Car Rental in Perugia

Why rent a car in Perugia?

Perugia is a great travel destination. The capital of the Umbria region and home to unique traditions and celebrations, it has a wealth of ancient sites, interesting architecture, and classy museums. The city’s medieval center has a special, mysterious atmosphere, and so do the underground tunnels under it which are accessible to tourists. After visiting Perugia, you can travel around the rest of Umbria; with a rental car, even Florence and Rome are easily within your reach.

Top ways to enter Perugia

• Perugia Airport: A small international airport with many names - it is also known as San Francesco d'Assisi, Umbria Airport, and Sant’Egidio Airport - it handled nearly 300,000 travelers in 2018. The airport is served by five airlines, including low-cost carriers Lauda and Transavia. In addition to domestic flights, the airport also provides connections with Austria, Albania, Malta, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Located just 13 km (8.1 miles) southeast of the city center, Perugia Airport can be reached in about 20 minutes.
• Ancona Airport: Serving the neighboring region, Ancona-Marche-Falconara Airport handles about 500,000 travelers every year. Served by some low-cost airlines, the airport offers a number of connections with Germany and the United Kingdom. Located near the Adriatic coast, the airport is 115 km (71 miles) northeast of Perugia and can be reached in about 90 minutes.
• Florence Airport: Serving the beautiful capital of Tuscany, Florence-Amerigo Vespucci Airport handles about 2.5 million travelers every year. The airport has flights by around 15 different airlines and is a focus city for Spanish low-cost company Vueling. Located 170 km (105 miles) northwest of Perugia, Florence Airport takes about two hours to reach.
• Rome Fiumicino Airport: The busiest in the country and also known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport, it handled almost 43 million travelers in 2018. The airport is a hub for the national carrier Alitalia and a focus city for a number of other airlines including Norwegian Air and Blue Panorama Airlines. Rome Fiumicino Airport is exactly 200 km (125 miles) southwest of Perugia and takes some 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach.
• Rome Ciampino Airport: The other airport serving the Italian capital is much smaller than Fiumicino Airport, but is often much cheaper to fly to and from. As of November 2019, it is only served by two airlines, the low-cost carriers Ryanair and Wizz Air; they offer flights to and from France, Greece, Hungary, Morocco, and other destinations all over Europe, in North Africa and the Middle East. Located just south of Rome, Ciampino Airport is 185 km (115 miles) from Perugia and can be reached in 2 hours and 15 minutes.

City facts

• Perugia has a humid subtropical climate with very warm summers and cool winters. The average high temperature is 30°C  (86°F) in July and August, the warmest months, and 9°C (48°F) in January, the coldest. Precipitation is at its lowest during the summer months and increases from September to November. Snowfall is rare in Perugia but occurs in the hillier areas near the city.
• A sophisticated city, Perugia has its fair share of interesting museums. The highlight among them is the Academy of Fine Arts which hosts artworks by Michelangelo and other classical Italian masters. Other interesting places to visit are the Chapel of San Severo which has a fresco made by Raphael, the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria, and the National Gallery of Umbria. You can buy the Perugia City Museum Card which covers most of the museums and also some historic sites (you can visit five museums or sites with one card).
• Perugia is known for its chocolate industry and hosts the annual Eurochocolate festival, which attracts chocolate lovers from all over the world.
• The city is also home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Perugia, which was founded in 1308 and is still in operation today.

Top sights and activities

• Perugia Cathedral. The first stone of the impressive Catholic cathedral was laid in 1345 and it took almost 150 years to finish. Built in the Gothic style, it is one of the most beautiful and unusual churches in Central Italy. Although the cathedral continues to fulfill its original function, it is also open to visitors and is one of the main tourist attractions in the city. You can also visit the adjoining Cathedral Museum.
• Fontana Maggiore. One of the most impressive in all of Italy, the Large Fountain is one of the symbols of Perugia. Built in the 13th century, it features scenes of Ancient Roman life, the Bible, and other motives that history lovers will recognize. The fountain, located near the Perugia Cathedral, is also decorated with a number of impressive sculptures.
• Etruscan Well. Before the time of the Romans, Italy was ruled by the Etruscan civilization. Little is known of this early group due to a lack of written records, but many of their buildings and other structures survive to this day. In Perugia, the most impressive example is the Etruscan well, an impressive structure that’s more than 2,300 years old.
• Academy of Fine Arts. With a special focus on the medium of sculpture, Perugia’s main art museum is a great place to visit. The dates the artworks on display were created span millennia and include the Ancient Rome era, as well as the medieval and Renaissance periods. Two statues made by Michelangelo can also be seen here.
• Palazzo dei Priori. Built in the 13th century, Palazzo dei Priori is an iconic symbol of Perugia's medieval past. It is one of the best-preserved medieval town halls in all of Italy and has served as the seat of the city government for over seven centuries. The palace is also home to the National Gallery of Umbria, which houses a rich collection of Umbrian art from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period.
• Basilica of San Domenico. The Basilica of San Domenico is an impressive church that was built in the 14th century in the Gothic style. The church is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescoes, sculptures, and other works of art. The basilica is also home to the tomb of the saint after whom it is named.
• Rocca Paolina. Rocca Paolina is a fortress that was built in the 16th century by Pope Paul III as a symbol of his power over Perugia. The fortress was constructed on top of a pre-existing neighborhood, which was completely destroyed to make way for the fortress. Today, visitors can explore the underground tunnels and rooms that were once part of the neighborhood, as well as the medieval walls and towers of the fortress.

