What to do in Perugia in one day!

In Perugia one breathes grace, kindness and a kind of moral sweetness as if dissolved in the air. Inside the circle of the walls of Perugia there are signs of all centuries and of all styles, from the Etruscan to the neoclassical. Perugia is among the densest capitals of art” –
Guido Piovene, journalist and writer

With these beautiful words dedicated to Perugia, we kick off this new column: the cities to visit all in one go in one day!

Welcome to Perugia, the city of chocolate, of Jazz, of art, of fashion, of the millenary history of the Etruscans up to today.
The city on a “human scale” that you can easily visit on foot, strolling through the squares and alleys, admiring its breathtaking views and tasting the traditional specialties.
You are ready? Comfortable shoes and desire to photograph

You are ready? Comfortable shoes and desire to photograph


1. Piazza IV Novembre and the Fontana Maggiore
Let’s start immediately with the heart of the city, the Piazza as postcard symbol of Perugia, located at the end of Corso Vannucci, the main street which is nicely defined by the Perugians as the “vasca”, symbology with the pools of the swimming pools due to its long and the typical walk back and forth between boutiques, traditional and fusion restaurants, historical pastry shops, and chocolate shops. The Fontana Maggiore was built in Gothic style between 1275 and 1278 by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano: there are 50 engraved bas-reliefs and 24 statues representing the 12 months of the year with the main agricultural activities and the zodiac signs and with stories of the old and new Testament. The 24 statuettes are the representation of saints and mythological and biblical characters as well as the representation of the Griffin, the symbol of the city of Perugia.
A stone’s throw from the Fountain there is access to the Archaeological Excavation of Perugia Underground, a beautiful dive into the past walking through the Etruscan and then Roman streets.
Click here 

2. Palazzo dei Priori
An elegant Gothic-style building with mullioned windows dating back to the 12th century. Today it is the seat of the Municipality and of the National Gallery of Umbria, which hosts the Perugino Exhibition  until June 2023 for the 500th anniversary of his death, as well as masterpieces of Italian art from the Middle Ages to the 16th century. On the ground floor of Palazzo dei Priori there are also the Collegio del Cambio and the Collegio della Mercanzia along Corso Vannucci.
You could take advantage of a tasty chocolate tasting, an essential experience in the sweetest city in Italy.
Click here

3. Porta Sole
From here the panorama is breathtaking. Porta Sole is one of the 5 gates forming part of the ancient city walls of Perugia, and also one of the Medieval District of the Center.
Stop for a second and admire the panorama, the ancient walls still visible and the very suggestive long staircase of Via delle Prome which lead you directly to the Etruscan Arch.

Also mentioned by Dante in the Divine Comedy, in Canto XI of Paradise

«Between Tupino and the water that descends
of the hill elected by Blessed Ubaldo
fertile coast of high mountain hangs
hence Perugia feels cold and hot
from Porta Sole, and weeps for them in return
for heavy yoke Nocera with Gualdo

4. Etruscan Arch
Also known as the Arch of Augustus, it is another of the gateways to Perugia. Built in the 3rd century BC and remodeled in 40 BC by Augustus. Beautiful and imposing, it will leave you speechless.

5. Acquedotto
Now that I’ve made you walk downhill, it’s time to make you walk uphill, along the Aqueduct, but it’s an experience that you absolutely cannot miss in Perugia. The Aqueduct is in fact famous for its staircase which, however, does not change here, remaining still (Semicitation of Hermione in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone “Stairs like to change“)!
At the top, take a breath and turn around. The view of the ancient medieval aqueduct that supplied the Fontana Maggiore is beautiful.

6.Rocca Paolina and the Carducci Gardens
At this point you have returned to the Centre, a “vasca” in Corso Vannucci and you are on the opposite side of Piazza IV Novembre. Here you can rest in the Carducci Gardens on one of the benches overlooking the wonderful panorama of Umbria, you will admire the newly restored statue of Perugino.
You are then ready to descend under the Rocca Paolina, a fortress dating back to the 16th century and commissioned by Pope Paul III. Today it is a connection point between Piazza Partisan (where you will find the bus terminal and the parking lot) but also a beautiful historic place where art exhibitions and markets (like the Christmas ones) are set up.
An idea to experience Perugia between experiences and overnight stays?

