Perugia is primarily famous for being the center of the Umbrian school of painting in the 15th and 16th centuries, with leading members such as Pietro Vannucci and Bernardino Betti, who both worked there. Apart from this, Perugia is undoubtedly one of the best tourist destinations to spend a holiday. From the beauty of its hilltops to a myriad of gorgeous churches, historical structures, impressive museums, and rich national parks for outdoor lovers, Perugia will keep you entertained for days.
If you’re touring Perugia for one reason or another, we’ve made of list of remarkable places for you to check out. Join us as we explore ten of the best places to visit in Perugia, Italy:
10 Best Places To Visit In Perugia, Italy
1. San Pietro
San Pietro comes first on our list of what to see and do in Perugia. San Pietro is an ancient church and monastery complex that has existed since the 11th century. The church is in the southern part of the town center and has undoubtedly served as a significant place of power for the leaders of Perugia. In addition, it would be impossible not to be impressed by the church’s notable collection of art once you enter inside. From the colored fresco of Saint George and the Dragon to other artworks by various Renaissance artists, San Pietro is one of the top-rated places in Perugia, Italy.
2. Oratorio di San Bernardino
With a front façade designed with colored polychrome marble, Oratorio di San Bernardino is considered one of the most important examples of Renaissance art in Perugia. It is situated next to the Church of San Francesco and is undoubtedly remarkable for its gorgeous front façade and multi-colored design. Furthermore, the interior of Oratorio di San Bernardino features a vast number of beautiful pieces of fine artwork and a plethora of gold trimming.
3. Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria
The National Gallery of Umbria is on the third floor of Palazzo dei Priori. It is one of the most amazing places to visit in Perugia, Italy, with breathtaking paintings by Perugino. The Gallery powerfully illustrates the development of painting in Umbria from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. However, the most incredible works here lie between the 13th and 18th centuries. In addition, you will get to see some highlights, such as a 1272 crucifix by an unknown Perugian artist, five statues made by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1281, and many more!
4. San Lorenzo
Although it has an incomplete façade, San Lorenzo is a stunning 15th-century Gothic hall church and one of the must-visit places in Perugia, Italy. The pink and white exterior stone decoration was only completed on the side wall, although the laying of the foundation stone of the building was from 1345 to 1587. After you step inside the church, you’ll catch a glimpse of the elegant 15th-century choir stalls and a pulpit built in the 14th century from older stone fragments. There are also 18th-century stucco decorations and false marble paintings.
5. Piazza IV Novembre
The main square in the center of Perugia, Italy, is The Piazza IV Novembre. If you want to start a walking tour in Perugia or admire some historical architecture, The Piazza IV Novembre is a charming square. It also features many fantastic historical buildings and the stunning Fontana Maggiore. Moreover, you can find the impressive Cathedral of Perugia, the Palazzo dei Priori, Comune di Perugia as well as the Logge di Braccio and the Fontana Maggiore, where you’ll see a series of ornate statues and a central bronze bowl that spills over with water.
6. Tili Vini Winery
If you can visit Tili Vini Winery, you will undoubtedly come across one of the most remarkable things to do in Perugia, Italy. It is about 7km from the center of Assisi. Not only will you be allowed to taste about five local wines, but you also get the chance to taste delicious cuisines such as bruschetta with olive oil, a spelt, mozzarella salad, and an antipasti plate of meats and cheeses. Apart from this, the wine tasting and winery tour are affordable compared to Tuscany.
7. Porta Sole
You can’t afford to miss a stop at the highest point in the town for the most awe-inspiring views in Perugia. From this viewpoint, you’ll be able to see it’s terrain shapes Joe Perugia. Moreover, with the fog lifting, you’ll get to catch a glimpse of the heaps of the city as well as places across the gorgeous Umbrian hillside. It is one of the perfect viewpoints in the city, with a 180° view from north to south.
8. Augusto Gate
The Etruscan Gate is a large and solid gate set on the city’s northern end. The Augusto Gate is one of the seven remaining arches that served as an entrance to the town of Perugia in ages past. Furthermore, these thick walls were built by the Etruscans between 600 and 300 BC when they occupied the city. Regardless, it is one of the places in Perugia, Italy, with arch features and original Latin inscriptions that are worth exploring. The Arco Etrusco o di Augusto is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic gates.
9. Giardini Carducci
Known for being the best sunset destination in the area, Giardini Carducci is the perfect place in Perugia to relax in a quiet location. The setting of this place inspired the Nobel Prize-winning poet Giosuè Carducci to write his famous poem Il Canto Dell’Amore. In addition, the Giardini Carducci is in a high position with a sweeping rooftop and mountain views. Here, you can also spot the birthplace of Saint Francis, the hilltop town of Assisi, on a clear day.
10. National Gallery of Umbria
Located off the main square of Piazza IV Novembre, the National Gallery of Umbria spans 4,000sqm over two floors. The gallery showcases an extensive collection of primarily medieval and Renaissance works from Umbrian artists across the ages. Along with the vast permanent collection in the gallery, there is also a room for temporary exhibitions where you’ll see displays of topography, jewelry, sculpture, and ceramics.
