Italy's green heart may have achieved a different prestige than Tuscany in pop culture. Still, it has made up for this shortcoming by providing a more authentic experience for travelers interested in Italian art, culture, history, and cuisine. With its scenic forests and valleys that change with the seasons, Umbria has been dubbed Italy's "green heart."
The Etruscans, Romans, feuding medieval families, and Renaissance artists left a footmark, from Orvieto's big Gothic cathedral to Assisi's fresco-clad basilica. Nature has had its share, too. There are lovely forests with green hills and gentle rivers and lush forests.
With very active tourism opportunities, Umbria is one of Italy's most rewarding regions. Travelers can hike and trek, mountain bike, free climb, caving, paraglide, and even canyone through the region.
If you love delicious food, Umbria is the place for you, from black truffles to excellent ham, from delicate vegetables to great cheese and unique wines.