Looking for amazing places to visit in Central Italy away from the well-trodden tourists paths of Tunscany? That’s what I’ll give you here with the 10 best places to visit in Central Italy. Our journey through the heart of Italy uncovers cities and towns rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, each with its own unique charm and story.
To compile this list, I sifted through countless recommendations, historical significances, and traveler reviews. I considered a variety of factors, from architectural marvels and historical richness to natural beauty and culinary delights. My aim was to present a diverse array of destinations that promise to enchant every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking serene landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, or a taste of Italy’s unparalleled cultural heritage.
Central Italy is a tapestry of ancient towns, lush valleys, and dramatic coastlines, each corner telling a story of past civilizations and timeless beauty. Away from the allure of Tuscany, regions such as Umbria, Lazio, and Marche beckon with their undulating hills, hidden art treasures, and culinary traditions that are a testament to Italy’s rich cultural mosaic.
From the spiritual pathways of Assisi to the arresting beauty of the Adriatic coast, these destinations offer more than just a journey through Italy—they invite you on an exploration of history, nature, and the soul of Italian culture itself.
In this guide, we’ve focused on what makes each destination worthy of your travel list, ensuring that you, the reader, come away with a clear sense of why venturing beyond Tuscany into the heart of Central Italy is a journey worth taking. So, let’s embark on this adventure together, discovering the roads less traveled and the stories they hold.
10 Best Places To Visit In Central Italy (Outside Of Tuscany)
1. Rome, Lazio
There is no place like Rome, the capital city of Italy. It’s a spellbinding blend of the ancient and the modern which serves as a vivid historical tapestry. Every corner tells a story that dates back thousands of years.
The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon testify to the city’s importance in ancient times, while the Vatican City, with St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, remains a major pilgrimage site.
Rome’s appeal, however, extends beyond its monumental art and architecture; its vibrant street life, delectable cuisine, and the Italian flair for la dolce vita make it an essential experience. The city captures the essence of human history, culture, and beauty, embodying the spirit of Italy in a way no other city can.
Its unparalleled blend of history, art, gastronomy, and culture justifies its place atop this list, offering visitors an immersive journey through the heart of Italy’s enduring legacy. You can’t miss Rome!
You also shouldn’t miss our guide here to 9 reasons to never visit Rome 😀 Or our guide to the best hidden gems in Rome here.
2. Assisi, Umbria
Assisi, nestled within the serene landscapes of Umbria, is a spiritual sanctuary known worldwide. This medieval town is intrinsically linked with St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy, whose humble spirit permeates the cobblestone streets and sacred spaces.
The Basilica of San Francesco stands as a monumental tribute to his life, adorned with frescoes that are pivotal works of medieval art. Assisi’s spiritual allure is complemented by its stunning panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside, providing a tranquil retreat into nature.
The town’s profound sense of peace and beauty captivates not just the religiously inclined but anyone with an appreciation for history, architecture, and the enduring human quest for meaning. Its UNESCO-recognized significance and timeless appeal make Assisi a compelling destination.
3. Orvieto, Umbria
Orvieto is a testament to Italy’s rich ecclesiastical architecture and history. Perched dramatically on a volcanic rock, it offers vistas that are as awe-inspiring as its famed Cathedral.
The Duomo di Orvieto, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, houses Luca Signorelli’s frescoes, which Michelangelo is said to have studied before painting the Sistine Chapel. Beyond its architectural wonders, Orvieto’s underground city reveals a labyrinth of Etruscan tunnels and wells, highlighting an ancient society’s ingenuity.
This city encapsulates the essence of the Italian Middle Ages, blending art, history, and mystery against a backdrop of striking natural beauty. Its unique geographical placement, combined with its rich tapestry of art and history, makes Orvieto a must visit place in Central Italy.
4. Perugia, Umbria
Perugia serves as the cultural and artistic heart of Umbria, offering an eclectic mix of historical intrigue and modern vibrancy. As a university town, it pulses with youthful energy, manifest in its lively cafes and vibrant festivals, such as the renowned Umbria Jazz Festival.
Its historical lineage is visible in the Etruscan walls and medieval architecture that define the city. The National Gallery of Umbria houses a significant collection of Renaissance art, emphasizing the region’s artistic contributions.
Perugia’s confluence of history, art, and contemporary culture, coupled with its rich culinary tradition, epitomizes the dynamic interplay between Italy’s past and present, making it a focal point for those seeking to immerse themselves in Umbrian life.
