Festivals and culture
Umbria's calendar is full: jazz in Perugia's streets in summer, chocolate in autumn, medieval pageants and religious feasts in the towns. This section is a visitor's guide to the big events and to the region's art, plus a plain explanation of the European Capital of Culture competition in which Perugia once took part.
5 pages
In this section
Eurochocolate in Perugia: Visitor Guide for 2026
Eurochocolate for visitors: 2026 dates, how the chocolate festival in Perugia’s old town works, when to go to avoid crowds, where to stay and how to get there.
European Capital of Culture Explained: Italy’s Bids
How the European Capital of Culture title works, which Italian cities have held it, how the 2019 race was decided and what comes next with Italy’s turn in 2033.
Renaissance Art and Music in Umbria: Where to See It
Where to see Renaissance art in Umbria, from Perugino and Pinturicchio to Signorelli in Orvieto, plus how music sounded in the region between 1450 and 1550.
Umbria Festival Calendar: Events Month by Month
Umbria’s festival year month by month: Umbria Jazz, Eurochocolate, the Ceri of Gubbio, Spoleto’s festival, flower carpets in Spello and autumn food fairs.
Umbria Jazz Visitor Guide: Dates, Venues, Tickets, Stays
Umbria Jazz for visitors: when the Perugia festival takes place, which concerts are free, how tickets work, where to stay and how to get around the old town.
Other sections
Perugia
Umbria's hilltop capital: what to see in the old town, which area to stay in, how the Minimetrò and escalators work, and the best day trips.
Assisi
How to visit the Basilica of St Francis, what else to see in Assisi, and how to get there from Perugia by train, bus or car.
Hill towns and lakes
Orvieto, Gubbio, Spello, Bevagna, Spoleto, Norcia and Lake Trasimeno: what each place is like, what to see and how to fit it into a trip.
Food and wine
What to eat in Umbria, which wines to try, and where truffles and olive oil fit in: a practical guide for travellers who like to eat well.
Plan your trip
A seven-day Umbria itinerary, how to choose an agriturismo, and walking the Way of St Francis: the practical side of travelling in Umbria.