Perugia: Entry Ticket and Guided Tour of Perugia Underground

Perugia: Entry Ticket and Guided Tour of Perugia Underground
Location: Umbria, Italy
Country: Italy
Rating: 4.7 (304 reviews)
Price: $14 per person
Duration: About 50 minutes (check availability for exact times)
Supplier: Secret Umbria

If you’re visiting Perugia and love uncovering layers of history, this guided underground tour is a fantastic way to go beneath the surface and see the city’s hidden past. For just $14, you get a 50-minute journey into the archaeological remains beneath the Saint Lawrence Cathedral, revealing Etruscan, Roman, and medieval structures that are up to 2,500 years old.

What we particularly enjoy about this tour is the chance to stand in a monumental complex that has seen centuries of change, and to do so with a knowledgeable guide who brings history to life. The tour’s small group setting and focus on authentic archaeological sites make it a valuable experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

One thing to bear in mind is that the route involves some stairs and uneven terrain, which might not suit those with mobility challenges or travelers using strollers. Also, since the tour is primarily in Italian with an English tablet for translation, some may find the pace a bit brisk or prefer a guide who speaks English directly.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history, archaeology, and exploring less touristy aspects of Italy. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic sites and doesn’t mind a bit of physical activity, you’ll find this underground adventure both rewarding and intriguing.

Key Points

• Unique Underground Sites: Explore the long-standing structures beneath Perugia, including Roman and Etruscan remains.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour brings historical context to life.
• Affordable Price: At $14, this tour offers excellent value comparing to other archaeological experiences.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with pay later options.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility difficulties or strollers due to stairs and uneven terrain.
• Multilingual Support: Tours are conducted in Italian with an English translation tablet, making it accessible for non-Italian speakers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Perugia Underground Guided Tour

What Makes This Tour Special?

Standing beneath the heart of Perugia, you’ll walk through a monumental complex that has existed for over two millennia. The experience unveils layers of history, from Etruscan foundations to Roman road remnants and medieval structures. It’s a rare chance to see the city’s hidden architecture away from the bustling surface streets.

Several reviews highlight how guides bring history alive. Laura, who rated the tour 5 stars, mentioned the “very knowledgeable, entertaining and friendly guide,” emphasizing how the guide made the history engaging. Others appreciated the virtual reality walk at the end, describing it as “amazing” and a highlight of the visit.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

Starting at the cloisters of Saint Lawrence Cathedral, the tour leads you 15 meters below the current city level, into the archaeological complex of Saint Lawrence Island. From here, you’ll explore various remains spanning centuries.

You might see remnants of Etruscan construction, evidence of Roman roads and housing, and medieval walls and structures. The guide will narrate stories of Perugia’s evolution, including notable events like the siege of Perugia and notable figures like Julius Caesar and Augustus.

While the route offers an engaging historical overview, some parts are a bit rushed, as noted by reviewers. Margaret pointed out that the tablet guide in English sometimes felt slow compared to the guide’s talk in Italian, which could make it tricky to keep up or take photos.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The underground site feels mysterious and profound. Walking through tunnels and open spaces, you get a sense of how multi-layered Perugia’s history truly is. The experience is enhanced by the virtual reality walk, which provides a simulated journey through ancient streets—something that many reviews find remarkably immersive.

The small group size fosters a more intimate and personal experience, letting you ask questions and get close to the ancient walls. The cost is very reasonable for such an immersive experience, and the guided narration adds depth that a self-guided visit couldn’t provide.

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Practical Details and Tips

The tour is about 50 minutes long, a perfect quick dive into the city’s underground. It begins in the Piazza IV Novembre, next to the bookstore Libreria delle Volte, and returns to the same spot at the end. It’s not suitable for babies in strollers or those with significant mobility issues, given the stairs and uneven surfaces.

You might want to bring a lightweight jacket or a garment to protect against the temperature change underground, which can be cooler than the surface. Since food and drinks are not allowed, plan to enjoy your meal after the tour.

What’s the Value?

For $14, you’re getting a comprehensive, well-guided exploration of Perugia’s underground archaeological treasures. Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and virtual reality feature as the tour’s best assets. Compared to other experiences, it’s a cost-effective way to add a meaningful layer to your visit, especially considering the small group size and personalized narration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers with a keen interest in history and archaeology will love the chance to see Etruscan, Roman, and medieval remains firsthand. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided storytelling and don’t mind walking on stairs. Also, those wanting an authentic experience of Perugia’s less touristy side will appreciate the underground setting.

If you’re traveling with children or people with mobility challenges, this might be a bit less suitable unless you’re prepared for some physical exertion. The virtual reality and interactive elements make it especially engaging for those eager for a multi-sensory history lesson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children who are comfortable with stairs and can handle an underground walk will enjoy the experience, especially the virtual reality feature.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 50 minutes, but check the schedule for specific starting times.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in Italian, with English translations provided via a tablet and headphones.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, due to stairs and uneven terrain, it’s not suitable for those with significant mobility difficulties or wheelchairs.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the cloister of Saint Lawrence Cathedral in Piazza IV Novembre and ends there as well.

Are food or drinks allowed during the tour?
No, food and drinks are not permitted in the underground areas.

What should I bring?
A light jacket or some clothing to stay comfortable in the cooler underground environment, and a camera if you want photos—though some reviews mention difficulty in taking pictures while managing the tablet.

Is the virtual reality experience worth it?
Absolutely, many reviewers find it remarkably immersive and a fun way to visualize Perugia’s ancient streets.

Is this tour good value for money?
Yes, considering the quality of guides, the fascinating sites, and the inclusion of the virtual reality walk, it’s a great deal for history enthusiasts.

In summary, this underground tour in Perugia offers a rare glimpse into the city’s underbelly—a must for anyone interested in Italy’s ancient civilizations. It combines solid storytelling, archaeological discovery, and modern virtual reality features to create a memorable experience. While it involves some physical activity and a language barrier for non-Italian speakers, the value and authenticity make it a worthwhile addition to your Perugia itinerary.

If you’re eager to see a lesser-known side of Italy’s history and enjoy guided storytelling, this tour delivers a layered, engaging, and affordable adventure beneath the city streets.

You can check availability for your dates here: