What to do in Umbria

A powerfully affecting site for believers and art-lovers alike, the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is the crowning jewel of the town’s UNESCO heritage-listed Franciscan structures. Immense in scale and ambitious in design, the basilica can be seen from miles around and boasts glorious views into the valleys surrounding the town of Assisi. Spend an afternoon exploring the churches, gardens, piazzas and the crypt that houses the elaborate tomb of St. Francis.

The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is an enormous church that attracts pilgrims from across the globe with its Baroque chapels and Franciscan origin story. Learn about St. Francis of Assisi, who chose to live a life of poverty in the 12th century.

Lake Trasimeno is one of Umbria’s jewels. Nestled amid rolling countryside, vineyards and olive groves it is both a natural haven and a cultural treasure. Explore the villages dotted along the shoreline and discover their fascinating history and architecture, or simply soak up their peaceful atmosphere.

The Duomo di Orvieto is a splendid Gothic structure that looms over the old town of Orvieto. Dating back to the late 13th century, the cathedral was initially built as a shrine to a relic from a miracle. Today, it is one of Italy’s most iconic cathedrals. Admire the classic religious façade that can be seen from most parts of the town.

Cascata delle Marmore (Marmore Falls) is both a natural wonder and magnificent feat of human engineering. This three-tiered waterfall cascades from a height of 541 feet (165 meters) and through spectacular greenery before emptying into a river. Casacata delle Marmore has inspired great poets such as Lord Byron and Virgil, from ancient Rome. Admire the pristine beauty of the falls, feel its thundering force from observation decks and take part in thrilling watersports.

The Orvieto Cable Car is an innovative transport system dating back to 1888. It is an efficient mode of transport for carrying passengers between the charming old town zone and the modern development surrounding the Orvieto Railway Station. Enjoy the pleasant views of the Umbrian countryside on your journey up the fortress hill, home to the town’s most significant landmarks.

Constructed between 1257 and 1265, the Basilica of Santa Chiara is of great historic and spiritual significance. The church is named after St. Clare, a friend and protégé of St. Francis, who founded the Order of Poor Ladies, which still has thousands of members today. Take advantage of the excellent photo opportunities available in the adjoining piazza, from which you have wonderful views of the valleys south of Assisi.

Although it consists of a modest church and adjoining convent, San Damiano has great historic significance. Visit the site where it is said, in 1205, St. Francis was commanded by God to give up a life of luxury and excess to serve the Church and where St. Clare founded the Order of Poor Ladies in 1212. Escape from the crowds inside the city walls when you visit this peaceful and charming location.

Relax in atmospheric Piazza IV Novembre, a square in the center of Perugia encircled by some of the city’s most famous sights. See stunning art galleries, ancient municipal buildings and towering cathedrals. The square is also lined with cafés and restaurants so you can unwind after all the sightseeing.

Widely considered one of the best-preserved medieval squares in all of Italy, the Piazza del Comune is the focal point of the town of Assisi. Explore the open-air restaurants, gelatarias and wine bars that surround this pedestrian-only square, giving it a lovely warm atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals. After a long day sightseeing on the hilly streets of Assisi, the piazza is the perfect place to sit back and relax.