5. Spoleto, Umbria
Spoleto, set against the backdrop of the Apennine Mountains, is a city that seamlessly integrates the beauty of nature with architectural marvels. It is globally renowned for the Festival dei Due Mondi, an arts festival that celebrates the confluence of Italian and international culture.
The city’s historical sites, like the Roman theater and the Ponte delle Torri – a striking medieval aqueduct – offer a journey through time, while its modern artistic endeavors showcase its ongoing cultural relevance.
Spoleto embodies the harmonious balance between preservation and innovation, making it a destination that appeals to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Its ability to inspire through both its natural beauty and cultural vibrancy secures its spot on this list.
6. Norcia, Umbria
Norcia, cradled by the Sibillini Mountains, is a culinary heaven famed for its black truffles, cured meats, and cheeses. This town is not only a gastronome’s delight but also a hub for adventurers eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Umbria.
Its resilient spirit in the face of earthquake adversity speaks to the strength of the local community. Norcia’s rich monastic history, best exemplified by the birthplace of St. Benedict, adds a spiritual layer to its compelling narrative.
The blending of extraordinary natural beauty, culinary excellence, and historical depth makes Norcia a uniquely enriching visit within central Italy, offering tastes and experiences found nowhere else.
7. Sulmona, Abruzzo
Sulmona sits like a gem in the heart of Abruzzo, surrounded by the rugged Apennine Mountains. Known for its sugared almonds, or confetti, and as the birthplace of Ovid, the town is a cultural link to Italy’s poetic and culinary traditions.
Its historical significance is matched by the beauty of its natural surroundings, offering vibrant landscapes that shift with the seasons. The medieval aqueduct and the Piazza Garibaldi provide insights into Sulmona’s architectural evolution, while the surrounding national parks appeal to those drawn to the great outdoors.
Sulmona represents the blend of natural beauty, historical architecture, and living traditions that characterizes the best of central Italy.
8. Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Civita di Bagnoregio is a marvel of medieval architecture and urban planning, famously branded as “the dying city” for its vulnerability to erosion. Its isolation atop a hill, accessible only via a footbridge, adds to its allure, creating an atmosphere of a bygone era suspended in the modern age.
This town offers not just a walk through history but a poignant reminder of nature’s impermanence and human resilience.
Civita’s stunning vistas, ancient streets, and serene ambiance attract those seeking a meditative retreat into Italy’s past.
9. Ancona, Marche
Ancona, the capital of the Marche region, stands out for its rich maritime heritage and the classical beauty of its historic sites, like the Cathedral of San Ciriaco.
Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the city blends its ancient Greek roots with a vibrant port culture, offering a unique vantage point on Italy’s eastern coast. Ancona’s archaeological museum and Roman ruins tell the story of a city that has been a crossroads of cultures for millennia.
Its picturesque beaches and bustling port life provide a refreshing contrast to the tranquil hill towns of central Italy, showcasing the region’s diversity.
10. San Marino
Though technically a sovereign microstate and not part of Italy, San Marino is deeply intertwined with the Italian Peninsula’s history and charm. Perched atop Mount Titano, it offers stunning views that span across the Italian countryside, reaching the Adriatic Sea on clear days.
San Marino’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including its three iconic towers, government buildings, and quaint streets, provides a glimpse into a past when city-states flourished. San Marino is not just about its historical and architectural marvels; it’s a testament to enduring sovereignty and cultural uniqueness in Europe.
This enclave captivates visitors with its blend of scenic beauty, history, and the novelty of being in one of the world’s oldest republics.
It’s easily visited as part of your journey through Central Italy with the novelty of being a new country to explore. Read our full guide to San Marino here.
Central Italy, sprawling beyond the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany, offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate and enchant. From the rugged mountains of Abruzzo to the serene coastline of Le Marche and the historic grandeur of Umbria’s towns, this heart of Italy pulsates with lesser-known gems waiting to be explored.
Embracing these 10 remarkable places not only enriches one’s travel diary but also deepens the understanding of Italy’s multifaceted culture and history. Venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of Tuscany into the embrace of Central Italy’s other wonders offers an adventure that is both enriching and profoundly memorable.
Learn more about amazing places you can visit in Central Italy with this list of the most beautiful places in Tuscany. You can also find all our travel guides to Central Italy here.
