Complete Guide to Umbria (2025)

The region of Umbria, located in central Italy, is an ideal destination for a tranquil and enjoyable holiday. Neighboring Tuscany and Lazio, Umbria is often favored by foreign tourists seeking a quieter experience compared to the more crowded regions. Unlike many Italian regions, Umbria has no coastline, but its landscape is green and fertile, featuring wooded hills and lush countryside.

Umbria is renowned for its culinary delights, prompting Italians to often remark, “You’ll eat well there.” Local specialties include wild boar and the highly-prized truffle. For those with a sweet tooth, Perugia is a must-visit as one of Italy’s chocolate capitals. Beyond its gastronomic appeal, Umbria’s green countryside attracts walkers, cyclists, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Umbria offers a slow-paced holiday experience where you can savor local specialties, explore charming medieval towns, and immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture. While renting a car is convenient for touring the region, public transport connections are sufficient for exploring Umbria’s attractions.

Cities of 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 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.

View our Perugia Guide

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.

View our Gubbio Guide

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 order he established. His life and legacy inspired renowned artists such as Giotto, Cimabue, Andrea da Bologna, and Simone Martini, whose works in the basilica dedicated to St. Francis have narrated his story to the faithful for centuries.

Beyond its rich artistic treasures, Assisi’s charming medieval streets and the impressive castle atop this Umbrian hill town are not to be missed. The main street, Via San Francesco, leads from the basilica into the town center, where it becomes Via Arnaldo Fortini. Here, visitors interested in shopping will find ample opportunities, particularly for the high-quality leather goods Assisi, like Florence, is known for.

View our Assisi Guide

History of Umbria

Prehistoric Times in Umbria

Umbria’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human habitation from the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods. During the Neolithic, the region saw the development of agricultural communities, and by the Bronze Age, more advanced societies began to emerge. The region’s fertile plains and abundant natural resources made it an attractive location for early settlers, including the Umbrians, who later gave their name to the region.

Umbria in the Etruscan Period

In the 8th century BCE, the Etruscans began to influence the region, although they were never as dominant as in Tuscany. The Umbrians and the Etruscans coexisted and influenced each other culturally and politically. The Etruscans introduced advancements in metalworking, agriculture, and art, and their influence is still visible today in the region’s tombs, pottery, and inscriptions. Perugia, one of Umbria’s major cities, was an important Etruscan center during this period, and the Etruscan walls and gates can still be seen today.

Umbria in the Roman Period

In the 3rd century BCE, Umbria was absorbed into the Roman Republic after the defeat of the Umbrians and other local tribes. Under Roman rule, Umbria prospered and became a vital agricultural region, particularly known for grain, olive oil, and wine production. The Romans built towns, roads, and aqueducts, further integrating the region into the Roman Empire. Perugia became an important Roman town, and Todi and Spoleto also grew in significance during the Roman era. The legacy of Roman infrastructure is still visible in Umbria’s towns and roads.

Umbria in the Middle Ages

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Umbria underwent a series of political shifts, with the Lombards and Byzantines competing for control over the region. In the 8th century, Umbria became part of the Papal States, and the region’s fortunes were closely tied to the rise of the Catholic Church. The Middle Ages saw the rise of several powerful communes, including Perugia, Assisi, and Gubbio, which became centers of trade, culture, and religion. During this period, many of the region’s iconic churches, monasteries, and castles were built, and Umbria played a significant role in the Christian world, particularly through figures like Saint Francis of Assisi.

Umbria in the Renaissance

The Renaissance brought a period of cultural and artistic flourishing to Umbria, particularly in cities like Perugia and Assisi. The region attracted some of Italy’s most famous artists, including Piero della Francesca, Luca Signorelli, and Giotto, who contributed to the decoration of churches and chapels. Assisi became a significant pilgrimage site due to Saint Francis, and Perugia continued to thrive as a cultural and political center. The Papacy also played an important role during the Renaissance, with the Catholic Church commissioning various artistic and architectural projects throughout the region.

Umbria in the Modern Period

In the 19th century, Umbria became part of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy. The region, like much of Italy, faced economic challenges during this time, particularly with the decline of the agrarian economy. Despite these difficulties, Umbria remained an important center for agriculture, particularly olives and wine. The Industrial Revolution was slow to reach Umbria, and the region retained much of its rural character. In the early 20th century, many Umbrians emigrated to other parts of Europe and the Americas in search of better economic opportunities.

Umbria in the 20th Century and Beyond

The 20th century saw a gradual transformation in Umbria, particularly after World War II, when Italy underwent significant political and economic changes. Tourism began to play a more important role in the region’s economy, as visitors were drawn to Umbria’s medieval towns, religious sites, and natural beauty. The Assisi earthquake in 1997 caused significant damage to the region, particularly to Assisi, but the town was quickly restored. Today, Umbria is known for its rich history, its cultural heritage, and its tranquil landscapes, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Best Time to Visit Umbria

Visiting Umbria in Spring

Spring (March to May) in Umbria is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 12°C to 16°C in March and warming up to 18°C to 22°C by May. Nights can be cooler, especially in March, with temperatures between 5°C and 9°C, and warming to 10°C to 14°C by May. Spring is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sightseeing, as the region’s countryside comes to life with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.

