Umbria: What to See, Things To Do & How to Get There

You recently got to know about a beautiful region nestled in the center of Italy and now you are wondering what to see and do in Umbria? Look no further!

Umbria, known also as “The Green Heart of Italy”, is an Italian (almost) hidden gem, with some beautiful places that can be considered Italy’s best-kept secrets. 

When it comes to planning a trip to Italy, most people think of Rome, Florence, or the Amalfi Coast, making Umbria a lesser-known travel destination. While one might consider this a pity, in the era of over-tourism and crowded places this can be considered a blessing, and travellers can experience the real Italian dream: “La Dolce Vita”. 

Umbria is a land rich in culture, history, tradition and nature. Here you can visit timeless towns that have lived through the Etruscan, Roman and Medieval periods. You can enjoy beautiful natural spots and landscapes, like waterfalls, lakes, mountains, valleys and vineyards. If you feel adventurous, you can try some rafting or paragliding; on the other hand, should you wish to just relax, you can just sit down in the countryside with a good glass of wine and a platter of Umbrian norcineria. 

Where is Umbria in Italy?

Let’s start with the basics for those who haven’t looked up Umbria on the map yet: where is Umbria in Italy?

The region is landlocked in central Italy, between Tuscany, Marche and Lazio. This means that Umbria is not far from tourist places like Rome and Florence, just about 2 hours by car or train from both cities, depending on where you’re heading. 

For example, Rome is closer to the south of Umbria, so it would be very easy (around 1 hour) to get to places like Orvieto or the Marmore Waterfalls. On the other end, from Rome it might take a bit longer (2 hours) to get to Perugia or Gubbio, which are more up north and closer to Tuscany. Vice versa, if you are coming from Florence to Umbria, the north part of the region will be closer. 

Because of its position just in between such important Italian destinations, Umbria is often visited for a day trip or a stopover during a Rome-to-Florence trip. However, the region has a lot to offer to every type of traveller, and deciding to plan a holiday in Umbria for 5 or 7 days will be a choice that you surely won’t regret. 

Let’s now dive into what to see in Umbria! 

The Charm of the Umbrian Hilltop Towns

If you plan to visit Umbria, you should start by exploring its enchanting hilltop towns, or borghi. Scattered across the region, these historical gems sit proudly above lush valleys and rolling hills, like watchful sentinels guarding the past. Each one has its own character, shaped by centuries of history, local traditions, and natural beauty. 

Quieter and greener in comparison to their Tuscan cousins, Umbrian borghi offer travelers a more intimate, authentic, and slow-paced experience of Italian life. Walking through their narrow alleys, surrounded by stone buildings and flower-filled balconies, feels like stepping back in time.

While various hilltop towns are worth a visit, we believe that few of them are the “must-see” and the right choice for first-timers in Umbria to understand and experience this Italian region’s soul truly.

Assisi

Birthplace of St. Francis and restplace of Carlo Acutis, Assisi is a spiritual and architectural wonder that attracts pilgrims and art lovers alike. Its UNESCO-listed Basilica of St. Francis is home to world-famous frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, narrating the life of the saint in vivid detail. That are various other churches in Assisi, like the Basilica of St Clare and the Cathedral of San Rufino. 

Assisi is more than just a religious site, and there is more to visit. For example, beneath Piazza del Comune (Assisi’s main square) lie the remains of the city’s Roman Forum. Today, the Temple of Minerva rises above the archaeological site, with its striking Roman façade now part of the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. 

While visiting the town stroll through the medieval streets and quiet alleys lined with artisan shops, and you might get to the the Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress just above Assisi, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley, perfect to experience the Golden Hour.

Perugia

The regional capital and its most important city, Perugia, is a dynamic university town that balances ancient roots with youthful energy. 

Founded by the Etruscans, its historic center is a maze of stone steps, hidden archways, and panoramic terraces. Walk along Corso Vannucci, the main street lined with cafes and boutiques, and dive into history at the National Gallery of Umbria. Don’t miss the fascinating Rocca Paolina, an underground fortress built by Pope Paul III. 

