Things To Do
in Perugia

Perugia, the capital of the Umbria region in Italy, is a historic city known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled on a hill, it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is home to the prestigious University of Perugia. The city's rich history is reflected in its cobbled streets, ancient walls, and beautiful piazzas.

Renowned for its chocolate production, Perugia is also a hub for art and music festivals, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Piazza IV Novembre, where you can admire the Fontana Maggiore and the Gothic cathedral of San Lorenzo.

afternoon
:

Head to the Rocca Paolina, a fortress that offers a glimpse into Perugia's history, and then stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, exploring local artisan shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Umbrian restaurant and then visit a local bar for a glass of Sagrantino wine.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Chocolate
morning
:

Visit the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria to see an impressive collection of Renaissance art, followed by a stop at the Perugina Chocolate Factory for a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the beautiful Giardini del Frontone, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a picnic.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a concert or event at the Teatro Morlacchi, followed by drinks in the lively Student District.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
🍷Glass of Wine$5
Coffee$2
🍦Gelato$3
🍝Pasta Dish$12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine
  • Vibrant festivals and events throughout the year
  • Tourist crowds during peak seasons
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Some areas can be hilly and challenging to navigate on foot
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Perugia

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza IV Novembre

A picturesque square that features the Fontana Maggiore and is surrounded by stunning medieval architecture.

Rocca Paolina

The fortress offers panoramic views of the city and is a great place to capture the essence of Perugia.

Giardini del Frontone

A beautiful park that provides a serene setting for photography, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Perugia

Perugia is a gastronomic delight, offering a rich array of local dishes that reflect its Umbrian heritage.

Perugia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tortino al Testo

A traditional flatbread filled with various ingredients, often served with local cheeses and cured meats.

Must-Try!

Pici Cacio e Pepe

Thick handmade pasta served with cheese and pepper, a simple yet flavorful dish that embodies Umbrian cuisine.

Torta al Testo

A savory pie made with flour, water, and olive oil, often stuffed with vegetables or meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Piazza Matteotti

A lively market held on Saturdays, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options.

Street Food in Via dei Priori

A street known for its small eateries offering delicious local snacks and quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Perugia has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) while winters are typically around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall occurs mainly in spring and autumn, making these seasons ideal for visiting. Visitors should be prepared for hot weather in summer and chilly evenings in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

It is customary to greet people with a 'Buongiorno' (good morning) or 'Buonasera' (good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit down and avoid discussing business at the dinner table.

Dress Code

Dress neatly and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Perugia is considered a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any tourist destination, it’s wise to stay vigilant and guard against pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s advisable to keep emergency contact numbers readily available.

Tipping in Perugia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

While service charges are often included in your bill, rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot temperatures and vibrant festivals fill the city, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining, though be prepared for tourist crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop, ideal for exploring local vineyards and food festivals.

Winter

Expect chilly weather and festive decorations, with opportunities to experience local Christmas markets and seasonal events.

Nightlife Guide

Perugia at Night

Perugia has a lively nightlife scene, particularly popular among university students. Bars and clubs can be found throughout the city, with many offering live music and themed nights. The Student District is the main hub for nightlife, featuring clubs that play everything from jazz to electronic music. Many establishments stay open late, and outdoor terraces provide a vibrant atmosphere especially during warmer months.

Hiking in Perugia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Monte Subasio

A beautiful trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is suitable for all hiking levels.

Trail to Lake Trasimeno

This scenic hike leads to the picturesque Lake Trasimeno, ideal for a day of nature and relaxation.

Airports

How to reach Perugia by plane.

San Francesco d'Assisi Airport (PEG)

Located about 12 km from Perugia, this airport offers flights to major Italian cities and some European destinations, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Perugia is a highly walkable city with its narrow cobbled streets and compact size. Most attractions are within walking distance, and the hilly terrain offers a unique experience, although some parts may require a bit of effort. The city is accessible for pedestrians, and many areas are pedestrian-only zones, enhancing the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Due to the presence of the University of Perugia, a significant number of students from various backgrounds contribute to the city's diverse atmosphere.

Local Artisans

Many artisans and craftspeople live in Perugia, continuing traditional practices in areas such as pottery, textiles, and food production.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Perugia, with the local team, A.C. Perugia Calcio, having a passionate fan base.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with local teams competing in regional leagues and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Perugia can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. The city center is largely pedestrianized, which limits vehicle access, making walking or cycling the best ways to navigate. Public transportation is available through buses, but services may be less frequent in the evenings and on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Perugia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to ask for local specialties.

Gluten-Free

Options for gluten-free meals are available, but it’s best to notify the restaurant in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Perugia is managed through the national health service, with public hospitals and clinics available. The main hospital, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia, provides comprehensive services. Visitors should have health insurance and consider obtaining the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide