10 Best Things to Do and See in Perugia: Italy’s Hidden Gem
Are you planning an Italian getaway? Look no further than Perugia, Italy, for a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and delicious Italian cuisine!
Check out this list of the top 10 things to do in Perugia to make the most of your time and experience the best of this beautiful city.
1. Visit the Perugia Cathedral
The Perugia Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic-style building with a stunning bell tower. This 14th-century Gothic cathedral is great for learning about the city’s history. The cathedral is situated in the heart of the city of Perugia, is a magnificent example of late Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Built in the 15th century on the site of an earlier church, it features a stunning façade with two bell towers, a grand portico, and a frescoed interior. The cathedral also houses numerous works of art, including a fresco by Raphael, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
2. Visit the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria
This impressive art gallery features collections of works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria in Perugia, Italy, is an art gallery with a rich collection of works from the 14th to the 19th centuries. It features masterpieces from renowned Italian painters such as Perugino, Pinturicchio, Signorelli, and many more.
The gallery also showcases several local Umbrian artists and works from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Visitors can also admire works from the modern period, including sculptures and graphic arts. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational events.
3. Take a Trip to Perugia’s Old Town
Perugia’s old historical center is a picturesque part of the city located in the heart of Umbria, Italy. Its winding cobbled streets and ancient buildings make it a must-see for all visitors to the city. Explore the ancient Roman walls, walk through the Piazza IV Novembre, and visit the majestic Perugia Cathedral.
Stroll through the charming medieval squares and explore the many quaint cafes, restaurants, and shops that line the streets. Check out the Fontana Maggiore, a grand 13th-century fountain. With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, Perugia’s old historical center is a delightful place to spend an afternoon.
4. Climb up to the Rocca Paolina Fortress
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. The Rocca Paolina is a 16th-century fortress in the center of Perugia, Italy. Pope Paul III built it to subdue the local population and enforce papal rule over the city.
The fortress comprises three main courtyards and various defensive features such as walls, towers, and battlements. Today, the Rocca Paolina is a popular tourist attraction and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
5. Go on a Wine Tour in Perugia and the Umbria Region
Perugia has some of the best wineries and vineyards in the region, perfect for a wine-tasting tour. This wine tour around Perugia, Italy, is a must-do for any wine enthusiast. It will take you through the rolling hills of Umbria, where you will visit some of the most esteemed vineyards in the region.
You will have the chance to sample some of the area’s renowned wines, such as Sagrantino di Montefalco and Orvieto Classico. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to explore the picturesque towns and villages of the area, learning about the local culture, food, and wine.
At the end of the tour, you will have a better understanding of the famous wines of Umbria, as well as a newfound appreciation for the region. Sipping a glass of local wine at one of the nearby wineries is one of the best ways to enjoy the Italian way of life.
7. Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria
The National Archaeological Museum of Umbria, located in Perugia, Italy, is considered one of the country’s most important museums. Its vast collection spans from the Paleolithic period to the Middle Ages, with a focus on the ancient history of Umbria.
The museum houses an impressive array of artifacts, including pre-Roman sculptures, architectural elements, and pottery. Visitors can also explore the region’s rich history through the museum’s interactive displays and multimedia exhibits. The museum offers educational programs, special events, and guided tours to help visitors learn more about the region’s past.
8. Taste the Delicious Local Cuisine
Perugia is home to a variety of restaurants offering a range of cuisines. You can expect to find traditional favorites like pizza, pasta, risotto, and various seafood and meat dishes. In addition, many restaurants offer a selection of unique local specialties, such as truffle dishes and Umbrian-style sausages.
No matter what type of Italian food you’re looking for, Perugia is sure to have something to satisfy your palate. Eating at a local restaurant in the center of Perugia is undoubtedly one of the best ways to appreciate what Italy is all about.
9. Hike Through the “Orto Botanico dell’Universita’ di Perugia”
The University of Perugia Botanical Gardens, located in Italy, is a stunning collection of plants and flowers from around the world. Visitors can explore a vast array of outdoor and indoor gardens featuring a variety of exotic plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs.
The gardens boast a wealth of educational activities and classes and a library with various materials related to botany and gardening. The gardens also offer a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Related Reading: 21 Stunning Italian Flowers That Will Make Your Garden Bloom
10. Explore the University of Perugia and Take a Tour of the Historic Campus
The University of Perugia Campus in Italy is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Located in the heart of Umbria, it offers students an array of modern amenities, including cutting-edge research facilities, top-notch sports facilities, and a range of cultural activities. With its vibrant student life, the campus is the perfect place to explore Italy’s vibrant culture and history.
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