For National Geographic Communications officer Megan Seldon, reading the Perugia piece, "The Sexiest Small City," in our current issue, was like retracing her steps. Having visited Perugia herself, she offers some more insider tips from this romantic place.
In the November/December issue of Traveler, writer David Lansing visits the Umbrian town of Perugia on a whim to test a friend's claim that it's the "sexiest little city in the world." He soon realizes how easy it is to fall for Perugia, much like I did. It's the history, the views, the food, the romance, the people-- Italy at its best.
Lansing finds himself on a quest that begins with Baci Perugina chocolate (which their precious "love notes"), paintings in the National Gallery of Umbria and one of the oldest Christian churches in Umbria - San Michele Arcangelo.
But when he's dining at the revered pastry shop Sandri Pasticceria, complete with waiters in red waistcoats and matching bow ties, Lansing meets a tour guide named Baldoni who begins to show him the real Perugia.
Perugia, known for its hilltop location, is actually one of Italy's most walkable cities. You can navigate the narrow and steep cobblestone streets on foot. These few gems I discovered during my time there are certainly worth the trek and sore legs that may follow.
In the November/December issue of Traveler, writer David Lansing visits the Umbrian town of Perugia on a whim to test a friend's claim that it's the "sexiest little city in the world." He soon realizes how easy it is to fall for Perugia, much like I did. It's the history, the views, the food, the romance, the people-- Italy at its best. Lansing finds himself on a quest that begins with Baci Perugina chocolate (which their precious "love notes"), paintings in the National Gallery of Umbria and one of the oldest Christian churches in Umbria - San Michele Arcangelo.
But when he's dining at the revered pastry shop Sandri Pasticceria, complete with waiters in red waistcoats and matching bow ties, Lansing meets a tour guide named Baldoni who begins to show him the real Perugia.
Perugia, known for its hilltop location, is actually one of Italy's most walkable cities. You can navigate the narrow and steep cobblestone streets on foot. These few gems I discovered during my time there are certainly worth the trek and sore legs that may follow.
- Vecchia Perusia will answer any avid travelers wish for an authentic Italian meal. The restaurant is filled with a few small tables, a view of the kitchen, and a delightful owner named Frenk Banana, a retired professional boxer who is known for singing American songs to diners. This is a hidden treasure of Perugia and accessible via Ulisse Rocchi.
- The underground Etruscan town offers a fascinating perspective on Perugia's ancient history, filled with vaulted brick ceilings over the medieval streets of the old fortress Rocca Paolina.
- A quick stop at the meat and cheese counter at the grocery store Il Parma will satisfy your need for the freshest panino in town. If you're uncertain of your Italian, make sure to use body language to point out exactly what it is you want.
- When in Italy, it's difficult to tell the difference between the gelateria shops that appear on every corner. There is most certainly a difference and some of the best gelato in Perugia is found at Augusta Perusia near the Universita Per Stranieri. If you're in the mood for something warmer, try the pudding-like hot chocolate at Caffè Concerto.
- One
stop must be the Piazza IV Novembre, which forms the center of town.
The prime time to visit the square is around midnight, when the young
students overwhelm the steps leading up to the duomo. It is here you
will see the life, the mystery and perhaps the "sexiness" that is
Perugia.
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I was fortunate enough to find and use Ilios travel when I wanted to go to perugia. they tracked down, inspected and uploaded an apartment in the city - just for me and within 48 hours.
I loved Perugia and despite the recent high profile with the student murder in 2007(the locals think it was all down to sordid sex games) the city still buzzes 24/7. My favourite bar is the irish one just up from a very good four star hotel called the Sangallo http://www.sangallo.it not just because the manager is called Mr Suitcases (Sig. Valigi), but because it has parking and a swimming pool in a city that has little space.
As a former Perugian student, these four 'sexy' spots almost hit the nail no the head. I want to keep other secrets secret because there should always be a surprise. But man, I miss the gelato da Augusta Perusia and those damn steps!
Ben fatto!!