Things To Do
in Terni
Terni is a lively Umbrian city perched along the Nera River, blending industrial heritage with a charming historic core. Set between rolling hills and the nearby Marmore Falls, it serves as a natural and cultural gateway to the region. The compact center is walkable, with arcaded streets, markets, and rich religious and Roman-era sights to explore.
Just beyond the city, the Cascata delle Marmore offers dramatic day trips and spectacular photography opportunities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the enchanting streets of Terni's historic center. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where you can admire its beautiful Romanesque architecture and intricate frescoes. Don't forget to grab a cappuccino and a cornetto at a local café, enjoying the morning sun.
After lunch, head to the nearby Museo Archeologico to uncover the rich history of the region, including artifacts from ancient Rome. Spend some time wandering through the charming Piazza della Repubblica, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps picking up some local artisan crafts. As the afternoon rolls on, make your way to the impressive Palazzo Spada to admire its grand architecture and beautiful gardens.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Umbrian dinner at a family-run trattoria, savoring local dishes like strangozzi and cinghiale. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Corso Tacito, where you can experience the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stop for a gelato. Conclude your evening by relaxing at a local bar, sipping on an aperitivo and engaging with friendly locals.
Take a day trip to the stunning Marmore Falls, one of the tallest man-made waterfalls in the world. Arrive early to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the sound of cascading water as you hike through the surrounding trails. Capture breathtaking photographs as the sunlight dances on the water's surface, creating a mesmerizing display.
After exploring the falls, relax with a picnic lunch in the scenic surroundings or dine at a nearby restaurant serving local cuisine. In the afternoon, enjoy activities such as kayaking or rafting on the nearby river, offering a thrilling way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Alternatively, explore the trails for a closer look at the diverse flora and fauna.
Return to Terni and unwind with a casual dinner at a pizzeria, where you can indulge in classic Italian pizza made with fresh local ingredients. Spend your evening at a local wine bar, sampling Umbrian wines and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories of your adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚇1-day transit pass | $4-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $5-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Marmore Falls and Piediluco within easy reach
- Walkable historic center with a relaxed pace
- Rich Umbrian cuisine and markets
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger Italian cities
- Some sites require planning to reach by public transport
- Weather can be hot in summer and cold in winter
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Aiuto!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Terni
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic viewpoints above the Marmore Falls offering dramatic angles of water, cliffs, and mist.
The central square and the cathedral provide elegant architectural compositions and arcaded streets.
Picturesque lake surrounded by hills, boats, and reflections—great at sunrise or sunset.
Gentle river scenes with the old town silhouette in the background.
Food in Terni
Terni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick Umbrian pasta tossed with black truffles when in season, a regional specialty often enjoyed in the historic center.
Must-Try!
Herb‑roasted pork served in slices with rustic bread, a staple at markets and casual eateries.
Soft flatbread baked on a testo griddle, frequently filled with cheese or cured meats.
Slow‑braised wild boar stew with tomato, olives, and herbs—comforting and flavorful.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly stalls offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties.
Panini con porchetta, fried snacks, and seasonal pastries around the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a courteous Buongiorno or Salve; punctuality is appreciated but not rigid.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak quietly and remove hats in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Terni
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is included at many restaurants (Servizio incluso). A small tip of 5-10% is appreciated for exceptional service or in places where service is not included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for markets and smaller eateries; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming hills; ideal for alfresco dining and city strolling.
Hot days with occasional thunderstorms; carry water and sunscreen; Marmore can be crowded.
Pleasant temperatures, harvest markets, and autumn foliage along the Nera.
Cool to cold, possible rain or light snow; city sights are quieter and many markets remain open.
Terni at Night
Hiking in Terni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of trails along the Marmore gorge with lookout points and forested sections.
Scenic lakeside trails and easy loops around the lake, with opportunities for birdwatching.
Rugged hikes through the valley north of Terni, offering village views and streams.
Airports
How to reach Terni by plane.
Sant’Egidio Airport, about 60-90 minutes by car or bus from Terni; serves regional and some international flights.
South-east of Rome; roughly 1.5-2 hours by road or rail from Terni.
Major international hub; typically 2-3 hours by train or car from Terni.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly native Italians with a growing presence of foreign residents in recent years.
A youthful presence linked to local colleges and universities in the larger Umbria/Lazio region.
Communities from Romania, North Africa, and other parts of Europe contribute to local diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and club activities are common around town.
Hilly surroundings and scenic routes attract cyclists; great for road and mountain biking.
Seasonal leagues and casual play in local gym facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Terni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find pasta dishes, lentil and bean soups, grilled vegetables, and bruschette; ask for dishes prepared without meat stock or ragù; most venues can accommodate with prior notice.