Perched on a hill, Perugia is the capital of Umbria and a university city home to a thriving international student population. The city is also a centre for arts and culture in Italy, drawing people with annual events like Eurochocolate and the Umbria Jazz Festival.
The walled city of Perugia is home to ancient structures spanning several significant eras in history, including the Etruscan, Roman, medieval and Renaissance periods. You can take a walk along the historic city walls and see the monumental gates that are still standing, such as the impressive Etruscan Arch. A stroll around the cobbled streets of the city centre will introduce you to most of its landmarks, starting with the Piazza IV Novembre. This lively square is dominated by the sculpture-studded Fontana Maggiore and flanked by Gothic structures like the Palazzo dei Priori and the Perugia Cathedral. A short walk away is the San Severo Chapel, adorned with a beautiful fresco by Renaissance master, Raphael. Also worth exploring is the Rocca Paolina – a maze of underground passageways and vaulted ceilings that are the remnants of a medieval fortress.
Italy is synonymous with delicious food, and Perugia is no exception. The Umbria region is famous for its truffles, and sampling this gourmet delicacy is a must when in Perugia. Try it with eggs, added generously to a creamy pasta or freshly shaved on a pizza. Make sure to pair it with a glass of local wine for the complete experience.