Nestled in the “green heart of Italy”, pink-stoned Spello has somehow eluded the spotlight over the years despite its picturesque location and rich history. Its better-known neighbours, Assisi and Spoleto, tend to lure the crowds. Even then, those crowds are minimal compared to Tuscany’s hotspots.
Umbria, by contrast, remains authentically rustic and off the beaten path. This beautiful region is punctuated with beautifully preserved medieval towns, and Spello is one of the most enchanting.
Perched on the lofty slopes of Monte Subasio, this flower-filled village boasts a slower, deeply local way of life. Its narrow streets and rustic restaurants invite you to linger, eat well and amble at whim. Whether you’re stopping by on a day trip or settling in for a few nights, here’s how to experience the magic of Spello for the first time.
What to see in Spello: Churches, Piazzas and Paintings
It’s no wonder Spello is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. The narrow streets invite you to potter and slow down, flanked by flower-filled balconies that perfume the air. Start your day off with a slow amble around the town’s pink- and cream-hued stone buildings, where traces of its Roman past remain.
Indeed, Spello was at its peak during Roman times and declined after the fall of the Empire. After centuries of turbulent conquests and invasions, it stands proud as a hilly, limestone relic from Umbria’s layered past. See for yourself by wandering over to the Porta Venere (Venus Gate), one of the six Roman gates built in Hispellum (Spello’s ancient Roman name). The Torri di Properzio towers are also most likely of Roman origin, but were rebuilt in the 12th century.
Along the way, you’ll stumble upon the Santa Maria Maggiore, a 12th-century church covered in frescoes and restored paintings. Stop and pause to marvel at Pinturicchio’s immersive and engaging frescoes in the Baglioni Chapel, originally completed in 1501.
Then make your way towards the centre, where the Gothic church of Sant’Andrea rises gracefully above, with its pointed arches. San Lorenzo offers a striking contrast: a Baroque church adorned with elegant stucco, gilded details and a sense of grandeur that reflects a later era in Spello’s architectural story.
To elevate the experience, our award-winning Concierge can arrange private walking tours, access to the towers and other unique local experiences around Spello’s beautiful churches and labyrinthine streets.
What to do in Spello
If there’s one thing to do in Spello, it’s the annual Infiorata – a lively flower festival loved by locals and visitors alike. If you find yourself around the area in June, the entire town is carpeted in flowers for the Corpus Domini, a religious feast that occurs in the late spring.
Elaborate floral displays mark the occasion, constructed by some 2,000 volunteers all through the night. The next day, you’ll wake up to an alfresco art gallery, perfumed with thousands of flowers.
If you’re visiting Spello before or after the Infiorata, we recommend visiting the Rocca fortress, where remnants of the town’s past remain visible. From here, you can wander narrow, winding alleyways, explore quiet street corners lined with boutique shops, intimate wine bars and family-run taverns.
Just beyond the Rocca, there’s a tough but brilliant walking trail. Speak to our local concierge for more information and where to stop for the best views.
Where to Eat in Spello
Umbrian cuisine is based on simplicity, highlighting seasonal ingredients and homegrown produce. If you are on the search for authentic Umbrian cuisine, Spello’s farm-to-table dining is a good place to start.
Towards Piazza della Repubblica square, Il Pinturicchio serves hearty plates of pasta and homemade ravioli alongside an extensive wine list. La Locanda del Postiglione is another top recommendation, offering regional classics in an elegant setting.
Located in the heart of Spello, the atmospheric Orlando Furioso offers unobstructed views of the town’s mediaeval walls, where you’ll find a traditional Umbrian menu or pizza.
If you’re staying in one of our private villas near Spello, our concierge can assist with restaurant reservations and help you secure a table at Spello’s most charming trattorias. Discover our villas in Umbria here.
FAQs
Where is Umbria and how do I get to Spello?
Affectionately known as the “green heart of Italy”, Umbria is the only Italian region that borders neither the sea nor another country. It sits under Tuscany in central Italy, with Le Marche to the east and Lazio to the south.
The main airport in Umbria is Perugia (PEG), and Spello is just a 30-minute drive away. Rail travel in this area is just as swift: from Foligno, you can easily hop on a 5-minute local train to Spello, while Spoleto is only 30 minutes away by train.
If you’d like to explore the surrounding area and countryside, hiring a car is the best way to do so. From many of our villas near Orvieto and Todi villas, you can easily reach Spello by car.
How much time should I spend in Spello?
Spello is perfect for a day trip from Umbria’s capital, Perugia, or many of the region’s other small towns. If you’d like to take your time and really get to know its layered history, a short weekend trip should suffice. This gives you time to slow down and embrace the town’s simple pleasures.
Is Spello good for families?
Spello is a charming, walkable town filled with gelato pit-stops and child-friendly activities without the crowds. Just be mindful of the town’s meandering medieval streets and steep stairways.
Contact our Villa Specialists
Spello’s flower-lined streets are calling this spring and summer. From the moment you book, you'll enjoy access to our award-winning Concierge Service. Let our Villa Specialists find a luxury villa near Spello in Umbria that matches your exact requirements.