Top 17 Must-Do Activities in Perugia, Italy’s Umbrian Heart

Perugia, in Italy's Umbria region, mixes history and culture. Our comprehensive travel guide answers all your questions with 17 must-dos, from ancient ruins to tasty local eats.

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Why Perugia Should Be on Your Italian Bucket List

With its monumental roots in an Etruscan settlement, through its medieval architecture to its centuries-old university, overrun with culture, Perugia, the capital of the Umbrian region of Italy, is known as the cultural destination of anyone wishing to soak up art, literature, music, and food.

The city boasts many interesting museums, including the Gallery Nazionale dell’Umbria where you can see works by Perugino and Pinturicchio; they also host, among others, the Umbria Jazz Festival and Eurochocolate.

Excellent food is one of the city’s claims to fame, and truffles, cured meats, and Sagrantino wine are revelations. Sightseers are advised not to miss visiting the Perugina chocolate factory and its famous ‘Baci’ (kisses) chocolates.

Pinpointing Perugia: Italy's Enchanting Hideaway

Perugia's location has it situated in the central Italian region of Umbria, the city perches on a high hill overlooking the valleys of the Tiber River. It lies about 102 miles north of Rome and 92 miles southeast of Florence.

Perugia Mapped Out

In order to locate the city of Perugia, Italy, on a map, it lies halfway between Rome and Florence, at the coordinates 43.112221° N latitude and 12.388889° E longitude. Other indicators of its place include the nearby body of water called Lake Trasimeno and the rolling hills that are typical of the region.

Perugia Pronounced

You say Perugia, the capital of Umbria in Italy, as "peh-ROO-jah." Stress the "ROO," and the "j" sounds like "jam." This fits Italian phonetic rules, with a soft "j" before "i.

Perugia Through the Ages

Perugia - founded by the Umbrian tribes in the Etruscan period, it was part of the Etruscan League from the 6th century BCE onwards and joined the Roman Republic in 310 BCE. After passing through a period as a Lombard duchy (592 CE) and later Papal territory (1540), Perugia became an important player in the Italian unification in 1860. It’s also home to one of the oldest universities in Italy – having been founded in 1308 – and certainly among the most beautiful.

Fall in Love with Perugia

The tourist spots certainly make a city like Perugia, in Italy, worth a visit, but I must admit, I truly appreciate the underdog spots – the ones off the beaten path: Go underground to explore a medieval network of caves, tunnels and wells; hike to the ruins of Montenero Castle under oak trees, amid its medieval fortifications, for a romantic outing, including panoramic views of the city; for a bird’s eye view, drifting over the Umbrian countryside aboard a hot air balloon is an experience not to be missed.

If you are looking for many more ideas of things to do in Perugia, then check out our list below. Book an agriturismo dinner under the starry sky to end the day in local style with fresh -and I literally mean fresh – products from the gardens, prepared with love by talented farmers.

How big is Perugia, Italy?

Perugia covers about 449.5 square kilometers (173.6 square miles). In 2024, around 169,858 people live there.

Peace of Mind in Perugia

Perugia is mostly safe for tourists but has some urban issues like petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in busy areas. Violent crime is rare. Stay sharp with your stuff and avoid dark places at night. Public transport is safe, but make sure taxis use a meter. The city is pretty safe overall. Just use common sense and keep an eye on your surroundings.

When you're in Perugia, Italy, staying safe is key for a great trip. Here are some quick tips:

General Safety

Keep an eye on your stuff, especially in crowded spots. Don’t flash your valuables around.

Avoiding Common Scams

Look out for scams. Fake cops asking for your passport, the pigeon poop trick, and pushy street vendors are common. Stick to marked taxis and make sure the meter is on.

Nighttime Safety

At night, stay in well-lit, busy areas. Avoid walking alone in dark or empty places. Stick to popular spots like Rocca Paolina and Piazza IV Novembre, but stay alert.

Public Transportation and Crowded Areas

Be extra careful on public transport and in crowded places like train stations and tourist spots. Keep your bag close and secure. Use a crossbody bag and don’t keep valuables in easy-to-reach pockets.

Emergency Preparedness

Know the local emergency number, 112. Having this info can be a lifesaver.

Local Customs and Precautions

Respect local customs and stay aware of your surroundings. This helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention. Travel in groups or hire a local guide for extra safety and a deeper experience of the city.

17 Must-Do Activities in Perugia, Italy

Here are 17 things to do to explore and enjoy this charming city:

1. Go See Piazza IV Novembre

Hit up Piazza IV Novembre, the main square in Perugia. You'll see the Fontana Maggiore, Palazzo dei Priori, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. It's a solid starting point for exploring the city's landmarks.

