Tour of Umbria: what to see and where to go
Hills, valleys, lakes, and mountains provide the magnificent natural backdrop that makes Umbria the ideal destination for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and water sports.
What truly makes Umbria special is its extraordinary historical and cultural heritage: from the architectural gems of Perugia and Assisi to the ancient ruins of Spoleto and Todi, Umbria is an open-air museum and a land of spirituality, warm hospitality, and tradition. If you're planning a weekend or vacation in Perugia and the surrounding area, this article recommends everything you can do in Umbria and what to see based on how many days you have available.
A weekend in Umbria: what to do in 3 days
If you only have a weekend to dedicate to Umbria, you can still savor the best this region has to offer. Start your journey in the city of Perugia, where you can wander through fascinating medieval streets, visit the majestic Rocca Paolina, and admire the splendid Fontana Maggiore in Piazza IV Novembre. Don’t miss the chance to taste the delicious Perugia chocolates, famous worldwide.
On the second day, head to the city of Assisi, famous as the birthplace of Saint Francis. Visit the Basilica dedicated to the saint, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of this spiritual place. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, where every corner tells the story of this charming medieval village.
To end your weekend on a high note, spend the third day exploring the picturesque Lake Trasimeno, the largest lake in central Italy. Here you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the shores of the lake, admire the picturesque villages overlooking its waters, and savor the local cuisine in one of the many lakeside restaurants.
Lastly, remember that Umbria is also renowned for its music festivals that attract music enthusiasts from all over the world. The most famous is undoubtedly Umbria Jazz, held every July in Perugia: since 1973, it has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz, from traditional to contemporary jazz, with concerts scattered throughout the city's squares, theaters, and streets. Highly recommended if you love the genre.
What to see in Umbria in a week by car
If you have more time and wish to explore Umbria by car at a leisurely pace, there’s nothing better than hitting the road to discover its hidden treasures. You can still start your journey from Perugia but add a few stops in some of the region's most beautiful villages, such as Spello, Montefalco, and Bevagna, where you can admire ancient monuments while strolling through cobbled streets and tasting the exquisite local wines and typical products.
Continue to Assisi, where you can dedicate an entire day to visiting the Basilica of Saint Francis and other sites related to the saint's life. Don’t forget to also visit the charming town of Gubbio, with its medieval historic center and breathtaking views from its Rocca.
To conclude your week in Umbria, take a trip to the Monti Sibillini National Park, where you can immerse yourself in unspoiled nature and admire stunning landscapes. Be sure to visit the town of Norcia, famous for its cured meats and local products, and make a stop at the Marmore Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, before ending your journey and heading home with memories of a vacation rich in cultural, natural, and gastronomic experiences.
To make the most of your car trip in Umbria, enjoy the comfort of one of our rental cars! Here are the main rental offices you can contact in this region:
