Umbria, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Umbria, Italy's hidden gem, where rolling hills, medieval towns, and culinary delights await in the heart of the country.

Nestled in the heart of Italy, Umbria is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Tuscany and Lazio, Umbria offers a peaceful retreat with its rolling hills, medieval towns, and lush landscapes. This region is known for its vineyards, olive groves, and truffle-rich forests, making it a haven for food and wine enthusiasts. Umbria's cities and towns are steeped in history. Perugia, the regional capital, boasts ancient Etruscan walls and a vibrant cultural scene. Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pilgrimage destination with its stunning basilicas and frescoes. Spoleto, with its Roman theater and medieval fortress, offers a glimpse into the past while hosting modern arts festivals. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Umbria. The Sibillini Mountains and the Marmore Falls provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and breathtaking views. Lake Trasimeno, Italy's fourth largest lake, is perfect for water sports and relaxation. Throughout the region, picturesque villages like Orvieto and Gubbio charm visitors with their cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and friendly locals.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Umbria.

Visit during the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy mild weather.
Try the local wines, particularly Sagrantino di Montefalco, a unique red wine only found in Umbria.
Wear comfortable shoes as many of the towns have steep and cobblestone streets.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases; while many locals speak English, they appreciate the effort.
Explore the smaller villages; they are less crowded and offer a more authentic experience.

Top City Travel Guides in Umbria

The cities of Umbria, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Assisi

Perugia

Arezzo

Montepulciano

Orvieto

Destinations in Umbria

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Via Francigena

Explore Umbria: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Umbria

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

Discover the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with breathtaking art and profound spiritual history.

4.9

Duomo di Orvieto

Explore the stunning Duomo di Orvieto, a Gothic masterpiece showcasing breathtaking architecture and vibrant frescoes, located in the charming town of Orvieto, Italy.

4.8

Pozzo di San Patrizio

Explore the enchanting Pozzo di San Patrizio, a unique historical well in Orvieto with breathtaking views and fascinating architectural design.

4.5

Fonti del Clitunno

Explore the enchanting Fonti del Clitunno, a picturesque park in Umbria known for its stunning springs, scenic hikes, and rich history.

4.3

Best landmarks in Umbria

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Rocca Maggiore

Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress in Assisi, Italy.

4.5

National Gallery

Explore the rich artistic legacy of Italy at the National Gallery in Perugia, home to masterpieces from the Umbrian Renaissance and beyond.

4.7

Etruscan Arch

Discover the Etruscan Arch in Perugia, an ancient gateway that reveals the city's rich history and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

4.7

Etruscan Well

Explore the Etruscan Well in Perugia, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into ancient Etruscan civilization and engineering marvels.

4.2

Best restaurants in Umbria

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Taverna dell'Orso

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Taverna dell'Orso in Sant'Egidio - where tradition meets taste.

4.5

Trattoria Degli Umbri

Experience authentic Umbrian cuisine at Trattoria Degli Umbri in Assisi - where every meal tells a story.

4.4

Enoteca L'Alchimista

Experience authentic Umbrian cuisine and exquisite wines at Enoteca L'Alchimista in Montefalco - a true taste of Italy.

4.6

Osteria a Priori

Discover authentic Umbrian cuisine at Osteria a Priori in Perugia - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Best bars in Umbria

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Le Terrazze di Properzio

Experience the culinary treasures of Assisi at Le Terrazze di Properzio, where authentic Italian flavors meet breathtaking views.

4.7

Umbrò

Umbrò in Perugia: Where Culinary Delight Meets a Cozy Study Retreat.

4.2

Elfo Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Elfo Pub in Perugia, a haven for craft beer lovers and social butterflies seeking unforgettable nights.

4.6

Punto di Vista

Discover Punto di Vista in Perugia: A cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks, stunning views, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Umbria

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Gradisca Club / Brooklyn Dancing

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Gradisca Club, Perugia's premier disco destination for dancing, music, and unforgettable experiences.

4.2

Sonora Club - Different Pleasure

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Perugia at Sonora Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await you.

4.0

Blue Moon Night Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ponte San Giovanni at Blue Moon Night Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences await.

4.6

Fabrik Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Fabrik Club in Castiglione del Lago, where music, dance, and fun come alive in a stylish setting.

3.6

Best shops in Umbria

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

Explore the breathtaking Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in art, history, and spirituality.

4.9

Centro Commerciale Collestrada

Explore Centro Commerciale Collestrada: A vibrant shopping destination in Perugia, Italy, featuring diverse stores and delightful dining options.

4.3

Quasar Village

Explore Quasar Village in Corciano, a vibrant shopping mall offering a mix of local and international stores, plus a delightful grocery experience.

4.2

Pozzo della Cava

Explore the ancient caves and artifacts of Pozzo della Cava, a must-visit archaeological museum in Orvieto, Italy, revealing the region's rich history.

