Italy

Umbria

Sample the pleasures of authentic Italy

Take in the sweeping panoramic vistas of Umbria, and you’ll immediately see why it’s known as the green heart of Italy. The densely wooded hills of this rustic, landlocked region are edged by the misty peaks of the Apennine mountain range, and studded with ancient medieval hill towns which guard historic and artistic treasures. The charm of this region, however, is that despite the inimitable Estruscan and Roman heritage, it’s not all about the past. Lively university towns offer fabulous wines and a rich gastronomic culture – don’t miss the region’s earthy truffles or rich cured meats.

UNCOVER UMBRIA: ITALY’S HIDDEN GEMS

Get to know Italy without the crowds

  • Spoleto – a stunning historic town
  • Orvieto – wend your way through atmospheric streets and be wowed by the ornate cathedral
  • Lake Bolsena – relax by the lake and take in the incredible views
  • Assisi & Basilica of St Francis – the birthplace of St Francis
  • Perugia – lively and vibrant, yet evocative & romantic
  • Return flights included
  • 7 nights bed & breakfast accommodation in a lovely hotel overlooking Spoleto’s Roman theatre

From £1,249
per person

based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 35 passengers travelling in a specific month

Best time to go

April, May, June, July, September, October

Suggested Hotel

Hotel dei Duchi, Spoleto

  • Family-run hotel in the heart of Spoleto
  • Warm welcome with traditional Italian hospitality
  • Overlooking Spoleto’s Roman theatre
  • Peaceful & comfortable with great attention to detail
  • Regional cuisine in the restaurant
  • Peaceful outdoor terrace

Attractions:

  • Orvieto
    Duomo-di-orvieto-1441250

    Perched atop a butte of volcanic rock, Orvieto is a stunning town set amongst a rural paradise. Tucked within the vines and olive trees of the surrounding landscape are defensive walls and an atmospheric maze of cobbled streets, and hidden below these a labyrinthine network of caves discloses the town’s Estruscan past. The ornate cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic, crowns Orvieto with its incredible sculpted façade, eyecatching stripes, and astounding frescoes.

  • Lake Bolsena

    Beautiful Lake Bolsena sits in the caldera created by the ancient Vulsini volcano, and its crystalline waters lap a soft sandy shore. The town of Bolsena sits on the eastern flank of the lake, and is the perfect spot for sampling the local gelato.

  • Assisi
    Rooftopsunset_assisi_umbria_italy

    Dramatically flanked by the bulk of Monte Subasio, the holy town of Assisi is a medieval gem set amongst the wooded slopes of the Valle Umbra. The impeccably preserved historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcases a continuous history of art and architecture that stretches back to medieval times – the pinnacle of which is the St Francis Basilica.

  • Basilica of St Francis
    Famous-Basilica-of-St.-Francis-of-Assisi-Basilica-Papale-di-San-Francesco-with-Lower-Plaza-at-sunset-in-Assisi-Umbria-Italy

    The Basilica of St Francis is the star of the show in Assisi, and an important Christian pilgrimage site. Split into the upper and lower sections, the series of vibrant frescoes inside is one of Italy’s most famed works of art and depicts the life of St Francis. Painted by late medieval masters from the Tuscan and Roman schools, the Basilica displays an incredible quality and range of works. The Basilica’s crypt also contains the elaborate tomb of St Francis himself.

  • Perugia
    PALAZZO-DE-PRIORI-AND-FOUNTAIN-Magiore- -ENIT-Photo-Library

    The capital of Umbria, Perugia is a lively university city filled with ancient remnants. It’s home to amazing artworks, cobbled alleys, picturesque piazzas and magnificent Estruscan walls. If you can tear yourself away from wandering the shadowy, romantic streets, don’t miss the National Gallery of Umbria, which presents regional masterpieces from the 13th to 19th centuries. Perugia is also known for its festivals celebrating chocolate (October) and jazz (January).

  • Spoleto
    Frescoes-spoleto

    Built on a thousand years of history, Spoleto is one of the most important cities in Umbria and is host to many fine ancient monuments. Its highlights include the Roman theatre, a 12th century cathedral with decorative porticoes, and the pretty piazzas linked by picturesque stone passages.

Enquire

Jo

Team Comments:

“An atmosphere all of its own and stunning countryside wherever you go – late September and October gives you the wonderful change of season with the turning of the leaves from deep green to bright reds, yellows and oranges. Spectacular!” (Jo)

  • Alternatives
  • Travel Diaries
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    4 minute read

    8 photos

    Enjoying the quirks of local life in Umbria

    For travellers wanting to experience the glorious art, culture and landscapes of Italy, Tuscany is a hugely popular choice, yet sitting right next door to this is the lesser-known but equally stunning Umbria. Aptly named the ‘green heart’ of Italy, the region is characterised by undulating hills lush with vegetation...

    Laura Edwards

    By Laura Edwards

    8th Jan 2019

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