Le Marche
Umbria
Holiday homes in Umbria – the green heart of Italy
The Umbria region lies in the middle of the boot that forms Italy. It is therefore not surprising that it is also called 'the green heart of Italy'. It is one of the few regions without a coastline, but thanks to the beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and lively cities, you won't miss the beach. Umbria is sometimes compared to Tuscany, but that is actually comparing apples and oranges. Each region has its own highlights, with Umbria placing a particular emphasis on slow tourism, with extra attention paid to nature, culture, hospitality, and authenticity.
You can feast your eyes on endless hills in every shade of green, with a flock of sheep here and there, on the blooming fields of the Piano Grande (a vast plateau featuring even a small forest shaped like Italy), on Lake Trasimeno, and on impressive waterfalls. In addition to hiking, cycling, and mountain biking, you can also go horseback riding, take a donkey ride, canoeing, rafting, and even paragliding!
Cities and other sights in Umbria
The program Lake Trasimeno It is located on the west side of Perugia, about 15 kilometers from the city. It is the third largest lake in Italy. In the lake you will find three small islands: Isola Maggiore, Isola Minore, and Isola Polvese. Only Isola Maggiore is inhabited. You can visit both that island and Isola Polvese as a tourist. But Lake Trasimeno itself is also a good base for a visit to Umbria. You can relax wonderfully by the water or practice one of the water sports, but you are also just a short distance from one of the many nature parks.
The capital of Umbria, Perugia, sits high on a hill and is often called the heart of Umbria. Its elevated position offers breathtaking views once you are in the city, but also makes for a special arrival: from Piazza dei Partigiani, escalators take you to the historic center of Perugia, right through the Rocca Paolina, the city's rocky foundation which still houses an entire medieval district.
If you visit Perugia in October, the city is entirely dedicated to chocolate, but there is plenty of delicious food and beauty to be found in other seasons as well. Thanks to the many students—Perugia is a true university city, home to the Università degli Stranieri, the 'University for Foreigners', with students from all over the world—there is a relaxed atmosphere. The city is perfect for a day of strolling, including a visit to the impressive Duomo, the famous Fontana Maggiore in Piazza IV Novembre, and the Via dell'Acquedotto.
Other gems in Umbria are Assisi, with the Basilica of Saint Francis, and Orvieto, with the imposing Duomo and the Pozzo di San Patrizio, a well over sixty meters deep with two separate spiral staircases, one for descending and one for ascending.
Hiking and cycling in Umbria
Thanks to its varied landscape, Umbria offers opportunities for both novice and experienced hikers and cyclists.
A selection of a few nice ones hiking areas: Monti Sibillini: This nature reserve features several mountains higher than 2000 meters, making them a challenge for hikers. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can choose the forests, where you can walk in peace. In any case, spring and autumn are the best times for a hike in this area. Temperatures can rise significantly in the summer, making a walk much more strenuous.
Via FrancigenaThe Via Francigena is a pilgrimage route that runs from Tuscany to Rome. Part of it also runs through Umbria. The section between La Verna (in Tuscany) and Assisi forms a beautiful route of about 200 kilometers, passing abbeys and churches along the way. The walking route is divided into eight different stages. Due to the elevation changes, you sometimes have stunning views of the surroundings, and you also see the architectural highlights of the region. Whether you plan to continue on to Rome or not.
Lake TrasimenoAround Lake Trasimeno, you will find numerous hiking trails varying in length and difficulty. A special one is the Hannibal Trail. If you follow this route, you literally walk in the footsteps of Hannibal, who fought in this area in 217 BC. The starting point is Tuoro sul Trasimeno, where you can then choose from five routes that lead past historically interesting places.
For cyclists We can recommend the following website for cycling routes in Umbria: Umbria by bike.
We give you the following tips: Apennines: The highest peaks of the Apennines are around 3000 meters, making them a challenge for cyclists. There is a tough course running from Montone towards Città di Castello and Pietralunga back to Montone, where the road sometimes has a gradient of more than 10 percent. So, only for the advanced cyclist.
Monti Sibillini: The Monti Sibillini also present a challenge. From Norcia, a route leads towards this nature reserve, where, after a steep climb, you are rewarded with beautiful vistas, quiet villages, and historic buildings. This route is also suitable for the advanced cyclist.
Around the lakes: Not only Lake Trasimeno, but also Lake Tuoro, Lake Corbara, and Lake Bolsena make for beautiful backdrops for a bike ride. Along the way, you pass the most stunning landscapes and charming villages. And let's be honest: what could be better than taking a refreshing dip in the water of one of these lakes after a strenuous bike ride?
