The best things to do in Perugia
Perugia is a charming and historic city in the region of Umbria, Italy. Known for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and rich culture, it’s a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Italy. From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Perugia. Here are some of the top things to do in the city.
Explore the Old Town
Perugia’s Old Town is a maze of charming cobblestone streets and beautiful medieval architecture. The historic center is home to many important landmarks, such as the Palazzo dei Priori, which is the city’s Town Hall and the Fontana Maggiore, a beautiful 13th-century fountain. Visitors can also see the Gothic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, which dates back to the 14th century and the Etruscan Arch, which is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Take a Food Tour
Umbria is known for its delicious food and Perugia is no exception. The city is home to many traditional trattorias and osterias where you can sample local specialties such as truffles, wild boar, and lentils. A food tour is a great way to discover the city’s culinary delights, and many tour companies offer walking tours that take you to some of the best local eateries.
Visit the National Gallery of Umbria
The National Gallery of Umbria is one of the most important art museums in Italy and is home to a collection of more than 200 works of art. The gallery’s collection includes works by some of the most important Italian artists of the 14th and 15th centuries, such as Perugino and Pinturicchio. The museum also features a beautiful garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the views of the city.
Explore the Perugia Underground
Perugia has a fascinating underground world that is well worth exploring. Visitors can take a tour of the city’s underground corridors and caves, which were originally used as Etruscan tombs and later as a means of escape for the city’s inhabitants during times of war. The tours are a unique and interesting way to learn about the city’s history and culture.
See a Performance at the Teatro Morlacchi
The Teatro Morlacchi is one of the most important theaters in Perugia and is home to the city’s opera and ballet companies. The theater is a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture and is a great place to see a performance while in the city. The theater also offers guided tours, which provide visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the theater’s history and operations.
Take a Day Trip to Assisi
Assisi is a beautiful town located just a short train ride from Perugia and is known for its association with St. Francis. Visitors can explore the town’s many churches and monasteries, including the Basilica of St. Francis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is also home to many beautiful frescoes and works of art, making it a great destination for art lovers.
Relax in a Thermal Bath
Perugia is located in the region of Umbria, which is known for its thermal baths. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in one of the city’s many thermal baths, such as the Termedi San Giovanni, which is located just outside of the city. The thermal baths offer a variety of treatments and services, such as massages and mud baths, that are designed to promote relaxation and wellness. The warm waters of the baths are also believed to have healing properties and are said to be effective in treating a variety of ailments.
Visit the University for Foreigners
The University for Foreigners is one of the oldest and most prestigious language schools in Italy. Visitors can take a tour of the university’s historic buildings and learn about the history and culture of the city. The university also offers language classes and cultural activities, such as cooking classes and wine tastings, which are open to the public.
Attend a Festival or Event
Perugia is a city that loves to celebrate, and there are many festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Eurochocolate Festival, which is held in October and celebrates the city’s chocolate heritage, and the Umbria Jazz Festival, which is held in July and features performances by some of the world’s most famous jazz musicians.
In conclusion, Perugia is a beautiful city that offers a rich and diverse range of activities for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or just relaxing, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. With its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and rich culture, Perugia is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Italy.
