walking tour of perugia

Self-guided Walking Tour of Perugia (Map & Route!)

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Welcome to Perugia, a city that beautifully blends its ancient heritage with a vibrant, modern culture. Nestled atop a hill in the heart of Italy, Perugia is the capital of Umbria and offers an enchanting journey through time with its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and rich artistic legacy. This self-guided walking tour is designed to help you explore the most captivating sites of Perugia at your own pace, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere.

As you stroll through Perugia, you will encounter remnants of Etruscan, Roman, and medieval times, all coexisting harmoniously with contemporary life. From the grandeur of its medieval gates and the serenity of its ancient churches to the bustling energy of its squares and markets, Perugia is a city that tells a story at every turn.

This tour will take you through the heart of Perugia’s historic center, starting at the impressive Piazza IV Novembre, home to the magnificent Fontana Maggiore and the grand Palazzo dei Priori. You will wander down charming alleyways, discover hidden gems like the Pozzo Etrusco, and marvel at panoramic views from the city’s ancient walls. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of Perugia’s most important cultural institutions, including the National Gallery of Umbria and the Collegio del Cambio.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, this walking tour will provide you with a deep appreciation for Perugia’s rich cultural tapestry. Lace up your comfortable shoes, grab a map, and set off on an unforgettable journey through the streets of Perugia, where every corner holds a piece of history waiting to be discovered.

How to get to Perugia

By Car: If driving you can park at Parcheggio Saba Piazza Partigiani , for larger vehicles try Parcheggio Auto 4

By Train: Perugia is well suited to travelling to by train, with Stazione St.Anna being close to the start of this walk.

Rocca Paolina

It is quite difficult to find the entrance to the undercity. Your best bet is to walk from the bus station and Piazza Partigiani along the escalators. If you are coming from another directio head for Porta Marzia .

Commissioned by Pope Paul III in the 1540s, this fortress eradicated entire sections of what was once a prosperous neighborhood. Although its interior has been transformed to accommodate escalators (scale mobili) leading up to the historic center, the fortress remains a fascinating site. Its formidable walls, atmospheric lighting, and dark nooks and crannies create an intriguing ambiance. Occasionally, the space is used for temporary exhibitions. Above the fortress lies a small park, the Giardini Carducci, offering a peaceful retreat.

Piazza Italia

As you ride the escalators from the underground car park at Piazza Partigiani, you’ll pass under or through the impressive Paolina Fortress and under the portico of the Government Palace, established in 1870.

The historic Piazza Italia, is a square built to commemorate the events of 1860-1861 that led to the unification of Italy. Piazza Italia is flanked by significant buildings constructed after the demolition of the Paolina Fortress in 1861. Notable structures include the Albergo Brufani, built in 1880, the Bank of Italy from 1871, and the Cesaroni Palace, designed in 1897 by Gugliemo Calderini of Perugia. Calderini also designed the Palace of Justice in Rome. Another of his designs, a residential condominium built in 1872, adds to the architectural landscape of the square.

The distinguished La Rosetta Hotel, dating back to 1716, and the Donini Palace, built in 1724 and known for its magnificent frescoes, also grace the square. At the center of Piazza Italia stands a bronze statue of King Victor Emmanuel II, erected in 1890, symbolizing the unity and pride of the Italian nation.

Palazzo Baldeschi

Walk north up Corso Vannucci. As you pass through Piazza della Repubblica, admire the elegant façade of the former Church of Sant Isidoro. Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso is at the north end of the small square.

Nobile Collegio del Cambio

Continue to wlk north up Corso Vannucci Nobile Collegio del Cambio will be on your left.

From 1452 to 1457, the Nobile Collegio del Cambio served as the seat of Perugia’s Moneychangers Guild. This richly adorned building features three notable rooms. The first, the Sala dei Legisti, also known as the Jurists’ Hall, boasts 17th-century wooden stalls intricately carved by Giampiero Zuccari. The second, the Sala dell’Udienza, or Audience Chamber, is known for its inlaid wooden furniture and remarkable Renaissance frescoes by Perugino. The third room, the Cappella di San Giovanni Battista, or Chapel of San Giovanni Battista, showcases exquisite artwork painted by Giannicola di Paolo, a student of Perugino. Together, these rooms reflect the opulence and artistic heritage of Perugia’s guilds.

Piazza IV Novembre

Continue to way you were heading and you reach Piazza IV Novembre.

In Perugia, Piazza IV Novembre is the ultimate crossroads, drawing everyone to its historic embrace. Surrounded by the imposing Palazzo dei Priori and the grand Cattedrale, this square has been central to the city’s life since its time as the Roman forum, continuing through its role as the medieval political and geographic hub. Nowadays, it thrives as a lively meeting spot where locals and visitors alike relax on the cathedral steps, bask in the sunshine, and enjoy the performances of street entertainers.

Palazzo dei Priori

The Palazzo dei Priori in Perugia is a striking example of medieval architecture, located on the city’s main street, Corso Vannucci. Constructed between 1293 and 1443, this Gothic-style palace has a distinctive crenellated roofline and features ornate stone carvings. It served as the seat of the city’s magistrates and is still home to the Municipal Council and the National Gallery of Umbria. Notable elements include the Sala dei Notari, with its impressive frescoes, and the richly decorated portals and windows that reflect the building’s historical significance and artistic heritage.

National Gallery of Umbria

Umbria’s premier art gallery is located in Palazzo dei Priori on Perugia’s main thoroughfare. This extensive collection, displayed chronologically across 40 rooms, is one of central Italy’s most esteemed, featuring over 3,000 works. The gallery’s holdings span from Byzantine-inspired 13th-century paintings to Gothic works by Gentile da Fabriano and Renaissance masterpieces by local luminaries Pinturicchio and Perugino. Noteworthy pieces include Gentile da Fabriano’s “Madonna con il Bambino e angeli” (early 15th century), Pinturicchio’s “Pala di Santa Maria dei Fossi” altarpiece (1496–98), and Benedetto Bonfigli’s fresco cycle for the Cappella dei Priori (circa 1454–80).

Fontana Maggiore

The highlight of Piazza IV Novembre is the exquisite Fontana Maggiore, crafted from delicate pink-and-white marble. This remarkable fountain was conceived by Fra Bevignate and constructed between 1275 and 1278 by the renowned sculptors Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, a talented father-and-son duo. The fountain features a two-tier polygonal basin adorned with around 50 bas-reliefs and 24 statues. These intricate carvings depict scenes from the Old Testament, the founding of Rome, the seven liberal arts, and the signs of the zodiac, along with a griffin and a lion. In this artistic ensemble, the griffin symbolizes Perugia, while the lion represents the Guelphs, the medieval faction that supported the papacy in its conflicts with the Holy Roman Empire.

Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

Dominating Piazza IV Novembre is Perugia’s imposing medieval cathedral. While a church has occupied this site since the 900s, the current structure was initiated in 1345 based on designs by Fra Bevignate. Construction continued until 1587, although the main facade remains unfinished. Inside, visitors can admire striking late-Gothic architecture, an altarpiece by Signorelli, and sculptures by Duccio. The steps in front of the cathedral are a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a prime view of the pink-and-white Fontana Maggiore.

The Historic Aqueduct of Perugia

Walk along the north side of the cathedral, when you come to a road walk directly across towards the arches and down the steps. Walk along the top of the aquaduct.

This Roman aqueduct was significantly expanded during the medieval period. In 1254, Fra Bevignate and Boninsegna da Venezia directed the creation of a roughly four-kilometer route to transport water from the springs of Monte Pacciano directly to the city. The project was particularly challenging due to Perugia’s elevated position, which required an innovative solution to move water uphill and across the depressions and steep slopes between the hill and the city. After years of study, the engineers employed a forced pressure conduit, achieving a remarkable hydraulic feat that allowed the water to flow in reverse motion. The project was completed in 1278, when water finally reached the Fontana Maggiore in Piazza IV Novembre. By 1322, as noted on a plaque in the fountain’s upper basin, a more direct route with a greater difference in height and pressure was constructed, further enhancing the aqueduct’s efficiency.

