Get ready to dive into the heart of Italy with an unforgettable journey through Umbria, the “Green Heart” of the country! Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Tuscany, Umbria is a treasure trove of charming hilltop towns, rolling vineyards, ancient art, and delicious cuisine, all with fewer crowds and a more laid-back vibe.
From medieval streets in Assisi to truffle hunting in Gubbio, and lakeside relaxation at Trasimeno, this region has something to enchant every kind of traveler.
Buckle up for an itinerary packed with scenic views, authentic Italian flavors, and hidden gems that make Umbria a magical destination if you want to discover Italy’s best-kept secrets.
Sometimes we even dared to explore right outside of the outskirts of Umbria to add a small dazzle of Tuscany to this travel itinerary.
Transportation for this Umbria Itinerary
To properly explore all of the nooks and crannies of Umbria you’ll definitely need to get yourself a rental car!
We opted to fly into Rome and pick it up straight from the airport. Another option is to fly into Florence and go from there.
There’s also a small airport in Perugia, the capital of Umbria. But flights here are rather limited, especially if you have specific days in mind.
✈️ BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Save yourself time by comparing all of the best flight deals in one place!
🚘 I always use SunnyCars when booking a rental car cause their company policy makes me feel the most at ease. And a big plus is that there are no hidden costs with them! So no extra insurance when you pick up your car!
Best time to visit Umbria
The best time to visit Umbria is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). In spring, the countryside is lush and vibrant with wildflowers, and temperatures are comfortably mild, making it perfect for exploring towns like Assisi, Perugia, and Spello. Additionally, springtime offers a range of unique festivals, such as the Infiorata flower festival in Spello, where streets are transformed with intricate floral carpets.
In the fall, the weather is still pleasant, and the region’s vineyards and olive groves come alive with harvest activities, offering an ideal time to sample fresh wine and olive oil. Autumn also brings the seasonal truffle and mushroom harvests, making it a culinary delight for food lovers.
Summer, while warm and sunny, can be crowded and hot, especially in the hilltop towns. Winter is quiet and offers a peaceful atmosphere, though some attractions and restaurants may have limited hours.
💡 TIP – We visited at the start of October and did encounter colder weather than expected due to spurs of a recent storm across Europe. Cause when we talked to the locals they mentioned that last year it was 10°C warmer during the same time period.
Where to stay in Umbria
During our stay in Umbria I decided to base us as centrally as possible. I really wanted to have an authentic experience and wanted to stay more on the countryside. I decided to book one of the deluxe rooms at Tenuta di Murlo.
The Murlo Estate is one of the most exclusive private country estates in Italy, owned by the same family for generations. Renowned for its thousands of hectares of immaculate woods and olive groves, and for its superb valleys, lakes and rivers, it is the perfect place for a relaxing and tranquil holiday.
🏨 BOOK YOUR STAY – Click here to find other accommodations in Umbria
The Perfect Umbria Travel Itinerary
Day 1
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnaregio, Gardens of Bomarzo
Orvieto
Orvieto is a stunning hilltop town in Umbria, known for its architecture, rich history, and impressive wine culture. Perched atop volcanic tuff cliffs, Orvieto’s skyline is dominated by its magnificent Gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Orvieto. The cathedral’s intricate façade, adorned with colorful mosaics and sculptures, is one of Italy’s most beautiful, and inside you’ll find impressive frescoes by Luca Signorelli.
Besides that you can also explore the underground labyrinth of tunnels and caves (Orvieto Underground) or climb the Torre del Moro for panoramic views over the Umbrian countryside. The town is also known for its delicious Orvieto Classico wine, a crisp white that pairs perfectly with local delicacies.
🅿️ PARKING – Park your car at Parcheggio Orvieto Percorso Meccanizzato so you don’t have to start driving in the narrow streets of the city centre. Its ‘s a paid parking lot where you can take the elevator up straight into the heart of Orvieto.
