Located in the heart of Italy, small but full of possibilities. In fact, more and more tourists - Italian and foreign - are choosing Umbria for their summer holidays. It will be for the unspoilt natural landscape, for the villages rich in history and art, for the countryside dotted with centuries-old olive groves, for the majesty of Lake Trasimeno... But not only that, because when tourists travel they want to live a real experience, becoming get involved in activities that activate all the senses and that are remembered!
For this reason, after having given you some suggestions on what to see in 3 days, we have decided to collect 10 experiences that you can only experience in Umbria to better explore this wonderful region in the summer!
Summer holidays in Umbria: 10 good reasons to choose it
Whether you decide to cross it by car, or on two wheels, or even on foot, we offer a series of activities suitable for everyone, from the more intellectual and artistic ones to the more adventurous ones, without missing out on a little relaxation and of course a tour among cellars and vineyards!
Discover Umbria through the eyes of Perugino
Let's start right away with the art. Pietro Vannucci - also known as Perugino - is one of the most famous and influential painters of the Renaissance, to the point that his works were in demand throughout Europe. There is a very rich proposal of guided itineraries that allow you to explore the territories linked to the "divine painter", which combine art, history, local traditions and obviously... food and wine! For example, you can discover an unusual Perugia, admiring works such as the Adoration of the Magi and the Marriage of the Virgin at the National Gallery of Umbria, or Città della Pieve with the Cathedral which houses the panel depicting the Baptism of Christ. Or again, discover small charming villages scattered throughout the Umbrian countryside and hills and the natural landscapes that inspired his brushstrokes: an activity suitable for those who particularly love long walks and trekking. In short, the offer is really varied: it's up to you to decide what interests you to investigate about one of the greatest Renaissance painters!
In short, the offer is really varied: it's up to you to decide what interests you to investigate about one of the greatest Renaissance painters!
In the footsteps of St. Francesco di Assisi
Those who want a journey that combines history and spirituality can embark on a regenerating journey by following the Via di San Francesco, on the trail of one of the most iconic saints, San Francesco D'Assisi. A walk along about 50 km that connects Assisi to Gubbio, through some truly enchanting places, such as the woods around Valfabbrica, the Giomici castle and the Biscina mountain, along the Chiascio valley. For those looking for other testimonies of the Saint, they can also go to Narni and Spoleto, equally rich in places and history linked to the patron saint of Italy.
By boat on Lake Trasimeno
It is true, Umbria is the only region with no access to the sea, but it can compensate very well with its lakes and rivers. In fact, water lovers cannot miss a trip by ferry - or by sailboat - on Lake Trasimeno, to discover the three natural islands. Among these, Isola Maggiore stands out, a real jewel: it is a seaside village with a medieval atmosphere, where you can get lost among craft shops, restaurants and markets and a panoramic route. For those looking for a bit of tranquility and want to immerse themselves in nature, we recommend a stop at Isola Polvese, a nature reserve and wildlife oasis within the Trasimeno Regional Park.
Explore the Sibillini Mountains
Sibillini Mountains have everything to offer: wonderful landscapes, ancient villages and centuries-old traditions. For those looking for a "slow-paced" holiday, they will absolutely have to immerse themselves in the Monti Sibillini National Park, for a walk or - why not - even an exploration on horseback, thanks to the numerous stables that can be found . The tour cannot miss a visit to Castelluccio di Norcia, not to be missed even during the flowering period of the lentil fields surrounding the town, between the beginning of May and the beginning of summer: you will find yourself immersed in a sea of bright colors and you will witness a unique show!
Rafting in Valnerina
Are you looking for strong emotions? Then climb aboard an inflatable dinghy and dive into a whirling descent through the rapids of the river at the foot of the famous and evocative Cascate delle Marmore, in the heart of Valnerina. Don't worry: the outings are divided according to the different levels of difficulty and physical preparation, and you will also be equipped with all the necessary equipment and accompanied by expert guides, to live a unique experience between the nature of the river park and the adrenaline of rafting. Once there, obviously a visit to the Cascate delle Marmomre cannot be missed!
A moment of relaxation at the Fonti del Clitunno
Can't stay away from the water, but looking for something a little more tranquil? Then you absolutely must go to the fonti del Clitunno, a body of water that is a real corner of paradise. We are located not far from Spoleto and Foligno, in a small natural oasis in the municipality of Campello sul Clitunno, in the province of Perugia: the springs are the main attraction of the homonymous park, and it is easy to understand why. Among crystal clear waters, small waterfalls, weeping willows and poplars, this is a quiet and romantic place, where many poets, artists and writers have taken inspiration. If you are looking for some refreshment and want to feel like Virgilio and Carducci, you should definitely go!
Adventure parks
Umbria is full of them and you are spoiled for choice! A perfect option also for those traveling with children. Among Tibetan bridges, pulleys, water slides, you can explore the wild nature and immerse yourself in a picture of a thousand shades of green: you just have to choose the one that best suits your needs.
A tour of La Scarzuola
Does the Ideal City exist? In Umbria yes, precisely in the hamlet of Montegiove in the municipality of Montegabbione, in the province of Terni. We are talking about La Scarzuola, a truly unique place and difficult to describe. Here, in fact, it seems that the residence of San Francesco d'Assisi was located, around which the Milanese architect Tomaso Buzzi subsequently built his "Ideal City", an eclectic and eccentric work. A sort of city-theater where there are gardens, sculptures and other buildings that oscillate between surrealism and classicism, offering an experience that will surely amaze you.
Perugia to the rhythm of Jazz
Music lovers - and jazz in particular - listen up! Because Umbria Jazz returns to Perugia every summer, the most important Italian jazz music festival (but not only). Born in 1973, it takes place annually in the month of July. A great way to visit one of the most beautiful Italian cities, and at the same time enjoy the dedicated events and concerts scattered throughout the city!
Wine and olive oil tastings
Finally, could there be a suggestion for lovers of good food and good drink? In fact, Umbria is a generous land from a food and wine point of view and deserves to be discovered also thanks to its typical products, especially oil and wine! Our advice is to take a walk through the streets of the center of Montefalco, and then discover the surroundings where the precious Montefalco Sagrantino is born. How? Thanks to a tasting of three types of Sagrantino or the most typical wines of this area, paired with a platter of cured meats and pecorino cheeses from local producers and a taste of olive oil at the Còlpetrone estate, it is one of the most important producers in the DOCG area of Montefalco. Or again, in the Montecorona estate, near Umbertide, another medieval village that certainly deserves a stop.
Have you collected enough suggestions for your next summer holidays in Umbria?
