Perugia - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Perugia

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Perugia, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Perugia and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Perugia, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Perugia for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Perugia

Perugia is a city located in the central region of Italy, in the province of Umbria. It has a population of approximately 170,000 people and is known for being a cultural and artistic hub with rich history dating back to the Etruscan period. The city boasts medieval architecture and ancient ruins, and is also known for its vibrant university life and cultural events such as the famous Umbria Jazz Festival. Additionally, Perugia is famous for producing high-quality chocolate, with several artisanal chocolate shops and even a chocolate festival.

What to visit in Perugia

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Perugia, Italy and some information about each: 1. Piazza IV Novembre: This stunning public square is located at the center of Perugia's historic city center and is a hub of activity day and night. It's surrounded by impressive medieval buildings and features a beautiful fountain, Palazzo dei Priori and the stunning Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.
2. Rocca Paolina: A fortress that was built in 1540 and originally designed to control the population of Perugia. Today, it houses exhibitions and is a popular venue for concerts.
3. Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria: This museum displays a wide range of art from the Umbrian region, including some Renaissance masterpieces.
4. Palazzo dei Priori: This beautiful Gothic palace is one of the Gothic masterpieces you can see in the city. It's also one of Italy's oldest public palaces, dating from the 13th century.
5. Perugia underground city: This underground area of Perugia has been used since Etruscan times and holds significant historical value. You can tour the underground area and see different sites including aqueducts, wells, cisterns, and even the Etruscan aqueduct.
6. Museo-Laboratorio di Vetrate Artistiche Moretti Caselli: A fascinating museum exploring the art and history of stained glassmaking. It's located in a restored 13th-century Palazzo and the interior is decorated with beautiful pieces.
7. Oratorio di San Bernardino: A beautiful Renaissance church containing beautiful frescoes and containing the remains of Saint Bernardino from Siena.
8. Fontana Maggiore: Another beautiful fountain in Perugia located in Piazza IV Novembre. It was built between 1275 and 1278 and features sculptures and bas-reliefs.
These are just some of the many attractions that Perugia has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Perugia.

When to go on holiday to Perugia

The best time to visit Perugia, Italy is between May and June or September and October. During these months, the weather is generally mild and sunny, and there are fewer tourists than the summer high season. July and August are the peak tourist months, and temperatures and prices can be higher at this time. However, July is also the month of the famous Umbria Jazz Festival held annually in Perugia, which might be worth checking out if you're a jazz fan. The winter months tend to be rainy and cold, but if you don't mind the weather, it can be a great time to experience the city's holiday festivities and cultural events.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Perugia

There are a few ways to get to Perugia, depending on where you are coming from: 1. By Plane: The closest airport to Perugia is Perugia International Airport, which is served by a few regional airlines from within Italy. Alternatively, you could fly to Rome's Fiumicino or Ciampino airports and take a train or bus to Perugia.
2. By Train: Perugia has a train station that is well-connected to major Italian cities such as Rome, Florence, and Bologna. From the train station, taxis and buses are available to take you to your final destination in Perugia.
3. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate regularly to Perugia from cities across Italy, including Rome and Florence. The main bus station in Perugia is located near the train station.
4. By Car: If you are driving, Perugia is located near the A1 highway that connects northern and southern Italy. From the highway, take the Perugia exit and follow signs to the city center. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Perugia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Perugia

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Perugia, Italy: 1. Torta al testo - A type of flatbread made with flour, water, and salt, cooked on a hot griddle and stuffed with various fillings such as prosciutto, cheese, vegetables or sausage.
2. Porchetta - This traditional Umbrian roast pork dish is seasoned with rosemary, garlic and other herbs and spices, then slow-roasted until tender and crispy.
3. Strangozzi - This type of pasta made with flour, water, and salt, is thicker and denser than spaghetti and often served with a hearty meat or vegetable sauce.
4. Cinghiale in porchetta - A dish made from roasted wild boar stuffed with herbs, garlic, and fennel, typically served with roasted potatoes and vegetables.
5. Cannoli di carta - A traditional Umbrian dessert made from crispy fried pastry shell filled with sweetened ricotta cheese, candied fruit and chocolate chips.
6. Pinturicchio - A type of cake made with sponge layers soaked in limoncello liqueur and filled with fresh lemon cream and whipped cream.
7. Umbricelli alla Norcina - A dish of fresh, handmade pasta in a creamy truffle and sausage sauce, usually served with grated pecorino cheese on top. These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes that Perugia has to offer.
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Perugia an expensive destination for tourists?