Amidst other things, Perugia is well-known for hosting the Umbria Jazz Festival and for chocolate, being home to the Perugina factory and the Eurochocolate Festival every October. For those interested in a chocolate-based trip, Perugia offers the opportunity to stay at the Choco Hotel, where everything is about chocolate!

Orvieto

Located in the southern part of Umbria and dramatically perched atop a volcanic tuff cliff, Orvieto is a town that impresses at first sight. 

The most important site is its magnificent Duomo, one of Italy’s finest cathedrals, with its richly decorated Gothic facade. Inside, you’ll find Luca Signorelli’s stunning fresco cycle of the Last Judgment. 

Orvieto’s wonders go deeper, literally. Beneath the modern city lies the Orvieto Underground, a network of ancient tunnels, wells, and caves carved over millennia. Add to that a charming historic center, excellent wines, and dramatic views over the surrounding countryside, and you have a must-see destination.

Spoleto

A mix of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences, Spoleto is a cultural treasure trove nestled against forested hills.

The town is best known for the Festival dei Due Mondi, an internationally acclaimed celebration of art, music, and theatre held every summer. But Spoleto is not only about this festival: you can explore the imposing Rocca Albornoziana fortress, walk across the spectacular and suggestive Ponte delle Torri, and admire the frescoes in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Spoleto’s quiet charm and elegance make it perfect for unhurried exploration.

Todi

Graceful and serene, Todi overlooks the Tiber Valley and is often considered one of the most livable towns in the world.

Its harmonious blend of architecture, from Romanesque to Renaissance, creates a timeless atmosphere. Begin your visit at the Piazza del Popolo, a beautifully preserved square flanked by noble palaces and churches. Visit the Church of San Fortunato, climb its bell tower for sweeping views, and then walk to the Tempio di Santa Maria della Consolazione, a masterpiece of Renaissance design sitting just outside the old walls.

Todi is ideal for those seeking tranquility and beauty away from the crowds.

Nature, Landscapes and Lakes

Umbria is known as "il cuore verde d’Italia" (the green heart of Italy) for a reason. The region is geographically composed largely of green rolling hills, forests, rivers, vineyards, olive groves and lakes.

This provides the perfect setting for outdoor lovers and those seeking peace and natural beauty during their holidays, to escape grey and noisy big cities.

Some of the best Umbria natural spots to visit are:

• Cascata delle Marmore (Marmore Waterfalls): artificially created by the ancient Romans more than 2000 years ago, this stunning 165-meter waterfall is one of the tallest in Europe, and it is an engineering masterpiece. Surrounded by lush forest, it offers hiking trails, guided tours, scenic views and incredible photo opportunities.
  
  
• Sibillini Mountains: Located in southeastern Umbria, this mountainous area is ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. The nearby Piana di Castelluccio is famous for its spectacular summer flower bloom, and you can also visit the beautiful towns of Norcia and Cascia not far from here.
  
  
• Monte Cucco and Monte Subasio: These mountains offer everything from scenic hiking trails to caves and panoramic lookouts. Both mountains are hotspots for paragliding and hiking, while Monte Subasio also shelters Assisi and Spello on its slopes.
  
  
• Lake Trasimeno: The biggest and most loved amidst the lakes of Umbria, Lake Trasimeno is Italy’s fourth-largest lake. It offers a relaxing escape with beaches, islands, boat rides, and charming lakeside towns like Castiglione del Lago. Also, the lake hosts 3 little islands, 2 of which can be visited with a very nice lake cruise.

Activities to Do in Umbria

Are you scared that you won’t know what to do in Umbria during your holiday? No worries at all! If you are looking for adventure during your trip, Umbria will deliver.

There are various activities that you can do while staying in the region: you can go trekking through mountain trails or try rafting on the Nera River for a splash of adrenaline. Cross the Ponte Tibetano di Sellano, a thrilling suspension bridge with sweeping valley views.

Families can enjoy a day at Umbria Activity Park, and the region also offers paragliding, horseback riding, and bike touring for all skill levels.

