Where to stay in Umbria in 2024?

Umbria is one of the most underrated regions in Italy and undoubtedly a favorite of mine and my Italian partners’. So lush and green, there is a real wild beauty to it that differs from the manicured lands of nearby Tuscany.

I fell head over heels for Umbria when I first moved to Italy in 2019 and worked at an agriturismo between Perugia and Gubbio. Since then, my love for Umbria has grown so much so that I’m planning my wedding there! With that said, I can’t recommend visiting enough so I thought I’d put together this ultimate guide to the best accommodation in Umbria in 2024. Keep reading to find out more.

Where is Umbria in Italy?

Umbria is a landlocked region within central Italy and nestled next to the much more popular region of Tuscany. It’s often referred to as the green heart of Italy thanks to its wild, rugged beauty. The capital of Umbria is medieval Perugia, also famous for chocolate and it has a small international airport. From Rome, it’s about a 2 hour drive north whilst it’s a much longer 5 hour drive south from Milan. Florence to Perugia is likewise around a 2 hour drive.

However, perhaps the most well-known town in the region is Assisi. Firmly on the pilgrimage route for the St Francis Basilica, this is the busiest town in the quiet, sleepy region of Umbria.

Best town to stay in Umbria Italy

There are lots of of great options for home bases when it comes to where to stay in Umbria Italy. Here are my favorites:

1. Perugia

Perugia is a gorgeous medieval town and a university city which gives it a vibrant, fun atmosphere (I’m always a big fan of university cities in Italy like Bologna!). It makes a lot of sense to base yourself here as there is an international aiport (with direct flights from London) and a major train station (although the region isn’t well connected to the rest of Italy via public transport). 

Perugia has wonderful restaurants and is located conveniently to explore Assisi, Deruta, Gubbio and Spello with a car. 

2. Todi Umbria

I’ve been wanting to visit pretty hilltop Todi for years and we finally managed to get there in 2023 on the drive home to Rome from Gubbio. It’s a quiet town with a lot of American expats living there or in the surrounding countryside. There are some great bars (as in coffee shops), and restaurants and of course wonderful views over the surrounding countryside. Todi makes for a good base if you want to explore the lower part of Umbria like Orvieto, Montefalco and Bevagna.

3. Spello

It’s no secret on this blog that I love Spello! It’s a small hilltop town where time seems to stand still (especially during its famous Infiorata flower festival). It’s unfortunately no longer so off the beaten track and has become a little touristy, but it’s still definitely worth the trip. From Spello you can easily daytrip to Perugia, Gubbio, Montefalco, Assisi and Trevi. In fact, it actually offers the most places you can daytrip to with a car!

4. Bevagna Umbria

Not into a hilltop town? If you’re looking for somewhere flat then definitely choose Bevagna. It’s a gorgeous medieval town but you get a different perspective being on the ground level rather than looking out over the countryside. From here you can easily reach Spello, Perugia, Montefalco and Assisi with a car. I’d recommend visiting in June during the Bevagna Medieval Fair too!

5. Gubbio

This guide would be remiss without including Gubbio, especially since we are getting married here! Gubbio might be my favorite town in the entire region, especially after we participated in their iconic festival of candles (festa dei ceri). It’s located further away from the main hotspots but you could still explore Perugia easily from here with a car and Spello. 

6. Orvieto

Orvieto is a gorgeous Etruscan town that feels a little different to the rest of Umbria and dare I say it, more like Tuscany as it’s right on the border. It’s a popular daytrip via train from Rome but worth staying at least one night. From here you could explore the surrounding countryside with a car, wineries and Todi.

Where to stay in Umbria without a car?

In my experience, Umbria is a region that demands having a car. The connections are slow, often not direct (as in you need to change trains or buses to get somewhere) and sometimes non-existent. In saying that, I did travel in Umbria without a car in 2019 and based myself in Perugia. From there I was able to daytrip to Orvieto (a super long day!), and Assisi.

The 6 Best Hotels in Umbria in 2024

Without further ado, here are my top tips for the best Umbria Italy hotels for your adventure in 2024 and beyond:

1. Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel – Perugia

It’s the only luxe option within the historical center of Perugia and a wonderful location. Rooms are comfortable if a little bland, but you can’t beat the location!

2. Incantico Eco Resort – Assisi

This wonderful resort in Umbria is located just outside of Assisi making it an ideal location for exploring the town as well as Spello, Montefalco and beyond. The grounds are lush and green, plus there is a swimming pool!

3. Castello di Monterone – Perugia

Ever dreamed about staying in a 13th century castle? Now’s your opportunity! There’s a swimming pool, Turkish bath and sauna, plus a restaurant on site too. Located outside of Perugia, it’s dreamy and tranquil with gorgeous rooms.

3. Borgo Petrora– Todi

Located in the countryside outside of Todi, Borgo Petrora is an absolute medieval dream. Rooms offer views over the green countryside and there is also a restaurant on site.

4. Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini – Orvieto

Orvieto is a little hotel challenged when it comes to luxe options, so this is your best bet. It offers 4 star luxury and a great location just 4 minutes walk from the cathedral.

5. Nikkis Resort – Gubbio

Located in the surrounding countryside outside of Gubbio, this is a wonderful resort/agriturismo style accommodation with not just one but two swimming pools! There’s an on-site restaurant and comfortable bedrooms.

6. Palazzo Bontadosi – Montefalco

Wine lovers, Montefalco is the best place to stay! I love this accommodation option as it’s right inside the 15th-century town walls, and offers an exclusive spa with heated swimming pool. Rooms are really modern luxe with some old school glamor too.

Inspired to visit Umbria? Have a read of my other blog posts on Umbria for more inspiration!