Central Italy offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, making it a prime destination for a summer holiday. From hilltop towns to pristine coastlines, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the heart of Italy has something for everyone.
Explore the Hilltop Towns
Begin your journey in Tuscany, where towns like San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Cortona boast medieval architecture and panoramic views. Wander through cobbled streets, visit ancient churches, and sample world-famous wines like Brunello di Montalcino.
Head east to Umbria, often called the “green heart of Italy”. Discover the serenity of Assisi, home of Saint Francis, or explore the lesser-known gems like Spello and Bevagna. These towns are alive with local festivals, often featuring music, food, and traditional costumes.
Take in the Nature
Nature lovers can hike through the Sibillini Mountains, a national park spanning the Marche and Umbria regions. The area offers trails for all levels, flower-filled valleys in early summer, and dramatic peaks year-round.
For something unique, visit the Cascate delle Marmore, one of Europe’s tallest man-made waterfalls, located near Terni in southern Umbria. The thundering cascade is surrounded by scenic walking paths and picnic spots.
Enjoy the Seaside
While Central Italy is mostly inland, the Marche coastline offers golden beaches and charming seaside towns. Sirolo and Numana, nestled in the Conero Riviera, provide crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs, ideal for sunbathing and kayaking.
Further south, in northern Lazio, Tarquinia and Santa Severa offer both sea and Etruscan ruins, letting you enjoy a beach day with a historical twist.
Indulge in Local Flavours
Summer is the season of food festivals. Try truffle specialities in Umbria, fresh seafood along the Marche coast, or Chianina beef in Tuscany. Don’t miss the local wines – Sangiovese, Verdicchio, and Grechetto are just a few regional varieties worth tasting.
Markets in towns like Orvieto and Arezzo offer local cheeses, cured meats, and olive oils – perfect for a picnic in the countryside or to take a bit of Italy home with you.
Attend Cultural Events
From open-air opera in Macerata’s Sferisterio to classical concerts in Perugia’s Umbria Jazz Festival, Central Italy thrives with cultural events. Many hilltop villages also host medieval re-enactments, complete with jousting, parades, and traditional feasts.
Relax and Recharge
Stay in a villa in the rolling hills, take a cooking class in a farmhouse, or enjoy a thermal bath in Saturnia or Bagno Vignoni. The pace of life in Central Italy is slower in summer – the perfect excuse to relax and enjoy the moment.
Whether you’re drawn by history, food, or natural beauty, Central Italy offers a richly rewarding summer experience. Avoid the tourist crowds of the big cities and immerse yourself in a region where tradition, hospitality, and slow living still thrive.
