Perugia, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Perugia, Umbria
Perugia, Umbria

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 origins are evident in its fortified village structure, surrounded by a mighty city wall.

The city boasts top-tier museums, stunning natural landscapes, and a famous chocolate industry, celebrated annually at the delectable Eurochocolate festival. Whether you're drawn by its historical charm, cultural vibrancy, or sweet treats, Perugia offers a unique blend of past and present around every corner.

History of Perugia

Ancient Origins: Perugia’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of settlements as far back as the Etruscan period. The city, originally known as Perusia, was one of the twelve cities of the Etruscan League and played a significant role in the region. Remnants of this era include sections of the ancient city walls and the well-preserved Etruscan Arch, also known as the Arch of Augustus, which stands as a testament to the city’s early importance.

Roman Era: In 310 BCE, Perugia was conquered by the Romans, who further developed the city. It became a significant Roman municipium, integrating Roman culture and infrastructure while maintaining its Etruscan roots. The city continued to thrive under Roman rule, becoming a hub for trade and politics in the region.

Medieval Period: During the Middle Ages, Perugia experienced substantial growth and prosperity. It became a free commune in the 12th century and developed into a prominent medieval city. The construction of the imposing city walls, numerous churches, and public buildings during this period highlights its medieval significance. Perugia was also known for its internal conflicts and power struggles among noble families, such as the Baglioni and Oddi, which shaped much of its medieval history.

Renaissance and Papal Rule: The Renaissance brought further cultural and architectural development to Perugia. The city became a center of art and learning, attracting artists like Pietro Vannucci, known as Perugino, who taught Raphael. However, this period also saw Perugia come under the control of the Papal States in the 16th century, following the Salt War (1540) against Pope Paul III, which ended in the city’s defeat and subjugation.

Modern Era: Perugia continued to evolve over the centuries, balancing its rich historical heritage with modern growth. The establishment of the University of Perugia in 1308 marked it as a center for education and scholarship, a status it still holds today. The city played a role in the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification, and was integrated into the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century.

Cultural and Economic Development: In contemporary times, Perugia is renowned not only for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its vibrant social scene and economic activities. The city is famous for its chocolate production, celebrated annually at the Eurochocolate festival, and continues to be a major educational hub with its prestigious university attracting students from around the world.

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Visiting Perugia 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 Perugia 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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23 Best places to See in Perugia

This complete guide to Perugia 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 Perugia and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

1. Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo

Perugia palazzo del Capitano del popolo
Perugia palazzo del Capitano del popolo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gianni Careddu
Set on the edge of a steep hillside in the heart of Perugia, the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo rises over what was once Piazza Sopramuro, the “Plaza Above the Wall.” This 13th century space, shored up by powerful retaining walls, originally opened directly onto sweeping views of the valley and served as a busy market until 1472. Today the…
Location: Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Piazza Matteotti is accessible at all time | Price: The square and palace exterior are free to admire | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo
4.0 (1)

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.

2. Corso Vannucci

Corso Vannucci, Perugia
Corso Vannucci, Perugia
CC BY-SA 2.0 / G.dallorto
Corso Vannucci is the backbone of Perugia’s historic centre, a broad pedestrian avenue that runs along the ridge of the hill, linking Piazza Italia at one end with Piazza IV Novembre and the cathedral at the other. After a cathedral visit, this is where you drift out into the light, join the evening passeggiata and watch the city at its…
Location: Corso Vannucci, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: The street is accessible at all times | Price: There is no fee to walk Corso Vannucci. | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Corso Vannucci

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

3. Cathedral of San Lorenzo

Perugia Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
Perugia Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Undergrowth90
Rising above Perugia’s main square, the Duomo di Perugia (Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Lorenzo) is the city’s most important church and a place where centuries of history are etched into stone. Construction began in 1345 and was only completed in 1490, with consecration following much later in 1587, so every side of the building reflects a different moment in the…
Location: Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: From Monday to Saturday 8.30/12.30 – 15.30/19.30 Sunday and holidays 8.30/12.30 – 15.00/19.00 | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Cathedral of San Lorenzo
4.6 (1,784)