Discover Perugia with your Family

Strolling Through Perugia’s History

DISCOVER CAMPELLO SUL CLITUNNO

The Campello sul Clitunno district is divided into Campello Alto and Campello Basso: the first fortified around the Castle dating back to the 9th-10th century and wanted by the knight from Burgundy, Rovero di Campeaux and the second near the Fonti del Clitunno.

A natural jewel: the Fonti del Clitunno
Crystalline springs at the foot of Mount Brunette, with bright colors that shine with the sun’s rays, creating plays of light, shadows and reflections of the vegetation that is reflected in these waters, sending an image of absolute purity and spirituality.

Already known in Roman times and many poets and writers such as Pliny, Virgil, Propertius, Juvenal, extol their praises in their legacies, speaking of an absolutely suggestive place. The river was revered as a natural element personified by the God Clitunno: its waters so pure as to make those who immersed themselves in it immaculate.

Again the Sources taken up in Corot’s paintings and praised again by Lord Byron in the fourth canto of Child Harold dedicated to Umbria:

“But you, or Clitunno! from your sweetest wave of the brightest crystal that ever sheltered a river nymph, to look inside and bathe her limbs where nothing hid them, you raise your grassy banks along which the milk-white bullock grazes; O thou – purest God of mild waters, and most serene of aspect, and most limpid, indeed thy current was not desecrated by carnage – mirror and pool for Beauty’s youngest daughters”

The very rich vegetation and biodiversity make the Fonti del Clitunno a small paradise among cypress poplars and weeping willows which with their foliage adorn the landscape and frame the waters, are strongly linked to Napoleon: in fact, it is said that they come from the place where the ‘Emperor on Saint Helena. The vegetation on the seabed is also rich such as: wild sedanine, aquatic horsetail and aquatic nasturtium.

Temple of Clitunno
Not far from the Fonti del Clitunno, there is the small but wonderful Tempietto del Clitunno, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011.
Built in the early Christian era (it is assumed between the 5th and 7th centuries) with salvaged elements from the pagan sacellums (from the Latin sacellum, dim. of sacrum “sacred enclosure”) of the god Clitunno, today it is part of the seven jewels of ” The Lombards in Italy. Places of Power”.
On the tympanum it is still possible to see the decorations showing pomegranate and a bunch of grapes: if the first symbolizes fertility, grapes and more particularly wine is the symbol of the Eucharist.

“And on your happy shore a Temple, of minute and delicate structure, still keeps the memory of you on the gentle slope of a hill; beneath it flows your placid current; often leaps forth from it the darting fish with glittering scales, which dwells and plays in your crystalline depth; while perhaps some lost water lily flower floats by where the less deep wave still repeats its bubbling tales”
Lord Byron

In Green painted Green
In addition to the natural wonders, the historical ones and still those linked to Trebbiano Spoletino, the hills of Campello are adorned with green olive trees which are still cultivated today with traditional methods and make Campelli one of the paths of the olive grove.
The olive tree has Etruscan origins and was later spread by the Romans as a luxury item. Pliny the Younger himself had several hectares in Umbria dedicated to the cultivation of olive trees.

What remains of this story is the hope of being able to experience a place absolutely full of beauty accompanied by a glass of Trebbiano Spoletino and a slice of warm bread with local oil and admire, as Lord Byron, Carducci did and Pliny, the marvel of Campello sul Clitunno.

Discover Campello sul Clitunno Couple emotions on the road

Hotel Villa Montegranelli

Hotel Villa Montegranelli

The Hotel Villa Montegranelli is located in a panoramic position on Gubbio, from its park and from its rooms it is possible to admire the gentle and green Umbrian hills.

The hotel offers 21 spacious rooms, and three large restaurant rooms to host up to 180 people. The elegant interior spaces, the garden and the outdoor swimming pool, allow you to create the perfect setting for weddings, business meetings and simply unique convivial moments.

Rooms full of charm, frescoed and soberly furnished rooms, where history, location and panorama make the Villa one of the most important places in the town.