Last, but not least, you can book wine tastings, olive oil tastings, and a day out truffle hunting (and, of course, later you’ll eat the truffle you found!)

Food, Wine, and Olive Oil

Umbrian food is deeply tied to the land. Its products are simple, seasonal, and bursting with flavor. It’s a cuisine that reflects the rustic beauty of the region, and one that surprises visitors with its depth and authenticity.

• Norcineria: This term refers to the traditional art of pork butchery, perfected in Norcia. Expect rich flavors from wild boar cuts, salami, and truffle-seasoned meats.
  
  
• Umbria wine: The region's most famous red is Montefalco Sagrantino, a robust and age-worthy wine. There’s also Grechetto, a crisp white perfect for warm days, while one of the most loved Umbrian wine is the Orvieto Classico, a delicate white perfect with cheeses and fish. Visit cantinas in Montefalco, Bevagna, Orvieto and Torgiano for tastings and unforgettable experiences!
  
  
• Umbria olive oil: The olive groves around Spoleto and Trevi produce award-winning oils with a distinct peppery finish. Try it on bruschetta or as a drizzle over grilled vegetables. You can also visit the mills and have tastings, and we suggest you do this activity in late October/early November during the olives harvesting season. 

Festivals and Local Life

No matter the season or your travel style, Umbria offers a festival for every kind of visitor. From lovers of food and music to those fascinated by tradition and history, Umbria events are an unforgettable way to experience the region’s culture, taste its finest products, and see local communities come alive.

Cultural and Culinary Festivals

• Eurochocolate in Perugia (October): A dream come true for chocoholics. The city transforms into a paradise of cocoa, with tastings, workshops, and chocolate-themed creations. eld in the historic center of Perugia, the festival features stands and exhibitors from all over the world, making the atmosphere truly magical and international.
  
  
• Umbria Jazz (July): One of Europe’s most iconic jazz festivals. International artists fill the streets and piazzas of Perugia with music, creating a vibrant summer atmosphere. During the years, the festival grow and hosted some very-big musicians, from Lenny Kravitz to Lionel Richie. 
  
  
• Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto (June/July): A world-class event that brings together music, opera, theater, and dance, blending European and American artistic traditions.
  
  
• Truffle Festivals (Autumn): Celebrated in towns like Norcia and Gubbio, these events honor the region’s prized black and white truffles. Expect tastings, local markets, and plenty of truffle-infused dishes.

Historical and Traditional Celebrations

• Calendimaggio in Assisi (May): A medieval celebration of spring, where the town divides into two factions and competes in costume parades, music, and pageantry.
  
  
• Infiorata in Spello (June): Streets are transformed into breathtaking carpets of flowers to celebrate Corpus Domini, with intricate designs made entirely from petals.
  
  
• Corsa dei Ceri in Gubbio (May): One of Italy’s oldest and most passionate festivals. Three teams race through the streets carrying heavy wooden "candles" in a centuries-old ritual of devotion and pride.
  
  
• Mercato delle Gaite in Bevagna (June): A historical reenactment of medieval daily life. The town's neighborhoods compete by recreating trades, markets, and cuisine from the 13th century.

Getting There and Around

You can fly into Rome or Florence, then rent a car for the full Umbrian experience. There’s also a small regional airport in Perugia, with seasonal flights. Trains connect major towns and central places, like Trasimeno Lake, Perugia, Assisi, Spoleto and Terni, but a car gives you the freedom to explore the countryside and off-the-beaten-path villages. 

Why You Should Visit Umbria

So, why should Umbria be on your itinerary?

• It’s close to both Rome and Tuscany
  
  
• It’s quieter and less touristy than Rome and Florence
  
  
• It offers stunning landscapes and authentic villages
  
  
• The food and wine are unforgettable

Whether you're after peaceful walks through olive groves, a deep dive into medieval history, or just some amazing local fare, Umbria Italy will win your heart. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Ready to plan your trip? Contact Casa Umbra for suggestions on how to organize your Umbria holidays.