Umbria, Italy, is often overlooked. The better-known neighboring regions of Tuscany and Lazio usually steal the spotlight, but Umbria (pronounced “ooohm-bree-ah”) is a lesser-known gem worth exploring. While it doesn’t have a sprawling metropolis or primary industry to hang its hat on, it checks the boxes on all things classic Italian. We’re talking rolling hills, medieval villages, deep history, and incredible food and wine.
Nicknamed the “green heart of Italy” thanks to its natural beauty (mountains, lakes, wildflowers, waterfalls!), this landlocked region offers culture and outdoor adventures. Traveling here offers an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds. Umbria, Italy, may just be the perfect vacation spot you haven’t yet considered.

Before I got my Italian driver’s license, Umbria was one of my favorite places because I could quickly get there by train. After exploring and living in Italy for 12 years, Umbria Italy remains one of the regions I adore most. We encourage our Italy travel planning clients heading to central Italy to stop by for a quick lunch in Orvieto or a whole week to explore everything from stunning Lake Trasimeno to adorable towns like Norcia and unique sites like La Scarzuola.
Here, we are sharing the lowdown on Umbria, Italy, including its history, five towns to know, and ten unique things to do.

Get To Know Umbria Italy
Surrounded by Tuscany, Marche, and Lazio regions, Umbria is truly located in the middle of Italy. It’s the only Italian region without a coastline or international border. This centralized location makes it an easy addition to most Italy travel itineraries.
A visit to Umbria, Italy, offers a unique glimpse into authentic Italian life, which is often slower than in big cities and focuses on preserving traditions. But also? Umbria is frequently called the “spiritual heart of Italy” because it is home to numerous religious sites and saints, including the famous Saint Francis of Assisi and St. Benedict.
Our Italy-bound travelers are drawn to this region because it’s a bit slower but also has all the things — rich food traditions, unique history, lovely villages, beautiful natural settings, and deep culture. If you need to be convinced of its pull, look no further than its past: over millennia, the Etruscans, Romans, and Renaissance greats have left their mark on this region.

Five Towns To Know In Umbria
Umbria Italy has three cities you’ve likely heard of: Perugia, Orvieto, and Assisi. Each has its charms, but the region is best understood by exploring the cities in tandem with the historic villages. Smaller towns like Todi, Norcia, Montefalco, and Castiglione del Lago are equally magical but less crowded. If I had to pick, here would be five towns you must see:
Assisi
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Assisi is synonymous with St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy. Pilgrims and tourists flock to the Basilica of St. Francis to marvel at its famous frescoes by artists Giotto and Cimabue. This Umbria Italy town also boasts Roman ruins, charming winding streets, and a relatively serene atmosphere. Assisi is perched atop a hill like Perugia, making for outstanding views.
Getting there: Trains connect to Perugia, Rome, and Florence. The station is in the valley below, and a short bus ride or taxi will take you to the historic center.

Gubbio
As one of the oldest towns in Umbria, Italy, Gubbio is a medieval marvel. Its stone buildings, narrow streets, and the stunning Palazzo dei Consoli give visitors the impression of being transported back in time. Don’t miss the Festa dei Ceri in May. This unique experience is a historic race, originally started in 1160, where villagers carry massive wooden “candles” throughout the town. The event is in honor of the town’s patron saint, and it draws over 100,000 visitors annually. While there, don’t miss a ride on the Funivia Colle Eletto for panoramic views from a tiny cable car.
Getting there: Gubbio is best reached by car, as train services are limited. Alternatively, buses connect it to Perugia and other nearby towns.

Orvieto
Have you noticed a trend of hilltowns in Umbria? Orvieto is also perched on a hill (though it’s a volcanic tuff cliff, to be exact). Still, it’s most famous for its stunning cathedral, considered one of the finest examples of Italian Gothic architecture. The town also has an ancient network of caves beneath the city that make for a truly fascinating historical tour (bonus: this is a super fun activity for older kids).
Another must-do while in Orvieto is enjoying a glass of the local white wine made from Grechetto and Trebbiano grapes, called Orvieto Classico. While you want your wine, sample the local olive oil, Colli Orvietani DOP. To taste all these regional dishes and ingredients, head to the classic restaurant, Trattoria del Moro Aronne, just around the corner from the Torre del Moro clock tower.
Getting there: Orvieto is on the main Rome-Florence train line, making it an easy day trip. If driving, the A1 highway leads directly to the town, with a funicular available to reach the historic center.
Perugia
The capital of Umbria, Perugia, is a lively city known for its history, art, and my personal favorite: chocolate because it’s the home to Perugina chocolate. Its pristine medieval center is perched atop a hill, offering sweeping views of the lush valleys below. Stroll along Corso Vannucci, the city’s main street, and visit landmarks such as the Fontana Maggiore, Palazzo dei Priori, and the art museum, Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria.
Thanks to the university, there is always lively nightlife, including many great wine bars and restaurants in Perugia (Stella is always a good option!) My favorite time to visit Perugia is the EuroChocolate Festival, held annually in November.
Getting there: Perugia is well-connected by train from major Italian cities like Rome and Florence. For those driving, the city is accessible via the E45 highway, with parking available outside the historic center.
Spoleto
Known for its ancient Roman theater and the striking Ponte delle Torri aqueduct (built in the 14th century!), Spoleto is also a cultural hub. Every summer, it hosts the Festival dei Due Mondi, a celebration of music, dance, and theater that started in 1958.
Getting there: Spoleto is accessible by train, connecting to Rome and other Umbrian cities. It’s a short car drive along the SS3 from Perugia or Terni.

