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Things to do in Umbria, Italy
Umbria is a central region of Italy that borders Tuscany nevertheless, it’s far less touristy. This is mainly because its infrastructure is less developed, with far fewer trains and highways, but also because of its remote location. However, this makes it even better than Tuscany, as it has just as beautiful landscapes but without lots of tour groups and vacationers.
1. Gubbio and its Festa dei Ceri
Gubbio is a beautiful medieval city, most famous for its annual event, Festa dei Ceri (Candle Race)—one of the top things to do in Umbria. The event is held every year on May 15th to celebrate the 3 patron saints: St Ubaldo, St George, and St Anthony.
On the day, each saint is represented by a candle (a huge wooden monument) given to a team and carried on their shoulders. Each team then races through the streets of Gubbio, all the way up to the Basilica on top of Mount Ingino. It’s an incredible spectacle to witness as you watch the crowds cheering and musicians filling the streets. What’s more, there is a banquet with dancing and food following the event. It’s one of the craziest festivals we’ve ever seen!
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Things to do in Gubbio
If you’re not visiting during Festa dei Ceri, there are still many things to see in this charming town. For example, you can visit the ancient Roman Theatre or the beautiful Piazza Grande. You can also discover the famous Iguvine tablets that date back to the 3rd century BC!
Here are all your hotel options in Umbria.
Once you’ve seen some historical sites, walk through the terraced streets that slope up Mount Ingino and end at the Basilica. If you don’t feel like the steep walk to the top, you can take the town cable car.
Hotels in Gubbio
2. Lago Trasimeno, Umbria
Umbria’s answer to Lake Como is the remarkable Lago Trasimeno, a vast lake with 3 islands and small medieval towns on its edges. The lake sits close to the border of Tuscany and the hilltop town of Cortona and is surrounded by rolling green hills, sunflower fields, and woodland. It’s the perfect day out in Umbria!
Jump on a boat and tour the small islands (Isola Maggiore and Isola Polvese. Isola Minore is private). As you go, stop to do watersports like wakeboarding or kayaking on the glistening blue water. At the end of a day of activities, have dinner on one of the islands, sitting at lantern-lit tables overlooking the water and a magical lake sunset.
Join this kayak tour on Trasimeno Lake.
Isola Maggiore
One of the best things to do in Umbria and Lago Trasimeno is to visit Maggiore Island. The island is home to only 12 people, one ancient street, a small beach, and a few restaurants. If you walk to the other side of the island through the olive groves, you’ll also find an abandoned castle looking out over the lake.
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