Things to do in Umbria

Embark on a captivating journey through central Italy with this full-day trip that starts with pickup from a centrally-located meeting point in Rome. Hop on a comfortable bus for a scenic drive through the incredible Italian countryside until you reach Civita di Bagnoregio in Northern Lazio. Explore the hilltop village on a guided tour. Traverse the iconic bridge, marvel at rare stone formations, and immerse yourself in the historical charm. Hop back onto the comfortable, air-conditioned coach for a drive through the Tuscan countryside. Arrive at a traditional farmhouse in the area of Montepulciano. Indulge in a gourmet Tuscan lunch and a Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting. Indulge in panzanella (salad), salami, capocollo (pork cold cut), wild boar sausage, and Tuscan pecorino amidst this charming landscape. Travel to Umbria, the third-largest region in central Italy, to enjoy the ancient town of Orvieto. From the famous Duomo to the captivating Underground, Orvieto blends history with picturesque landscapes. Have some free time to explore the city and do some shopping before returning to Rome with unforgettable memories.

Explore the splendid monumental complex of Saint Lawrence Island in the heart of Perugia is the archaeological area of the Perugia Underground. Travel the path, which can be visited exclusively with guides, and discover the roots of the city by admiring Etruscan, Roman, and medieval remains. Start from the cloisters of the cathedral, and plunge into the heart of the hill, reaching 15 meters below the current level of the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence. Venture into the history of Perugia from more than 2,500 years ago to the present day.

Visiting this centuries-old well in Orvieto will open up the history of the ancient inhabitants' ways of life, from their Etruscan beginnings, through the Middle Ages, to the Renaissance and beyond. The underground cave complex consists of nine caverns for you to explore. You’ll find countless Etruscan, medieval, and Renaissance artifacts preserved by the underground complex running beneath the medieval streets of the Cava neighborhood.  Start at the oldest part of the Pozzo della Cava, with its cistern lined with cocciopesto plaster, where you’ll discover artifacts such as ancient Etruscan burial remains. Next, descend into the hypogeum maze of Urbs Vetus (Orvieto’s medieval name) to discover the intricacies of the houses’ three-story basements.  The final part of the complex displays developments from the Renaissance, when the most recent parts of the Pozzo della Cava were excavated. Marvel at the impressive final cave, which preserves traces of the transformations carried out over a period of twenty-eight centuries.

Start your day early with a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride from Rome, taking in the picturesque landscapes of the Italian countryside as you make your way to your first stop, Montepulciano. Upon reaching Montepulciano, embark on a guided tour through its historic center. Stroll along charming streets and explore beautiful piazzas, including spots featured in the "Twilight" movie saga and other famous films. Enjoy some free time to discover the town at your own pace. Browse local shops, eat a gelato, or simply admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Next, visit a local 13th-century winery for a tasting guided by an experienced sommelier. Sample some of Tuscany's finest wines and gain insights into the winemaking process. The cellar also houses a 2000-year-old Etruscan tomb, and it is possible to visit the old refectory room used by the friars. Delight in a sumptuous Tuscan lunch, perfectly paired with local wines, as you savor traditional dishes made from fresh, regional ingredients. After lunch, continue your journey to Montalcino, a medieval town known for its impressive fortress. Begin your visit at the former Sant’Agostino convent, now home to the Temple of Brunello interactive museum. Dive into the rich history and culture of the area while learning about the production of the famous Brunello di Montalcino wine.

Escape Italy's busy capital for one day on this trip to Assisi and the Umbrian hill town Orvieto. On this tour, you will unveil the religious architecture of Umbria (such as the famous Cathedral of Orvieto) and discover the wines and local products of Tuscany. Leaving Rome in a northerly direction and driving along the Tiber Valley, reach Orvieto as your first stop, a small town of Etruscan origins where you will stop to admire the magnificent 14th century cathedral, a masterpiece of gothic architecture. The tour continues through the green Tuscan Hills covered in olive groves and vineyards. This is the land of some of Italy’s best known D.O.C. (quality controlled) wines, which include Orvieto, Chianti and Brunello di Montalcin. Afterwards, enjoy lunch, consisting of traditional local dishes. In the early afternoon you will continue your journey and drive along the shores of Lake Trasimeno. Finally, reach Assisi, which is located at the foot of Mount Subasio. Assisi is famous for being St. Francis' birthplace. You will see the Church of St. Claire, St Francis’ birthplace and his childhood home, the Townhall Square. Around the Townhall Square, you will see the People’s Palace and the Roman Temple dedicated to Minerva. One highlight of the tour will be the visit of St Francis’ Basilica, located close to the ancient city walls, with its magnificent frescoes painted between the 12th and 14th centuries. You will reach Rome around 7,30 8,00pm .