10 Things To Do In Umbria Italy
In addition to its picture-perfect towns and rich cuisine, Umbria boasts a wealth of natural attractions and national parks, making it a standout destination for nature lovers. Here are ten things to do to get to know Umbria:
Try Local Cuisine
As a travel site focused on Italy and food, no visit to Umbria Italy is complete without indulging in its incredible local cuisine. There are a lot of local artisanal products that hail from here, like Norcia prosciutto and Ricotta Salata cheese. The ingredients from the area are also top-notch, including standouts like black truffles, Castelluccio lentils, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The classic rustic Italian dishes include farro soup, truffle bruschetta, and wild boar pasta.
Try Local Olive Oil
Umbria is renowned for its superior olive oil, often called “liquid gold.” The area’s rolling hills and perfect climate create olives of remarkable quality. Visitors can tour olive groves and sample fresh, peppery, extra virgin olive oil, a staple in Umbrian kitchens.

Hunt For Black Truffles
The elusive black truffle, or “tartufo nero,” is a prized ingredient in Umbrian cuisine. This delicacy is found in the woodlands of Norcia and Spoleto and adds a distinctive earthy aroma to dishes. Truffle hunting tours offer a unique opportunity to discover this culinary treasure firsthand. Want to go on a truffle hunt? Reach out, and we’ll set one up for you!
Visit the Butchers Of Norcia
Norcia is famous for its traditional norcinerie (butcher shops specializing in pork products), producing some of Italy’s finest salumi, prosciutto, and sausages. Norcia’s black truffles also make it a paradise for food lovers, with many restaurants serving exquisite truffle-infused dishes. Head to classic restaurants like Casale Nel Parco to taste local food traditions.
Go Wine Tasting
Umbria has a deep winemaking tradition; wine lovers should explore classic and contemporary wineries. Traditional producers in Montefalco are famous for their robust Sagrantino wine, one of Italy’s most tannic reds. Meanwhile, many natural winemakers put Umbria on the map for their low-intervention, organic, and biodynamic wines.
Go tasting at classic wineries like Arnaldo Caprai or Tenuta Carapace. Or, for natural wine, look for Tiberi Vini Artigianali or Cantina Roccafiore.
Explore Lake Trasimeno
Italy’s fourth-largest lake offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills, oak woods, sunflower fields, and olive groves and is ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and water activities. The picturesque towns of Passignano and Tuoro add to the lake’s charm. Visitors can explore its three islands, take boat trips, or enjoy leisurely lakeside walks.
The surrounding towns, such as Castiglione del Lago or Passignano sul Trasimeno, are charming historical villages with excellent freshwater seafood restaurants. Explore further with the Strada del vino colli del Trasimeno, a wine route that crisscrosses wineries, restaurants, and agriturismi.
Hike The Mountains
Sibilini Mountains
In eastern Umbria Italy are the Sibillini Mountains. They straddle the border between Umbria and the Marche, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. With trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, this national park offers diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Monte Subasio
Just south of Assisi is Monte Subasio. It offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Umbria’s large valleys and natural waterfalls. It is home to the Eremo delle Carceri, a hermitage where St. Francis and his followers once prayed. Wine lovers can also stop to taste the vineyards at the mountain’s base, like Cantina Tili.

See A Man-made Waterfall
This breathtaking waterfall, Cascata delle Marmore, is one of the tallest in Europe and is the most enormous manmade waterfall in the world. The Marmore Falls was created by the ancient Romans in 271 BC and stands 541 feet tall. The Cascata delle Marmore is a popular spot for hiking, rafting, and even photography. Just check the schedule before going because the water flow is released at specific times.
Afterward, stop at the beautiful lake Piediluco and in the town of Terni for a meal at Lillero, a trattoria with classics like Terni-style ciriole pasta, frittata with wild asparagus, and wild game.