2. Explore Rocca Paolina

Check out Rocca Paolina, the underground fortress. This Renaissance stronghold now hosts markets and exhibitions, giving you a cool peek into Perugia’s past.

3. Visit the National Gallery of Umbria

Drop by the National Gallery of Umbria in Palazzo dei Priori. This place is packed with Umbrian art, featuring pieces from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

4. Stroll Along Corso Vannucci

Take a walk down Corso Vannucci, the main street in Perugia. It’s lined with cafes, shops, and old buildings, making it a lively spot to hang out.

5. Admire the Cathedral of San Lorenzo

Admire the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. This Gothic and Renaissance masterpiece is full of stunning frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.

6. Discover the Etruscan Well

Check out the Etruscan Well in Piazza Danti. This ancient well, dating back to the 3rd or 4th century BC, is 37 meters deep and a real engineering marvel.

7. Climb the Sciri Tower

Climb the Sciri Tower, one of Perugia’s tallest and oldest towers. At 46 meters high, it offers awesome panoramic views of the city.

8. Visit the Church of San Pietro

Visit the Church of San Pietro. This 11th-century church and monastery is famous for its art collection and beautiful courtyard.

9. Tour the Perugina Chocolate Factory

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Perugina Chocolate Factory. Located just outside the city center, this factory tour includes samples of their famous Baci chocolates.

10. Wander Through the Backstreets

Get lost in Perugia’s backstreets. These alleys and stairways are perfect for exploring the city's medieval architecture and hidden gems.

11. Marvel at the Arco d'Augusto

Marvel at the Arco d’Augusto, also known as the Etruscan Arch. This ancient gateway dates back to the 3rd century BC and is one of Perugia’s oldest architectural pieces.

12. Visit the Oratory of San Bernardino

Visit the Oratory of San Bernardino, a small but beautifully decorated chapel in Piazza San Francesco. Its intricate facade and artwork are captivating.

13. Take a Day Trip to Assisi

Take a day trip to Assisi, a medieval town nearby. Explore the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi and enjoy the charming streets and piazzas.

14. Explore the Museo Archeologico

Explore the Museo Archeologico in Piazza Giordano Bruno. This museum showcases artifacts from prehistoric times to the Roman period, detailing Umbria’s history.

15. Visit the Volumni Hypogeum

Visit the Volumni Hypogeum, an ancient tomb discovered in 1840. This necropolis has over 200 tombs, offering insights into Perugia’s Etruscan heritage.

16. Walk Along the Aqueduct

Walk along the historic aqueduct. This unique path offers scenic views and a glimpse into Perugia’s ancient infrastructure.

17. Relax at Parco Regionale del Lago Trasimeno

Relax at Parco Regionale del Lago Trasimeno. This beautiful park is perfect for a peaceful getaway with its shimmering waters and gorgeous views.

Discover Perugia: Your Guide to the Best Tours in Umbria

Perugia: Old Town Walking Tour, Piazza IV Novembre

Check out Perugia's Old Town. Walk through history from the Etruscans to the Romans to the Papal era. Hit up key spots like Piazza IV Novembre and get a feel for the city's past.

Perugia: Entry Ticket and Guided Tour of Perugia Underground

Go underground in Perugia. Explore over 2,500 years of history, from the Etruscans to the Romans. Get a unique look at how the city's evolved through its hidden layers.

Perugia: Traditional Umbrian Food Guided Walking Tour

Taste the best of Umbria on this food tour. Stop at five top spots in Perugia and try truffles, cheeses, and charcuterie. Perfect for foodies looking to mix culture with cuisine.

Assisi and Spello Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

Visit Assisi's holy sites and the charming town of Spello on this day trip. See the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, San Damiano, and Eremo delle Carceri. Enjoy wine and olive oil tastings and explore Roman ruins.

Perugia: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour

Take a private tour of Perugia. See the city's highlights with your guide, including Rocca Paolina, the medieval fortress, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Get an intimate look at Perugia's history and culture.

Umbria: Guided Tour to Traditional Oil Mill + Tasting

Visit a traditional oil mill in Giano dell'Umbria. Learn about ancient olive oil production methods. Enjoy a tasting session with bruschettas, local wines, and a charcuterie and cheese board. Perfect for those into culinary traditions and olive oil history.

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Pathways to Perugia

To get to Perugia, Italy from Rome or Florence, you’ve got a few options. The train from Roma Termini to Perugia takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. You can buy the Roma Termini to Perugia ticket online or at the station. If it’s peak season, buy your tickets early. A FlixBus runs from Rome’s Tiburtina station, also around 2.5 hours. If it’s your first time driving from Rome, take the A1 Autostrada (2 hours 20 minutes) – about 136 kilometers, north of Rome. From Florence? The journey to Perugia takes around 2.5 hours by train.

