Perugia is located in the central parts of Italy and it’s the capital of the Umbria region.
It’s around 160 km north of Rome and about the same distance from Florence in the northwest.
Perugia has it’s own airport and it’s served by airlines like Ryanair, Wizzair, British Airways and Transavia.
Perugia is a beautiful hilltop city in the heart of Umbria. It has a rich history that goes back to the Etruscans, and you can still see parts of the old city walls and gates today. The historic center is full of cobbled streets, medieval arches, and lively squares. Piazza IV Novembre is the main square and a great place to relax. Perugia is also famous for its chocolate, especially Baci, and every October the city celebrates the Eurochocolate Festival. Art lovers can visit the National Gallery of Umbria, and students fill the streets thanks to the University for Foreigners. With its underground Rocca Paolina, beautiful views, and vibrant atmosphere, Perugia is a city you won’t forget.
1. 4th November Square
4th November Square (Piazza IV Novembre) in Perugia is the heart of the city and one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Italy. The square is surrounded by stunning landmarks, including the Gothic Palazzo dei Priori and the impressive Cathedral of San Lorenzo. At the center, you will find the Fontana Maggiore, a 13th-century fountain decorated with detailed carvings showing biblical scenes and daily life in medieval Umbria. Piazza IV Novembre is a popular gathering spot for locals, students, and visitors. It is perfect for people-watching, photography, or simply enjoying Perugia’s lively atmosphere. Whether you are exploring the city’s history or soaking in its culture, this square is a must-see destination.
2. Great Food
Perugia’s food scene is a delicious reflection of its rich Umbrian heritage. The city offers hearty, flavorful dishes that are deeply rooted in tradition. Perugia is famous for its cured meats, including Norcia prosciutto and wild boar salami, often served with rustic bread. Handmade pasta, like strangozzi, is commonly paired with truffle sauces, mushrooms, or game ragù. Both black and white truffles are local delicacies celebrated in many dishes. Perugia is also known for its chocolate, especially the famous Baci chocolates, and hosts the annual Eurochocolate festival. Local wines, such as Sagrantino di Montefalco, perfectly complement the cuisine. With its mix of traditional dishes, sweets, and wines, Perugia is a true paradise for food lovers seeking authentic Italian flavors.
3. Architecture
Perugia’s architecture is a fascinating mix of Etruscan, medieval, and Renaissance styles, reflecting the city’s long and rich history. In the historic center, you can see massive Etruscan walls and gates, including the impressive Porta Augusta, which is over 2,000 years old. The medieval era shaped much of the city’s character, with landmarks like Palazzo dei Priori, an elegant Gothic building that houses the National Gallery of Umbria. Piazza IV Novembre is dominated by the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, while narrow alleys reveal stone houses and arches that seem frozen in time. Renaissance touches appear in churches and palaces, adding beauty and balance to the medieval skyline. Perugia’s layered architectural heritage makes it a living museum of Italian history and style.
4. Chocolate
Perugia is Italy’s chocolate capital, famous for its rich confectionery tradition. The city is home to Perugina, the iconic chocolate brand that created the beloved Baci – small hazelnut-filled chocolates wrapped with romantic messages. Every October, Perugia hosts Eurochocolate, one of Europe’s largest chocolate festivals, attracting visitors from around the world. During the festival, streets turn into a chocolate lover’s paradise, with stalls offering pralines, truffles, hot chocolate, and even chocolate sculptures. Beyond Eurochocolate, artisan shops and cafés across the city sell handmade treats, combining classic recipes with creative flavors. Visiting Perugia is a chance to indulge in a sweet journey through Italy’s finest chocolate culture, making it a must-visit destination for chocolate fans.
5. Churches
Perugia is home to remarkable churches that showcase its spiritual and artistic heritage. The most famous is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, located in Piazza IV Novembre, with its Gothic façade and interior filled with Renaissance masterpieces. Nearby, the Oratory of San Bernardino stands out for its stunning 15th-century façade, designed by Agostino di Duccio, a gem of Renaissance sculpture. Just outside the historic center, the Church of San Pietro is one of Umbria’s most beautiful monasteries, featuring exquisite frescoes and a peaceful cloister. The Church of Sant’Ercolano, dedicated to Perugia’s patron saint, is known for its unique octagonal architecture. Many smaller churches and chapels add charm throughout the city. Together, these sacred sites reflect Perugia’s devotion, history, and artistic legacy.
6. Rocca Paulina
Rocca Paolina is one of Perugia’s most fascinating landmarks, offering a journey through the city’s rich history. Built in the 16th century by Pope Paul III, this massive fortress was meant to assert papal power over Perugia. Today, its remains form a striking underground world beneath the modern city. Visitors can explore atmospheric corridors, vaulted rooms, and stairways, which preserve the memory of the medieval neighborhood buried under the fortress. Rocca Paolina also functions as a public passageway, connecting different parts of the city. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, making Rocca Paolina a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Perugia’s political history and unique architectural transformation.
🌟 Top 5 Quirky Things to Know About Perugia
- A City Under a City 🏰
Rocca Paolina literally buried a medieval neighborhood. Today, you can wander its underground “ghost streets.” Medieval vibes, zero traffic! - Chocolate Overload 🍫
During Eurochocolate, Perugia smells like cocoa. Giant chocolate sculptures have included a full-size chocolate car. Sweet tooth heaven! - Escalators Through History ⬆️
Perugia’s hills got a modern twist: public escalators inside Rocca Paolina. Medieval dungeon meets moving staircase! - Student City Vibes 🎓
With two universities, students keep the city lively, caffeinated, and full of cheap aperitivo spots. - Ancient Selfies 📸
Etruscan urns feature portraits of the deceased—basically 2,000-year-old profile pics!
That’s all from Perugia, the capital of the Umbria region in Italy. See my YouTube video from Perugia here:
