Umbria is definitely worth a visit having the same charm as neighbouring Tuscany but without the crowds. Similar, perhaps hillier, landscapes greet the eye there and the old town of Perugia awaits with its architectural greatness and wealth of famous painters who came from the city including Raphael.
Take a hire car into the countryside of Umbria and see how artists have been inspired there for centuries. There’s even a shade of brown paint called Umber, named after the colour of the soil. Finally, take time to enjoy the gastronomy and wines of the region - they are equally magnificent.
Perugia San Egidio Airport Mini Guide
Why Should I Visit Perugia?
It’s the capital of the region of Umbria and whilst not as well-known as the cities of
Florence and
Rome, it has architecture that at least parallels it. Much of the old city centre is accessible on foot where you have such splendours as ‘underground Perugia’ formed when a fortress was built over medieval streets. The fortress may have gone but many of the streets remain in great restored condition. Perugia is the home of Italian chocolate and you’re bound to be tempted by the delicious confectionery on offer in the shops. Finally, walk the Roman Aqueduct for an unusual view out over the city.
How do I get to Perugia?
Perugia has its own small international airport called Umbria International which accepts flights from London, Brussels and Tirana as well as a handful of domestic routes. Ryanair are the main operators there so fares are low. Entry into the city is by bus, taxi or hire car and the journey should take no more than twenty minutes.
What is the Airport Like?
It’s very small and with minimal facilities. Plans are currently underway to build a new terminal to cope with increasing passenger numbers. You’ll have to walk from the plane to the terminal for now and once there, go through passport checks. Inside the terminal there isn’t a help desk, merely information on a notice board but the staff in the arrivals area are very helpful. There’s an ATM for quick cash but no bank or currency exchange.
Public transport is accessed immediately outside the terminal building whilst the staff at the car rental desks will direct you to your pre-booked hire car. For departing passengers, once you have checked in you’ll struggle to keep yourself entertained before your flight so bring a good book. There is a small kiosk selling newspapers and sundry travel goods as well as a café doing a limited range of hot and cold snacks.
There is no Wi-Fi system at Umbria International at the moment but it is planned that the new terminal will greatly increase the facilities the airport has to offer.
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