By Plane

Fly into San Francesco d'Assisi Airport (PEG). It’s about 12 kilometers from the city center. Take a taxi for around €30, and it takes about 20-30 minutes. Or, grab a bus which takes about 30 minutes.

Who flies to Perugia, Italy?

Several airlines fly to Perugia, Italy. Ryanair, Aeroitalia, and British Airways are the main ones. Ryanair has the most flights, especially from Europe. Aeroitalia covers many Italian routes. British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to Perugia Sant Egidio Airport multiple times a week from June to September. Additionally, Wizz Air Malta and Albawings also fly to Perugia.

By Train

As mentioned, trains connect well to Perugia, but they’re not high-speed. From Florence, a direct train takes about 2 hours. From Rome, change trains at Foligno. The total trip takes about 2 hours too. Make sure to get off at Perugia Centrale, not the suburban stops.

By Bus

Direct buses run from both Rome and Florence to Perugia. From Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, take the Sulga bus. It’s about a 3-hour ride and stops at Piazza Partigiani in Perugia. Super convenient if you're flying into Rome.

By Car

Driving to Perugia is easy via the A1 and E45 highways. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Rome and a bit shorter from Florence. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Umbria at your own pace.

Planning a trip to Perugia? Need a solid car rental? Check out Discovercars.com. They've got everything from small cars for zipping around town to bigger ones for family trips. Their prices are good and the terms are clear. The customer service is top-notch, too. Booking is easy and they partner with reliable rental companies. Discovercars.com makes renting a car in Perugia hassle-free.

Where to park in Perugia, Italy?

When you visit Perugia, Italy, park at Piazza Partigiani or Viale Pellini. Both connect to the center via escalators. Piazza Partigiani is right at the escalators' base, so it's super easy. Viale Pellini also offers quick access to main spots. Additionally, for a cheaper option, try Via del Forno, but it gets busy. Pian di Massiano is free and links to the center with the Minimetrò.

Getting Around Perugia

Once in Perugia, use the local bus service or the MiniMetrò to get around. The MiniMetrò is a light rail system that connects various parts of the city, including the main train station and the city center. Buy tickets at the bus station or newsstands.

The Weather in Perugia, Italy

Spring in Perugia

Spring in Perugia is awesome. Temps slowly warm up and flowers start popping. March hits the upper 50s, April gets to the mid-60s, and by May, it's in the 70s. April's a bit rainy, around three inches. Perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and check out the city's historic spots without the summer crowds.

Summer in Perugia

Summer here is hot. June starts around 80 degrees, July and August hit the upper 80s. Nights cool off to the mid-60s. Furthermore, it's the driest season, especially July and August. Long sunny days are great for festivals and outdoor events.

Autumn in Perugia

Autumn cools down gradually. September is in the mid-70s, and by November, it drops to the high 50s. Rain picks up in October. The fall colors make the city super pretty. Great time for walks and enjoying local food. Fewer tourists too.

Winter in Perugia

Winter is mild but can get chilly. December and January are the coldest, with highs in the upper 40s and lows in the mid-30s. Rainfall is steady. Good time to hit up museums and indoor spots.

Does it snow in Perugia, Italy?

Yes, it snows in Perugia, but it's rare and usually light. Winters are cold with temps sometimes dropping below freezing. Snow can happen from November to March, mostly in February. It doesn't stick around long and melts quickly. The city's height and close mountains bring these occasional snowfalls.

Best Time to Visit Perugia

The best time to visit depends on what you like. Spring and early autumn are great for mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer is perfect for warm weather and festivals. Winter offers a quieter vibe and historic charm. Perugia has something cool in every season.

Where to stay in Perugia, Italy?

Perugia is full of places to stay – and there’s something to suit every taste and budget. If you’re looking for somewhere fancy, try Sina Brufani, an art-filled former convent with spectacular views of the old town and modern, luxurious rooms. Fancy somewhere quirky? Try the Chocohotel, which – as you might have guessed – prides itself on chocolate, chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate, including at breakfast time.

If you’re after somewhere romantic check out Alla Posta dei Donini, an old 17th-century house with beautiful frescoes and an ultra-modern spa. Watching the pennies? Try Hotel Iris, a city-center hotel with great views of the rock of Perugia and the surrounding hills from its terrace. It’s right near the Rocca Paolina fortress.

The Best Hotels in Perugia, Italy

Below is a list of some of the top hotels in Perugia by category:

Budget Hotels

Hotel Umbria
Hotel Umbria is right in the heart of Perugia. It's comfy and welcoming. The location is perfect for exploring the city's historic sites. Basic amenities are available, making it great for budget travelers.

