Things To Do
in Spoleto
Spoleto is a hilltop town in Umbria that blends medieval walls with Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It sits above a lush valley and is crowned by the iconic Rocca Albornoziana and the monumental Ponte delle Torri. The town comes alive during the Festival dei Due Mondi, a world-renowned arts festival that fills the streets with music, theater, and dance.
Wander its narrow lanes to discover Roman and medieval remains, charming trattorie, and sweeping views from hillside terraces.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Spoleto's historic center. Stop by the majestic Spoleto Cathedral, where you can admire its stunning frescoes and intricate architecture. Grab a pastry and a coffee at a local café to fuel your adventure ahead.
Visit the ancient Roman Theatre, where you can imagine the performances that once captivated audiences centuries ago. Continue your exploration by heading to the Rocca Albornoziana, a fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, sampling local delicacies such as strangozzi pasta.
As the sun sets, wander through the charming piazzas, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Spoleto. Dine at a traditional Italian restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Umbria, perhaps pairing your meal with a local wine. Cap off the evening with a peaceful walk along the illuminated streets, basking in the beauty of this historic town.
Visit the Museo Diocesano to explore a rich collection of religious art and artifacts from the region. Take your time to appreciate the works of local artists and the historical context behind each piece. Afterward, stroll to the nearby Church of San Gregorio, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
Spend the afternoon at the Palazzo Mauri, home to Spoleto's library and various cultural events. Engage with the locals by attending a workshop on traditional Umbrian crafts, learning techniques that have been passed down through generations. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, where you can try some local cheeses and cured meats.
Attend a classical music concert at the Teatro Nuovo Gian Carlo Menotti, where you can experience the rich cultural heritage of Spoleto. The performance will transport you through the sounds of Italian composers in an enchanting setting. After the concert, share your thoughts over a glass of wine at a cozy wine bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Mid-range restaurant meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night hotel in center | $90-180 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-4 |
| 🚇Public transit ticket (one ride) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Vibrant arts scene during festival
- Stunning hill-town scenery and viewpoints
- Excellent base for exploring Umbria
- Hilly streets can be physically demanding
- Limited late-night dining outside festival season
- Crowds during peak festival weeks
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Spoleto
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval aqueduct-bridge offering dramatic silhouettes and sweeping views over the surrounding valley, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Castle walls and towers provide dramatic backdrops for city panoramas and atmospheric sunset shots.
Gothic façade and the atmospheric square make perfect subjects for architecture and street photography.
Roman amphitheatre remains set amidst historic lanes—great for capturing ancient echoes and texture.
Food in Spoleto
Spoleto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, handmade pasta tossed with black truffles and olive oil; a hallmark Umbrian dish often paired with simple greens.
Must-Try!
A soft, bread-like flatbread cooked on a testo (cast-iron griddle) and served warm with olive oil or fillings.
Herb-roasted pork, slowly cooked to achieve crackling skin and tender meat; commonly found in markets and taverns.
Small, flavorful lentils from Castelluccio di Norcia, often featured in soups and rustic dishes.
Rustic bruschetta topped with olive oil, sautéed mushrooms or shaved truffle for an indulgent bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market in Piazza del Mercato offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional specialties.
Casual spots with porchetta sandwiches, local cheeses, and seasonal snacks—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say buongiorno or buona sera when entering shops, and use please and thank you (per favore, grazie).
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Lunch and dinner hours can be later than some travelers expect; meals are enjoyed slowly with conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Spoleto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Cards are widely accepted in urban areas; carry some cash for small shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with peak crowds around the Festival dei Due Mondi; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor visits for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days with colorful foliage; harvest season brings food festivals and wine experiences; expect shorter lines at attractions.
Chillier and quieter; many outdoor sites are less crowded, making it ideal for museum visits and cozy meals by the fire.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens; ideal for walking tours and hill-town photography with softer light.
Spoleto at Night
Hiking in Spoleto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
World-famous waterfall with multiple trails and viewpoints; a must for nature lovers.
Rugged river gorge with scenic paths and waterfalls along the Nera River.
Forested hills with marked trails, viewpoints, and wildlife; great for day trips.
High-altitude meadows and trails with panoramic rural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Spoleto by plane.
Closest regional airport about 1 hour by car to Spoleto; connections to major Italian cities.
Larger international gateway about 1.5–2 hours by road or rail to Spoleto.
Alternative gateway; longer transfer to Spoleto but good for connecting to Umbrian towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time families living in the historic core and surrounding towns.
Seasonal visitors drawn to architecture, culture, and the arts festival.
Presence of cultural programs and small creative communities around the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in local clubs and leagues across town.
Hilly routes and scenic backroads ideal for road and mountain biking.
Varied terrain around Umbria and Monti Sibillini region offers numerous trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Spoleto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Spoleto—look for bean-based dishes, seasonal vegetables, pasta with tomato or mushrooms, and fresh cheeses; ask for olive oil-based sauces to avoid meat stocks.