GemmaUmbria is often called the “green heart of Italy,” and for good reason. Rolling hills, medieval towns perched on hillsides, and winding cobbled streets make it a paradise for photographers and travelers alike. From my own personal experience, nothing compares to the feeling of standing on a hilltop in Umbria, camera in hand, watching the sunlight play across centuries-old stone buildings and golden fields. If you love photography and beautiful, authentic Italian villages, this guide will take you to 15 hilltop towns that you absolutely cannot miss.
1. Assisi
Assisi is famous worldwide as the birthplace of St. Francis, but it’s also a dream location for photographers. The Basilica of San Francesco dominates the skyline with its intricate frescoes and medieval architecture. Wander through narrow streets lined with pink and ochre buildings, and you’ll find hidden squares perfect for capturing candid shots of daily life. The panoramic view of the valley from Rocca Maggiore is simply stunning during sunrise or sunset.
Must do: Explore the Roman amphitheater on the outskirts of town, and don’t miss photographing the Basilica from the main square as golden hour hits.
2. Spello
Spello is a jewel with flowers spilling from every window. Its cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and small piazzas create endless photo opportunities. From my overall experience, visiting during the Infiorata flower festival adds an extra layer of color, making it a paradise for vibrant shots.
Must do: Climb the town walls for a sweeping view of the Umbrian valley below. Capture the play of light and shadow along its steep, narrow streets.
3. Bevagna
A quieter town, Bevagna feels like stepping back in time. Its medieval layout is remarkably intact, offering photographers an authentic glimpse of Umbria’s past. The main square, Piazza Silvestri, is surrounded by palazzos and quaint cafes, perfect for capturing both architecture and local life.
Must do: Time your visit to coincide with the Mercato delle Gaite festival for colorful reenactments of medieval life.
4. Montefalco
Montefalco is famous for its wines, particularly Sagrantino, and its hilltop position gives panoramic views of vineyards stretching to the horizon. The terracotta rooftops and fortified walls make every frame picturesque. Walking along the town’s main streets, you’ll find charming churches and hidden corners perfect for intimate photography.
Must do: Visit the Museo di San Francesco to photograph detailed frescoes. Sunset shots from the town walls are unforgettable.
5. Spoleto
Spoleto is a hilltop town with dramatic medieval architecture. Its Ponte delle Torri, a striking aqueduct, and the Rocca Albornoziana fortress dominate the skyline. From my own personal experience, the best photography spots are near the fortress walls, where you can capture both the town and the valley below.
Must do: Attend the Festival dei Due Mondi if possible; it brings lively performances that add movement and color to your photos.
6. Orvieto
Orvieto stands on a volcanic tuff cliff, giving it a unique profile visible from miles away. The cathedral, Duomo di Orvieto, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, perfect for capturing detailed stonework. Streets twist and turn, offering photographers hidden alleys, staircases, and charming piazzas at every corner.
Must do: Take the funicular from the valley to the town for a dramatic arrival and panoramic shots.
7. Todi
Todi is an understated gem. Its medieval center is compact but packed with beauty. Narrow lanes lead to tranquil squares, and the views of the Tiber valley are breathtaking. Based on my overall experience, visiting Todi early in the morning allows you to capture empty streets bathed in soft light, ideal for mood-filled photos.
Must do: Visit Piazza del Popolo for classic Umbrian architecture and street photography.
8. Gubbio
Gubbio is a hilltop town full of history, with its medieval palaces, Roman ruins, and winding streets. The Festival of Ceri, held every May, is a photographer’s dream, full of color, movement, and tradition. The town also offers incredible vantage points from its higher streets.
Must do: Take the funicular to the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo for sweeping shots of the town and surrounding hills.
9. Spello
Spello deserves a second mention for photography lovers who crave floral beauty. Its labyrinthine streets and decorated doorways make it endlessly photogenic, especially during spring when flowers are in full bloom.
Must do: Explore the small artisan shops tucked into narrow streets for candid lifestyle shots.
10. Paciano
Paciano is a small, charming village that feels almost untouched by time. Its hilltop position gives sweeping views of Lake Trasimeno. Cobblestone streets, stone houses, and old fountains create a perfect backdrop for photography.
Must do: Capture early morning mist over the lake from Paciano’s elevated streets. The soft, diffused light adds magical depth to your shots.
11. Monte Castello di Vibio
Monte Castello di Vibio is one of the smallest hilltop towns in Italy, but its charm is immense. Its narrow streets and tiny piazzas are ideal for intimate photography. Don’t miss the Teatro della Concordia, the world’s smallest theater, for a unique subject.
Must do: Take sunset photos from the town’s edge for breathtaking views over the Umbrian hills.
12. Trevi
Trevi is famous for its olive oil and ancient stone streets. Its hilltop location offers panoramic views over olive groves and valleys. From my own personal experience, the town’s medieval architecture combined with surrounding greenery creates perfect frames for landscape and urban photography alike.
Must do: Walk the Via Cavour, lined with palaces and quaint shops, to capture timeless street scenes.
13. Città della Pieve
This town is known for its Renaissance architecture and charming streets. Hilltop positioning allows for scenic shots of the countryside. You’ll find colorful doorways, quaint balconies, and historic churches perfect for detailed close-ups.
Must do: Visit the Piazza Grande for wide-angle shots that include both architecture and town life.
14. Norcia
Norcia combines history, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes. Surrounded by the Sibillini Mountains, the town offers dramatic backdrops for photography. Narrow streets, old monasteries, and bustling markets add variety to your photo collection.
Must do: Explore the local markets and photograph traditional Umbrian food—it’s colorful and rich in texture.
15. Castiglione del Lago
Castiglione del Lago sits on the shores of Lake Trasimeno, providing a mix of lake views and medieval architecture. The town’s fortress and old walls are perfect for capturing both wide landscapes and detailed architecture shots.
Must do: Shoot the lake at sunrise or sunset, and capture reflections of the town on calm water for dramatic effect.
Tips for Photography in Umbrian Hilltop Villages
- Golden hour is your best friend: Early morning and late afternoon light brings warmth and soft shadows to streets and landscapes.
- Focus on details: Cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and weathered doors make every photo more authentic.
- Include locals and lifestyle: Market days, festivals, and simple street scenes add life and context to your photos.
- Explore off the main streets: The best shots often come from alleyways and quiet corners.
- Bring a variety of lenses: Wide-angle lenses for landscapes, zoom lenses for distant details, and macro for intricate architectural or floral shots.
Exploring Umbria’s hilltop villages is not just about photography—it’s about experiencing the rhythm of small-town life, discovering hidden corners, and capturing moments that tell a story. From my own personal experience, each village offers something unique, whether it’s the vibrant flowers of Spello, the panoramic vineyards of Montefalco, or the dramatic cliffs of Orvieto. Every frame you capture becomes a memory of a place that feels timeless, authentic, and deeply inspiring.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.