The historic city of Perugia is the capital of Italy’s Umbria region. Lying in between Rome and Florence, Perguia is well-worth a stop during any trip to Italy. Here’s our list of the top things to do in Perugia.
A quick note before we get started. Although some of the links below are affiliate links, no one asked us to put them in the article. We only put in links for items or experiences we’ve enjoyed buying for or receiving from others.
Explore the city center at Piazza IV Novembre
To start, head up to the city’s main square of Piazza IV Novembre. Here, you can find the Fontana Maggiore, famous for its blend of scenes from The Bible, Rome, and Perugia’s own history. The square also houses the center of the city’s government, the Palazzo del Priori, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Take a moment to see the chain above the doors of the Palazzo del Priori – Perugia captured it from the neighboring city of Arezzo and has kept it as a trophy to this day!
Investigate the Rocca Paolina
This fortress was constructed in the 16th century after the Pope defeated Perugia in the so-called Salt War. Built to remind Perguia of papal authority, the Pope demolished the city’s historic center and the house of its leading family, the Baglionis, to facilitate its construction. While the fort is gone, the underground is still open to the public. While exploring its windy paths, be sure to find the alcove that plays a movie of Perugia’s history in images!
Tour the Perugina Chocolate Factory
Treat yourself to some of Italy’s finest chocolate by touring the Perugina Chocolate Factory, famous for its Baci chocolates. Learn about the chocolate-making process and, taste some of the wares. If you can’t make it to the factory, you can still get the Baci chocolate here!
Discover Etruscan History at the National Archaeological Museum
Learn more about the Etruscans, the ancient civilization that pre-dated the Romans, at Umbria’s National Archaeological Museum. Perugia was one of the main Etruscan centers of power. In fact, you can still see remnants of the sturdy Etruscan wall built around the city!
Stroll the Via dell’Acquedotto
Some of the best views in Perguia can be obtained by walking along the city’s ancient aqueduct. Built by the Romans along the Via Appia more than one thousand years ago, the aqueduct now serves as a pedestrian walkway through the heart of Perugia. Our advice: ascend the central staircase to the top of the city first and leisurely walk down the aqueduct with a gelato in hand.
Visit the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel
One of the oldest churches in Italy, the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel exemplifies early Romanesque and Gothic construction. Check out the chapels on the inside to see beautiful frescoes dating from the 15th century.
When in doubt, walk!
Some of the best finds in Perugia can be found by just walking! Stroll along the ancient and medieval walls that can still be found in parts of the city. The walk provides excellent views of Perugia’s architecture and the surrounding countryside.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy your time in Perguia! If you have any other sites you would recommend, share them with us at [email protected].