4.6

Explore Umbria on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Umbria, mapped for you.

Umbria Essentials

Umbria is located in central Italy and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airports are Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Florence Peretola (FLR). From these airports, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Umbria. The main train stations serving Umbria are Perugia, Assisi, and Terni, with frequent services from Rome, Florence, and other major Italian cities. If you prefer driving, the A1 motorway connects Rome and Florence, and you can take exits for Orte or Valdichiana to reach different parts of Umbria.
Once in Umbria, you can get around by train, bus, or car. The regional train network connects major towns and cities, making it convenient to travel within Umbria. Buses operated by companies like Sulga and Busitalia also provide extensive coverage. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the picturesque countryside and remote villages at your own pace. Be aware that some towns have limited traffic zones (ZTL), so check local regulations.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in most towns and cities. It's a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Umbria is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can connect you to police, medical services, and fire departments. Major towns like Perugia and Terni have hospitals and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress smartly and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and wines. Don't rush through meals, as eating is a leisurely activity in Italy.
To experience Umbria like a local, visit the small hilltop towns and villages, such as Montefalco and Spello, where you can enjoy authentic Italian life. Attend local festivals and events, such as the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia and the Infiorata flower festival in Spello. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their region. Don't miss trying regional specialties like truffles, pecorino cheese, and Sagrantino wine.

When is the best time to visit Umbria?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Umbria

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Umbria. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-DEHR-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [per fah-VOH-reh/PRAY-go]
- Thank youGrazie
  [GRAHTS-yeh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusa/Mi dispiace
  [SKOO-zah/mee dee-SPYAH-cheh]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh st-eye]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh. eh too?]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAR-lee een-GLEH-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-PEE-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-RAY veh-DEH-reh eel meh-NOO, per fah-VOH-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn MAHN-joh KAR-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-RAY pah-GAH-reh, per fah-VOH-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vy VEE-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-LEE-tsee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doht-TOH-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee SOH-noh PEHR-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [SOH-noh mah-LAH-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-RAY kom-PRAH-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto SOH-loh gwahr-DAHN-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAN-toh KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh TROH-poh koh-STOH-zoh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ahb-BAH-sah-reh eel PRET-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh OH-reh SOH-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezza
  [DEE-eh-chee eh MEH-zzah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REE-joh]
- EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [OH-gee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Due
  [DOO-eh]
- 3Tre
  [TREH]
- 4Quattro
  [KWAHT-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [SAY]
- 7Sette
  [SET-teh]
- 8Otto
  [OHT-toh]
- 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [DEE-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova un/il...?
  [DOH-veh see TROH-vah oon/eel]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-REET-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mo-STRAR-mee (SOOL-lah MAHP-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando parte il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAHN-doh PAR-teh eel PROS-see-mo (OW-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-LYET-toh (per ....)]

History of Umbria

Umbria's history begins with the Etruscans, a sophisticated civilization that thrived before the rise of Rome. The Etruscans left behind numerous artifacts, including pottery, bronze tools, and intricate tombs, which provide invaluable insights into their culture and way of life. The city of Perugia, one of Umbria’s main urban centers, was originally an Etruscan settlement, evidenced by the well-preserved Etruscan Arch and underground tombs.
The Roman conquest of Umbria in the 3rd century BCE marked a significant transformation in the region. Roman engineering prowess is visible in the remnants of ancient roads, aqueducts, and amphitheaters scattered across Umbria. The town of Spello boasts well-preserved Roman gates and mosaics, while Carsulae, an ancient Roman town, offers visitors a glimpse into daily life through its ruins, including a forum, basilica, and thermal baths.
The medieval period saw the rise of powerful city-states in Umbria, each with its own unique character and contributions to art, architecture, and culture. Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, became a spiritual center, attracting pilgrims from around the world. Its Basilica of San Francesco, adorned with frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, is a masterpiece of medieval art. Gubbio, another medieval gem, is known for its well-preserved palaces, churches, and the famous Corsa dei Ceri festival.
The Renaissance brought a cultural revival to Umbria, with artists and architects leaving their mark on the region. Perugia became a hub of artistic activity, home to the renowned painter Pietro Vannucci, known as Perugino, who taught Raphael. The town’s National Gallery of Umbria houses an impressive collection of Renaissance art. Orvieto, with its stunning Gothic cathedral, also flourished during this period, showcasing remarkable frescoes by Luca Signorelli.
In the modern era, Umbria has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary times. The region is known for its traditional festivals, such as the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia and the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto, which celebrate music, arts, and cultural exchange. Umbria’s culinary traditions, including its famous truffles, wines, and olive oils, continue to thrive, offering visitors a taste of the region’s authentic flavors.