See Wildflowers At The Piano Grande
In the far eastern corner of Umbria, Italy, is the 4,000-foot high plateau framed by Sibillin mountains and known as the Piano Grande. In spring and early summer, the Piano Grande transforms into a vibrant mosaic of wildflowers (poppies, cornflowers, wild tulips, and more) known as the “Fiorita.”
This natural spectacle is a photographer’s dream and a testament to Umbria’s unspoiled beauty. This great plain has just one town, Castelluccio (where the famous lentils are from), perched high above the flowers.
Go To Local Festivals
Umbria’s festivals are some of the most vibrant in Italy. In Spoleto, L’Infiorata sees the streets adorned with intricate floral carpets. La Quintana in Foligno is a jousting tournament that brings medieval history to life, while the Palio dell’Oca in Orvieto is a lively reenactment of historical games.
Music lovers should plan a trip around Umbria Jazz in Perugia, one of Europe’s most important jazz festivals, drawing world-renowned musicians each summer. During the holiday season, you can visit some of the best Italy Christmas markets in towns like Perugia and Gubbio.

When To Visit Umbria Italy
Umbria enjoys a relatively mild climate, with warm summers perfect for exploring the countryside or mountains and cool but usually not snowy winters. Spring and fall are particularly popular times to visit, as the region’s natural beauty comes alive with blooming wildflowers or golden autumnal hues. I recommend visiting between April and June or September to November for the best weather and the least amount of tourists.
As with everywhere in Italy, summer can be very hot and crowded, especially in cities like Perugia, Orvieto, and Assisi. Since there is no seaside, there is little reprieve from the beating sun. The only exception would be if you love lakes; in that case, consider a summer visit for fun freshwater adventures at one of Umbria’s lakes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Umbria Italy
Umbria, often considered the heart of Italy due to its central location, is steeped in history:
- Ancient History: Umbria was a significant area during the Etruscan and Roman periods, with many ruins and artifacts still visible today, such as the Roman Theater in Spoleto and the Etruscan Arch in Perugia.
- Medieval Significance: The region is known for its well-preserved medieval towns and architecture, with Assisi being a notable example, home to the Basilica of Saint Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Cultural Heritage: Umbria has been a melting pot of religious, artistic, and cultural developments, contributing significant figures such as Saint Francis of Assisi and painters like Benozzo Gozzoli and Pietro Vannucci, known as Perugino.
Umbria is home to many picturesque towns, each offering unique experiences:
- Assisi: Famous for its religious heritage, particularly the Basilica of Saint Francis, Assisi is a spiritual and artistic center.
- Orvieto: Known for its stunning Duomo and fascinating underground city that dates back to the Etruscans.
- Perugia: The regional capital, renowned for its historic center, which features beautiful palaces, art galleries, and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Spoleto: A hill town celebrated for its arts festival, the Festival dei Due Mondi, and its Roman and medieval structures.
- Gubbio: Known for its medieval palaces and the Corsa dei Ceri, a traditional race held every May that is steeped in local folklore.
Umbria offers a range of activities that cater to diverse interests:
- Cultural Festivals: Participate in local festivals like the Umbria Jazz Festival in Perugia or the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the rolling hills and scenic paths of the region through hiking, cycling, and truffle hunting tours.
- Wine Tasting: Visit local vineyards to taste Umbria’s excellent wines, particularly the Orvieto and Sagrantino di Montefalco.
- Art and Craft: Discover Umbria’s rich tradition in pottery in towns like Deruta or hand-painted textiles in Montefalco.
- Culinary Experiences: Enjoy Umbrian cuisine known for its simplicity and the use of fresh, local ingredients such as lentils from Castelluccio, pecorino cheese, and wild boar.
Get A Personalized Travel Itinerary

Driving In Italy
Whether exploring ancient churches, savoring local truffles, or enjoying a peaceful escape in the Umbrian hills, this region offers a perfect blend of history, food, and nature—without the tourist crowds of its more famous neighbors.
One of the best ways to explore Umbria is by car, allowing you to discover charming hilltop towns and picturesque countryside at your own pace. If you’re planning to hit the road, check out our tips for driving in Italy for essential advice on navigating local roads, understanding Italian traffic rules, and making the most of your road trip through this beautiful region.

Classic Italian Recipes
Dreaming of eating classic Italian food now that you read all about Umbria Italy? Here are some classic Italian recipes to make at home:

Italy Travel Guide
Are you thinking of heading to Italy soon? Check out our Italy travel guide with travel tips, where to stay, and more!
Have Us Plan Your Italy Trip
Did you know we’re also a boutique travel agency specializing in Italy travel planning? If you’re looking to plan one of the best trips to Italy, our Italy trip planner services are here to help you plan your perfect itinerary.
Photo Credit: Opening photo of Assisi photo Photo by Achim Ruhnau; Orvieto cathedral Photo by Sterling Lanier; Lake Piediluco Photo by Sofia; Perugia by Photo by Veronica Atzori; Gubbio funicular Photo by Sterling Lanier; Sunflowers by shana-van-roosbroek; Wildflower and Waterfall Photo by Daniele Levis Pelusi; Lake by Photo by Alessandro Cavestro; all from Unsplash