City of chocolate
Don’t forget to try the famous ‘Baci’ chocolates whilst in Perugia, made by local firm, Perugina. Baci means ‘kisses’ and the chocolates are wrapped in silver foil containing a multilingual love note! True chocoholics will not want to miss a tour of the Perugina factory and museum, with the opportunity to taste, of course.
Family fun
Top of the list for the children will probably be the ‘Città della Domenica’ animal and amusement park, set in 100 acres just outside the city, which makes a great day out for all the family.
There is also a water park nearby, by Lake Trasimeno, with various pools and slides to splash about in!
National Art Gallery
Art lovers will want to put some time aside to visit Umbria’s National Gallery which houses one of the great picture collections of central Italy. Perugino and Piero are certainly highlights but much of central Italian painting from the 14th to the 17th century is well-represented including works by Gozzoli, Duccio, Gentile da Fabriano and Pinturicchio.
Lake Trasimeno
This large lake just to the west of Perugia makes for a good day out. Perhaps start with a drive along the lake then stop at a waterside restaurant for lunch. There is a nice little beach at the public lido on the southern side of Castiglione’s promontory, with pedaloes for rent and boat trips, including regular excursions to the strangely rectangular island of Isola Maggiore; a fun ride although busy in summer. The more energetic can hire a bike or enjoy water sports on the lake itself.