Arco d'Augusto

When you reach to road turn right, at the end of the street Arco Etrusco is on your right.

The Arco d’Augusto, once one of seven gates providing access through the Etruscan walls surrounding Perugia, was constructed in the second half of the third century BC. It is named after the Roman Emperor Augustus, who restored the gate in 40 BC following his conquest of the city. Due to the fortified walls and Perugia’s elevated position, Augustus succeeded in capturing Perugia only after a grueling seven-month siege. The inscription “Augusta Perusia” on the gate dates back to this period. The gate’s two arches connect two trapezoidal towers, one of which features a Renaissance loggia added later. Additionally, the fountain at the base of this tower was completed in 1621.

Casa Museo di Palazzo Sorbello

Walk to the right of the arch with the walls on your right. at the next arch, walk up the stairs on the left. There are great views over Perugia from the top. Walk up Via delle Prome and turn left at the end to reach Piaza Piccinino and the Casa Museo di Palazzo Sorbello.

This exquisite 17th-century mansion, once owned by the aristocratic Sorbello family, has been meticulously restored to its opulent 18th-century glory. Adorned with frescoes, gilt detailing, and sparkling chandeliers, the mansion offers guided tours in both Italian and English. Visitors can marvel at the family’s lavish collection of art, porcelain, embroidery, and manuscripts. Among the highlights is a particularly graphic painting by Francesco Vanni depicting the beheading of St. John the Baptist from 1589. Additionally, the mansion features a rare Ca’ Rezzonico–style chandelier by Briati dating back to the 1450s, one of the few such pieces in existence outside of private collections.

Pozzo Etrusco

Head back the way you came and opposite Via del Sole is the Pozzo Etrusco or Etruscan Well.

The Etruscan Well, also known as Pozzo Etrusco, offers a rare glimpse into the advanced engineering skills of the Etruscan civilization. The well was built to provide a reliable water supply to the city, showcasing the importance of water management in ancient urban planning. Upon entering the well, visitors first view an educational video providing context and historical background. The well itself, constructed in the third century BC, is an impressive feat of ancient hydraulic engineering. A modern walkway allows visitors to explore the interior and view the water source 121 feet (37 meters) below. The chamber is atmospheric, with dim lighting highlighting the ancient stonework.

Palazzo di Capitano del Popolo

Walk back to the Piazza IV Novembre and left down Via Guglielmo Calderini and then right onto Piazza Giacomo Matteotti. Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo is on your left.

Built between 1473 and 1481 in the ancient Piazza del Sopramuro, this palace was designed by Lombard architects Gasperino di Antonio and Leone di Matteo. Initially, it served as the residence for the Captains of the People and later the Bargelli (Captains of the Guards). The palace showcases a blend of medieval and Renaissance architectural elements, incorporating pre-existing ancient structures. Originally, the facade featured an additional upper level and was crowned with battlements, which were destroyed in the earthquake of 1741. Luigi Vanvitelli later restored the facade to its current form. The basement of the palace houses buildings with Roman foundations, which were reconstructed at the end of the 14th century.

Civic Museum at Palazzo della Penna

At the end of Piazza Giacomo Matteotti turn left down Via Guglielmo Oberdan. Turn down the steps of Via Sant’Ercolano to allow you to pass under Etruscan Arco di Sant’Ercolano. At the bottom of the steps turn to you right in front of the impressive Church of Sant’Ercolano. Turn first left down the narrow Prospero Podiani, to get to the Civic Museum at Palazzo della Penna.

At the end of the staircase on Via Sant’Ercolano, you’ll find a stunning 16th-century building, accessed through an impressive wooden portal. In the 16th century, this palace, built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, served as the residence of the Arcipriests della Penna. Ascanio della Penna began the art collection in the 18th century, which was relocated at the end of the 19th century. Today, the museum boasts an extensive collection of works by German artist Joseph Beuys and renowned Perugian futurist painter Gerardo Dottori, who co-authored the “Futurist Aeropainting Manifesto” in 1929.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell'Umbria

Continue to walk down Prospero Podiani to join Corso Cavour, and turn right. The Basilica di San Domenico and Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell’Umbria is on your left.

