Perugia: Day Trips and Tours from Rome

Perugia is the proud capital of the Umbria region, and it’s known for being the largest walled city in Italy. An intriguing hive of medieval art that attracts students from near and far, Perugia has its roots firmly in the past. If you enjoy historical architecture and laid-back vibes, you’ll love Perugia!

You can easily take a day trip to Perugia from Rome to discover this enchanting city for yourself.

Read on for your guide to Perugia, one of the most unique day trips from Rome.

How to get to Perugia from Rome?

Perugia is tucked away in Italy’s rural center, just over 100 miles north of Rome. It’s easy to reach, whether you want to go it alone or by guided tour.

From Rome to Perugia by car

The journey to Perugia from Rome by car takes around two hours and 15 minutes. The simplest route is via the E35, the A1 and the SS3bis, before taking the E45 into Perugia itself.

Guided tour to Perugia from Rome

If you don’t want the hassle of driving or having to navigate through the countryside, a guided day trip to Perugia is your best bet.

You’ll enjoy round-trip transfers so all you need to do is concentrate on the sightseeing. These excursions last a full day, which is between eight and 12 hours.

What is the typical itinerary of a tour to Perugia?

Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup by car or minivan, and a scenic countryside drive to Perugia. On arrival, you’ll either enjoy a guided excursion or explore independently, depending on your tour inclusions.

Your Perugia day trip from Rome continues to the charming Assisi, which was the birthplace of St Francis. Here, you’ll be treated to a tour, or be given free time to wander around the historic center.

Some excursions then head to the hill town of Deruta, where traditional ceramic workshops have been key to the town’s success.

You’ll be driven back to Rome in time for dinner.

What kind of day trips are available from Rome to Perugia?

When it comes to day tours to Perugia from Rome, you have a few different options to consider. Small group and private visits are both available, or, if you want to explore independently, opt for a transfer instead.

Private day trip to Perugia plus Assisi and Deruta from Rome

Private Perugia excursions give you a bit more flexibility than shared group tours, so this is a great option for those wanting a slightly tailored experience. You will also get the guide all to yourself, so exclusive is the name of the game today!

Luxury transfers are included with door-to-door service ensuring your visit runs like a dream. These day trips to Perugia and Assisi also swing by Deruta for sightseeing in the realm of St. Francesco.

Guided tours to Perugia plus Spoleto from Rome

These small group guided tours are a popular and cost-effective way of visiting Perugia, and you’ll be traveling in the company of like-minded adventurers. Participant numbers are kept to a maximum of 15 to ensure your experience remains intimate.

As well as enjoying free time to explore, you’ll visit the Perugina Chocolate Factory to experience one of the best chocolate tastings from Rome. A bonus stop in the pretty town of Spoleto is also on the cards, where you’ll discover historic landmarks like the Roman Theater and the lavish St. Maria Assunta Cathedral.

Private shuttle transfer without guide to Perugia from Rome

If you prefer to discover Perugia without a guide but don’t want the hassle of having to navigate the public transport system, this transfer option ticks all the boxes.

You’ll be collected from your central Rome hotel and chauffeured all the way to Perugia. On arrival, your time is your own. Don’t forget to arrange a return transfer if you’re heading back to Rome afterward.

What is the price of a tour to Perugia from Rome?

For a guided day trip to Perugia from Rome on a small group basis, expect to pay €250 per person. This covers hotel pickups, transport and a guide. Some tours also include a visit to the chocolate factory.

A private Perugia jaunt which includes a stop in Assisi starts at €300 per person and provides round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver.

Perugia tours that include a two-hour guided excursion in Assisi cost €550 per participant, and the price covers entrance fees for San Francesco Church.

The private shuttle between Rome and Perugia costs €230 per passenger one way in a comfortable sedan or minivan. Hotel pickups are offered and you need to book for your return.

What will you see and do on a Perugia tour?

Perugia is the capital of the Umbria region and is famed for its medieval streets and historic old town. It makes for an enchanting excursion from other Italian cities if you don’t have time to stay in Perugia itself.

Here’s what you’ll experience during your day tour to Perugia from Rome.

Historic Old Town

In Perugia, you’ll explore the ancient alleyways of the historical center, which seems to have changed little over the centuries. Expect cobbles underfoot and plenty of arches, as well as secret piazzas that are home to quaint churches, cafés and Gothic mansions.

Corso Vannucci

This pedestrianized street just oozes charm, with a smorgasbord of architectural styles and a wealth of shops to browse. Leading to the Piazza 4 Novembre, it’s a great place to people watch from a café terrace and just enjoy the atmosphere.

Piazza 4 Novembre

The highlight of your visit will be the magnificent Piazza 4 Novembre, which is overlooked by the San Lorenzo Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. Don’t miss the 13th-century Maggiore Fountain or the ornate Town Hall if you want some snazzy photos!

On some excursions, you will have free time to discover the sights by yourself, while on others a fully guided tour is provided.

Perugia Chocolate

Perugia is also famous for its chocolate, and during certain visits, you will get to explore a chocolate factory on a behind-the-scenes tour. Discover the secret process that transforms the humble cacao bean into the delicious Baci truffles and of course, you’ll get to sample the goods too!

When is the best time to visit Perugia?

The ultimate time for a day trip to Perugia from Rome is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the crowds are smaller and the weather remains pleasant.

Summer is beautiful too, but the streets can get rather busy, especially during the mornings.

Are there any tours to Perugia from other cities in Italy?

Yes, there are other tours departing from other cities in Italy:

• Perugia day tours from Florence

What are the other day trips from Rome?

• Pompeii day trips from Rome
• Amalfi Coast day trips from Rome
• Positano day tours from Rome
• Day trips to Naples from Rome
• Villa d'Este day trips from Rome
• Day trips to Tivoli from Rome
• Hadrian's Villa day tours from Rome

Know before you go

• You’ll be doing a fair amount of walking so comfortable shoes are advisable.
• Water is provided on some tours, but it’s always a good idea to have your own bottle handy, especially during summer.
• Book your Perugia day tour tickets in advance, as it’s a popular spot and excursions do sell out.
• Take a spare camera battery in case you get carried away with the photos – it’s a beautiful place.
• Lunch is not provided on the tours, but you will have plenty of opportunities to stop at a local café or restaurant during your visit.