Perugia on a Budget: 4 Days of Charm & Culture

Discover the charm of Perugia without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Perugia is a charming medieval city in central Italy with plenty of sights and experiences to offer, even on a limited budget. The city boasts many affordable or free attractions such as the historic town centre, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and the National Gallery of Umbria. For accommodation, there are many budget-friendly options available, including hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

First Impressions

  • Check in to Hotel La Rosetta, a budget-friendly hotel with charming views of Perugia's historic center
  • Grab a cappuccino and croissant at Pasticceria Sandri, the city's oldest pastry shop
  • Climb up to Rocca Paolina, a fortress that hides hidden underground tunnels
  • Admire the elegance of the Palazzo dei Priori, a Gothic palace that once hosted the city's magistrates
  • Sample some local charcuterie and cheese at the Mercato Coperto, a covered market that epitomizes Perugia's gastronomic richness
  • Relax in Piazza IV Novembre, the city's main square, with a spritz from Caffè Morlacchi and marvel at the stunning Fontana Maggiore
Day 2

Artistic Perugia

  • Discover the striking frescoes at the Basilica di San Pietro, a Romanesque church with a breathtaking panoramic terrace
  • Explore the artistic treasures at the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria, from the iconic Annunciation by Perugino to the delicate Madonnas of Piero della Francesca
  • Contemplate the tranquility of the Oratorio di San Bernardino, a tiny chapel decorated with a vivid cycle of frescoes
  • Walk along the Etruscan walls, an impressive defense system that encircles the city and offers stunning views over the Umbrian landscape
  • Indulge in some traditional Umbrian cuisine at Osteria Il Gufo e la Gattina, a cozy restaurant known for its hearty soups and game dishes
  • Sip a glass of Sagrantino wine at Enoteca Properzio, a refined wine shop with an impressive selection of local bottles
Day 3

Assisi Excursion

  • Take an early morning train to Assisi, the birthplace of Saint Francis and a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Visit the Basilica di San Francesco, a sublime example of Gothic architecture that houses the tomb of the beloved saint
  • Admire the austere beauty of the Basilica di Santa Chiara, where the body of Saint Clare rests
  • Stroll through the charming alleys of Assisi's historic center and buy some souvenirs, such as handmade ceramics and lace
  • Savor a vegetarian lunch at Osteria Piazzetta dell'Erba, a cozy restaurant that uses only organic and local ingredients
  • Return to Perugia in the afternoon and relax at Parco della Cupa, a lush park with a pond and a running path
Day 4

Nature and Wellness

  • Explore the hidden gems of Lake Trasimeno, a picturesque body of water surrounded by hills and hamlets
  • Take a ferry to Isola Maggiore, a tiny island with a medieval village and a peaceful atmosphere
  • Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment at Fonteverde Natural Spa Resort, an elegant spa hotel with thermal pools and a spectacular view over Val d'Orcia
  • Savor a farewell dinner at La Taverna, a renowned trattoria that serves Umbrian delicacies with a modern twist
  • End the night with a glass of limoncello at Bar Medioevo, a cozy pub with a medieval decor and live music on weekends

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Perugia by plane is to fly into San Francesco d'Assisi Airport in Perugia. You can take a direct flight from Rome or Milan.

Car

The best way to get to Perugia by car is to take the Autostrada del Sole, the main Italian highway that runs from Rome to Florence. You can access Perugia via junctions 25 or 26.

Train

The best way to get to Perugia by train is to take a train to Perugia Station, which is located in the city center. You can access Perugia Station via Trenitalia, the national train company in Italy.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Perugia by boat, as it is not located on the coast. The closest port is Ancona, which is about 2 hours away by car or train.

Bus

The best way to get to Perugia by bus is to take a coach to Piazza Partigiani Bus Station, which is located in the city center. You can access Piazza Partigiani Bus Station via Flixbus or Busitalia, the national bus companies in Italy.

Destination

Perugia

Nestled in the heart of a land known for unmatched passion, Perugia oozes more than just rich history and stunning landscapes. This quaint little town sends taste buds into overdrive and fills hearts with gelato-induced joy.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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