Delicious Umbria
Experience the medieval atmosphere in Gubbio, Bevagna, and Bettona, among others; stroll through the colorful streets of Spello (with flowers everywhere you look); and admire Bramante's Basilica just outside Todi. Once you have gotten into the car, an endless number of beautiful villages lie within reach, often with plenty of delicious things to sample. For instance, Trevi is known for its fine olive oil, Montefalco for Sagrantino (a full-bodied red wine), and Norcia and the surrounding area for its delicious salamis and other cured meats. On Lake Trasimeno sparkles Castiglione del Lago, one of the most beautiful villages in Umbria, featuring an authentic medieval castle alongside charming shops and fine restaurants.
If you are a true wine connoisseur or have always wanted to know more about it, then you can indulge yourself in the Regional Ennoteca in OrvietoIn this wine library, you will find more than 120 different types of wine from Umbria. Book a tour where you receive an explanation of all the different labels, and then taste for yourself which ones you like best. Even if you are not that fond of wine, a visit to the Enoteca is still highly recommended. The building itself is an attraction in its own right: it formerly served as a monastery.
Would you rather have a beer? You might almost forget it due to the large wine production, but Umbria also produces beer. Scattered throughout the region are various small producers, including Mastri Birrai Umbri, Birra Nursia (brewed by monks), Bacherotti, and Birra Perugia. Many of these breweries are open to visitors, and naturally, you can sample a glass of the amber liquid. Eager to discover Umbria?
Curious about the other regions of Italy? Read the typical characteristics here to make an informed choice.
Find the most beautiful accommodations in Umbria here
Discover the other destinations
FAQ
Do you have a question? You can find a quick answer on the right. Is your question not listed? Feel free to contact us or check the FAQ page
Absolutely. Many of our holiday homes in Umbria have a swimming pool, often with views over the hills or situated among olive trees. From private pools with panoramic views to shared pools on an estate, you will always find something that suits you. A refreshing dip in the morning, sunbathing with a book, or playing in the water with the whole family: a swimming pool makes your holiday complete. For families with small children, there are also houses with fenced or shallow pools.
Yes, Umbria is a paradise for dog lovers. The region is spacious, peaceful, and natural, with endless hiking trails, forests, and fields where your dog can really let loose. Many of our accommodations are pet-friendly and feature a fenced garden or direct access to nature. In smaller villages and at local markets, dogs are usually welcome. Let us know that you are bringing your dog, and we will find a suitable place that makes you both happy.
Yes indeed, booking a last-minute holiday to Umbria is definitely possible. Especially outside the high season, there are often still beautiful holiday homes available, often with a nice discount. Whether you want a spontaneous weekend getaway or prefer to stay a little longer: let us know what you are looking for and we will check what is available. In no time at all, you will be sitting on a terrace overlooking the valleys of Umbria, a glass of local wine in your hand, and the feeling that you are exactly in the right place.
Umbria is beautiful from early spring until deep into autumn. In April and May, the landscape blossoms, with fresh green hills and mild temperatures that are ideal for walking or cycling. During the summer months (June-August), it is warm, but the higher elevation often provides a pleasant breeze, especially outside the cities. September and October are perhaps the most beautiful months: the grape harvest is in full swing, the markets are filled with fresh truffles, mushrooms, and nuts, and the atmosphere is relaxed. You can also come here in the winter for culture, nature, and tranquility.
Umbria is often called the 'green heart of Italy,' and you feel it as soon as you arrive. The hills are covered with olive trees, cypresses, and sunflower fields, and nestled among all that greenery lie charming medieval towns where time seems to stand still. Think of places like Assisi, Spello, or Montefalco, where you stroll through narrow streets, stop for an espresso, and the scent of freshly baked focaccia greets you. Umbria is slightly quieter than Tuscany, but just as beautiful. Perfect for those who love nature, authenticity, and genuine hospitality.
In Umbria, you can effortlessly alternate between nature, culture, and relaxation. Visit the impressive Assisi with the Basilica of St. Francis, taste wine in Montefalco, or discover the underground city of Orvieto. Want to get out into nature? There are plenty of hiking and cycling trails, for example around Lake Trasimeno or in the Monti Sibillini National Park. Also fun: a cooking workshop with a local farmer, canoeing on the river, or a relaxing day at natural springs. For children, there are zoos, adventure parks, and castles that capture the imagination.
Absolutely. Umbria is a lovely region for families looking for space, peace, and nature. Many of our holiday homes have a large garden, a swimming pool (sometimes with a shallow section), and are surrounded by greenery. Children can play, run, and explore safely without traffic or crowds. Some houses have playground equipment, a ping-pong table, or even animals on the property. And thanks to the central location, trips to villages, lakes, or nature parks are always within easy reach.
Absolutely. We offer a wide range of child-friendly holiday homes in Umbria. From houses with large gardens and safe swimming pools to accommodations where children can play, ride bikes, or even help out on a farm. Some properties offer extra facilities such as a playground, cots, high chairs, and board games. The surroundings are also well-suited for quiet, relaxing getaways without long distances.