Perugia holidays

How to reach Perugia

Flight time:

• Flights to Perugia from London take approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.

• From elsewhere in the UK, flying to Perugia involves a transfer, usually in Milan.

Transfer time:

• Perugia’s San Francesco d’Assisi Airport is located about 15km from the city centre; a journey that takes roughly 20 minutes by taxi.

• Alternatively, you can hop on the Umbria Airlink shuttle bus, which runs several times a day and will deliver you to the city’s main bus station in approximately 30 minutes.

Price:

• A single ticket for the Umbria Airlink costs €5 for adults and €2.50 for children.

• A taxi from the airport to the city will set you back about €30, depending on the season and time of day.

Best time to visit Perugia

The Umbrian capital’s charm shines all year round, making holidays to Perugia a delight in any season. However, the exact timing of your trip can shape your experience, so it’s good to know average temperatures and tourist numbers, as well as checking the city’s cultural calendar.

April to June is one of the best times for Perugia holidays. Spring’s mild weather sees temperatures rise from around 15°C in April to 25°C in June. Rainfall is relatively low and you can enjoy up to 10 hours of sunshine daily. This is also when the city’s cultural calendar starts to liven up, with festivals and open-air events.

July to August is the height of summer and peak season in Perugia. Daily temperatures often reach 30°C, making it perfect for basking in one of the city’s sun-kissed piazzas. Rainfall is rare and the sun shines for up to 11 hours each day. However, be prepared for larger crowds, particularly during July’s Umbria Jazz Festival.

September to November is a much cooler and quieter time to visit Perugia. Average temperatures slowly drop from around 23°C in September to 12°C in November, making it ideal for exploring the city’s medieval streets. Rainfall increases slightly but the autumn colours bring a touch of magic to the surrounding Umbrian countryside.

December to March may be the low season, but Perugia doesn’t lose its cosy charm. While temperatures hover between a chilly 5°C to 10°C, the city’s festive markets and abundance of seasonal treats make it a delightful choice for a pre-Christmas getaway.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the main language, but English is widely understood in tourist spots. That said, learning a few Italian phrases will make your trip even more enjoyable.

• Local habits and customs: Italians are passionate about food, so prepare to take your time over meals and embrace the slower pace of life. It’s also customary to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a friendly “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Buonasera” (good evening).

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and establishments.

• Getting around: While Perugia’s historic centre is best explored on foot, the local MiniMetrò system provides a quick and scenic way to travel between the upper and lower parts of the city. Tickets cost €1.50 for a single journey. Buses are also available, with fares starting at around €2 for 70 minutes of travel.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses the standard continental 220 volts, so UK travellers will need to pack a two-pin plug adaptor.

• Time zone: Perugia is on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Perugia

A hilltop gem situated in the heart of Italy, Perugia mixes medieval charm and a rich cultural heritage with stunning surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for its history, food or simply to soak up the atmosphere, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Rocca Paolina: Perched at the city’s highest point, this medieval fortress offers panoramic views of Perugia’s terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Umbrian countryside. You can also explore its underground ruins for a glimpse into the city’s past.

• Giardini Carducci (Carducci Gardens): This peaceful garden is a favourite of both locals and tourists for its stunning views across the valley. The well-maintained pathways make it a lovely spot for a stroll.

The best districts

• Centro Storico (Historic Centre): Perugia’s historic centre is a maze of cobbled streets and winding alleys that open onto picturesque piazzas. Highlights include the 13th-century Fontana Maggiore (Great Fountain) and Corso Vannucci, the main street buzzing with shops and cafés.

• Porta Sole: Known as the oldest district in Perugia, this area is filled with classic Italian charm. Wander the quiet streets and discover the city’s hidden corners.

Historical monuments

• Cattedrale San Lorenzo (Perugia Cathedral): Situated in Piazza IV Novembre, this impressive cathedral features intricate frescoes and a peaceful cloister.

• Arco Etrusco (Etruscan Arch): This well-preserved gateway dates back to the 3rd century BC and is an iconic landmark and testament to Perugia’s ancient origins.

• National Gallery of Umbria: This museum located in Palazzo dei Priori showcases a huge collection of Umbrian art, including works by local masters like Perugino.

