A Journey Through Time: Exploring Ancient Towns in Umbria

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Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure to one of Italy’s most unexplored regions with a unique and unforgettable Umbria Itinerary?

Welcome to Umbria, a land of breathtaking landscapes, charming medieval towns, and picturesque countryside. Located in the heart of Italy, Umbria boasts a rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditional cuisine, and over 1,000 years of history. From the magnificent hilltop towns of Assisi and Perugia to the awe-inspiring architecture of Orvieto and Todi, Umbria is a world-renowned destination that attracts travelers from all over the globe.

In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best of Umbria’s most beautiful cities, towns, and landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, Umbria’s rich diversity offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Umbria.

Where is Umbria, Italy?

Umbria is a region of central Italy located just east of Tuscany and west of the Marche. It is bordered by the regions of Lazio to the south, Marche to the east, and Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany to the north. The region’s capital city is Perugia.

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Umbria is located in Central Italy approximately halfway between Rome and Florence. It’s a relatively small region, but it offers plenty to explore, from hill-top towns like Assisi and Orvieto, as well as wonderful natural parks, such as Lake Trasimeno and Monte Subasio Regional Park. Umbria can easily be reached via fast trains from each major Italian cities; it takes about two hours from Rome or Milan and an hour from Florence.

What is Umbria famous for?

Umbria, also known as the “green heart of Italy”, is a hidden gem in central Italy that is bursting with history and culture. Here are some of the things that Umbria is famous for its:

Art and architecture

Umbria is home to some of the most important medieval and Renaissance art and architecture in Italy, including the stunning Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Religious history

Umbria is also famous as the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, a beloved and revered saint in the Catholic Church. The Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is a pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the world.

Food and wine

Umbria is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as truffles, cured meats, and lentils. The region is also famous for its wine, especially Sagrantino di Montefalco, one of Italy’s most esteemed red wines.

Festivals and events

Umbria holds a variety of festivals throughout the year, such as the Umbria Jazz Festival and the Eurochocolate Festival in Perugia, which draws chocolate lovers from around the world.

Overall, Umbria is a hidden gem in Italy for those who seek to explore a different side of Italy. It’s famous for its art and architecture, religious history, food and wine, and lively festivals.

Best Towns to Visit in Umbria, Italy

Umbria is a beautiful region in Italy that often gets overlooked by tourists. Here are some of the best cities and towns to visit in Umbria and why they are worth a visit:

1. Perugia

Perugia is the capital and largest city of Umbria, and it’s a great place to start your journey. The city boasts a rich history and some stunning architecture, including the Palazzo dei Priori, which is one of the most notable examples of medieval public architecture in Italy. Additionally, Perugia is famous for its chocolate and the annual Eurochocolate festival.

When you’re in Perugia, don’t forget to take one of our amazing wine tours, such as a standard wine tasting in Perugia at Goretti or their wine tasting paired with food. You won’t forget this amazing experience with Winalist!

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2. Assisi

Assisi is a small hill-town in Umbria and the birthplace of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy. The town is made up of winding streets and alleyways, and stunning views of the valley below. The Basilica of San Francesco is a must-visit as well as the Roman Temple of Minerva.

3. Orvieto

Orvieto is a city perched on top of a volcanic rock plateau and is famous for its stunning architecture and views of the Umbrian countryside. The most iconic site in the city is the Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece with vibrant frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass.

4. Gubbio

Gubbio is an ancient town located on the slopes of the Apennine Mountains. It’s famous for its unique medieval architecture, including the Palazzo dei Consoli, which dates back to the 14th century, and the Roman theater, one of the most well-preserved in Italy.

5. Montefalco

Montefalco is a small hill-town in Umbria that is famous for its wine, especially Sagrantino di Montefalco. The town is surrounded by vineyards, and there are plenty of opportunities to go wine-tasting. The town also has some lovely churches and a medieval fortress.

These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Umbria. The region is full of hidden gems and is a perfect destination for those seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations in Italy.

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The Ultimate 7-Day Umbria Itinerary

Welcome to Umbria, the green heart of Italy! This itinerary is tailored to give you a taste of the beautiful hilltop towns, delicious cuisine, art, and culture that make Umbria a perfect Italian vacation destination.

Day 1: Perugia

  • Start your journey in the beautiful city of Perugia, a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.
  • Enjoy some of the world renowned chocolate at the famous Baci Perugina factory.
  • Head to Piazza IV Novembre and sit at one of the many restaurants in this square, enjoying its beautiful view (and indulging in some people watching).

Day 2: Gubbio

  • Drive to Gubbio, a city with a sense of medieval charm.
  • Walk around the beautiful streets of Gubbio and take in the medieval architecture.
  • Take a funivia to the top of Mount Ingino and the Basilica di Sant’Ubaldo.
  • Relax and have lunch in one of the outdoor patios overlooking the breathtaking views.

Day 3: Assisi and Spello

  • Visit the historic town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi.
  • Explore the beautiful Basilica di San Francesco and its stunning frescoes.
  • Take a stroll in Spello and enjoy the picturesque cobble streets and stunning views.
  • Finish your day with a glass of wine paired with a delicious meal at an authentic Umbrian restaurant.

Day 4: Orvieto

  • Take a trip to the city of Orvieto, a beautiful city atop a hill with stunning architecture, artwork, and historical significance.
  • Visit the beautiful Orvieto Cathedral, known for its Gothic design and unique mosaics.
  • Take a tour of the underground city and Etruscan wells, a hidden gem beneath the city streets.
  • Stop by one of the local wineries and vineyards to sample some of the famous Orvieto wine.

Day 5: Bevagna and Montefalco

  • Visit the charming town of Bevagna, a medieval town famous for its Roman Baths and well-preserved architecture.
  • Explore the local artisan shops and take home some authentic Umbrian souvenirs.
  • Drive to Montefalco, a beautiful hilltop town and wine region famous for its Sagrantino wine.
  • Stop to appreciate the beautiful art pieces at the Museum of San Francesco and then enjoy a glass of Sagrantino wine paired with some delicious local food.

Day 6: Todi and Deruta

  • Take a trip to the beautiful small town of Todi, known for its stunning palaces and beautiful Duomo.
  • Take a stroll along the beautiful streets and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Visit Deruta, a small town known for its beautiful ceramics and pottery.
  • Take a tour of the town, visit local artisans, and even take a pottery class.

Day 7: Perugia again and farewell

  • Spend your last day soaking in the charm of Perugia one last time.
  • Enjoy a final meal at one of the many authentic Umbrian restaurants featured on this itinerary.
  • Take one last stroll in the beautiful streets of Perugia and bid farewell to the green heart of Italy.

We hope this itinerary helps you experience the best of Umbria. Enjoy your trip!