With its medieval villages, fortresses and castles, rolling hills, ancient forests, lakes, and waterfalls, Umbria is a perfect destination for an autumn family vacation. The “green heart of Italy" takes on warm colors and offers a unique atmosphere, providing an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable experience with your little ones. But where to go and what to do in Umbria with children?
We suggest some outdoor and indoor activities and experiences, perfect for introducing your children to the magic of this region. These activities range from adventures in nature to cultural visits and playful moments, always considering the sometimes cool and unpredictable autumn days.
What to see in Umbria with children in autumn
Umbria is a region that fascinates and engages both adults and children, perfect to explore in autumn. As this season arrives, the sweltering heat gives way to cooler days, ideal for leisurely wandering, while the foliage and autumn light transform the forests and hills into enchanting scenes, as if straight out of a fairy tale. Its human-scale cities, less touristy than other destinations, and vast green areas offer numerous activities, both outdoor and indoor, for the whole family. Walking in the woods, exploring historic villages and castles, experiencing underground adventures: children can enjoy exciting and educational experiences in contact with nature and history, together with their parents.
We have already suggested a three-day itinerary to discover Umbria, but now we want to give you more tips to make your holiday even more special.
Hike at Monte Subasio Park
If you love nature and hiking, and the autumn weather is on your side, Monte Subasio Park is a must-visit. Its trails are perfect for children, who can explore oak and holm oak woods with you, discover churches and sanctuaries along the way, and admire the enchanting autumn landscape. Pack a picnic and let your little adventurers freely explore the surrounding nature!
Visit to Assisi
Assisi certainly needs no introduction and is one of the Umbrian cities that will captivate the whole family, that's for sure. Children will be enchanted by the majesty of the Basilica of San Francesco and the medieval stories of knights and saints, then enjoy a break in the nearby Bosco di San Francesco. After exploring the historic center of the city, playing a game of spotting the stone animals on the façade of the Duomo di San Rufino, and climbing up to the Rocca Maggiore, you can hop back in the car and visit Assisi in Miniature, just a fifteen-minute drive away. This spectacular reconstruction of the medieval city will entertain both young and old (the exhibition is permanent and free, but requires a reservation).
Perugia and the Chocolate House
From Assisi, you can extend your trip to Perugia, the capital of the region and a charming city rich in history. The first tip is to get lost among its narrow streets and discover the hidden wonders of the city with your little ones, such as the Aqueduct. In particular, for those traveling with children, it is recommended to visit the etruscan well, also known as the Sorbello well, located in the center of Perugia. This ancient and impressive piece of hydraulic engineering will surely provide an exciting adventure for children as they descend inside.
Additionally, don't miss the Museum of Games and Toys, which boasts a collection of about 3,000 vintage toys, from the 1800s to the present day, including puppets, storybooks, comics, old projectors, and vintage cameras. After exploring the historic center and a few museums, a trip—and a snack!—at the Chocolate House is a must. This is the historical museum of the famous Perugina chocolate, located in San Sisto, just a short distance from the city. Get ready for a delicious and unusual visit, where your eyes, taste, and sense of smell will be stimulated on a tour that not only allows you to look but also to taste!
Underground Narni
Looking for something unconventional and do your children love mysteries? Then you should include a visit to the town of Narni, especially its underground. It is one of the most unique and evocative experiences to enjoy with your little ones: the guided tour lasts about an hour and a half and is suitable for the whole family. From the Church of San Michele Arcangelo to the remains of a Roman domus with a cistern, and the Torment Room of the Holy Inquisition: you'll find that the tour will be an emotional crescendo! Once you "resurface," you can explore the beautiful historic center of the town and its treasures, particularly the Rocca Albornoz, and then enjoy a well-deserved break in one of the many local spots.
Gubbio, the City of Madmen
Beautiful and full of mystery is Gubbio, also known as the “city of madmen". According to tradition, once you run three laps around the famous fontana del Bargello in the presence of a true Gubbio citizen, you can request the coveted “madman's license" from the Maggio Eugubino Association: a fun moment and memory, especially for the little ones. Besides its historical buildings, amphitheaters and museums, Gubbio is particularly enchanting during the Christmas season, with numerous markets, nativity scenes, and the biggest Christmas tree in the world, built on a hill and visible from kilometers away thanks to its 270 lights outlining the shape and about as many multicolored lights inside.
Apart from Christmas, if you visit the city, you mustn't miss the EXTINCTION: Before and After the Disappearance of Dinosaurs exhibition inside the former Monastery of San Benedetto. It's a unique, adventurous and fun journey where you can admire life-sized dinosaur reproductions and engage in many interactive activities with your children. A special bonus? The exhibition features a “behind the scenes" section, allowing visitors to discover how dinosaurs are reconstructed, from the research of paleontologists to the work of cutting-edge technology experts.
A Relaxing Break at the Clitunno Springs
The Clitunno Springs also deserve a mention, considered sacred springs and places of worship dedicated to the god Jupiter Clitumnus. If you're looking for a child-friendly destination that's perfect for a relaxing break, make a note of this park's address! It's a small and enchanting place, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding greenery, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Children will love watching the fish and ducks in the pond, while you can enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the area.
The Marmore Falls: Nature's Wonder
Could we not mention them? A visit to the Marmore Falls is an unforgettable experience for both adults and children. With a height of 165 meters, these artificial waterfalls, among the tallest in Europe, offer a unique spectacle, especially in autumn when the water flow is impressive. Children will be fascinated by the roaring sound of the water and the clouds of mist rising into the sky. You can then explore the trails that run alongside the falls, participate in guided tours, and even discover adventure paths specifically designed for the little ones, making the day both educational and fun.
Tour of Umbrian Castles: a journey through history
Umbria is a land of castles and fortresses, usually particularly loved by children. A tour of the Umbrian castles will take you to discover ancient medieval residences set in breathtaking landscapes. You could start with the Castle of Narni, with its mysterious underground passages, and then head to the Castle of Torre Alfina, the perfect location for a fairy tale setting. Finally, the Castle of Montecolognola, with its view of Lake Trasimeno, will be a stop that will captivate the whole family. Each castle has its own legends, and children can feel like little adventurers as they explore centuries-old towers and walls.
Boat trip on lake Trasimeno
Considered the "sea of Umbria," Lake Trasimeno is worth a visit not only during the summer. This body of water is surrounded by small villages, each unique, which you can explore leisurely by wandering through their streets or admire directly from the lake with a boat trip. You can also take a short crossing to Isola Maggiore, where you can walk among centuries-old olive trees and enjoy a day immersed in nature. If you want to learn more about this place, you can also read our in-depth guide on what to see at Lake Trasimeno.
Where to stay: Tenuta di Montecorona, the perfect refuge for families
After days filled with adventures, you deserve a cozy place to relax. Tenuta di Montecorona, located in a beautiful natural setting not far from Umbertide, offers everything you need for an unforgettable family stay focused on peace and comfort. The spacious rooms, the opportunity for nearby hikes, and the estate's restaurant make this place perfect for families looking for a break immersed in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Have you already chosen the itinerary for your trip to Umbria with the kids?
