How to get to Perugia

Perugia is a charming ancient city in the heart of Italy, renowned for its magnificent medieval architecture and its status as the capital of the Umbria region. If you have decided to travel here, it will be useful to know that the city is accessible by various means: from air travel to a scenic journey by train, bus, or car. Understanding how to reach Perugia is quite simple, as this destination boasts excellent transport accessibility for tourists.

The fastest way to reach the heart of the Umbria region is to take a flight to the local Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi International Airport (formerly known as Sant'Egidio, IATA code: PEG). This compact aviation hub receives flights from a number of European cities, as well as domestic connections, ensuring a comfortable arrival for travelers almost to the doorstep of historic Perugia. The terminal is located just 12 kilometers from the city, which minimizes travel time after landing.

If suitable direct tickets are not available, it is worth considering a flight to major neighboring cities in Italy. The most popular and convenient alternatives are the airports of Rome (Fiumicino and Ciampino) and Florence, located within two to three hours by train or bus. You can also utilize the air hubs in Ancona or Pisa, from where good ground transport connections to the region are also established.

Traveling by train to Perugia is a comfortable and scenic way to reach the capital of Umbria. Contrary to common misconceptions, the city has excellent railway connections. The main station, Perugia Fontivegge, is located in the modern part of the city and regularly receives trains from various corners of Italy.

The most popular routes pass through major transport hubs — Rome and Florence. Both direct regional trains and services with convenient connections run from these cities. The travel time is usually between two to three hours, passing quickly while you admire the pastoral landscapes of the country's central region.

Upon arrival at Fontivegge station, tourists face a short but exciting ascent to the historic center, which sits atop a hill. The most convenient and impressive way to do this is to use the MiniMetrò. These small automated carriages will quickly transport you to the ancient quarters, revealing magnificent panoramas of the city along the way.

Bus services connect the capital of Umbria with many parts of the country, offering scenic routes through hills and valleys. A trip from Florence will take about two hours, covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers, while you enjoy views of the Tuscan and Umbrian landscapes. Modern, comfortable buses depart regularly, making this an ideal option for planning a visit to Perugia.

Travelers heading from the Adriatic coast can take advantage of convenient direct services from Rimini or the port of Ancona. The journey from the sea takes an average of two to three hours, revealing a smooth transition from coastal plains to the green foothills characteristic of central Italy. This is an excellent alternative to trains, often saving time and allowing you to comfortably reach the bus station near the historic center.

Traveling by car to Perugia offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the picturesque views of Umbria's green hills. The drive from Florence will take about two hours, covering approximately 150 kilometers on comfortable roads. If you are driving from the Adriatic coast, the journey from Rimini, covering about 165 kilometers, will take roughly 2.5 hours, while from the port of Ancona (125 km), you will reach your destination in less than two hours.

For those who prefer not to drive, booking a transfer or taxi is available, although the cost of an intercity trip will be significant — expect a fare ranging from 200 to 300 euros depending on the vehicle class. Renting a car in Italy often proves to be a more cost-effective solution, providing freedom of movement and the chance to stop in colorful villages on the way to the ancient city walls.

A trip to Perugia promises to be an unforgettable experience, full of historical discoveries and culinary delights. To ensure your journey to the heart of Umbria is as comfortable and carefree as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations to help plan the perfect vacation.

1. Clothing and Footwear. Perugia is a city on hills with steep ascents, ancient cobblestones, and many stairs. The most important rule: bring comfortable, proven flat-soled shoes. High heels are inappropriate and can even be dangerous here. The climate is quite mild, but evenings can be cool even in summer, so bring a light jacket or cardigan.
2. Transport. The historic city center is compact and best explored on foot. To move between the lower and upper parts of the city, use the famous MiniMetrò or the system of escalators passing through the Rocca Paolina fortress. If you plan to use buses, buy tickets in advance at tobacco shops (Tabaccheria), as they may be more expensive or unavailable from the driver.
3. Finances. The currency of Italy is the Euro. Although bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, always carry some cash in small denominations. You will need it to pay for coffee, souvenirs at street markets, or small tips. ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available and safe to use.
4. Health and Safety. The city is considered safe and peaceful, but standard precautions in crowded places are advisable. Pharmacies are easily recognized by the sign with a green cross; they operate on a convenient schedule, and duty pharmacies are open 24/7. Water from street fountains is safe to drink unless marked with a "Non potabile" (Not potable) sign.
5. Communication. In the tourist center, many people understand English, especially younger people and hotel staff. However, in small trattorias or shops, knowing a few phrases in Italian (greetings, thanks) will be received with great respect and help you build a rapport with the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Upon entering any establishment, it is customary to greet people ("Buongiorno" or "Buonasera"). When visiting the numerous churches and cathedrals, please observe the dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. In restaurants, do not be surprised by the "coperto" line on the bill — this is a standard charge in the country for table setting and bread.
7. What to Avoid. If you are traveling in a rental car, do not enter the ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) in the historic center without a special permit — cameras record license plates, and fines are very high. Also, consider restaurant operating hours: most kitchens close after lunch and reopen for dinner only after 19:30.
8. Sweet Capital. Perugia is known as the city of chocolate and the home of the famous "Baci" chocolates. Be sure to try local handmade chocolate in one of the historic confectioneries. If your visit falls in October, you might catch the grand Eurochocolate festival, when the entire city turns into a huge open-air sweets fair.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this medieval city. We wish you a pleasant and fulfilling journey!