Lake Trasimeno - Umbria's "Sea"
The region of Umbria in central Italy is the heart of the nation and the only region in the country without access to the sea! But that doesn't mean you have to do without water here. The inviting Lake Trasimeno offers water recreation, beautiful nature and three islands that are worth visiting near the capital Perugia.
Interesting facts about the "Sea of Umbria
Amidst green hills, the lake, which is just 20 km from the capital Perugia, extends over an area of around 128 square kilometres. Since 2006, it has been part of the international “Living Lakes” network, which works worldwide to protect the ecosystems of lakes, rivers and wetlands.
At the 18 designated beaches on Lake Trasimeno, the quality of the water is checked regularly from April to September under EC standards. The lake is also very popular with campers and there are some very nice camping facilities around the lake.
Castiglione del Lago is located on a peninsula to the west of Lake Trasimeno and is home to a charming old town. The palace of the Dukes della Corgna and the high fortification wall characterise the medieval centre. Not only are the beautiful Renaissance frescoes worth seeing, but the fortress also offers a fantastic view over the lake! Along the beautiful promenade below the palazzo, you can reach the bathing facilities of the town.
The second town on Lake Trasimeno is Passignano sul Trasimeno. For centuries, it has connected the neighbouring region of Tuscany with Umbria and profits mostly from lake tourism. The pretty old town is situated a little higher up and offers a fantastic view. In 1917, the first Italian school for seaplane captains was founded here.
The small fishing museum in tranquil San Feliciano introduces one about the history of fishing on Lake Trasimeno since the 16th century and is also worth a visit.
The three islands of Lake Trasimeno
The Isola Maggiore is the island that is most worth seeing and the only still inhabited island. It can be reached from Tuoro after a ten-minute crossing. In the sleepy fishing village at the landing stage, men mend their fishing nets and women make elaborate lace work, which they sell in a small pavilion.
In the “Casa del Capitano” you can learn more about the history of the island. The convent church “San Francesco” dates from the 14th century and was integrated into the Isabella Castle in 1890, which is not accessible. On the eastern shore, there is a bronze statue of Francis of Assisi, who visited the island in 1211.
Isola Polvese has been uninhabited for a long time and, at just under 70 ha, is the largest island. From the landing stage, you can walk along the castle ruins with the church of San Giuliano and the remains of the walls of the monastery of San Secondo. Afterwards, you can enjoy a refreshing swim at the approximately 100 m-long Spaggia. The small Isola Minore is privately owned and not open to visitors.
Booking and information
Have we aroused your interest? Experience the region of Umbria first-hand on a sightseeing tour for groups! We will be happy to make you an individual offer for your group tour to Italy. You can contact us via our contact form or by calling +49 611 945879-42. We look forward to hearing from you!
A Journey Through Italy's Green Heart.
Lake Trasimeno - Umbria's "Sea"
Holy City of Assisi
Geographical Location
Landscapes of Umbria
Orvieto & Narni
Beautiful towns and villages
Provinces & Capitals
