Less than two hours from Rome, in the heart of mountains an green hills, and in the shadow of Tuscany, Umbria rewards every visit. Remarkable food and wine, beautiful cities and landscapes, one of Europe’s largest jazz festivals and, of course, delicious wines and superb olive oils. Also, the Umbrians, proud of their heritage, are known for their warmth and welcome.

Orvieto
A medieval walled town located at the height of an ancient volcano overlooking the valley. Orvieto is one of Italy’s most famous and well-known white wines produced from from Trebbiano, Grechetto, Verdello and Malvasia grape varieties. Orvieto is usually dry but can also be semi-sweet and there are some Orvieto made, like Sauternes, that are dessert wines. There is also a red wine made from Sangiovese called Rosso Orvietano.

Montefalco
A magical walled village from the 9th century, nicknamed “The Balcony of Umbria” because of the impressive panoramic view from its walls. Often cited as one of the most the most beautiful villages in Italy. The town also gives its name to Umbria’s great red wine made from Sagrantino. Montefalco wines are intense, age worthy and delicious.

Assisi
This spectacular town, a Unesco world heritage site, is the birthplace of Saint Francis, founder of the Franciscan religious order based the values of modesty, honesty, fairness and kindness. For many, Assisi is second only to the Vatican itself in its importance to Catholicism. The Rocca Maggiore castle and the Basilica of Saint Francis are essential stops in Assisi. And, of course, there is delicious food and wine, local markets and many stores with religious items for home use.

Perugia
The capital of Umbria and also the chocolate capital of Italy thanks to the famous Perugina company maker of “Baci” (kisses) chocolate but to many artisanal producers. There is even a chocolate school and every year the EuroChocolate festival takes place in Perugia every year with thousands of different types
of chocolate, workshops and tastings. The city itself is a vibrant university town that attracts students from all over the world.

Deruta and Gubbio
Deruta and Gubbio are towns in central Umbria.
Deruta is famous for the production of high-quality ceramics; a tradition that dates to the 14th century. The ceramic vessels produced locally have been decorating the tables of the most prestigious restaurants in the world and the homes of royal and aristocracy dynasties for hundreds of years.
Gubbio is known for its local specialties and its annual festivals.

Lake Trasimeno
Italy’s fourth largest lake, rich in fish, surrounded by small towns and villages and perfect for long bicycle rides or horseback riding on its shores. Marvelous restaurants can be found all along the way of course!