Housed in the former convent of the Basilica di San Domenico, Umbria’s regional archaeology museum boasts an extensive collection of Etruscan and prehistoric artifacts. The collection includes carved funerary urns, coins, and Bronze Age statuary, with pieces dating back to the 16th century BC. One of the museum’s standout pieces is the Cippo Perugino (Perugian Memorial Stone), which features the longest Etruscan-language engraving ever discovered, providing a rare glimpse into this ancient and obscure culture.

Abbazia di San Pietro

Continue down Corso Cavour to reach the Abbazia di San Pietro.

South of the town center, beyond the Porta di San Pietro, lies the atmospheric 10th-century basilica complex. Dominated by a landmark bell tower, the basilica’s interior is breathtaking, adorned with opulent displays of gilt and marble. Among its remarkable artworks is a Pietà by Perugino, depicting the dead Christ supported by the Madonna. After exploring the basilica, you can clear your head with a stroll or a picnic in the serene Orto Medievale gardens located behind the complex.

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tour #4 in Perugia, Italy

Guided sightseeing tours.

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Perugia.

Explore Perugia in Italy with this free self-guided walking tour . The map shows the route of the tour. Below is a list of attractions, including their details.

Sight 1: Chiesa di Santa Maria di Monteluce

The church of Santa Maria Assunta di Monteluce is a church in Perugia, Italy.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di Santa Maria di Monteluce (IT)

Sight 2: Santa Maria Nuova

The church of Santa Maria Nuova is located in Perugia in Via Pinturicchio, in the Porta Sole district and is a parish church dating back to the thirteenth century.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova (Perugia) (IT)

Sight 3: Arco dei Gigli

The Arch of the Lilies is one of the openings along the Etruscan walls of the city of Perugia.

Wikipedia: Arco dei Gigli (IT) , Website

Sight 4: Chiesa di San Severo

The church of San Severo is located in Perugia, in Piazza Raffaello di Porta Sole, on the highest part of the city.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di San Severo (Perugia) (IT)

Sight 5: Cappella di San Severo

The chapel of San Severo is part of the Camaldolese convent complex adjacent to the church of San Severo in Perugia. Today it is a small museum dedicated to the fresco of the Trinity and Saints by Raphael and Perugino, dating from about 1505-1508 and 1521.

Wikipedia: Cappella di San Severo (IT)

Sight 6: Casa Museo Palazzo Sorbello

Palazzo Sorbello is a historic building in Perugia built at the end of the sixteenth century. Located in the city center, a short distance from the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the access portal of the building opens in 9 in Piazza Piccinino, in front of the true of the Etruscan well, an important hypogeum monument citizen of the Etruscan era, whose access is given by some rooms located right in the basement of the same building. Property from the end of the eighteenth century of the Marquises Bourbon of Sorbello, it is currently home to the Ranieri di Sorbello Foundation which since 2010 has given a museum destination to some environments of the ground floor and the noble floor.

Wikipedia: Palazzo Sorbello (IT)

Sight 7: Arco Etrusco

The Etruscan Arch or Arch of Augustus or Augustus Gate is one of eight gates in the Etruscan wall of Perusia, known today as Perugia. It is one of the only two surviving gates along with the Porta Marzia to the south. It was constructed in the second half of the 3rd century BC and was restored by Augustus in 40 BC after his victory in the Perusine War. Representing the best surviving and most monumental of the Etruscan city gates it opens onto the cardo maximus of the city, corresponding to the modern Ulisse Rocchi Road.

Wikipedia: Etruscan Arch (EN)

Sight 8: Porta Conca

The walls of Perugia are the ancient defensive circle of the city. The city has two city walls.