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4. Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso

Palazzo Baldeschi Perugia
Palazzo Baldeschi Perugia
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso
Right on Corso Vannucci in the heart of Perugia, Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso blends medieval roots with 19th century elegance and 21st century culture. Once the residence of the renowned 14th century jurist Baldo degli Ubaldi, the building has grown over time by absorbing neighbouring houses on streets like Via Danzetta, Via Baldo, Via dello Struzzo and Via Baglioni, eventually…
Location: Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso, Corso Pietro Vannucci, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Tuesday - Thursday: 3:00 pm - 7:30 pm; Friday - Sunday: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm / 2:30 pm - 7:30 pm | Price: Adults: €15.00 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso
4.6 (176)

Explore Perugia at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour! Follow our curated route to discover must-see sights and local secrets that makes Perugia one of the best places to visit in Italy.

5. Perugino Monument

Monument of Pietro Vannucci Perugino
Monument of Pietro Vannucci Perugino
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gianni Careddu
Set in the leafy Carducci Gardens, the Perugino Monument is a graceful tribute to one of Umbria’s greatest painters, Pietro Vannucci, known as Perugino. Conceived by Quattrini, the statue presents an all-round figure of the artist himself, modelled on his self portrait in the Collegio del Cambio, with his ceremonial robone wrapped around his body and a bundle of sketches…
Location: Corso Pietro Vannucci, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: The Carducci Gardens are generally open throughout the day. | Price: The monument and gardens are freely accessible | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Perugino Monument

6. Etruscan Well

The Etruscan Well
The Etruscan Well
CC BY-SA 4.0 / PozzoEtrusco
Hidden away down a narrow medieval passageway off Piazza Danti, the Pozzo Etrusco (Etruscan Well) is easy to walk past if you do not know where to look. The modest doorway at number 18 Piazza Danti leads into one of Perugia’s most intriguing experiences: a short but powerful visit into the depths of an ancient water system that once helped…
Location: Etruscan Well, Piazza Ignazio Danti, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00 - 14:00; Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 - 14:00 & 15:00 - 17:30 The museum is closed on Monday afternoons from May 2 to July 10 | Price: Adults: € 4,00; €9.00 Combined ticket (Etruscan Well & House Museum of Palazzo Sorbello) | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Etruscan Well
4.3 (1,572)

7. Nobile Collegio della Mercanzia

Perugia Collegio della Mercanzia
Perugia Collegio della Mercanzia
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Accurimbono
Right on Corso Vannucci, just steps from Palazzo dei Priori and the National Gallery of Umbria, the Nobile Collegio della Mercanzia (Merchants Guild) is a compact but dazzling window into Perugia’s mercantile past. Once the headquarters of the city’s first and most influential guild, it now welcomes visitors into a single, perfectly preserved Audience Hall where every surface seems to…
Location: Nobile Collegio della Mercanzia, Corso Pietro Vannucci, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: March to October: Tuesday to Saturday 9:00am – 13:00pm, 14:30pm-17:30pm, Sundays & Holidays 9:00-13:00. November 1 to February 28: Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 8.00 - 14.00, Wednesdays & Saturdays 8.00 - 16.30, Sundays & Holidays 9.00 - 13.00. Closed on Mondays, January 1st and December 25th. | Price: Adults: €2.00 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Nobile Collegio della Mercanzia
4.1 (40)

8. Nobile Collegio del Cambio

Collegio del Cambio
Collegio del Cambio
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Accurimbono
Just a few steps from Palazzo dei Priori and the National Gallery of Umbria, the Nobile Collegio del Cambio (Money Changers Guild) is one of those compact but unforgettable interiors that makes Perugia so rewarding to explore. Once the headquarters of the city’s wealthiest and most powerful guild, its rooms are layered with carved wood, painted ceilings and frescoes by…
Location: Nobile Collegio del Cambio, Corso Pietro Vannucci, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00am – 13:00pm & 14.30 – 17.30 Sundays and holidays: 9.00 – 13.00 | Price: Adults: €6.00 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Nobile Collegio del Cambio
4.6 (183)

