Exploring the Lesser Visited Region of Umbria in Italy

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Visit Spectacular Umbria

Umbria is a stunning region that often has to play second fiddle to the hugely popular tourist destination of Tuscany. Bordering Tuscany, Umbria remains very much under the radar, which is a real advantage as it lacks the crowds that Tuscany draws. However, it still has a host of charming hilltop towns, wonderful museums to explore and an incredible countryside bursting with opportunities for wine tasting, walking, cycling and relaxing.

Perugia

The two main towns in Umbria are Perugia and Assisi, with Perugia being the capital of the region. This town is slightly different from the others of the region, mainly because of its size. It has a large urban sprawl, but despite that it also boasts a beautiful historic centre. The old part of the town is stunning and is filled with just as many Etruscan remains and medieval monuments as many of the more famous Tuscan towns. There is so much opportunity to explore here, but do make sure you are ready for a hike, as you will find you will do lots of walking!

The Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria is a fascinating gallery of Umbrian art and other works covering many hundreds of years. Here you can also see the Collegio del Cambio fresco, San Severo, which was contributed to by Raphael. When visiting Perugia, head away from the main street, the Corso Vannucci, and explore the Via dei Priori in the west, the walkway close to the Piazza Morlacchi, and the Via del Sole as well. Take some time to enjoy a coffee stop, do some people watching and absorb the laid-back local atmosphere of this vibrant university town.

Assisi

The region's most famous town is Assisi, and as you approach you can't help but be impressed by the medieval pink-stoned buildings dotted across the slopes of Monte Subasio. The town is famous for its connection to St Francis of Assisi, who was born here and is buried in the Basilica di San Francesco, but it is also a haven for art lovers.

The Basilica is filled with works by Giotto and frescos by Simone Martini and Cimabue. You can wander along the St Francis Trail and visit San Damiano and the Basilica di Santa Chiara, visit the stunning main cathedral of the town, and take some time to explore the Tempio di Minerva. For a real treat, head up to the Rocca Maggiore, where you'll be rewarded with incredible views over the town and surrounding area.

This town is a place of pilgrimage and can get quite busy, but most visitors are only here for the day. In the evening the streets are much quieter so if you are staying in accommodation close by, an evening trip is definitely worthwhile.

Top specialist companies like Essential Italy offer the very best in independent accommodation that will allow you to explore this wonderful region at your own pace. Take the plunge and immerse in the art, culture and history of the lesser known of Umbria.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect villa in Italy Essential Italy can help. Our handpicked villas offer distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.