Wikipedia: Mura di Perugia (IT)

Sight 9: San Francesco al Prato

The church of San Francesco al Prato is a deconsecrated church dating back to the thirteenth century, now used as an auditorium. It is located in Perugia, in the square of the same name, next to the Renaissance oratory of San Bernardino, part of the monastic complex of San Francesco.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di San Francesco al Prato (IT)

Sight 10: Chiesa di San Filippo Neri

The church of San Filippo Neri, also known as the church of the Immaculate Conception or Chiesa Nuova, is one of the most important places of worship in the city of Perugia. Located in the historic center of Perugia on the axis of Via dei Priori, Via della Cupa and Via della Stella, in the Porta Santa Susanna district, it was built in the seventeenth century (1627-1665) to a design by the Roman architect Paolo Maruscelli, and is one of the most important examples of Baroque in Perugia.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di San Filippo Neri (Perugia) (IT)

Sight 11: Museo del Capitolo della cattedrale di San Lorenzo

The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, better known as Museo del Capitolo della Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, is a museum in Perugia, Italy, adjacent to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Wikipedia: Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Perugia) (IT)

Sight 12: Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

Perugia Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Perugia, Umbria, central Italy, dedicated to Saint Lawrence. Formerly the seat of the bishops and archbishops of Perugia, it has been since 1986 the archiepiscopal seat of the Archdiocese of Perugia-Città della Pieve.

Wikipedia: Perugia Cathedral (EN)

Sight 13: Fontana Maggiore

The Fontana Maggiore, a masterpiece of medieval sculpture, placed in the centre of Piazza IV Novembre, is the monument symbol of the city of Perugia.

Wikipedia: Fontana Maggiore (EN)

Sight 14: Sala dei Notari

The Palazzo dei Priori or comunale is one of the best examples in Italy of a public palace from the communal era. It is located in the central Piazza IV Novembre in Perugia, Umbria. It extends along Corso Vannucci up to Via Boncambi. It still houses part of the municipality, and, on the third floor, the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria. It takes its name from the Priori, the highest political authority governing the city in the medieval era.

Wikipedia: Palazzo dei Priori (EN)

Sight 15: Galleria nazionale dell'Umbria

The Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria the Italian national paintings collection of Umbria, housed in the Palazzo dei Priori, Perugia, in central Italy. Located on the upper floors of the Palazzo dei Priori, the exhibition spaces occupy two floors and the collection comprises the greatest representation of the Umbrian School of painting, ranging from the 13th to the 19th century, strongest in the fourteenth through sixteenth centuries. The collection is presented in 40 exhibition rooms in the Palazzo. On the second floor of the Gallery, there is an exhibition space for temporary collections, changed several times a year.

Wikipedia: Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria (EN) , Website

Sight 16: Collegio del Cambio

The Collegio del Cambio is the historic seat of the exchange guild in the Palazzo dei Priori in the city of Perugia, Italy. It was built between 1452 and 1457 and now houses a number of artistic masterpieces.

Wikipedia: Collegio del Cambio (EN) , Website

Sight 17: Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo

The Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo is a historic building of Perugia, in Umbria.

Wikipedia: Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo (Perugia) (IT)

Sight 18: Porta Marzia

La Porta Marzia is a city door of the Etruscan walls of the city of Perugia and is located in via Marzia.

Wikipedia: Porta Marzia (IT)

Sight 19: Chiesa di Sant'Ercolano

The church of Sant'Ercolano is a place of Catholic worship that is located in Perugia at the crossroads between Via Sant'Ercolano and Viale Independenza, adjacent to the stairs that bear the same name as the saint.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di Sant'Ercolano (IT)

Sight 20: Museo civico di Palazzo della Penna-Centro di Cultura Contemporanea

The Palazzo della Penna is located in Via Podiani 11 in Perugia and is home to the Civic Museum of Palazzo della Penna-Center of Contemporary Culture, the Deputation of Homeland History for Umbria and the Department of Culture and other municipal offices.

Wikipedia: Palazzo della Penna (IT)

Disclaimer Please be aware of your surroundings and do not enter private property. We are not liable for any damages that occur during the tours.

GPX-Download For navigation apps and GPS devices you can download the tour as a GPX file .