9. House Museum of Palazzo Sorbello

House Museum of Palazzo Sorbello
House Museum of Palazzo Sorbello
CC BY-SA 4.0 / PozzoEtrusco
Steps from Piazza IV Novembre and the Etruscan Well, the House Museum of Palazzo Sorbello (Casa Museo di Palazzo Sorbello) offers a wonderfully personal window into Perugia’s aristocratic past. Housed in an elegant palazzo that belonged to the Bourbon and Ranieri di Sorbello families, it feels less like a formal museum and more like you have been invited into someone’s…
Location: Palazzo Sorbello Casa Museo, Piazza Piccinino, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Spring/Summer: Monday-Saturday 10:30am – 2:00pm Fall/Winter: Monday-Friday 11:00am – 2:00pm | Price: €4 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting House Museum of Palazzo Sorbello

10. National Gallery of Umbria

National Gallery of Umbria
National Gallery of Umbria
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko
Perched on the upper floors of the Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia’s historic centre, the National Gallery of Umbria (Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria) brings centuries of Umbrian art together under one medieval roof. Spread across 40 rooms, the collection spans from the 13th to the 19th century and is especially rich in works by Pietro Vannucci, better known as Perugino, whose…
Location: National Gallery, Corso Pietro Vannucci, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Tuesday to Friday 8:30 – 19:00 Monday From April 1 to October 31: 12:00-19:30 | Price: Adults: €10 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting National Gallery of Umbria

11. Palazzo dei Priori

Palazzo dei priori Perugia
Palazzo dei priori Perugia
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Robertofavini
On the edge of Piazza IV Novembre, the Palazzo dei Priori, or Town Hall of Perugia, dominates the scene with its crenellated roofline, tall windows and powerful stone walls. Stretching along Corso Vannucci to Via Boncambi, this complex is a textbook example of the medieval eta comunale style of civic palaces, where government, justice and trade were all housed under…
Location: Palazzo dei Priori, Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Tuesday to Friday 8:30 – 19:00 Monday From April 1 to October 31: 12:00-19:30 | Price: Adults: €10 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palazzo dei Priori
4.7 (13,124)

12. Fontana Maggiore

Fontana Maggiore Perugia
Fontana Maggiore Perugia
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Monica
At the heart of Perugia’s main square, the Great Fountain is far more than a pretty backdrop for photos. It is the visible celebration of a 13th century engineering triumph, when Boninsegna Veneziano used a forced pressure duct to bring water from Monte Pacciano up to the city’s acropolis without any pumps. In a hilltop city where water was life,…
Location: Fontana Maggiore, Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Accessible at all hours; illumination in the evening depends on local lighting schedules. | Price: Free – the Great Fountain is an open-air monument in a public square. | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Fontana Maggiore
4.7 (2,451)

13. Piazza IV Novembre

Perugia, Umbria
Perugia, Umbria
At the very heart of Perugia, Piazza IV Novembre is where the city has gathered for two millennia. Renamed after World War I to commemorate the 4 November armistice, this square sits directly over the ancient Roman forum of Perusia and today anchors the historic centre in every direction: five main streets, once known as the Royal Streets, radiate out…
Location: Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Open 24 hours a day; surrounding churches, museums and shops follow their own schedules. | Price: Free – Piazza IV Novembre is a public square open to everyone. | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Piazza IV Novembre
4.7 (13,124)

14. Piazza Italia

Piazza Italia, Perugia
Piazza Italia, Perugia
CC BY-SA 3.0 / trolvag
Arriving at Piazza Italia feels like emerging into the light after a journey through Perugia’s buried past. You ride the escalators from the underground car park at Piazza Partigiani, pass through the massive Paolina Fortress, slip under the portico of the Government Palace (established in 1870), and suddenly step out into this broad, open square. Created to commemorate the events…
Location: Piazza Italia, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Piazza Italia is open at all hours as a public square. | Price: The square, viewpoints and access via the escalators are free. | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Piazza Italia
4.7 (9,252)

