About Umbria
Umbria, often called 'Italy's Green Heart,' is a landlocked region of rolling hills, medieval hill towns, and spiritual significance that offers travelers an authentic Italian experience without the overwhelming crowds of more famous destinations. This region is renowned for its artistic heritage, with Assisi—the birthplace of St. Francis—drawing pilgrims and art lovers to its stunning Basilica adorned with Giotto frescoes. Perugia, the vibrant regional capital, hosts the world-famous Umbria Jazz Festival and boasts Etruscan arches and a lively university atmosphere. The perfectly preserved town of Spoleto, home to the Festival dei Due Mondi, sits dramatically on a hillside. Umbria's landscape is dotted with olive groves, vineyards producing renowned Sagrantino and Orvieto wines, and the serene waters of Lake Trasimeno. Travelers can explore mystical forests like the Bosco di San Francesco, savor truffles and porchetta in Norcia, and discover fresco cycles by Perugino and Pinturicchio. The region's intimate scale, profound spirituality, and culinary excellence—from handmade pasta to prized lentils—create a deeply rewarding journey through the soul of central Italy.
Things to do in Umbria
5-Hour Cooking class of Italian Cuisine
Umbria, Italy
The spell of Lake Trasimeno - Trekking Tour
Umbria, Italy
Casale delle Querce Cooking Class and Wine Experience
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 982
5.0 (4)
Umbria: Guided tour to Traditional Olive Oil Mill and Tasting
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 184
5.0 (3)
Fun Kayaking In Lake Trasimeno with lunch - Umbria
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 4,847
5.0 (2)
Vineyards tour with Electric Jeep with wine tasting
Umbria, Italy
Allerona: take an audio tour of this picturesque Umbrian hilltop town
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 59
5.0 (1)
The Secrets Of The Farm ; The Buffalo Mozzarella
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 2,182
5.0 (1)
Excursion To Narni Natural Pools With Rich Refreshment - Umbria
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 4,320
5.0 (1)
Umbria, Horseback riding in the Umbrian countryside with lunch
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 3,774
5.0 (1)
River Rafting Adventure In Central Italy With Delicious Lunch - Umbria
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 3,009
5.0 (1)
1-Hour Private Tour of the Oil Mill with Tasting in Piedicolle
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 393
5.0 (1)
Lake Trasimeno Boat Tour Aperitivo with Gourmet Lunch
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 3,925
5.0 (1)
Private Departure Transfer: Umbria Hotels to Rome Fiumicino Airport or Rome Hotels
Umbria, Italy
Umbria: Wine Tasting Tour with Regional Pairings near Perugia
Umbria, Italy
From GHS 916
5.0 (1)Travel Tips for Umbria
Getting Around
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Umbria's hill towns and countryside flexibly. Major rental agencies are at Perugia's airport and train stations. The regional train network (Trenitalia) connects main towns like Perugia, Assisi, Spoleto, Foligno, and Terni, but service to smaller villages is limited. Regional buses (Busitalia) serve more destinations but require checking timetables carefully. Taxis are available in towns but best booked by phone or at stands. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are not widely available. Popular navigation apps are Google Maps and Waze. For a unique experience, consider cycling or hiking the region's many trails.
Best Time To Visit
Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal. These months offer pleasant temperatures (18-25°C/64-77°F), fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes perfect for hiking and exploring hill towns. September-October is also harvest season for grapes, olives, and truffles. July-August can be hot and crowded, especially during festivals like Umbria Jazz (July) but offers lively atmospheres. Winter (December-February) is cold and quiet, with possible snow, but magical for Christmas markets and experiencing local life.
Local Customs
Umbrians value polite greetings: use 'buongiorno' (good day) and 'arrivederci' (goodbye). Dress modestly when visiting churches—cover shoulders and knees. Meal times are important: lunch is around 1-3 PM, dinner after 8 PM. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated: round up the bill in restaurants (5-10% for excellent service), leave small change in cafes. A 'coperto' (cover charge) is common on restaurant bills. Many shops close for a long lunch break (1-4 PM) and on Sundays. Embrace the slow pace of life, especially in smaller towns. Local festivals (sagre) celebrating food are central to community life.
Safety Information
Umbria is one of Italy's safest regions with low violent crime. Petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas (Assisi's Basilica, Perugia's historic center) and on public transport—stay vigilant with belongings. Driving on narrow, winding rural roads requires caution, especially at night. Avoid isolated areas after dark. Common scams are rare but be wary of unofficial 'guides' or individuals offering 'free' items. Emergency services are reliable. Natural risks include occasional earthquakes (the region is seismically active) and summer wildfires in dry areas.
Health Information
Umbria has a good public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale). EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement, the GHIC. Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Major hospitals (Ospedali) are in Perugia (Santa Maria della Misericordia) and Terni. Pharmacies (Farmacie) are widely available for minor ailments; look for a green cross. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. Tick-borne encephalitis is a minimal risk in rural wooded areas; use insect repellent. Tap water is generally safe to drink. In summer, beware of heat exhaustion and stay hydrated.
Languages Spoken
Italian
Quick Facts
Currency
Euro (EUR)
€
€
Timezone
Europe/Rome +01:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+39
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
870,000
Area
8456 km²
Government
Regional government (Regione Umbria) with a President and Regional Council
ISO Code
UMB