Piazza IV Novembre
Public Plaza
Start in the main square, where the cathedral steps face the fountain and medieval town hall. This is the centre of the walking route, with most of the morning’s sights a few steps apart.
Perugia in 2 Days: Medieval Streets, Art and Hilltop Views
Perugia suits a hill-town weekend with serious art, medieval lanes and views across Umbria. Explore the main squares and National Gallery, then follow quieter streets to old gates, churches and gardens.
4
Day 1 — Historic centre
Day 1 — Historic centre
Fontana Maggiore
Attraction, Core Attraction
Walk around the medieval fountain to see its carved panels, with scenes of the months, farming and civic life. It is a short stop within the square, rather than a separate excursion.
Palazzo dei Priori
Historic Site, Palace
Look up at the griffin and lion above the palace entrance before heading inside for the National Gallery. The palace and gallery share one building, so visit them together.
Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria
Museum, Art Museum
Make the National Gallery the main visit of the morning. Its Umbrian paintings give you a close look at Perugino and the region’s religious art, inside the rooms of the medieval civic palace.
Corso Vannucci
Historic Site
Follow the pedestrian street south after the gallery. Shops, cafes and people watching make this a good stretch for lunch before continuing towards the fortress.
Rocca Paolina
Monument
Descend into the vaulted streets preserved beneath the fortress. Finish above ground at the nearby Carducci gardens for views across the valley.
Day 2 — Ancient gates and southern churches
Day 2 — Ancient gates and southern churches
Pozzo Etrusco
Historic Site
Begin the second day below street level at the Etruscan Well. The stone engineering offers a striking contrast to the medieval city above.
Arco Etrusco
Historic Site
Walk north to the monumental Etruscan Arch, one of the city’s ancient gateways. View it from Piazza Grimana before following the lanes west towards San Bernardino.
Oratorio di San Bernardino
Place of Worship, History Landmark
The coloured reliefs across the facade are the main reason to come. Pause in the open space in front of the oratory before returning through the centre towards Corso Cavour.
Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell'Umbria - Pagina Istituzionale
Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Umbria occupies the former San Domenico convent. Its Etruscan and Roman collections connect the morning’s well and gateway with the people who built the ancient city.
Basilica di San Pietro
Place of Worship, History Landmark
Continue south along Borgo XX Giugno to this art-filled basilica. Its paintings and richly decorated interior make a rewarding final visit away from the busiest central squares.
Optional extras
Optional extras
Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo
Place of Worship, History Landmark
This circular early Christian church, also known as the Temple of Sant’Angelo, suits a longer walk north beyond the Etruscan Arch. Choose it for its unusual shape and quieter setting.
Collegio del Cambio
Museum, Museum Gallery
Choose this compact visit for Perugino’s frescoes in the former money changers’ guild. It is beside the National Gallery, making it an easy alternative if you prefer one decorated room to a larger collection.
Palazzo della Penna - Centro per le arti contemporanee
Museum
For modern and contemporary art, visit Palazzo della Penna near the lower end of the centre. It fits naturally before the walk down Corso Cavour on the second day.