15. Underground Perugia

Perugia Sotterranea
Perugia Sotterranea
All Rights Reserved / isolasanlorenzo
Perugia is already dramatic from above, perched on its hilltop with views towards Lake Trasimeno and the Apennines, but the real surprise lies below the surface. Here, layers of Etruscan, Roman and medieval Perugia are preserved under later buildings and fortifications, creating an underground network of streets, vaults and walls that tells the story of the city’s conflicts and reinventions.…
Location: Museo del Capitolo di San Lorenzo, Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 19:00. | Price: Adults: €12.00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Underground Perugia
4.8 (1,376)
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16. Civic Museum at Palazzo della Penna

Palazzo Penna Bertel Thorvaldsen
Palazzo Penna Bertel Thorvaldsen
CC BY-SA 2.0 / G.dallorto
Set just below the historic centre, the Civic Museum at Palazzo della Penna feels like a bridge between Perugia’s many historical layers and its contemporary cultural scene. Once the 17th century residence of Ascanio della Penna, a nobleman and art lover in the service of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, the building literally sits on top of a Roman amphitheatre…
Location: Museo Civico di Palazzo della Penna, Via Prospero Podiani, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Summer Season (May-October): Tuesdays – Sundays 10:00 am–7:00 pm April and August Only: Open 7 days a week: 10:00 am–7:00 pm Winter Season (November – March): Tuesdays – Sundays 10:00 am-6:00 pm | Price: € 3 | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Civic Museum at Palazzo della Penna

17. Acquedotto Medievale

Acquedotto Medievale, Perugia
Acquedotto Medievale, Perugia
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Comune di Perugia
Perugia’s medieval aqueduct is one of those places where engineering, landscape and everyday life come together in a surprisingly beautiful way. Built between 1254 and 1280 under Fra Bevignate and Boninsegna da Venezia to carry water from Monte Pacciano to the Fontana Maggiore, it once used a pressure-forced duct to push water uphill into the heart of the city. Today,…
Location: Acquedotto medievale di Perugia, Via Appia, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Acquedotto Medievale
4.7 (1,246)
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18. Etruscan Arch

Etruscan Arch
Etruscan Arch
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bibopg79
Perugia’s Etruscan walls and Etruscan Arch are where the city’s deep past is written in stone, wrapping around the historic hilltop like an ancient embrace. Dating back as far as the fourth and third centuries BC, the walls still trace a three kilometre perimeter, rising and falling with the terrain and folding inward in the lower parts so that, from…
Location: Etruscan Arch, Via Ulisse Rocchi, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: The walls and arch can be seen at any time, though nearby museums and information points follow regular daytime opening hours. | Price: Walking the walls and viewing the Etruscan Arch is generally free; some nearby museums or sites may charge a modest fee. | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Etruscan Arch
4.3 (1,572)

19. National Archeological Museum of Perugia

Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell, Perugia, Umbria
Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell, Perugia, Umbria
CC BY-SA 3.0 / SBAUmbria
Housed in a former Dominican monastery founded in 1223, the National Archaeological Museum of Perugia (Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell’Umbria) is where the deep past of central Italy suddenly feels very close. From Paleolithic tools and Bronze Age finds to early Iron Age grave goods and Roman artefacts, the museum traces how people have lived, worked, worshipped and buried their dead…
Location: National Archaeological Museum of Umbria, Piazza Giordano Bruno, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 8:30am – 7:30pm, Mondays 10am-7:30pm. Closed on January 1st and December 25th. | Price: Adults: €5.00 | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting National Archeological Museum of Perugia

20. Rocca Paolina

Rocca Paolina a Perugia
Rocca Paolina a Perugia
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Andrea Biagi
Rocca Paolina is one of those places that completely changes how you see Perugia. Built in 1540 by Pope Paul III after the city’s defeat in the Salt War, this huge fortress once dominated the skyline; today, its remains form an underground labyrinth of tunnels, arches and buried streets that you walk through on your way between the bus station…
Location: Rocca Paolina, Piazza Italia, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Rocca: Daily 6:15am-2:00am C.E.R.P: Tuesday to Sunday 11:00 – 19:00 | Price: Free – access to Rocca Paolina and its passageways is generally free of charge. | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Rocca Paolina
4.7 (9,252)

