5 Villages to visit in Umbria this winter 

People often associate Umbria as a spring and summer destination, with its green, bushy landscapes,  but this region is equally enchanting across all four seasons. While the warmer months bring sunny walks, outdoor dining and poolside lounging, winter is when the small, hilltop towns come to life, adorned in Christmas decorations, traditional markets and local festivals - in fact, this region is home to the largest Christmas tree in the world. But beyond this festive flair, the local cuisine is a draw all its own, with hearty Umbrian dishes feeling just right as they’re savoured in cozy, fire-lit trattorias buzzing with lively local chatter. And then there’s the experiences, often within a blanket of snow (if you’re lucky) among untouched landscapes. So, which villages should you visit in Umbria this winter?

Spello

La Cantina di Spello

Castelluccio

Spello

Castelluccio

SPELLO

As the crisp winter air gently seeps through the narrow, flower-lined streets, Spello offers an enchanting atmosphere perfect for appreciating its architecture and cultural sites, minus the usual summer crowds. Visit churches like Santa Maria Maggiore, with Pinturicchio’s Renaissance frescoes, and explore the Roman mosaics at Villa dei Mosaici. The true, highlight is when you stumble upon the perfect balcony that overlooks the breathtaking countryside. After a morning of strolling around, stop by a local trattoria ( La Cantina di Spello is a favourite ) to sample traditional dishes infused with truffle.

CASTELLUCCIO DI NORCIA

This destination comes alive during Spring, for its blooming lentils that create a stunning multicolored carpet, but it’s equally beautiful in winter when the town is blanketed in snow and framed by the white peaks of the Sibylline Mountains. Winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing take advantage of trails that wind through pristine valleys, offering panoramic views of the Apennines. The crisp winter air sharpens the flavors of local specialties—lentils, truffles, and cured meats—served in cozy trattorias to warm visitors after a day outdoors.

TODI

Perched on a hilltop, this medieval town often finds itself wrapped in alight mist or touched by frost in the colder season. It’s the perfect time to bundle up and wander its winding streets, Romanesque churches, and the local Saturday market, where you’ll find crafts and regional delights. During Christmas, Todi lights up with various events and markets, including the Christmas Tree lighting on December 8th and, from the same date, the artisan market “NonSoloNatale” held throughout the month in the Sala Vetrata dei Portici Comunali. Here, stalls display inlaid wood items, knitted and crocheted creations, jewelry, candles, home decor, and more—ideal for last-minute holiday shopping.

Assisi

Assisi, Basilica Superiore

GUBBIO

Did you know that the world’s largest Christmas tree is here? From the small town of Gubbio, you can witness this spectacular display that lights up the slopes of Mount Ingino. This festive tradition, a celebrated since 1981, covers the mountain with thousands of colourful lights. In addition, among the snow-dusted rooftops, take a stroll through the historic centre, admiring the nativity scenes, ice skating and observing the winter market; rummage through local crafts and seasonal treats (perhaps picking up some panpepato along the way). For outdoor lovers, the surrounding Apennines offer beautiful winter hikes.

ASSISI

In Winter, Assisi, this significant destination for religious tours and pilgrimages, transforms into a spiritual wonderland. This medieval hilltop town becomes particularly moving during the Christmas season, when nativity displays and lights adorn the Basilica of Saint Francis and the town’s streets. In December brings warm holiday lights, artisanal markets, and festive events that celebrate both Christmas and Epiphany in the main square, Piazza del Comune. You can experience concerts and choral performances in historic churches, fully immersing in the holiday spirit—perhaps with a warming glass of vin brûlée in hand.

Do you also want to discover Umbria? Have a look at our holiday villas in Umbria here.