Are the cable car baskets safe?

Gubbio Funivia

Cable Car in Gubbio

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Greg Schechter

The Funivia Colle Eletto - Gubbio's famous open-air cable car - is one of the top attractions in Gubbio and a highlight of any walking tour of Gubbio. With its distinctive two-person basket cabins, it provides a unique way to rise above the medieval rooftops and enjoy unforgettable panoramas of the valley below.

From the base station near Porta Romana, the funivia carries you smoothly up the slopes of Mount Ingino to the Basilica of Sant'Ubaldo, one of the must-see places in Gubbio. The short ascent becomes an exhilarating experience as the town shrinks beneath you and the Umbrian hills unfold in layered shades of green and gold.

History and Significance of Funivia Colle Eletto
Things to See and Do in Funivia Colle Eletto
How to Get to Funivia Colle Eletto
Practical Tips on Visiting Funivia Colle Eletto
Where to Stay close to Funivia Colle Eletto
Is Funivia Colle Eletto Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Funivia Colle Eletto
Nearby Attractions to Funivia Colle Eletto

History and Significance of Funivia Colle Eletto

The Funivia Colle Eletto has long been a cherished part of Gubbio’s identity, blending practicality with adventure. Installed to make the steep climb to the sanctuary of Sant’Ubaldo more accessible, it quickly became both a local convenience and a tourist attraction. Its open basket design remains one of its most iconic features, offering a sense of freedom and excitement uncommon in traditional cable cars.

Beyond its role as transport, the funivia symbolically connects the medieval town with the spiritual world atop Mount Ingino. The ride leads directly to the basilica that houses the relics of Sant’Ubaldo and the famed Ceri, central to the city’s most important festival, the Corsa dei Ceri held every May.

Things to See and Do in Funivia Colle Eletto

The journey itself is the main attraction. Standing in the open basket as you glide above the treetops is a thrilling moment, especially when the wind is gentle and the views are crystal clear. Many visitors enjoy capturing photos mid-ascent, with the town spread like a patchwork below.

Once at the summit, take time to explore the Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo, where the mummified remains of the saint rest alongside the massive wooden Ceri used in the annual race. The mountaintop also offers scenic walking trails, quiet picnic areas, and sweeping viewpoints perfect for soaking in the landscape.

If you descend on foot instead of by cable car, you can enjoy the wooded paths of Mount Ingino at your own pace, making it one of the best places to visit in Gubbio for nature lovers and photographers.

How to Get to Funivia Colle Eletto

The nearest airports are Perugia “San Francesco” Airport (PEG) and Ancona Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gubbio on Booking.com. To reach Gubbio by public transport, take a regional train to Fossato di Vico and transfer to a local bus into town. 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. The funivia base station is located near Porta Romana and is easily reached on foot from Piazza 40 Martiri. Visitors arriving by car will find nearby parking options before walking to the cable car entrance. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting Funivia Colle Eletto

Suggested tips: Hold onto the cabin railings during boarding and disembarking as the baskets move continuously.
Best time to visit: Clear mornings or late afternoons for the best views.
Entrance fee: €6 Return
Opening hours: Summer: 9.30am to 7.30pm Winter: 10am-1.15pm, 2.30pm-5.00pm. Closed on Wednesdays See website for details.
Official website: http://www.funiviagubbio.it/
How long to spend: Around 1-2 hours including the ascent, basilica visit, and viewpoints.
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs due to moving baskets and standing cabins.
Facilities: Ticket office at the base, small café at the summit, and rest areas near the basilica.
Photography tip: Capture the town from above halfway up the cable line for the most dramatic angle.
Guided tours: Some local guides include a ride on the funivia in Mount Ingino tours.
Nearby food options: A café near the summit and additional dining in the lower town around Porta Romana.

Where to Stay close to Funivia Colle Eletto

For easy access to the funivia and the historic centre, consider Hotel Gattapone, offering traditional charm within walking distance. Another nearby option is Hotel Bosone Palace, set in a noble residence close to the main streets. For modern comforts with a historic touch, Park Hotel Ai Cappuccini provides a quiet retreat not far from the funivia base.

Is Funivia Colle Eletto Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Funivia Colle Eletto offers one of the most memorable experiences in Gubbio, combining adventure, spectacular views, and direct access to one of the city's most important landmarks. Whether you're travelling for history, nature, or simply the thrill of the ride, it's an unmissable part of any visit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (4,903)

Basilica of Sant'Ubaldo sits above Gubbio at Via Monte Ingino 5 and houses the body of Saint Ubaldo within its medieval walls; visitors note a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere with a pleasant courtyard, sweeping views over the town, a small interior with a few relics, regular reverent Masses and friendly locals, and nearby conveniences including a café and a restaurant — reachable by car or cable car and recommended if you have transport.

Peter Ward

a month ago

"Being somewhat isolated the basilica has the ambiance of a retreat or something, unusually with a pleasant courtyard fronting the basilica itself. Itwas all very peaceful until in true Italian style they display the corpse of Saint Ubaldo in a glass coffin. This time proudly on top of the altar. Not my cup of tea. If this might upset you then perhaps a visit to the nearby cafe is in order...."

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Carlos Rivadera

6 months ago

"Hidden gem. Gubbio is a very welcoming place absolutely one of my favourites spots we were there for the rise of the Chero it was fantastic, theenergy and vibe of the place is amazing...."

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Kyle D

5 years ago

"It’s a great (short) drive to get up here. Encourage you to if you have transport and near by the area. The church is quite small and not impressivefrom the inside but there are a few relics there worth noting, and there is a restaurant there which is recommended on a day that is not too windy. Enjoy some drone photos!..."

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FAQs for Visiting Funivia Colle Eletto

Yes, they are regularly inspected and operate safely, though they require steady footing.
Is the ride scary?
It can feel exhilarating but is generally comfortable for most visitors.
Can children ride?
Yes, but young children should ride with an adult and be supervised closely.
Do the baskets ever stop moving?
No, the system runs continuously, so boarding and exiting require a gentle step.
Can I take the funivia one way and hike the other?
Yes, many visitors choose to ride up and walk down.

Nearby Attractions to Funivia Colle Eletto

Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo - Sacred hilltop sanctuary reached directly via the funivia.
Piazza Grande - Gubbio's dramatic hanging square with sweeping countryside views.
Palazzo dei Consoli - The city's iconic Gothic civic palace overlooking the town.
Roman Theatre - Impressive remains of ancient Iguvium at the base of Gubbio.
Via dei Consoli - A vibrant medieval street lined with shops and cafés.

The Gubbio Funivia appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gubbio!

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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