21. Museum Workshop Giuditta Brozzetti

Museum Workshop Giuditta Brozzetti
Museum Workshop Giuditta Brozzetti
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Giada6455
Tucked inside the former 13th century church of San Francesco delle Donne, the Museum Workshop Giuditta Brozzetti is one of the most atmospheric craft experiences in Perugia. About a 15-minute walk from Piazza IV Novembre, this peaceful space brings together medieval stone, the memory of Saint Francis and his followers, and the rhythmic clatter of historic looms. It feels more…
Location: Via Tiberio Berardi, 5/6, 06123 Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 – 18:00 Saturday and Sunday by Appointment Only. | Price: Free entrance | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Museum Workshop Giuditta Brozzetti
4.9 (268)

22. Basilica di San Pietro

Basilica di San Pietro Perugia
Basilica di San Pietro Perugia
CC BY-SA 4.0 / AliasXX00
Just beyond the southern edge of Perugia’s historic centre, the Basilica di San Pietro forms a peaceful monastic enclave where the city seems to fall quiet. The abbey was founded in 996 by Abbot Pietro Vincioli on the site of an earlier cathedral, itself built in the 4th century AD for Perugia’s first bishopric, over land that had already been…
Location: Abbazia di San Pietro, Borgo XX Giugno, Perugia, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays h. 10:00 am – 1:00 pm / 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm The church is free for worshippers Sundays and Mondays h. 7:30 pm - 12:30 pm / 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm | Price: Adults: €6.00 | Website | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Basilica di San Pietro
4.8 (1,274)

23. Necropolis of Palazzone & Hypogeum of Volumni

Hypogeum of the Volumnis Perugia
Hypogeum of the Volumnis Perugia
CC BY-SA 3.0 / CyArk
Just outside Perugia in the hamlet of Ponte San Giovanni, the Necropolis of Palazzone and its star monument, the Volumni Hypogeum, offer one of the clearest windows into Etruscan life and death anywhere in Umbria. Set on a low hill that once overlooked the road down to the Tiber, this burial ground holds more than 200 tombs, including the noble…
Location: Ipogeo dei Volumni e Necropoli del Palazzone Via Assisana, 53 06126 Perugia PG Italy | Hours: Daily: 09:00 - 17:30 | Price: Adults: €3.00 | Website | Distance: 3.6km
Visiting Necropolis of Palazzone & Hypogeum of Volumni

Best Day Trips from Perugia

A day trip from Perugia 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 Perugia 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.

1. Porta Sant'Angelo, Perugia

Porta Sant Angelo
Porta Sant Angelo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ricci Mariagrazia
Rising from the 14th century walls on the northern edge of Perugia, Porta San Michele is a powerful reminder that this hilltop city was once a fortress as much as a cultural centre. Fortified by Ambrogio Maitani in 1326, the gate grew in stages into a tall, complex structure that controlled one of the main routes into town and symbolised…
Location: Porta Sant'Angelo, Via dell'Isola Romana, Bastia Umbra, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Viewing the external of the tower is free | Website | Distance: 13.6km
Visiting Porta Sant'Angelo, Perugia

2. Assisi

Assisi
Assisi
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

3. Castiglione del Lago

Castiglione del Lago
Castiglione del Lago
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hagai Agmon-Snir
Castiglione del Lago sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Trasimeno, its medieval core perched where a fourth island once rose above the water. Over centuries, the gap between the former island and the shoreline was gradually filled with piazzas, churches and houses, but the centro storico still feels like a compact hilltop fortress overlooking the lake and the surrounding…
Location: Castiglione del Lago, Province of Perugia, Italy | Hours: The town is always open; museum and fortress hours vary by season, with a lunchtime closure common outside peak months. | Price: Access to the historic centre is free; combined tickets are typically available for the Fortress of the Lion and Palazzo della Corgna. | Distance: 27.9km
Visiting Castiglione del Lago
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4. Gubbio

umbria gubbio
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,…
Visiting Gubbio