Civita di Bagnaregio
Civita di Bagnoregio, often called “The Dying Town,” is one of Italy’s most enchanting and unique villages. Perched atop a hill and accessible only by a pedestrian bridge, this ancient town sits dramatically above the surrounding valley, seemingly suspended in time. Founded over 2,500 years ago by the Etruscans, Civita di Bagnoregio is now sparsely populated due to erosion that threatens its cliffs, giving it a haunting yet captivating quality.
🅿️ PARKING – Park your car at Parcheggio Battaglini, walk up and take a left to follow down the main street to get to the entrance of Civita di Bagnaregio.
💡 TIP – One of the best views is from Viewing Deck on Civita di Bagnoregio
Gardens of Bomarzo
The Gardens of Bomarzo, also known as the “Park of the Monsters” (Parco dei Mostri), is a one-of-a-kind Renaissance garden located in the Lazio region, near the town of Bomarzo. Created in the 16th century by Pier Francesco Orsini, the garden was designed as a surreal and enigmatic place filled with giant stone sculptures, mythical creatures, and dreamlike architecture that stands in stark contrast to the structured gardens typical of the era.
Rather than orderly flowerbeds and fountains, Bomarzo offers visitors a strange and whimsical collection of sculptures, including towering monsters, dragons, a leaning house, and a massive open-mouthed “Orcus,” which invites visitors inside.
📖 READ MORE – Visiting The Gardens Of Bomarzo – a Complete Guide
Day 2
Perugia, Solomeo, Panicale, Castiglione del Lago
Perugia
Perugia, the vibrant capital of Umbria, is a city rich in history, culture, and charm. The historic center, with its cobbled streets and ancient stone buildings, is home to impressive landmarks like the Palazzo dei Priori, the Gothic-style Fontana Maggiore, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Art enthusiasts can explore the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria, which houses masterpieces from renowned Italian artists such as Perugino and Pinturicchio.
Perugia is also famous for its food scene, especially its chocolates; the city is the birthplace of the world-renowned Baci chocolates, and it hosts the annual Eurochocolate Festival, attracting chocolate lovers from across the globe.
🍽️ FOOD – Grab a local sandwich and delicacy from Antica Salumeria Granieri Amato
`🅿️ PARKING – Park your car at Parcheggio Saba Sant’Antonio
Solomeo
Solomeo is a charming medieval village in Umbria, renowned for its connection to high-quality craftsmanship and sustainable development. Located just a short drive from Perugia, Solomeo is famously associated with Brunello Cucinelli, the luxury fashion designer who has dedicated himself to restoring and preserving the village. Over the years, Cucinelli has transformed Solomeo into a hub of artisanal excellence, with workshops and ateliers specializing in fine cashmere and other luxury goods.
The village itself is beautifully restored, with cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, and lush gardens. You can explore Solomeo’s Theater of Silence, an outdoor amphitheater built by Cucinelli as a place for reflection and cultural events. Nearby, the Church of San Bartolomeo offers a glimpse of the village’s spiritual heritage.
Panicale
Panicale is a beautifully preserved medieval hilltop village in Umbria, offering breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and Lake Trasimeno. Known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, Panicale feels like a step back in time, with its intact medieval walls, quaint piazzas, and cozy cafes. The town is often quiet and uncrowded, making it a perfect spot for travelers looking to escape the bustle and experience authentic Italian village life.
One of Panicale’s highlights is the Church of San Sebastiano, which houses a stunning fresco by Perugino, one of Umbria’s most famous Renaissance artists. The town’s main square, Piazza Umberto I, is another must-see with its beautiful fountain and cute restaurants.
🍽️ FOOD – We had lunch at Il Caffè della Piazza and tried their aperitivo platter which included cured meat and some cheese.
🅿️ PARKING – Park your car at Parcheggio pubblico
Castiglione del Lago
Castiglione del Lago is a picturesque town on the western shore of Lake Trasimeno, known for its stunning lake views, medieval history, and local culture. One of the main highlights is the Rocca del Leone, an impressive fortress with well-preserved walls and towers. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views over Lake Trasimeno and its islands.
