Umbria
The green heart of Italy—medieval hill towns, mystical saints, and truffle-scented forests.
About Umbria
Umbria is Tuscany's quieter, greener, more mystical neighbour. This landlocked region in central Italy is a patchwork of forested hills, olive groves, and medieval towns perched on dramatic ridges. Assisi draws pilgrims to the frescoed Basilica of St. Francis, but the real treasures are scattered across the countryside: the jazz festival town of Perugia, the dramatic gorge-spanning Spoleto, and the clifftop cathedral city of Orvieto. The food is earthy and honest—black truffles, wild boar, lentils from Castelluccio, and Sagrantino di Montefalco, one of Italy's most powerful red wines.
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to October. The Spoleto Festival (June-July) is world-class. Late October brings the Eurochocolate festival in Perugia. Spring paints the Castelluccio plateau in wildflowers.
Local Tips
- See Giotto before the crowds.
The Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi has Giotto's greatest frescoes. A local will tell you to go at opening time, start in the upper church, and avoid the midday cruise-ship crowds entirely.
- Drink Sagrantino at the source.
Montefalco is a tiny hilltop town producing Italy's most tannic red wine. A local knows the small producers who pour tastings in their cellars and pair them with local salumi.
- Descend into Orvieto's underworld.
Below Orvieto's stunning cathedral lies a labyrinth of Etruscan caves and medieval tunnels. A local can arrange the underground tour that most visitors walk right past on their way to the Duomo.
Highlights
(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.
Emanuele
Milan, Como +10
Hi! I’m Emanuele, a passionate traveler and sports enthusiast with a love for discovering cities through their hidden corners and authentic experiences. While I’ve explored many places around the world, my heart is in Milan, a city I know inside out. I enjoy everything from iconic landmarks to quiet streets off the beaten path, and I love sharing those special spots that only a local can show. Whether it’s culture, food, history, or hidden gems, my goal is to create personalized experiences that make you feel truly connected to the city. I believe travel is about curiosity, discovery, and living a place fully (and I’d love to be your guide to experience Italy in a mindful, authentic way).
Stefania
Syracuse, Taormina +4
Hi! I’m Stefania—but you can call me Ste 🌻 I’m a travel advisor born and raised in Noto, Sicily 🇮🇹 which basically means I grew up surrounded by baroque beauty, incredible food, and a very strong sense of what’s actually worth your time (and what’s not). I know the places that don’t show up on Google, the beaches you almost want to gatekeep, and the kind of local spots where you’ll still be thinking about the food months later. I also lived in Perugia for three years, which gave me a whole new perspective on Italy beyond the South. Add to that my travels, especially across the north of Spain and many Italian cities and you get someone who understands both sides: the traveller’s expectations and the local reality. So no, I won’t send you to the most “famous” place… I’ll send you to the right one!
Manuela
Palermo, Florence +13
Born and raised in Rome, with family roots in Sardinia, I developed a deep appreciation for Italy’s regional diversity and cultural identity from an early age. For years, I have accompanied my guests across Italy, gaining hands-on knowledge of the country’s landscapes, traditions, and local communities. My approach is rooted in authenticity, meaningful connections, and a true understanding of how Italy works beyond the surface.
Eleonora
Palermo, Syracuse +10
Hello, I’m Eleonora. I was born in Tuscany, just outside Florence, where growing up surrounded by history, shaped my curiosity and love for art. I studied Art History at the University of Florence, specializing in the Renaissance. I began guiding students early on, and it was there that I developed a passion for storytelling — because there is nothing more challenging than engaging teenagers and young adults. I later expanded my focus to the broader history of Italy, leading groups throughout the country, from Venice to Sicily. Eventually, I moved to Rome, where I now work as an expert tour guide, leading visits to the city’s most iconic sites, including the Vatican and the Colosseum, as well as off the beaten path, to some of its hidden gems. In my free time I love to drive around Italy to its myriad hilltop medieval towns, where each one is a new discovery, both architectural and natural and also, of course, culinary! Over the years, many travelers have asked me for advice and suggestions to help plan the rest of their itineraries. That is why I’m happy to connect with you even before your trip begins, sharing my insights and helping you make the most of your time in Italy.