Things To Do
in Deruta
Deruta is a medieval hill town in central Umbria known for its long-standing majolica ceramics tradition. The compact historic center is threaded with narrow lanes, terracotta rooftops, and picturesque courtyards where artisans paint and fire wares. Wandering through the town you’ll see kilns, showrooms, and busy ceramic studios that give Deruta its distinctive character.
Surrounded by olive groves and rolling Umbrian countryside, Deruta makes a tranquil base for exploring art, history, and rustic cuisine in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Deruta and settle into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the quaint streets, soaking in the rustic atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast of fresh pastries and espresso at a local café.
Explore the local pottery shops that Deruta is renowned for, admiring the vibrant colors and intricate designs. Engage with artisans to learn about the age-old techniques used to create these exquisite ceramics. Visit the nearby Sanctuary of Our Lady of Graces to take in the stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
Dine at a local trattoria, savoring regional dishes like truffles or handmade pasta. As the sun sets, enjoy a glass of Umbrian wine while taking in the views of the picturesque landscape. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk along the ancient walls.
Set out early for a hike in the nearby hills to experience the breathtaking views of the Umbrian countryside. The morning air is fresh, and the landscape is alive with wildflowers and the sounds of nature. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy atop a scenic viewpoint.
Return to Deruta for lunch and then visit the local museum to learn about its rich history and the art of majolica pottery. Spend some time at the garden of the museum, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures. As you wander around, notice the beautiful frescoes that adorn many buildings.
Attend a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Umbrian dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you dine with fellow food enthusiasts. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a perfect way to immerse yourself in local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese or wine bottle | $5-20 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ceramics heritage and authentic craft experiences
- Stunning Umbrian landscapes and proximity to other hill towns
- Delicious, rustic cuisine and excellent wines
- Walkable historic center with a calm, safe atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and fewer all-day activities in evenings
- Some services concentrated in larger nearby towns
- Parking can be challenging in the historic center
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Buonasera" - Good evening
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi può consigliare un buon ristorante?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Sono vegetariano" - I am vegetarian
- "Dov'è la fermata dell'autobus?" - Where is the bus stop?
Places to Visit in Deruta
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point that frames terracotta rooftops with kiln silhouettes and distant Umbrian hills.
Narrow streets, archways, and pastel walls with ceramic shop windows—an ideal setting for intimate street photography.
Cobbled square scenes with historic façades and reflections in shop windows showcasing majolica works.
Photograph artisans at work, from wheel throwing to glazing, for authentic studio portraits.
Food in Deruta
Deruta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick handmade pasta tossed with black truffle or a tomato-garlic sauce, a quintessential Umbrian dish.
Must-Try!
A stuffed flatbread cooked on a testo (clay or iron griddle), typically filled with sausage, cheese, or greens.
Herbed roasted pork, commonly found in trattorias and markets across Umbria.
Hearty farro soup featuring vegetables and herbs, a comforting choice in cooler weather.
Lentil dishes using Castelluccio lentils, especially popular in autumn and winter stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local stalls selling seasonal produce, cheeses, olive oil, and regional specialties; great for sampling snacks and street-food bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with buongiorno or buonasera and a handshake; address people formally until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly and speak softly in churches and sacred spaces.
Meals are social; take your time, savor shared dishes, and avoid rushing conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Deruta
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy a service charge is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5–10% tip for good service is common but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but carrying cash (euros) is useful for smaller establishments and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and blooming countryside make walking easy; expect sporadic showers and vibrant landscapes.
Warm to hot days with plenty of sunshine; stay hydrated, explore mornings and evenings, and enjoy long twilights in the squares.
Harvest season brings rich colors in the hills; comfortable temperatures for day trips and market visits.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; cozy trattorias thrive and ceramics studios stay active year-round.
Deruta at Night
Hiking in Deruta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic ridge walk near Perugia with sweeping valley views and occasional shaded sections.
Flat to moderate lakeside trails offering water views, birdlife, and gentle shade along the shore.
Rugged river-carved trails to explore in nearby Norcia and the spine of the Apennines.
Airports
How to reach Deruta by plane.
Closest airport; short drive to Deruta with domestic and limited international connections.
Larger selection of European flights; about a 2–2.5 hour drive/train to Umbria region.
Major international hub; transfers by train or road to Umbria, longer but with many flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Italian with a strong tradition of ceramic artisans; aging population in smaller towns.
Skilled craftspeople who maintain the majolica traditions and studios within Deruta.
Visitors drawn to ceramics, rural scenery, and Umbrian cuisine; a growing number of short- and long-term visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Umbria; local matches and fan culture observed in nearby towns.
Favored on country roads and scenic routes through the hills and valleys.
Common activity in the surrounding countryside and nature reserves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Deruta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in trattorias—look for antipasti, bean or lentil soups, grilled vegetables, and bruschetta. If a dish centers on meat, ask for modifications or pasta with olive oil and herbs.