Day trips in the area

• Assisi: Take the short train ride to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for its Basilica of St. Francis.

• Lake Trasimeno: Italy’s fourth-largest lake is less than an hour’s drive from Perugia and offers opportunities for boating and swimming. You can also explore charming lakeside towns such as Passignano sul Trasimeno.

Activities for families in Perugia

Perugia offers plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained, blending adventure and fun with a sprinkling of history and culture.

• Interactive museums: Families will love visiting the House Museum of Perugina, otherwise known as the home of Italy’s famous Baci chocolates. Discover the history of chocolate-making, and don’t miss the tasting session at the end of the tour.

• Parks and gardens: The Carducci Gardens are the perfect place for a relaxing family stroll, while the Parco Sant’Angelo located near the university offers green spaces and play areas ideal for younger children.

• Historical monuments and sites: Spend a fascinating few hours exploring the underground streets of Rocca Paolina – the experience is like stepping back in time, and will captivate both kids and adults.

• Cooking classes: Several schools in Perugia offer family-friendly sessions where you can learn to make pasta or pizza together. It’s a particularly fun way to embrace Italian culture.

Free things to do in Perugia

You don’t need to spend a fortune to make the most of your holiday in Perugia. Here’s a guide to the city’s best free and low-cost activities:

• Free events: Perugia hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the lively Umbria Jazz Festival each July. There’s nothing quite like enjoying free open-air performances in the city’s atmospheric piazzas.

• Explore by public transport: The MiniMetrò is a very affordable way to see Perugia from a new perspective. A one-way ticket costs just €1.50, and the elevated tracks mean you get great views while travelling.

• Free museums: There’s no charge to visit the San Domenico Basilica, meaning you can admire the city’s religious art and architecture for free.

• Free guided tours: Some local groups organise complimentary walking tours of Perugia’s historic centre, covering landmarks like Palazzo dei Priori and Piazza IV Novembre. Others are tips-based, meaning you pay whatever you feel is appropriate.

Nature and outdoor activities in Perugia

• Hiking: The trails around Monte Tezio, situated to the north of the city, offer stunning views over the Umbrian valley. Various routes cater to different skill levels, from casual strollers to serious trekkers. The nearby Monti Sibillini National Park provides more challenging hikes too.

• Cycling: Rent a bike and spend a few hours riding through the winding roads of the Umbrian countryside. Routes like the Assisi-Spoleto trail take you past charming villages and medieval landmarks.

• Lake Trasimeno: Just a short drive from Perugia, this picturesque lake is ideal for a day of kayaking, paddleboarding or simply relaxing on its peaceful shores.

• Hot air ballooning: For a truly unforgettable experience, book a hot air balloon ride over the Umbrian landscape. The panoramic views of the rolling hills, vineyards and medieval villages are simply breathtaking.

Local dishes in Perugia

Perugia’s cuisine captures the essence of Umbrian life, blending rustic traditions with exceptional flavours that will leave a lasting impression. Here are some of the best dishes, drinks and sweet treats to try:

Some typical dishes

• Torta al Testo: A savoury flatbread stuffed with cured meats, cheese or sautéed greens. It’s a staple of Umbrian street food and perfect if you’re in need of a quick bite.

• Strangozzi al Tartufo: A local pasta dish featuring handmade noodles tossed in an intense and earthy black truffle sauce. This is a must-try for truffle lovers.

Meat dishes

• Porchetta: A seasoned and slow-roasted pork dish that’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. It’s usually served in slices and features heavily at local markets and festivals.

• Cinghiale stew: Wild boar, slow-cooked with red wine, herbs and vegetables. This hearty dish showcases the best of Umbrian countryside cuisine.

Sweets and desserts

• Baci Perugina: These iconic chocolate pralines (also known as “kisses”) are filled with hazelnut and wrapped in love notes.

• Torcolo di San Costanzo: A traditional sweet bread flavoured with candied fruit and the distinctive taste of aniseed. You’ll find it being enjoyed at local festivals.

Local drinks

• Sagrantino wine: This full-bodied red wine, produced in the nearby Montefalco area, pairs beautifully with rich meat dishes.

• Vin Santo: A sweet dessert wine served with cantucci biscuits for dipping.