The villa is located 3 km from the historic center of Gubbio in a quiet and very private area, it offers serenity and relax to the guests

Service

Accepting groups

Air conditioning

Bar

Conference hall

Family room

Free Wi-fi

Gluten free

Hair dryer

Internet

Lift

Minibar

Parking

Park/Garden

Restaurant

Small pets allowed

Swimming pool

TV - TV Sat

Information request




    I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

    I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

    Map

    Gallery

    Valle Rosa

    Valle Rosa

    Valle Rosa is in Spoleto, laying in the Umbrian countryside. It offers accommodation, fine food and wine experience which make you feel welcomed as guests or even better as friends to welcome with a handshake. It represents the starting point for the visit and discovery of Umbria, as well as a place for a peaceful relaxing stay. Valle Rosa, thanks to its position, history and beauty, is the right location for ceremonies, events and weddings in Umbria.

    The estate is composed of an expertly restored ancient part and new modern cottages perfectly integrated in the beautiful green environment which surrounds the entire property. The original farm of the 1400, built around the ancient medieval tower, houses the reception and the restaurant, with its beautiful and spacious rooms with a front porch. Close to the new cottages, there is a swimming pool, a hobby room, bike shelter, hiking trails and a large tools shed for every need of our guests friends, in addition to the large parking

    The friendly and professional hospitality, the strategic location, the comfortable rooms, the unspoiled nature and the integrity of the spirit of such a place rich in history and charm, will give you a genuine emotion and a pleasant memory of Spoleto: the most beautiful town between Rome and Florence.

    Services

    Accepting groups

    Air conditioning

    Conference hall

    Disabled access

    Family room

    Free Wi-fi

    Games for kids

    Garage

    Gluten free

    Hair dryer

    Internet

    Minibar

    Parking

    Park/Garden

    Restaurant

    Safe deposit box

    Small pets allowed

    Swimming pool

    TV - TV Sat

    Information request




      I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

      I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

      Map

      Gallery

      Relais Todini

      Relais Todini

      A charming Relais is located in the heart of Umbria: it is Relais Todini.

      Immersed in a warm and welcoming environment, Relais Todini sits on a hilltop surrounded by the vineyards of the 1000 hectare estate, which belongs to the historical Tuder family from whom the Relais takes its name. Relais Todini boasts stone and terracotta rooms with frescoes, fireplaces, tapestries and a combination of modern and period furnishings which make the communal spaces and the 12 rooms / suites quite unique with all possible comfort.

      The property offer large and bright lounges, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, reading area, meeting room, an outdoor panoramic swimming pool, tennis court and gym.

      Services

      Accepting groups

      Air conditioning

      Bar

      Free Wi-fi

      Hair dryer

      Gluten free

      Gym

      Internet

      Minibar

      Parking

      Park/Garden

      Restaurant

      Safe deposit box

      Small pets allowed

      Swimming pool

      Tennis

      TV - TV Sat

      Wellness centre/SPA

      Information request




        I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

        I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

        Map

        Gallery

        Il Piancardato

        Il Piancardato

        Piancardato Country House and Holiday Accomodation lays in the Umbrian countryside, in one of the most beautiful locations in the middle of Italy.

        It’s the perfect destination for an outdoor and country vacation, in a Region that’s rich in cities full of Tradition, Arts and History.

        Services

        Accepting groups

        Air conditioning

        Bar

        Bicycle rental

        Disabled access

        Family room

        Free Wi-fi

        Football pitch

        Games for kids

        Garage

        Internet

        Gluten free

        Hair dryer

        Minibar

        Parking

        Park/Garden

        Restaurant

        Small pets allowed

        Swimming pool

        TV - TV Sat

        Information request




          I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

          I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

          Map

          Gallery

          Hotel La Reggia

          Hotel La Reggia

          Hotel La Reggia

          Reggia Hotel is a paradise immersed in the countryside, ideal for nature lovers, those interested in sport and for those who are seeking relaxation.

          26 finely furnished rooms, in a modern and minimalist style, equipped with every comfort.
          Restaurant La Reggia, soft lighting, candles, fireplace, flowers, modern and stylish environment are the ideal setting for a superb taste experience among the aromas and flavors of our Umbrian tradition: from the classics to original interpretations of Italian cuisine, our chef will take you on a journey through the harmonies and contrasts, fun and aesthetic.

          The heart of the hotel is the Wellness Center with Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, emotional shower and relaxation corner with herbal teas but the Reggia Hotel is also sport with a regular football pitch (adjacent to the structure), swimming pool, tennis court, five-a-side football pitch, center finesse gym.

