What to do in Perugia

Perugia makes a fine base for an Umbrian trip, but spending a little time in the city itself is certainly worth it. Wander the medieval lanes, descend into the underground Rocca Paolina (a papal fortress buried beneath modern Perugia), and visit the Perugina chocolate factory, makers of Italy's iconic Baci. From here, the rest of Umbria is yours to explore. Head to Deruta to watch a master ceramicist shape and paint maiolica, colourful, tin-glazed pottery, that has defined the village for centuries, then drive on to Lake Trasimeno for a winery lunch or an e-bike ride along the shores. Save a day for Orvieto, perched on a tufa cliff with its 14th-century cathedral, and of course, Assisi is right next door.