Traffic and parking

• Italy drives on the right-hand side of the road.
• The speed limit in cities is 50 km/h, although in certain areas the speed limit may be reduced to 30 km/h. 
• Main highways are limited to 130 km/h, non-major highways to 110 km/h, and local roads to 90 km/h. During the rain, the limits are respectively lowered to 110 km/h, 100 km/h, and 80 km/h. The general speed limit is lowered to 50 km/h during heavy fog or other cases of bad visibility.
• Most cars are not allowed to enter Perugia’s historic center or Centro Storico - you will only be let in if you have a confirmation of a booked hotel room inside the area. Even if you do get inside, be careful where to park as many areas are only available to local inhabitants. Ask your hotel in advance about driving your rental car inside the Perugia historic city center.
• Even outside the city center, Perugia has a large number of cobblestone streets - make sure to drive at a reduced speed and plan extra time for getting somewhere in the city (or outside it) if you need to get somewhere at a specific time. 
• Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation needs to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
• When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
• The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.00% for novice drivers. Being over the allowed limit can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment. 
• The emergency number, like elsewhere in the EU, is 112.

Toll roads

There are numerous toll roads in Italy. The exact toll depends on your choice of route and type of vehicle. See the official Italian toll road website for more information. Use the website’s toll calculator to find out exactly how much you’ll have to pay for using the toll roads on your planned route.

Ideas for day trips

• Assisi. The birthplace of St. Francis (not the current pope, but the 13th-century preacher), Assisi is all about religious history. Important attractions include St. Francis of Assisi Basilica, San Rufino Cathedral, and the Assisi Diocesan Museum. But there’s even more to enjoy here, including the impressive Rocca Maggiore castle, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, and a number of wineries surrounding the city. Located just 24 km (15 miles) east of Perugia, Assisi can be reached in about 30 minutes.
• Gubbio. A small place of just 30,000 inhabitants, Gubbio is known as one of the most impressive medieval towns in the country. Gubbio is home to a number of impressive old palaces, a cathedral, and a basilica. The Civic Museum of Gubbio houses a number of interesting artworks and artifacts, including ancient tablets written in the now-extinct Umbrian language. Located 52 km (32 miles) northeast of Perugia, Gubbio takes some 45 minutes to reach.
• Sibillini Mountains. Historically known for many legends and myths, the Sibylline range is nowadays a national park. Characterized by snow-capped peaks, plateaus, and long valleys, the area is known for its biodiversity, especially when it comes to birds of prey. The drive from Perugia takes only about an hour and 20 minutes.
• Florence. The capital city of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence (or Firenze, as it is known in Italian) is home to many impressive landmarks. Highlights include the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Tower, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Palazzo Vecchio, though it would be impossible to list them all. If you ever get overwhelmed by all the artistic beauty, travel outside the city to enjoy the idyllic Tuscan countryside. Located 149 km (92 miles) northwest of Perugia, Florence can be reached in just under two hours.
• Cortona. Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Val di Chiana, Cortona is a beautiful town with plenty of history and charm. Its medieval walls are still largely intact, and visitors can explore a number of ancient churches and museums, including the Diocesan Museum of Cortona and the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca. The town is also known for its stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through its narrow streets, stopping to enjoy the local cuisine and wine. Located 56 km (35 miles) southeast of Perugia, Cortona can be reached in just under an hour.
• Lake Trasimeno. One of the largest lakes in Italy, Lake Trasimeno is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can swim, fish, kayak, or sail on the lake's crystal-clear waters, or take a hike through the surrounding hills and valleys. There are also a number of picturesque towns around the lake that are worth exploring, including Castiglione del Lago, Passignano sul Trasimeno, and Tuoro sul Trasimeno. Located just 28 km (17 miles) west of Perugia, Lake Trasimeno can be reached in about 40 minutes.
• Spello. Located on the slopes of Mount Subasio, Spello is a charming town with plenty of history and character. Visitors can explore its medieval walls and gates, as well as a number of ancient churches and museums, including the Museo Civico di San Francesco and the Pinacoteca Comunale. The town is also known for its beautiful flower displays, with residents decorating the streets and balconies with colorful blooms throughout the year. Located 34 km (21 miles) southeast of Perugia, Spello can be reached in about 40 minutes.
• Terni. Located about an hour’s drive south, Terni is the second city of Umbria. Even more steeped in mystery than Perugia, it gets a fraction of the number of tourists of the region’s capital, but those few who do venture here can marvel at the frescoes of the Palazzo Spada or the city hall, visit the Caos Museum (a former methanol factory now turned into a gallery of Renaissance art), or visit the Marmor Cascade, artificial waterfalls built by the Ancient Romans.