The town’s historic center is equally delightful, with narrow streets lined with cafes, artisan shops, and the 16th-century Palazzo della Corgna, which features Renaissance frescoes and an intriguing history tied to the powerful Corgna family. Castiglione del Lago also has a lively food and wine scene, with local specialties like freshwater fish, olive oil, and the region’s noted wines.
Day 3
Gubbio, Cortona
Gubbio
Gubbio is one of Umbria’s most enchanting medieval towns, known for its impressive stone architecture, steep cobbled streets, and rich historical and cultural traditions. Nestled at the foot of Mount Ingino, the town exudes an old-world charm, with beautifully preserved medieval buildings, including the imposing Palazzo dei Consoli, which houses the town’s museum and offers sweeping views of the valley below.
Gubbio is famous for its unique traditions, such as the annual Corsa dei Ceri (Race of the Candles), a spirited event held every May where locals carry large wooden structures through the steep streets in honor of St. Ubaldo, the town’s patron saint. Another must-see is the Fontana dei Matti, or Fountain of the Mad, where visitors can “earn” the title of honorary citizen by running around it three times.
Cortona
For Cortona we hopped right over the border where Umbria meets Tuscany. The town’s highlights include the Diocesan Museum, which houses Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Fra Angelico, and the MAEC (Museum of the Etruscan Academy), showcasing its ancient heritage.
You can also explore the Basilica of Santa Margherita, perched high above the town, and enjoy a short walk up to the Medici Fortress, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Cortona’s lively atmosphere, with artisanal shops, cafes, and seasonal festivals, makes it a delightful destination for those seeking a blend of culture, history, and the Tuscan lifestyle.
Known also as the setting for Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona captures the romance of Tuscany and remains a must-visit for any Italian itinerary.
🍽️ FOOD – We enjoyed a delicious lunch at Antica Trattoria.
🅿️ PARKING – We arrived during lunch hour so most of the parking spots close to the town centre were all fully occupied. But if you drive a little further down you arrive at the Cimitero di Cortona which also has a parking lot.
Day 4
Assisi, Spello, Rasiglia
Assisi
Assisi is a beautiful medieval town in Umbria, best known as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy’s most beloved saints and the founder of the Franciscan order. Perched on a hill overlooking the scenic Umbrian valley, Assisi combines spiritual significance with stunning architectural beauty and historical charm. The town’s crown jewel is the Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with breathtaking frescoes by Giotto and other master artists, depicting scenes from the saint’s life. This basilica is a pilgrimage site for visitors from all over the world who come to pay homage to St. Francis and marvel at the artistry within.
Beyond the basilica, Assisi’s narrow, winding streets are filled with enchanting sites, including the Basilica of Santa Chiara, dedicated to St. Clare, and the ancient Roman Temple of Minerva in the town’s main square, Piazza del Comune. For panoramic views of the region, a hike up to the medieval fortress of Rocca Maggiore is well worth the effort.
📖 READ MORE – The 5 Very Best Things To Do In Assisi
Spello
Spello is a picturesque medieval town in Umbria, known for its beautifully preserved stone architecture, vibrant flower-filled streets, and artistic treasures. Set on the slopes of Mount Subasio, Spello offers stunning views over the Umbrian valley. The town is famous for its Infiorata festival held in June, during which locals create intricate floral carpets throughout the streets to celebrate Corpus Domini, filling the town with color and fragrance.
Rasiglia
Rasiglia, often called the “Little Venice of Umbria,” is a hidden gem nestled in the hills near Foligno. Known for its picturesque canals, waterfalls, and stone houses, Rasiglia feels like a village out of a fairytale. The town’s layout is shaped by its natural springs, which flow through a network of channels that once powered local mills, looms, and dyeing workshops.
But in all honesty, I think this was one of the most overrated places that we visited in Umbria.
If you have any questions about how to visit Umbria, let me know in the comment section below.
More information on Umbria
11 Very Best Day Trips From Perugia
Visiting The Gardens Of Bomarzo – a Complete Guide
The 5 Very Best Things To Do In Assisi
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Hi! We’re Charlotte, Christof & César!
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