A Solo Cultural Escape to Perugia

A Day of Lakeside Wonders

As my solo adventure in Perugia nears its end, I decided to dedicate my last day to the serene beauty of Lake Trasimeno. I've heard so much about its charming towns and islands, and I couldn't leave without experiencing it myself. Today was all about soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and capturing the essence of this stunning region.

My day started with a delightful breakfast at La fame - vineria e cucina. The staff were competent, and the quiet atmosphere was just what I needed to prepare for a day of exploration. After breakfast, I headed towards Castiglione del Lago, a medieval town perched on a peninsula overlooking Lake Trasimeno. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and olive groves painting a classic Italian landscape. Upon arriving, I was immediately struck by the town's well-preserved historical center, surrounded by ancient walls.


Discover the charm of Castiglione del Lago, a medieval town in Umbria, where history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine await.

I parked my car outside the walls and entered through the Porta Senese, one of the three original gates. Via Vittorio Emanuele, the main street, was lined with shops selling local products. I couldn't resist picking up some regional cheeses and olive oil as souvenirs for Vikram and Anika back home. The street led me to the Palazzo della Corgna, a grand Renaissance palace that now serves as the town hall, civic museum, and art gallery. I decided to explore the palace, admiring the elaborate frescoes that celebrated the marriage of Duke Diomedes and Portia Colonna. The art provided a glimpse into the region's rich history and the myths of the time.

Next, I ventured towards the Rocca del Leone, the imposing fortress offering panoramic views of Lake Trasimeno. Walking through the narrow passageways of the fortress, I felt transported back in time. The view from the main tower was breathtaking, with the lake stretching out before me, dotted with islands and framed by the distant mountains. I spent some time exploring the ramparts, imagining the strategic importance of this fortress in centuries past. The fresh air and stunning scenery were invigorating, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I could have easily spent hours simply gazing at the landscape.

The beauty of Lake Trasimeno lies not just in its picturesque views, but in the sense of tranquility and history that permeates every corner.

After exploring Castiglione del Lago, I made my way to the lakefront to catch a ferry to Isola Maggiore, the only inhabited island on Lake Trasimeno. The ferry ride was short but sweet, offering a different perspective of the town and the surrounding countryside. As we approached the island, I was charmed by the sight of the small fishing village, with its colorful houses and peaceful harbor. Isola Maggiore is known for being a favorite of St. Francis, who spent time here in 1211. Once on the island, I wandered through the village, soaking in the atmosphere. The main cobbled street was lined with ancient houses, and I passed the house of the Capitano del Popolo, a 14th-century building that now operates as a tourist office.


Explore the serene beauty of Isola Maggiore, an island in Lake Trasimeno, where history meets breathtaking natural landscapes.

I made my way to the Chiesa di San Salvatore, a 12th-century church with parts of an altarpiece by Sano di Pietro. The island has a rich history of lace making, and I visited the Lace Museum to learn more about this tradition. The museum showcased intricate examples of Irish crocheted lace, a craft introduced in 1904 by Marchesa Guglielmi. It was fascinating to see the delicate work and learn about the women who kept this tradition alive.

For lunch, I decided to try Bottega Dei Priori, known for its authentic Umbrian cuisine. I enjoyed a delightful meal of homemade pasta with ragout, paired with a glass of local wine. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere added to the experience, making it a perfect midday treat. I savored every bite, appreciating the fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Bottega Dei Priori in Perugia—where tradition meets culinary excellence.

After lunch, I explored more of the island, walking along the trails that led to the hilltop Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo. The church dates back to the 13th century and offers a panoramic view of the lake. The interior was decorated with valuable Umbrian school frescoes from the 13th to 16th centuries. I took some time to admire the art and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. I visited the cave where St. Francis is believed to have slept during his spiritual retreat. It was a humbling experience to stand in a place of such historical and religious significance.

As the day drew to a close, I took the ferry back to Castiglione del Lago, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty of Lake Trasimeno. The sunset over the lake was magical, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It was a perfect ending to my solo adventure in Perugia.

For my final dinner, I chose Al Mangiar Bene, a traditional trattoria known for its pasta and wood-fired pizza. The restaurant's charming stone-vaulted space created a cozy atmosphere. I ordered a pizza with local toppings and enjoyed the lively ambiance of the restaurant. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly, making it a memorable last meal in Perugia.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Al Mangiar Bene in Perugia - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to do some last-minute shopping at Luisa Spagnoli Perugia Vannucci. I found a beautiful scarf that would be a perfect gift for my mother. The staff was helpful and welcoming, making the shopping experience enjoyable.


Discover timeless fashion and elegance at Luisa Spagnoli, Perugia's premier women's clothing boutique, offering exquisite styles and personalized service.

Tomorrow, I will be heading back home, filled with memories of my solo cultural escape to Perugia. This trip has been a wonderful experience, allowing me to immerse myself in the rich history and culture of Italy. I'm already looking forward to planning my next adventure, perhaps with Vikram and Anika in tow. Until then, arrivederci, Perugia!