Italy
Umbria’s diverse natural landscape positions it as a premier destination for outdoor activities.
Monti Sibillini National Park offers numerous trails from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Monte Subasio Regional Park features easier to moderate trails with panoramic views. Valnerina presents rugged valley trails.
Lake Trasimeno, Italy's fourth-largest lake, presents various water activities like swimming, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Fishing is popular. Boat rentals are available. The Nera River is popular for white-water rafting and kayaking.
Experience white-water rafting on the Nera River. Explore gorges and canyons within Monti Sibillini National Park through guided canyoning. From higher peaks near Castelluccio, you can paraglide or hang glide for incredible bird's-eye views.
During major festivals, towns experience significant crowds and accommodation availability might drop. Book well in advance if planning a visit during these times.
Engage directly with Umbria's rich traditions through hands-on learning and festivals.
Perugia, July: One of Europe's most prestigious jazz festivals, attracting international artists.
Spoleto, June/July: A renowned international arts festival featuring opera, dance, theater, and music.
Gubbio, May 15: An ancient, spectacular folk festival. Teams of men race through streets carrying massive wooden "Ceri."
Staying at agriturismi often directly sustains local farming communities and brings economic benefits to rural areas. Many provide a connection to local life.
Italian language schools are available in Perugia, home to the Università per Stranieri. These schools present short or long-term courses, an immersive way to learn.
Corpus Domini, May/June: Streets of Spello display intricate carpets made entirely of flower petals, creating stunning, temporary art.
Umbria presents tranquil settings for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Many agriturismi and hotels feature swimming pools, presenting a refreshing way to relax during warmer months.
Lake Trasimeno has designated swimming areas and lidos (beach clubs) along its shores.
Nightlife in Umbria generally focuses on enjoying long dinners at restaurants, savoring local wines at wine bars, and the traditional 'passeggiata' (evening stroll).
Perugia presents the most active nightlife with pubs, bars, and some live music venues. The Umbria Jazz Festival in July is the main event for live music.
Teatro Morlacchi (Perugia) and Teatro Nuovo Gian Carlo Menotti (Spoleto) are historic theaters hosting a variety of performances, including plays, classical concerts, and opera, throughout the year.
Nightlife generally focuses on long dinners, savoring wines at wine bars, and the traditional 'passeggiata' (evening stroll) rather than late-night clubbing outside of Perugia.
Discover traditional markets, artisan crafts, and unique souvenirs in Umbria.
Famous for its hand-painted maiolica ceramics. Numerous workshops allow observation of artists at work and direct purchases.
Shops selling religious artifacts, local crafts, and regional food products.
Known for its "norcinerie" (shops specializing in cured meats) and truffle products.
Be mindful of purchasing "fake" luxury goods from street vendors, as this supports illegal activities.
