Umbria is a region located in the heart of Italy, famous for its wealth of history, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This romantic land, so authentic and unspoiled, holds many medieval hilltop towns, green vineyards, and a vast array of an Italian experience. If you are interested in history, love nature, or have a passion for food, you can be sure to find something that suits your tastes. This guide details the top attractions, giving you all the tools for a fantastic journey and a day trip to Umbria.
Must-See Attractions of Umbria, Italy
Norcia
On the one hand, Norcia is a medieval town of handsome contrasts- a walled town surrounded by lush countryside and the rolling hills of the region. For lovers of hiking, nature lovers, and gourmands, this is one place to head to. The place is celebrated for black truffles, along with salami, pork, and wild boar products—so famous that they’ve named Norcineria after them.
Dating from the Neolithic Age, Norcia is the birthplace of Europe’s Patron Saint, St. Benedict. Unravel the mysteries of its medieval streets and historic town center. Although many essential buildings such as the Church of St. Benedict itself—have been devastated by earthquakes, you can see the statue of Saint Benedict, Palazzo Comunale, and the Town Hall with its photo-appealing Loggia Staircase and Bell Tower dating back to the 13th century.
This town on the eastern edge of Sibillini National Park is chosen by visitors seeking a healthy mix of food and exercise and plenty of rolling countryside to explore on foot, bike, or horseback with Umbria tours from Rome.
Monti Sibillini National Park
Located in the heart of the Apennine Mountains, in the region of Umbria, the Monti Sibillini National Park is one of the wildest and most wondrous destinations to explore in the Rome to Umbria trip. Set among features such as medieval villages, lakes, and legends, the park attracts hordes of hikers, bikers, rock climbers, canyons, and other adventure-seekers. Nature is blossoming in the park: from wild orchids to wolves and birds of prey, the region is a powerhouse of varied wildlife.
This place is believed to have been a medieval country of witches, necromancers, and fairies. The legends still exist, which makes this place so attractive. Hike to the Cave of Sibyl, a sorceress said to have lured fearless knights into a life of damnation.
It is best appreciated by hiking up one of the peaks or hanging paragliding off them. There are organized treks, or one can follow a self-guided trail, which is downloadable from the park’s website.
Todi
When you travel to Umbria, the hilltop town of Todi overlooks the glorious Tevere Valley. Three walls enclosed the village, and many secret treasures were hidden behind them. The city built each wall in a different historical era: the innermost Etruscan, the middle Roman, and the medieval wall from the Middle Ages.
Old Town was discovered out of Piazza del Popolo. Take a classic tourist photo on the stairs of the 12th-century Cathedral, built upon the remains of an ancient temple consecrated to the Apollo god. See the Town Hall, People’s Palace, and the Museum of Roman Etruscan. You shouldn’t miss the 13th-century Captain Palace, the 14th-century Priori Palace, and St. Fortunato Church, honoring the city’s Patron Saint.
Spello
This is the old walled town of Spello, with honey-colored houses tumbling down the slopes of Saint Francis’s mountain, Monte Subasio. It is a tiny place you can cover on foot for several hours. It is situated on the doorstep of Assisi in east-central Umbria and has an exciting, vibrant history with Rome shore excursions.
It is small, but civilization and gorgeous views make it worth visiting. It is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy! The town was built out of Subasio marble, which gives the entire place a lovely pink color at sunrise and sunset. The photos are gorgeous!
Three remarkably well-preserved Roman arches lead into town. Within the town’s boundaries, you will find the 11th-century Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and the famous Baglioni Chapel, complete with its boastful Pinturicchio frescoes.
Lake Trasimeno
Hillside olive groves, rolling vineyards, and charming stone villages define Lake Trasimeno, one of Umbria’s most magical destinations. One of Italy’s four largest lakes, Trasimeno is surrounded by ancient towers, fortresses, and Renaissance-style churches. The lake hosts pastel-colored wooden fishing boats, three magnificent islands, and some of the most spectacular sunsets in Italy for shore excursions in Rome.
Though the lake lies entirely within the region of Umbria, the northern shoreline borders Tuscany. Villages scattered along the shore have more of a resort atmosphere. April to October is the high season when visitors arrive to capitalize on pleasant weather, beaches, and hiking/biking trails. Shop and dine at your own risk out of season, as many establishments are closed during this time.
Final Thoughts
A day trip to Umbria combines ancient churches, visits to some of the world’s great art, and sampling the region’s famous wines and delicacies. This region is captured by rolling hills, medieval towns, and peaceful lakes, drawing visitors seeking to experience authentic Italian culture and history well away from the crowds.