5. Orvieto

The Complete Guide to Orvieto
The Complete Guide to Orvieto
Orvieto is one of those hill towns that feels instantly cinematic: a compact historic center perched above the countryside, with big views, stone lanes, and a lively café culture. Set in Umbria, it’s an easy base for slow travel—think long lunches, local wines, and short scenic walks that start right from town. The pace is relaxed, but there’s plenty to…
Visiting Orvieto

6. Arezzo

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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7. Siena

Piazza del Campo 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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8. San Marino

Visiting 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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9. Rimini

riminiItaly
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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10. San Gimignano

The Complete Guide to San Gimignano
The Complete Guide to San Gimignano
San Gimignano is one of Tuscany’s most atmospheric hill towns, celebrated for its skyline of medieval towers, golden-stone streets, and vineyard-draped countryside. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, yet packed with viewpoints, churches, small museums, and food stops that make it easy to fill a full day—or slow down and linger over long lunches with local Vernaccia wine. A…
Visiting San Gimignano

11. Florence

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…
Visiting Florence
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12. Tivoli

Tivoli waterfall
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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Where to Stay in Perugia

Staying in the historic center provides access to the city’s medieval streets, art museums, and lively university atmosphere. For a more peaceful experience, staying in the Umbrian countryside offers scenic views and rustic accommodations.

A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal for exploring Perugia’s historic sites, enjoying its chocolate and truffle scene, and experiencing local festivals. A 4-day stay allows for visits to nearby Assisi, Spello, and Lake Trasimeno.

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

Perugia Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Perugia

Spring (April to June): Spring is one of the best times to visit Perugia. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The city is adorned with blooming flowers, and the countryside is lush and green. This season is perfect for exploring Perugia’s outdoor attractions, such as its gardens, parks, and the surrounding Umbrian landscapes.

Fall (September to October): Fall is another ideal time to visit Perugia. The temperatures are comfortable, generally between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it pleasant for walking around the city and enjoying outdoor activities. The fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the scenery. Additionally, the city is less crowded than during the summer, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for sightseeing.

Summer (July to August): Summer in Perugia can be quite warm, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. While this is the peak tourist season, the city can become crowded, especially during the Umbria Jazz Festival in July. If you enjoy lively atmospheres and cultural events, summer is a great time to experience the city’s vibrant social scene. However, be prepared for higher accommodation prices and larger crowds.

Winter (November to March): Winter is the least popular time to visit Perugia, but it has its own charm. The weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While some outdoor attractions may be less accessible, this season offers a quieter and more intimate experience. The Christmas season is particularly charming, with festive decorations and local celebrations. Additionally, winter visitors can benefit from lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 10°C
  • February 12°C
  • March 14°C
  • April 18°C
  • May 24°C
  • June 30°C
  • July 31°C
  • August 30°C
  • September 26°C
  • October 22°C
  • November 15°C
  • December 10°C

How to get to Perugia

By Air: For those flying, the closest airport is Sant’Egidio Airport, also known as Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi – Umbria International Airport, located just 12 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can easily reach Perugia by taxi or by using the shuttle bus service that operates between the airport and the city.

By Train: If you are traveling by train, you can connect from major cities like Florence and Rome. Direct trains run regularly from Roma Termini to Perugia. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. You can also take a high-speed train to Florence and transfer to a regional train to Perugia. I always recommend to book your train tickets in advance as prices tend to be lower!

Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

By Bus: Several bus companies, including FlixBus and Sulga, offer direct services from Rome’s Tiburtina bus station to Perugia. The bus journey can be a bit longer compared to trains but can be more economical, providing a comfortable travel experience with scenic views along the way.

By Car: Alternatively, you can drive to Perugia as part of a more extensive Italian itinerary. Renting a car and exploring Italy by road offers an incredible experience, allowing you to witness more of Umbria’s stunning countryside and venture off the beaten path.

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Local Transportation in Perugia: Perugia has a comprehensive local bus network operated by Umbria Mobilità, connecting the city center with surrounding areas. Additionally, the MiniMetro is a light rail system that links the lower part of the city with the historic center, providing a convenient way to navigate the city’s steep terrain. Taxis are readily available throughout Perugia, and car rental services can be found at the airport and in the city center for those looking to explore the surrounding region.

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