Here’s my selection of the finest towns in Umbria, perfect for a leisurely stroll through historic settings and immersing yourself in the quintessential Italian atmosphere.
Umbria boasts some of Italy’s most charming towns.
Situated in central Italy, Umbria has been inhabited for centuries. Its hilly landscape is adorned with villages and small towns that date back to the Renaissance, the Middle Ages, and even earlier. These locations wonderfully blend modern living with the enchanting charm and rich cultural heritage of their historic centers.
I have a deep appreciation for Umbria.
While its famous neighbor, Tuscany, often dominates the spotlight, the beautiful villages of Umbria are just as delightful as those in Tuscany, albeit less well-known!
Today, I’m excited to share my favorite destinations that I highly recommend during your visit to this stunning region.
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Gubbio
To kick off my list of the loveliest towns in Umbria, I present Gubbio, my personal favorite in Umbria, and one of my top towns in Italy.
Gubbio is ancient, beautiful, and has a unique, slightly quirky charm that enhances its allure!
This town has Roman origins. As you arrive, the impressive ruins of an amphitheater greet you, still standing just outside the medieval walls that ascend from the valley floor to the slopes of Mont Ingino.
Wander through the charming streets lined with beautiful stone buildings, gradually climbing to the town’s summit. Here, your efforts are rewarded with the expansive main piazza of Gubbio and breathtaking views of the stunning countryside below!
Absolutely stunning!
This quirky personality I mentioned brings forth two of Gubbio’s most interesting attractions: the ‘crazy fountain,’ where you can obtain a certificate declaring you as crazy (the residents of Gubbio take pride in this distinction), and a gigantic wine barrel that’s such an attraction in itself!
On a more serious note, the town features a stunning main piazza, a lovely church, an amphitheater, and a cable car that transports you to the town’s peak for incredible views.
Gubbio is a lovely, walkable town. For exploring the surrounding areas, however, I suggest having a car (parking is easily available just outside the town).
Recommended accommodations in the area: La Corte del Lupo (Agriturismo), Niki’s Resort (resort/agriturismo), Borgo Castello Panicaglia (agriturismo/resort).
You can read my guide to Gubbio here >>>
Assisi
The beautiful town of Assisi is renowned for its religious significance and Franciscan history, yet it is also an enchanting place to visit, even for those without Christian or Catholic ties.
Assisi has roots in Roman times and still showcases remnants of its ancient past.
You can identify the ancient Roman Forum, appreciate how the city evolved alongside changing societal needs, stroll through the charming medieval streets, and, of course, admire the crown jewel: St. Francis’ Basilica and its breathtaking frescoes by Giotto!
Assisi is stunning and bustling; despite its popularity, it remains a place not to be missed for its beauty, charm, and significance.
Recommended accommodations: Le Mandrie di San Paolo (agriturismo), All’Antica Mattonata (Agriturismo), Casa Spagnoli (Apartment).
Spello
Spello is a quaint, delightful, picture-perfect town well-loved for a unique feature: its impressive flower-adorned balconies!
Spello is an ancient village, mostly maintaining its medieval atmosphere.
As you wander through narrow streets, you’ll find lovely gardens, cloisters, and artisan shops, with an abundance of flowers creating a scene that feels like a movie set!
The abundance of flowers is no accident: every summer, Spello hosts a flower balcony competition, awarding the most beautifully decorated spaces to encourage the care and upkeep of common areas.
Read my guide to Spello here >>>
Recommended accommodations: Albergo il Cacciatore (hotel), La Corte del Lupo (Agriturismo), Borgo Castello Panicaglia (agriturismo/resort).
Orvieto
Orvieto is one of Umbria’s most beautiful towns and features a remarkable location atop a massive tufa rock, with a Duomo so stunning it will take your breath away!
Orvieto is ancient and offers attractions that let you tap into the city’s very origins.
The overall atmosphere in the beautiful town center is medieval. If you have visited the hilltop towns of Tuscany, you may feel familiar emotions and encounter a somewhat similar aesthetic, complete with delightful restaurants and artisan shops.
The crown jewel is the Duomo: situated at the town’s summit, this gothic masterpiece boasts stunning façade mosaics that sparkle in the sunlight. It’s a must-see!
You can find my guide to Orvieto here >>>
Recommended accommodations: Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini (hotel), Agriturismo Cioccoleta (farm stay).
Perugia
Perugia is the capital city of Umbria and one of the most beautiful towns in central Italy.
With ancient origins and a vibrant university, the town attracts a diverse group of students (both local and international), contributing to Perugia’s dynamic atmosphere.
The result is a harmonious blend of medieval charm, youthful energy, and stunning countryside views: Perugia sits atop a hill amidst beautiful rural and forested areas!
With a predominantly medieval vibe, as you stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, the magnificent Palazzo dei Priori and the striking Fontana Maggiore (fountain) will both catch your eye. If you lean more toward culinary delights than architecture, you’ll also notice Perugia’s world-famous chocolate confections!
Recommended accommodations: Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel, Il Castellaro Country House (agriturismo), Le Cappuccinelle Suites and Spa (adults only).
Rasiglia
The quaint town of Rasiglia may be lesser-known compared to others on this list, yet it certainly deserves a spot among the prettiest towns in Umbria. It is not only beautiful but also unique; Rasiglia is nestled around an impressive network of streams, earning it the nickname “The Venice of Umbria”!
The comparison to Venice only goes so far. I believe towns like Bagno Vignoni or Bagni di Lucca might be closer comparisons, but the presence of water truly dominates Rasiglia, resulting in a picturesque, charming town with enjoyable, relaxing corners.
Read all about Rasiglia here >>>
Recommended accommodation: Residence Menotre.
I hope you enjoyed my list of the most beautiful towns in Umbria and that it inspires you to plan your visit!
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