          Services

          Air conditioning

          Bar

          Conference hall

          Disabled access

          Free Wi-fi

          Football pitch

          Gluten free

          Gym

          Hair dryer

          Internet

          Minibar

          Laundry

          Lift

          Parking

          Park/Garden

          Restaurant

          Safe deposit box

          Sauna

          Small pets allowed

          Solarium

          Swimming pool

          Tennis

          Transfer from/to airport

          TV - TV Sat

          Wellness centre/SPA

          Information request




            I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

            I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

            Map

            Gallery

            Hotel Catignano

            Hotel Catignano

            Hello, we are Marco and Michele, genuine Gubbio citizens, this is our home, indeed for us it is much more: it is a starting point for you to discover our wonderful land with our own eyes.

            Our Hotel is located a few kilometers from the historic center of Gubbio, just enough to be surrounded by nature and tranquillity.
            Our rooms are comfortable and perfect for a smart holiday starting with the 50″ TV, USB sockets, super-fast wi-fi, Dorelan mattress, air conditioning, safe, minibar, kettle, hairdryer, XL shower cubicle.

            The POWER BREAKFAST awaits you every morning until 11:00 and is completely home made.

            Services

            Accepting groups

            Air conditioning

            Bar

            Bicycle rental

            Conference hall

            Disabled access

            Free Wi-fi

            Gluten free

            Internet

            Hair dryer

            Lift

            Minibar

            Parking

            Park/Garden

            Restaurant

            Safe deposit box

            Small pets allowed

            Solarium

            Swimming pool

            TV - TV Sat

            Information request




              I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

              I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

              Map

              Gallery

              Hotel Del Lago

              Hotel Del Lago

              Staying at Hotel del Lago, just a few kilometres from the Marmore Falls, will allow you to enjoy unique experiences in the green heart of Umbria.

              The building, set on the hill overlooking the lake and the village of Piediluco, was designed in the 1930s, born as a summer colony and later became an accommodation facility, maintaining over the years a simple and essential character, elements that can be found in the sobriety of the rooms.

              Nevertheless, the hotel has been renewed over the years, with the renovation of some rooms, which today are equipped with every comfort and an exceptional view, and with a new Spa, with, among other things, a whirlpool bath, sauna, Turkish bath and loungers, to enjoy unforgettable moments of relaxation.

              Services

              Accepting groups

              Air conditioning

              Bar

              Disabled access

              Free Wi-fi

              Gluten free

              Gym

              Hair dryer

              Internet

              Lift

              Restaurant

              Sauna

              Small pets allowed

              Solarium

              TV - TV Sat

              Wellness centre/SPA

              Information request




                I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

                I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

                Map

                Gallery

                Hotel Lidò

                Hotel Lidò

                We are glad to announce you that our Hotel has acquired its fourth star. To celebrate this event we have decided to renovate our structure in order to welcome you in even more magical places.

                The Hall

                A place where you can relax reading a nice book or playing a few notes at the piano

                The breakfeast room

                Our breakfast room will delight you with the stunning panorama of the Trasimeno lake, so you can start the day in the best possible way

                The rooms

                We are proud to present you our new rooms, completely renovated, bright and welcoming, with an enchanting view of Lake Trasimeno or the village of Passignano

                The new and stylish forniture, the bright and refined bathrooms are ready to welcome you for your stay in complete relaxation. Our bathrooms are finely restored.

                The bar
                Our bar, where you can sip excellent glasses of wine or refreshing drinks

                The pool stand

                Our stand, close to the wonderful swimming pool reserved for hotel guests, is the ideal place for a snack, an ice cream or delicious cocktails

                The restaurant
                Our magnificent dining room is the ideal for numerous guests. From there you can have a 360-degree view of the lake and its marvelous sunsets

                No filters needed…
                An incredible cooking, that knows how to combine tradition and innovation, thanks to the research work of our chef Paolo and the whole team

                The perfect place to celebrate important dates.

                Services

                Accepting groups

                Air conditioning

                Bar

                Bicycle rental

                Conference hall

                Family room

                Free Wi-fi

                Gluten free

                Hair dryer

                Internet

                Lift

                Minibar

                Parking

                Park/Garden

                Restaurant

                Safe deposit box

                Small pets allowed

                Solarium

                Swimming pool

                TV - TV Sat

                Information request




                  I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with the Privacy Policy

                  I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

                  Map

                  Gallery