Visiting Umbria in Summer

Summer (June to August) in Umbria is warm, with daytime temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C, particularly in Perugia and Terni. Nights remain warm, with temperatures between 18°C and 22°C. The region can experience hot and dry conditions, especially in July and August. Coastal areas like Lake Trasimeno offer some relief from the heat, but the inland areas can feel very hot. Summer is a great time for enjoying festivals, wine-tasting tours, and the natural beauty of the region, but visitors should prepare for the heat.

Visiting Umbria in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) is one of the best times to visit Umbria. September still feels like summer, with daytime highs of 24°C to 28°C, but by November, temperatures drop to around 12°C to 15°C. Nights become cooler, ranging from 7°C to 11°C by November. Autumn brings stunning fall foliage to the countryside, making it an excellent time to visit vineyards and olive groves for harvest season. The cooler weather makes sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable, and the region is less crowded compared to the summer months.

Visiting Umbria in Winter

Winter (December to February) in Umbria is generally cold, particularly in the mountains, where temperatures can dip below freezing. Daytime temperatures typically range from 6°C to 10°C, while nighttime temperatures can fall to 0°C or lower, especially in inland areas like Assisi and Spoleto. Perugia and other towns near Lake Trasimeno experience milder conditions. Snow is rare but can occur in the Apennine mountains. Winter is the least crowded season, ideal for visitors seeking a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, especially for those who want to enjoy the region’s art and history without the crowds.

Annual Weather Overview

January 7°C
February 11°C
March 13°C
April 17°C
May 22°C
June 29°C
July 30°C
August 29°C
September 25°C
October 20°C
November 13°C
December 9°C

How to get to Umbria

Getting to Umbria by Air

Umbria is served by Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi – Umbria International Airport (PEG), located about 10 km from Perugia. This is the main airport for the region, offering flights primarily to European destinations, especially during the summer months. Although it is smaller than other Italian airports, it is a convenient option for visitors coming directly to Umbria.

Getting to Umbria by Train

The Trenitalia train network provides excellent connections to Umbria, with Perugia serving as the main hub. Perugia‘s train station connects to major Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan. Assisi, Spoleto, and Terni also have train stations with regional connections, making it easy to explore Umbria by train. The Frecciarossa and Italo high-speed trains run to Perugia from Rome and Florence, providing quick access to the region.

Getting to Umbria by Bus

Bus services connect Perugia and other towns in Umbria with cities across Italy. Perugia‘s main bus station is located near the train station and offers routes to cities like Rome, Florence, and Ancona. Local buses also provide transportation within the region, connecting towns such as Assisi, Todi, and Spoleto. For those traveling to smaller towns or more rural areas, buses offer a convenient and affordable option.

Getting to Umbria by Car

Driving is an ideal way to explore Umbria, especially if you wish to visit smaller towns and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The A1 motorway runs through Terni, linking Florence and Rome to Umbria. From Rome, it takes approximately 2 hours to reach Perugia by car, while the drive from Florence to Perugia takes around 2.5 hours. The region is well-connected by secondary roads, making it easy to drive between towns like Assisi, Spoleto, and Todi, as well as through the lush Umbrian countryside.

Festivals in Umbria

Festival of San Crispolto
When: May
Where: Bettona
A celebration honoring Bettona’s patron saint, featuring a procession around the town walls and a fireworks display just outside the city.

Cantine Aperte
When: May
Where: Various towns in Umbria
Wineries across Umbria open their doors for tours and wine tastings, allowing visitors to experience the region’s rich winemaking tradition.

Bevagna Gaite
When: April and June
Where: Bevagna
The town transforms into a medieval village with events, performances, and stalls, recreating the medieval atmosphere of the area.

Spello’s Infiorata
When: June
Where: Spello
Streets are adorned with intricate flower carpets and artistic displays in celebration of the Feast of Corpus Christi.

Perugia 1416
When: June
Where: Perugia
A historical reenactment that brings Perugia’s medieval past to life with street performers, costumed lords and ladies, and a spectacular parade.

Umbria Jazz Festival
When: July
Where: Perugia
One of the most important jazz festivals in the world, attracting renowned artists and jazz enthusiasts from around the globe.

Sagra dell’Oca
When: July and August
Where: Bettona
A festival celebrating traditional Umbrian cuisine, particularly dishes featuring goose, accompanied by music and local festivities.

Gubbio’s Corsa dei Ceri
When: May
Where: Gubbio
A historic procession where teams carry large wooden statues of saints through the streets, culminating in a race up Mount Ingino.

Gualdo Tadino’s Giochi de le Porte
When: September
Where: Gualdo Tadino
A medieval festival where the four city districts compete in various historical games and challenges, including crossbow shooting and donkey races.

Assisi’s Festa della Venuta
When: December
Where: Assisi
Celebrations marking the arrival of the Holy House of Loreto in Italy, featuring large bonfires and processions through the streets.