Rome to Perugia: 6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary
Saturday, September 9: Arrival in Rome
Welcome to Rome! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Colosseum in the morning. Immerse yourself in ancient history and marvel at the grandeur of this ancient amphitheater. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of Trastevere, known for its narrow alleys and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at a local trattoria. For the evening, head to Piazza Navona, a beautiful square with fountains and street artists.
For breakfast, try Caffè Sant'Eustachio, a popular café known for its rich coffee and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 5-10 euros per person.
For lunch, visit Pizzarium Bonci, a local pizzeria offering a variety of mouthwatering pizza slices. Average cost for a meal is about 8-12 euros per person.
For dinner, dine at Da Enzo al 29, a cozy trattoria serving authentic Roman cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 15-25 euros per person.
Sunday, September 10: Rome
Start your day at Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Explore the awe-inspiring art and architecture of these magnificent sites. In the afternoon, visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to immerse yourself in ancient Roman history. End your evening with a leisurely walk around the beautiful Trevi Fountain, and don't forget to toss a coin for good luck!
Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Estimated cost - €12 ($15), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Trevi Fountain: Free, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and a variety of delicious Italian coffee options. Average cost for a meal is about €8 per person.
For lunch, try Trapizzino. This casual eatery offers unique triangular-shaped sandwiches filled with authentic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and marinated artichokes. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For dinner, visit La Carbonara di Monti. Indulge in traditional Roman cuisine, including their signature carbonara pasta, prepared with the finest ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
Monday, September 11: Rome to Perugia
Take a morning train from Rome to Perugia. Once in Perugia, start your day with a visit to the stunning Perugia Cathedral. Explore the historic center, known for its medieval architecture and charming streets. In the afternoon, you can visit the Rocca Paolina, a fortress with underground tunnels. Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at one of the local trattorias in the city.
Perugia Cathedral: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Rocca Paolina: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Caffè Morlacchi, a charming café known for its delicious pastries and coffee. Average cost for a meal here is about 5 euros per person.
For lunch, visit Osteria a Priori, a cozy restaurant offering traditional Umbrian cuisine. Their lunch menu features various pasta dishes and local specialties. Average cost for a meal here is about 12 euros per person.
For dinner, La Taverna, located in the heart of Perugia, is a great choice. This family-run trattoria serves authentic Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal here is about 20 euros per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Perugia
Spend your morning at the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria, an art museum showcasing incredible Italian artworks. Explore the historic center of Perugia, including the famous Piazza IV Novembre with its beautiful Fontana Maggiore. In the afternoon, take a stroll along Corso Vannucci, the main street lined with shops and cafes. Enjoy the panoramic views from the city walls and end your day with a visit to the Oratorio di San Bernardino.
Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria: Estimated cost - €8 ($10), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Piazza IV Novembre: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Corso Vannucci: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Oratorio di San Bernardino: Estimated cost - €5 ($6), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bar del Fico, known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Trattoria del Gusto, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Umbrian cuisine such as handmade pasta and savory roasted meats. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, enjoy a memorable dining experience at Osteria a Priori, offering a fusion of Italian and international flavors using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Wednesday, September 13: Perugia and Assisi
Take a day trip to the beautiful town of Assisi, known for its connection to St. Francis. Visit the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and explore the charming streets filled with medieval architecture. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this spiritual town. In the afternoon, return to Perugia and spend some time relaxing at the Parco della Resistenza, a scenic park with stunning views of the city.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Parco della Resistenza: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, visit Caffè Astoria, a charming café in Perugia known for its delicious pastries and traditional Italian coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €5 per person.
For lunch, try Trattoria dell'Osteria, a cozy restaurant in Assisi that offers authentic Umbrian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
For dinner, head to La Taverna del Gufo, a rustic trattoria in Perugia known for its homemade pasta dishes and local wine selection. Average cost for a meal is about €20 per person.
Thursday, September 14: Departure from Rome
Head back to Rome from Perugia and spend your last day exploring the neighborhoods of Trastevere and Monti. Discover hidden gems, local markets, and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere. Visit the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere and browse through the vintage shops in Monti. End your trip with a delicious gelato from one of the local gelaterias.
Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Monti Neighborhood: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Caffè Sant'Eustachio where you can savor a traditional Italian breakfast with a cup of their famous coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 5-7 euros per person.
Lunch: For a delicious lunch, head to Pinsere Roma and try their mouthwatering Roman-style pizza. With a variety of toppings to choose from, you'll be sure to find your favorite. Average cost for a meal is about 8-10 euros per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a memorable dinner at La Pergola, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering stunning views of Rome. Experience the finest Italian cuisine accompanied by an extensive wine list. Average cost for a meal is about 200-250 euros per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a budget-friendly experience, explore the Testaccio neighborhood in Rome, known for its local food market and authentic trattorias. Don't miss the chance to try the traditional Roman dish, "pasta alla carbonara." Another hidden gem is the Giardino Carducci, a peaceful park in the heart of Perugia, perfect for a relaxing afternoon picnic. Locals also love the Etruscan Arch in Perugia, an ancient Roman gate with fascinating historical significance.