Perugia
A vibrant hilltop university city built on Etruscan foundations, with jazz, chocolate, and stunning views.
About Perugia
Perugia sits dramatically on a hilltop, its Etruscan walls and medieval streets rising above the Umbrian plain. It's a city of contrasts: ancient Etruscan gates and a 3rd-century BC well coexist with a vibrant university scene that gives the city a youthful energy unusual for its size. The Corso Vannucci—one of Italy's most elegant streets—runs from the magnificent Palazzo dei Priori to the Fontana Maggiore, a 13th-century masterpiece. Perugia is famous for two annual events: the Umbria Jazz Festival in July (one of the world's great jazz festivals) and the Eurochocolate festival in October (Perugina's Baci chocolates were invented here). The Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria houses masterpieces by Perugino—Raphael's teacher—and Pinturicchio.
Best Time to Visit
April to October. July for the Umbria Jazz Festival. October for the Eurochocolate festival. Spring is lovely for exploring without summer heat or festival crowds.
Local Tips
- Explore the underground city.
Beneath Perugia's streets lies the Rocca Paolina—a buried medieval neighbourhood. A local will take you through the escalator tunnels that pass through these atmospheric subterranean streets and explain the papal fortress above.
- Attend Umbria Jazz.
The July jazz festival fills Perugia's piazzas and theatres with world-class performances. A local will navigate the programme, secure the best free concert spots, and find late-night jam sessions in the jazz clubs.
- See Perugino where he painted.
The Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria has Perugino's finest works in the city where he lived. A local can trace his influence through Perugia's churches and explain how he shaped his famous pupil, Raphael.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders . The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