Perugia, while not one of Italy's most expensive destinations, is certainly not a budget-friendly city either. The cost of traveling to and staying in Perugia will depend on a variety of factors, such as the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you choose, and your overall travel style. Generally speaking, Perugia will be more expensive during the peak tourist season (June-August) when prices for flights and accommodation tend to be higher. Additionally, the city is known for its gourmet foods and wine, so dining out can be pricey, but there are plenty of cheaper options if you know where to look.
While Perugia may be more costly than some other Italian destinations, it is still possible to find ways to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. You can always opt for budget accommodations, like hostels or guesthouses, and look for affordable activities and experiences around town.

Where to find accomodation in Perugia

In Perugia, the best areas to find accommodation would be the historic center, which is filled with beautiful landmarks and is quite walkable, and the area surrounding Piazza Partigiani, which is close to the train station and offers easy access to public transportation. Other neighborhoods that could also be good options include Porta Sant'Angelo and Porta Santa Susanna, which are also within walking distance to the center and provide a more local feel.
You can check hotel prices at Perugia here:
Booking.com

Is Perugia a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Perugia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Crime rates in the city are relatively low compared to other Italian cities, and petty theft is the most common crime reported. However, visitors should still exercise caution and take typical safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables, and at night avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. It is also important to be aware of any scams or pickpocketing attempts in crowded areas, especially around tourist hotspots. Overall, Perugia is a beautiful and safe city to explore.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Perugia.

What type of travelers will enjoy Perugia the most?

Perugia is a beautiful city with diverse attractions, so it can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. Here are a few details to consider: - Couples: Perugia has a romantic and charming atmosphere, and many historical sites to explore. The city center is picturesque and perfect for intimate walks, and there are good restaurants and wine bars for romantic dinners. The city also hosts a renowned chocolate festival that can be a sweet experience for couples.
- Young people: While Perugia is not the liveliest city in Italy, it has a youthful vibe thanks to the presence of the University of Perugia. Students frequent the town, especially in the evenings, when some bars and clubs offer live music and events. There are also some outdoor areas and parks where young people can hang out and enjoy the views.
- Families: Perugia is a family-friendly destination, especially if your children are interested in art, history, and food. There are many museums, galleries, and churches to visit, and the city has a range of kid-friendly attractions like puppet theaters and interactive museums. The city also offers some delightful treats like chocolate and ice cream, that kids would undoubtedly love. Overall, Perugia offers many alluring experiences for different types of travelers, so visitors choose the activities that fit their interests.

How to get around Perugia

Perugia has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses and a mini-metro. The mini-metro provides a quick and efficient way to travel between the city center and surrounding areas. Taxis are also available and are a convenient way to get around the city. Additionally, walking is a great option for exploring the historic city center.

What to see around Perugia

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Perugia: 1. Assisi - a beautiful medieval town known for its religious significance and stunning architecture, just a 30-minute drive from Perugia.
2. Gubbio - a picturesque hilltop town with ancient Roman ruins, Gothic architecture, and sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside, less than an hour from Perugia.
3. Orvieto - a charming hilltop town with a magnificent Duomo, underground tunnels and caves, and delicious wines, just over an hour from Perugia.
4. Todi - a picturesque town atop a hill with Roman ruins, a stunning cathedral, and quaint streets, only an hour and a half from Perugia.
5. Lake Trasimeno - a scenic lake surrounded by beautiful hills, with beaches, water sports, and charming villages to explore, just a 30-minute drive from Perugia.
6. Spello - a quaint town with beautiful architecture, stunning views, and colorful floral displays, just 45 minutes from Perugia.
7. Montefalco - a hilltop town known for its delicious wine, with stunning views, ancient walls, and historic churches, just over an hour from Perugia.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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