Discover Gubbio and step into this enchanting town, where centuries-old stories and medieval charm come to life. From the ancient Roman Theatre to the mysterious Eugubine Tablets, this day trip is a journey through history, culture, and delicious Italian flavours.
Approaching from the south, you’ll catch your first breathtaking glimpse of Gubbio, nestled against the slopes of Monte Igino. Park your car near the Roman Theatre—this is where your adventure begins, best explored on foot.
The Roman theatre and a perfect coffee break
Built in the 1st century BC, the Roman Theatre stands in a lush green area and still hosts free summer festivals featuring music, dance, and theatre. If you’re in need of a morning coffee, Caffè del Teatro is the perfect spot for a cappuccino and a cornetto.
Cross Via del Teatro Romano and take the metal footbridge near Ristorante Pizzeria All’Antico Frantoio to reach the historic center. Strolling along Via Cavour, you’ll arrive at Piazza Quaranta Martiri, the heart of the lower town.
Entering the old town
One of the highlights here is the Chiesa di San Francesco. According to legend, Saint Francis of Assisi tamed a ferocious wolf that had been terrorising the region. In exchange for food and care from the townspeople, the wolf promised to live peacefully among them. Today, a statue of Saint Francis and the wolf stands in front of the church, which also houses beautiful 13th-century frescoes depicting the life of Mary and Saint Francis.
On the other side of the square, you’ll find the Logge dei Tiratori, where medieval weavers once hung their fabrics to dry. Today, the loggia hosts colourful flower stalls on market days (Tuesdays). Looking for tourist information? Stop by I Like Gubbio at Via della Repubblica 15. And if you’re craving gelato, La Gelateria at number 21 is a must!
A scenic ride to the Basilica di San Ubaldo
Continue your walk by turning right onto Corso Garibaldi. At the end of the street, behind the Chiesa di Sant’Agostino, hop on the Funivia Colle Eletto—a unique open-air cable car that carries you up to the Basilica di San Ubaldo. The ride is an experience in itself: you’ll stand in a small cage-like cabin that glides up the mountainside in just six minutes.
At the top (800 meters above sea level), take a break at Bar Ristorante La Cia, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view over Gubbio. Inside the basilica, you’ll find the remains of Saint Ubaldo, the town’s patron saint, alongside the famous wooden candelabras used in the Corsa dei Ceri, Gubbio’s annual festival on May 15th.
The walk down and more historical gems
Make your way back to the town via a scenic and well-maintained path with about ten hairpin bends. Back in the center, stop by the Duomo (Cathedral of Gubbio), facing the Palazzo Ducale. From the palace’s inner courtyard, you’ll get another stunning view over the town.
Wander through Via Galeotti, a romantic, fully covered medieval street, and pass under an ancient archway to reach Piazza Grande—a grand terrace overlooking the city. This is home to the Palazzo Pretorio (Town Hall) and the Palazzo dei Consoli, which houses the Eugubine Tablets—seven bronze plates inscribed with an ancient and mysterious script. These tablets provide invaluable insights into the historical, religious, and political life of early Gubbio.
A stroll through Gubbio’s most picturesque streets
Descend from Piazza Grande via Via dei Consoli, one of the most charming streets in Gubbio, lined with ceramic and antique shops. You’ll arrive at a small square featuring the Fontana del Bargello, also known as the Fountain of the Madmen.
Don’t miss Via Baldassini, where you’ll spot several 13th-century houses featuring a porta del morto (door of the dead). According to superstition, the deceased could not leave through the main entrance, so a separate door was built for this purpose.
The perfect end to your day
Wrap up your day with a drink at Piazza Bruno or Piazza Bosone. If you’re hungry, Osteria del Re on Piazza Bosone is an excellent choice, especially for their delicious Piattone del Re.
For a more refined, vegetarian-friendly option, head to Orto on Via Cavour.
Need a quick bite? Try Gubbio’s local specialty, crescia—a delicious flatbread filled with cheese, cured meats, or grilled vegetables. A great spot to try it is La Crescia Mia on Via Cavour.
Useful information
- Parking: Parcheggio Teatro Romano (Viale Teatro Romano)
- Tourist Information Center: Open daily from 9 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 6 PM
- Funivia Colle Eletto: Check the latest opening hours here: Funivia Gubbio
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