins at a leisurely pace. Summer evenings are lively, with open-air concerts and outdoor dining, allowing visitors to enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant nightlife. It’s also a great time to experience local truffle festivals, where the prized delicacies are celebrated.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings a magical change of colors to the Umbrian landscape, making it a picturesque season to visit Gubbio. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. This season is also ideal for truffle enthusiasts, as it marks the beginning of the white truffle season, which Gubbio is renowned for. Culinary tours and truffle hunting experiences are highlights during this period.

Winter (December to February): Winter is a serene and enchanting time to visit Gubbio, offering a quieter, more intimate experience of this medieval town. The mild winter climate, occasionally punctuated by light snowfalls, adds a magical touch to the historic streets and stone buildings. The highlight of the season is the festive Christmas period, when Gubbio is adorned with charming decorations and home to one of the world’s largest Christmas trees, spectacularly illuminated on the slopes of Mount Ingino. This time of year also brings fewer tourists, allowing visitors to explore the town’s rich history and cultural sites at a leisurely pace. Cozy up in local cafes and restaurants, savoring traditional Umbrian cuisine and perhaps a glass of regional wine, as you soak in the peaceful ambiance of a winter in Gubbio.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 8°C
  • February 10°C
  • March 12°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 21°C
  • June 27°C
  • July 30°C
  • August 30°C
  • September 24°C
  • October 21°C
  • November 13°C
  • December 8°C

How to get to Gubbio

Getting to Gubbio involves a combination of air, rail, and road travel, depending on your starting point. Here are the most common ways to reach Gubbio:

By Air

The nearest major airport to Gubbio is Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport (PEG), which is about 25 miles (40 km) away. Other nearby airports include:

  • Ancona Falconara Airport (AOI) – Approximately 60 miles (100 km) away.
  • Florence Airport (FLR) – Around 120 miles (190 km) away.
  • Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – Approximately 130 miles (210 km) away.

From Perugia Airport:

  1. Taxi or Shuttle: Take a taxi or pre-booked shuttle directly to Gubbio.
  2. Bus and Train: Take a bus or taxi to Perugia city center and then proceed with train or bus options.

By Train

Gubbio doesn’t have a train station, but you can travel to nearby stations and then take a bus or taxi to Gubbio.

  • Perugia Station: From Perugia’s main train station, you can take a bus (line E001 or E003) directly to Gubbio.
  • Fossato di Vico-Gubbio Station: This is the closest train station, about 12 miles (20 km) from Gubbio. From here, take a local bus or taxi to Gubbio.

By Bus

Gubbio is well-connected by bus services, especially from nearby major cities like Perugia.

  • From Perugia: Bus services (line E001 and E003) run regularly between Perugia and Gubbio. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.
  • From Rome: There are direct buses from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Gubbio, but they run less frequently than trains.

By Car

Driving to Gubbio offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the surrounding countryside.

  • From Perugia: Take SS3bis/E45 northbound towards Gubbio. Follow signs for Gubbio and take the exit towards the town.
  • From Rome: Take the A1 motorway northbound towards Florence. Exit at Orte and follow signs for Perugia on SS204. From Perugia, follow directions as above.
  • From Florence: Take the A1 motorway southbound towards Rome. Exit at Arezzo and follow signs for Gubbio on SS73 and SS3bis.

By Taxi or Private Transfer

For a more comfortable and direct route, consider booking a taxi or private transfer from any of the major airports or cities. This is a convenient option, especially if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a hassle-free journey.

Local Transportation in Gubbio

Once in Gubbio, the town is best explored on foot due to its medieval layout and narrow streets. For visiting nearby attractions or exploring the countryside, consider renting a car or using local buses and taxis.

By combining these options based on your starting point and preferences, you can easily reach and enjoy the beautiful medieval town of Gubbio.