Learn the history of Perugia Old Town on a walking tour for small groups. A local guide will show you through the events that took place in Perugia and that have shaped the city, from the Etruscans to the Romans, until the Papal dominations and the Middle Ages.  Dive into the historic square, Piazza IV Novembre, and admire the masterpiece of engineering and Gothic sculpture that is the Fontana Maggiore. Lose yourself in the splendid landscapes that the city offers and capture photos of the rolling hills and snowy peaks from Mount Subasio to Assisi.  Cross the main street while your guide unveils curiosities and anecdotes about the city, its characters, and some architectural elements that may go unnoticed. See the Etruscan Arch, built in the 3rd Century BC. Then go underground in the Rocca Paolina, a symbol of the power of the Pope in Perugia. Walk around the old fortress and see the exhibitions on display there.

Explore Assisi on a walking tour with a guide who will tell you about the history, art, and local traditions of one of the most famous hill towns of Italy. Meet your guide and head to the ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater, which was later put to use in the Middle Ages as a quarry for stone to build local houses. See how the amphitheater later was turned into a private neighborhood. From this vantage point, the view of the Rocca Maggiore medieval castle is one of the best in the city. Continuing along narrow alleys and through medieval squares you’ll reach the Cathedral of Saint Rufino Cathedral, the Basilica of Saint Claire, and Piazza del Comune, the main city square. At the square you’ll see the Minerva temple, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Italy. It is surrounded by imposing medieval government buildings. The tour then continues on to the Saint Francis Basilica, which is well known for its 13th and 14th-century frescoes created by Italian masters of the time, including Giotto.

Discover the heart of Umbria and explore the medieval town of Orvieto and the city of Assisi on a guided day trip from Florence. Visit the major sights in each city with a guide before enjoying free time to explore and shop at your leisure. After a scenic bus ride from Florence, arrive at the city of Orvieto. See the Duomo and marvel at its Gothic architecture, complete with precious mosaics and sculptures. Step inside the cathedral to gaze at its colorful stained-glass windows and coveted artwork (ticket not included). Continue to Saint Patrick’s Well and access the depths of the well with the two helical ramps for a truly unique experience (ticket not included). Lose yourself in the narrow alleys, explore the local squares lined with artisan shops and cafes, and admire the medieval architecture all around you. After some free time, return to the fully-fitted GT Coach and head to Assisi, one of Umbria’s most fascinating borgos. Follow your guide through this holy city, navigating its steep, winding alleys. Explore the famous Basilica of Saint Francis, home to some of the best-preserved frescoes painted by Giotto, Pietro Lorenzetti, Simone Martini, and Cimabue. Next, make your way to the Basilica of Saint Clare, one of the first followers of Saint Francis and founder of the Order of Poor Ladies. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to go shopping in the local small stores or simply unwind in the main square, sipping on a good coffee and taking in the ambiance. Before returning to Florence, stop by the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels, a majestic church built on top of the Porziuncola, where the Franciscan movement originally started. Finally, relax during your return transfer to Florence.

Set off on an exciting day trip from Rome to the picturesque towns of Assisi, Orvieto, and the enchanting Civita di Bagnoregio—three hidden gems of central Italy rich in history, culture, and stunning scenery. Your adventure begins with a comfortable morning departure on a luxury coach guided by an expert who will share fascinating historical facts and stories throughout the journey. First, arrive in the serene town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. You’ll have time to wander its charming streets, explore medieval pathways, and visit the renowned Basilica of St. Francis (entrance not included). Enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this spiritual town as you relax in the Piazza del Comune and savor a delightful lunch or coffee at one of its quaint cafés. Next, continue to the historic city of Orvieto, which is dramatically situated on a volcanic tuff cliff. As you approach, your guide will share insights about its fascinating history and landmarks, including the stunning Orvieto Cathedral, famous for its intricate Gothic architecture (entrance not included). Once in Orvieto, enjoy your free time roaming the cobblestone streets, visiting local artisan shops, and taking in breathtaking Umbrian landscape views. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the region’s renowned wine and local dishes. The day concludes with a visit to the mystical Civita di Bagnoregio, often called "The Dying City" because of its precarious cliffside position and eroding landscape. This captivating village, perched on a volcanic hill and accessible only via a pedestrian bridge, invites you to explore its ancient paths, admire its stone houses, and enjoy stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys. Here, you can meander through its historic streets, browse artisan boutiques, and capture photographs of one of Italy’s most surreal landscapes. After a day filled with exploration and beauty, board the coach for a leisurely return to Rome, arriving in the evening. Your guide will be available throughout the trip to answer any questions and offer additional insights, ensuring a memorable day in the heart of Italy.

Experience a unique emotion on board the Ape Calessino to admire the city's major monuments: Basilica of Santa Chiara, Chiesa Nuova (birthplace of San Francesco), Piazza del Comune and Minerva. Roman Amphitheater, Rocca Maggiore, Cathedral of San Rufino, Piazza Vescovado and the Basilica of San Francesco