Family Adventure in Perugia: Exploring the Heart of Umbria

Sweet Chocolate and Lively Nights in Perugia

Today marked another beautiful chapter in our family adventure through Perugia. As our trip nears its end, we wanted to soak up every last bit of this charming city. Our day was a delightful blend of sweet indulgence, playful relaxation, and historical exploration, capped off with a taste of Perugia's vibrant nightlife.

Our day began with a short walk from Hotel Fortuna to Cupa Cupa for breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries filled the air, instantly lifting our spirits. I ordered a cappuccino and a cornetto for myself, while Lena opted for a yogurt parfait, and Omar, of course, chose a chocolate-filled croissant. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a perfect start to our day. It reminded me of the small bakeries back in Al-Karak, where the simple act of sharing breakfast felt like a warm embrace.


Discover the charm of Perugia at Hotel Fortuna, a historic gem offering stunning views, modern comforts, and a central location near attractions.

First up on our itinerary was the Casa del Cioccolato Perugina. I was particularly excited about this, knowing Omar would be in absolute heaven. As a software developer, I am always fascinated by manufacturing processes, and I was keen to see how one of Italy's most famous chocolate brands makes its magic. The Casa del Cioccolato is just a short drive from the city center, and the anticipation was building as we approached the factory.


Discover the heart of Italian chocolate at Casa del Cioccolato Perugina, where history meets exquisite flavors in the beautiful city of Perugia.

We started with a tour of the Perugina Historical Museum, which beautifully showcased the history of Perugina and the iconic Baci chocolates. Lena was captivated by the vintage packaging and advertisements, while Omar was simply mesmerized by the displays of chocolate. Learning about the origins of the Baci, with the little love notes tucked inside, was a sweet reminder of the simple gestures that mean so much. The tour ended with a tasting session, and let me tell you, it was pure bliss. Omar's face was covered in chocolate, and Lena and I couldn't help but indulge in a few extra Baci ourselves. I even considered signing up for a chocolate-making course at the Scuola del Cioccolato, but perhaps that's an adventure for another time.

Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get, but in Perugia, you can be sure it will be delicious.

After our chocolate adventure, we decided to burn off some energy at Parco Chico Mendez. This park, named after the famous Brazilian environmentalist, offered a welcome green space for Omar to run around. We found a lovely playground where Omar made friends with some local children, while Lena and I enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the park. It was a beautiful day, and the park was bustling with families enjoying the sunshine. I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of green spaces in urban environments, a cause I feel strongly about, especially after spending so much time in Hamburg, where we cherish our parks and gardens. It was heartwarming to see families connecting with nature, just as we used to do during picnics in the hills of Al-Karak.


Explore the beauty of nature at Parco Chico Mendez, a serene park in Perugia perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

By lunchtime, we were all feeling quite peckish, so we headed to Osteria Pappabona for a traditional Umbrian meal. This charming osteria is known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with some bruschetta and local cheeses, followed by homemade pasta dishes. Lena chose the umbricelli with truffle sauce, while I opted for the strangozzi with ragu. Omar, being a fan of simple flavors, went for the gnocchi with tomato sauce. The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was warm and welcoming. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, surrounded by the comforting aromas of Italian cooking. I made a mental note to try and recreate the umbricelli dish back in Hamburg, hoping to bring a little taste of Umbria to our kitchen.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Osteria Pappabona in Perugia - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through Piazza IV Novembre, the heart of Perugia. The square was bustling with activity, and we took our time admiring the Fontana Maggiore and the Palazzo dei Priori. The atmosphere was lively, with street performers and vendors adding to the vibrant scene. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I stood in this historic square, imagining the countless events that had taken place here over the centuries. Lena pointed out the details in the architecture, while Omar chased pigeons and marveled at the fountain. It was a perfect moment, capturing the essence of our family adventure.


Explore the historical charm of Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia, Italy, where culture, architecture, and local life blend seamlessly.

As the sun began to set, we decided to experience Perugia's nightlife. After dropping Omar off at the hotel with Lena, who was happy to have a quiet evening, I ventured out to Galera - Cocktail Room, a bar known for its creative cocktails and stylish ambiance. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, and I managed to snag a seat at the bar. The bartender was a true mixologist, crafting unique and flavorful drinks. I tried a Negroni, followed by one of their signature cocktails, a concoction of gin, elderflower liqueur, and prosecco. The atmosphere was sophisticated yet relaxed, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the other patrons. It was a far cry from my usual evenings coding in my Hamburg apartment, but it was a welcome change of pace. I savored the moment, appreciating the opportunity to experience a different side of Perugia.


Discover Galera - Cocktail Room in Perugia: the perfect blend of exquisite cocktails and vibrant nightlife in a chic atmosphere.

Finally, for dinner I headed to Ristorante Settimo Sigillo. The restaurant is in a beautiful historic building, and the ambiance was both elegant and inviting. I decided to try some of the local specialties. The service was impeccable, and the sommelier recommended a fantastic local wine to accompany my meal. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and indulgence.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Settimo Sigillo in Perugia - where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion.

As I walked back to the hotel, I couldn't help but smile. Today had been a wonderful mix of sweet moments, playful adventures, and cultural experiences. Perugia had truly captured our hearts, and I knew we would cherish these memories for years to come. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Abbazia di San Pietro, Frontone Gardens and Etruscan Arch, before our trip comes to an end. I am excited to see what treasures tomorrow holds.

The warmth of the Umbrian sun, the taste of exquisite chocolate, and the echoes of laughter in ancient squares – these are the moments that make travel so enriching. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Tomorrow is our last day in Perugia, and I'm already feeling a tinge of sadness. But I know that we'll be back, drawn by the city's charm and the promise of new adventures. Until then, arrivederci Perugia!