Most popular cars

The most popular rental car in Perugia is the Fiat 500, although many travelers also go for the Peugeot 208 and the Fiat Panda. The most popular rental car types are compact, mini, and economy.

Further destinations

• Marche. Italy has so many world-famous sites and attractions both in the north (Milan and Florence) and the south (Rome and Naples) that Central Italy sometimes gets overlooked by international travelers. This is true for Umbria and even more so for its eastern neighbor, Marche. Nonetheless, there is plenty to enjoy in this picturesque region, including impressive Adriatic beaches, unique cuisine, and beautiful little towns. Ancona, the region’s capital, is 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Perugia and can be reached in just 1 hour and 40 minutes.
• San Marino. Also known by its full name, the Most Serene Republic of San Marino, this tiny country is completely surrounded by Italy. Claiming to be the world’s oldest republic, it has its fair share of interesting attractions, including impressive old towers, one of the world’s smallest capital cities which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the scenic titan mountain or Monte Titano. A tranquil destination that’s definitely worth a visit, San Marino is 166 km (103 miles) northeast of Perugia and can be reached in 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Molise. One of the smallest Italian regions, Molise is also among the least visited - some internet pranksters have even referred to it as ‘Molisn’t’. It is up to you to decide whether that is a good or a bad thing, but if you’re in the former camp, you’re going to be richly rewarded with a picturesque and laidback land not overrun by tourists and steeped in ancient temples and amphitheaters, Adriatic beaches, and rugged natural beauty. A car trip from Perugia to the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park, a vast and picturesque nature preserve shared by the three Italian regions, is a three-hour drive from Perugia.
• Rome. With countless historic sites spanning nearly 3,000 years, the Eternal city can be explored for days, if not weeks. But there’s more to the Italian capital than just history - it is also home to a great contemporary art scene, colorful neighborhoods, and, of course, amazing restaurants. The city is huge and its energy can feel overwhelming, but if you give it a chance, it is most likely going to charm you. Located 170 km (105 miles) southwest of Perugia, Rome can be reached in just over two hours.
• Naples. Distinct in dialect, tradition, and culture, the south of Italy might sometimes feel like a world away from the north, but Naples, the region’s largest city, is only a four-hour drive from Perugia. Known for its huge (and hugely impressive) historical center and delicious cuisine, as well as proximity to sites like Pompeii and some of Italy’s most idyllic islands, it is a place that’s simply not to be missed.
• Venice. One of the most romantic and unique cities in the world, Venice is built on water and is known for its canals, bridges, and stunning architecture. Highlights include St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge, but the best way to truly experience the city is by simply getting lost in its narrow streets and alleyways. Venice is located 300 km (186 miles) northeast of Perugia and can be reached in just under 4 hours by car.
• Amalfi Coast. If you're looking for some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dotted with charming villages, colorful buildings, and picturesque beaches. Highlights include the town of Amalfi itself, the cliffside village of Positano, and the dramatic fjord of Furore. Located 370 km (230 miles) south of Perugia, the Amalfi Coast is a bit of a longer journey, taking around 4.5 hours by car, but the stunning views and charming towns make it well worth the trip.
• Urbino. Located in the Marche region, Urbino is a small town that is often overlooked by tourists, but it has a lot to offer. It is home to the famous Palazzo Ducale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important monuments of the Italian Renaissance. Urbino is also known for its university, which was founded in 1506 and is still one of the oldest universities in Italy. The town has a quiet and relaxed atmosphere, and wandering through its narrow streets is a great way to soak up the local culture.
• Matera. Located in the region of Basilicata, Matera is a unique city that is known for its ancient Sassi, a complex of cave dwellings that date back to prehistoric times. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2019. It is a great destination for those who want to experience a more authentic side of Italy, and to explore a lesser-known but fascinating part of the country.

Car rental prices in Perugia

• Small cars - from €36 per day
• Medium cars - from €44 per day
• SUVs - from €53 per day
• Large cars - from €44 per day
• Station wagons - from €58 per day
• Vans - from €55 per day
• Premium cars - from €85 per day

Money-saving and other tips

Try these simple tips to increase your chances of landing a good rental car in Perugia:

• Compare the rates of different rental car providers
• Book your rental car well in advance
• Plan your route before you go
• Know your fuel and mileage requirements
• Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Perugia is the cheapest in February when renting a car is about 71% cheaper than the yearly average.