A Day in Perugia: Umbria’s Chocolate-Kissed Hilltop

A Day Trip from Rome to Discover Umbrian Charm.

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Think Rome has it all? If you're mapping out your things to do in Rome, don't overlook what lies just beyond. Dare to venture north and spend a day in Perugia, the capital of Umbria, where art, history, and a hint of chocolatey sweetness await in one of Italy’s most enchanting hilltops. It’s one of those perfect day trips from Rome that offers a different rhythm and a breath of fresh, hilltop air.

Start your journey bright and early by hopping on the Regionale Veloce train from Roma Termini at 07:53. You’ll roll into Perugia just before 11:00 (check Trenitalia or official sites for up-to-date timetables). As you arrive, follow the locals and take the Minimetrò from Fontivegge station to the city center, getting off at Pincetto. The fun-sized, futuristic tram offers a mini-adventure before the real exploration begins.

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🎨🌄 Morning: Art and Views in the Heart of Umbria

Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria – Centro Storico

Dare to dive into the depths of Italian Renaissance art? Spend a couple of hours wandering through masterpieces by Perugino, Piero della Francesca, and other Umbrian legends. The gallery is housed in the Palazzo dei Priori and is the cultural heart of the region.

Or take a stroll along Corso Vannucci, Perugia’s elegant high street, where locals sip espresso and window-shop beneath historic facades.

Giardini Carducci

After your dose of art, stretch your legs in these lush gardens at the edge of the centro storico. With sweeping views over the Umbrian hills, this is where you’ll want to pause and breathe it all in. Don’t miss the panorama along Viale Indipendenza and the Belvedere di Porta Sole in Via delle Prome (the highest spot of the city).

Alphaville Cafè or Pinturicchio Cafè

Perfect for a mid-morning merenda or coffee break. Grab a pastry, sip something strong, and recharge before continuing your walk. For chocolate lovers, add a stop at Cioccolateria Augusta Perusia on Via Pinturicchio.

🍝🍷Lunch Break

Hungry? Time to recharge. Try Osteria A Priori for a hearty Umbrian lunch with local wines and seasonal dishes. Prefer something lighter or on-the-go? Mr. Norcy offers excellent panini and taglieri (cheese and charcuterie boards).

🎭🍸Afternoon: Street Art, Aperitivo, and a Hilltop Stroll

Via della Viola

This street isn’t just a shortcut, but a true gallery in itself. Explore murals, quirky installations, and the creative pulse of Perugia’s younger generation. Are you up for finding the most Instagram-worthy wall?

Aperitivo at Post Modernissimo Bar or Venti Vino

What better place to wind down than a bar inside an independent cinema? Sip a spritz among students and cinephiles, and feel like a local insider. Alternatively, head to Venti Vino for curated natural wines and a good conversation.

San Pietro Area

Cross to the quieter side of town for a walk near the Basilica di San Pietro and the lush Giardini del Frontone, a corner of the city ideal for reflection and unforgettable snaps.

Don’t Leave Without...

• Visiting the Duomo in Piazza IV Novembre.

• Admiring the iconic Fontana Maggiore in the heart of the main square.

• Descending the evocative Via Maestà delle Volte and following Via Cesare Battisti to reach the Arco Etrusco, a stunning gate from the 3rd century BC.

• Looking out from the Terrace of the University for Foreigners – it sits right in front of the Arco.

• Wandering the atmospheric Scalette di Sant’Ercolano.

• Exploring the underground passages of Rocca Paolina, accessible via escalators from Viale Indipendenza.

• Strolling down Via Battisti and the Scalette dell’Acquedotto – a stairway built on top of a medieval aqueduct. Can you spot all the hidden gardens?

  
  
  
  

A single day in Perugia might not be enough to see it all, but it's the perfect way to get a feel for the city's charm and character. If you’re looking for day trips from Rome that mix culture, history, and local flavor, Perugia delivers! So, are you ready to explore this chocolate-kissed hilltop? Don’t forget to follow more Rome tips locals love for authentic adventures.

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Note: A huge thanks to Giorgia for her local insights and to Michele for the stunning pictures!

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