Hotel Iris
Hotel Iris, in a 17th-century building, mixes old-school charm with modern comforts. It's close to Rocca Paolina and Sant'Ercolano Church. The panoramic terrace offers awesome views of the old city and hills.

Family Hotels

Chocohotel
Chocohotel is a chocolate-themed spot perfect for families. It's near Perugia Train Station and the historic center. Themed rooms and friendly service make it a hit with kids. Free parking and Wi-Fi are a plus.

Perugia Park Hotel
Perugia Park Hotel has spacious rooms and top-notch amenities. Families will love the wellness center with a pool, sauna, and gym. It's close to main attractions, making it ideal for those with kids.

Mid-Range Hotels

Sangallo Palace
Sangallo Palace is in the city center, near Rocca Paolina fortress. It has a wellness area with a heated pool and gym. The terrace offers great views, perfect for a comfy and central stay.

Hotel Fortuna
Hotel Fortuna, from the 1300s, combines historical vibes with modern perks. It's near Corso Vannucci and has a rooftop terrace with stunning views. The staff is helpful, and the breakfast is delicious.

Luxury Hotels

Sina Brufani
Sina Brufani is a five-star hotel with luxurious accommodations in a historic setting. It has an elegant design, an indoor pool with glass floors showing ancient ruins, and a fine dining restaurant. It's centrally located for easy access to attractions.

Castello Di Monterone
Castello Di Monterone offers a luxurious and romantic stay in a restored castle. The property has beautiful gardens, a relaxing pool, and rooms with stunning countryside views. The service is top-notch, making it a favorite for luxury travelers.

Where to eat in Perugia, Italy?

If you’re in Perugia, Italy, and looking for a fast-food fix, it has the cheap and cheerful Dal Mi Cocco outlets, where you get a certain number of courses for a flat rate, currently €13. For an authentic Umbrian experience served with a twist, try the traditional restaurant, La Taverna, in a setting that’s almost as impressive as the food – it’s housed in a 14th-century cloister.

The best pizza is to be had at La Romantica, where you might try the half-meter pizza to share. Moreover, while La Taverna offers the traditional cuisine of the north, Osteria A Priori is the place where you’ll find the best pasta and truffles, not to mention a fine selection of wine.

The 13 Best Restaurants in Perugia, Italy

Counting the Days: Your Ideal Stay in Perugia

Typically, spending two to three days in Perugia is ideal to explore its main attractions and soak in the local ambiance. Hit the medieval Rocca Paolina, Piazza IV Novembre, and the National Gallery of Umbria for some art. Walk the old aqueduct and check out the Perugina Chocolate Factory. Got an extra day? Swing by Assisi to see the Basilica of Saint Francis. This plan lets you enjoy Perugia without rushing.

Sample Itineraries for Visiting Perugia, Italy

1-Day Itinerary

Morning:

• Piazza IV Novembre: Kick off your day here. Check out Fontana Maggiore and Palazzo dei Priori.
• Perugia Cathedral: Head to the cathedral. The steps give a great view of the square.

Afternoon:

• Rocca Paolina: Explore this cool underground fortress from the 16th century. Get there via the escalators from Piazza Partigiani.
• Corso Vannucci: Walk down Perugia’s main street. It’s full of shops, cafes, and old buildings.

Evening:

• Basilica di San Pietro: End your day at this stunning 10th-century basilica. The interior is amazing.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Follow the 1-Day Itinerary

Day 2:
Morning:

• National Gallery of Umbria: Spend your morning in this museum. It’s got a great collection of Umbrian art.

Afternoon:

• San Domenico Church: Visit this huge 14th-century church. It’s got the remains of Pope Benedict XI.
• Arco Etrusco: Check out this old Roman-style gate and wander the old quarters around it.

Evening:

• Centro Commerciale Collestrada: Love shopping? Hit up this large shopping center with lots of shops and dining spots.

3-Day Itinerary

Days 1 & 2: Follow the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 3:
Morning:

• Convent of San Domenico: Visit this historic convent with beautiful Romanesque architecture.

Afternoon:

• Piana di Castelluccio di Norcia: Take a drive to this beautiful natural area. It’s famous for its flower fields, especially in bloom season.

7-Day Itinerary (Exploring Umbria)

Which is better, Perugia or Assisi?

Perugia or Assisi? It all depends on the vibe you’re going for. Perugia, as the capital of the region Umbria, it’s got a LOT of life. There’s loads of history and culture to be had, as well as many nightlife options. Restaurants for miles, and shops for every taste, and you’ll find that Perugia is a great center for day trips to surrounding towns. Assisi … well, Assisi is all about peace. Assisi is about the history of St Francis of Assisi and the UNESCO sites within the quiet town. If you are into walking around a historic and spiritual town, Assisi is a great option. More choice and lots of energy? Go with the capital.