The name of this idyllic region comes from the Italian word “ombra”, which means shadow. It is said that Umbria was named so because the hills and mountains form shadows on most of the landscape. This is a perfect travel destination, an unspoiled region with friendly and welcoming inhabitants.
Sometimes travelers can have the impression that Umbria is frozen in time. It is not uncommon to see women using traditional methods of making pasta, or vineyards, archaeological museums, and many monasteries that are relics from the past. Nevertheless, this region of Italy has a thriving art and culture scene. Quaint yet modern villas abound, that are available for vacation rentals.
Wineries and Restaurants are of outstanding quality (and very reasonably priced). Infact, Umbria is home to some of the best restaurants in Italy, and has a unique and fascinating wine museum in Torgiano that is a privilege to visit. The town of Perugia, which is the capital, comes to life every evening. Assisi is another hill town in Umbria that is well-known for its astounding architecture.
Some interesting things to do in Umbria include museum visits, a day at the spa (the best Italian ones are to be found here), and a visit to an archaeological museum in Amelia. In Assisi, you will get the chance to see the celebrated Basilica of San Francisco, and frescoes of the life of Saint Francis. In Perugia, the Galeria Nazionale awaits you. This grand gallery contains works of Arnolfo di Cambio and Duccio di Boninsegna. Its works date from the 13th to the 19th century, and it is a fabulous place for lovers of art to explore and appreciate Italian art through the ages.
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