Piazza Quaranta Martiri
Gubbio, a remarkably preserved medieval gem in Umbria, captivates with its stone architecture, dramatic hilltop setting, and ancient traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the thrilling Festa dei Ceri
Piazza Quaranta Martiri
Best Time
Experience the thrilling Festa dei Ceri
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gubbio, a remarkably preserved medieval gem in Umbria, captivates with its stone architecture, dramatic hilltop setting, and ancient traditions.
"Gubbio is one of Italy's most enchanting medieval towns, untouched by time."
Embrace the 'Madman' Tradition
Circle the Fontana del Bargello 3 times and get splashed to officially become a 'madman' of Gubbio! :joy:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Gubbio's medieval streets are steep and cobblestoned. :athletic_shoe: You'll be doing a lot of walking!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Festa dei Ceri
Throughout Gubbio
Witness one of Italy's oldest and most thrilling folk traditions on May 15th, a spectacle of speed and devotion.
Fontana del Bargello (Fontana dei Matti)
Via dei Consoli
Join the fun by circling this fountain three times to earn your 'madman's license' – a quirky Gubbio tradition.
Piazza Grande & Palazzo dei Consoli
Gubbio historic center
Marvel at one of Italy's most scenic squares and explore the Civic Museum within the imposing Palazzo dei Consoli.
Funivia Colle Eletto
Monte Ingino
Take a panoramic cable car ride up Monte Ingino for breathtaking views and a visit to the Basilica of Sant'Ubaldo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Gubbio
Navigating Gubbio's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Embrace the 'Madman' Tradition
Circle the Fontana del Bargello 3 times and get splashed to officially become a 'madman' of Gubbio! :joy:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Gubbio's medieval streets are steep and cobblestoned. :athletic_shoe: You'll be doing a lot of walking!
Ride the Panoramic Cable Car
The Funivia Colle Eletto offers stunning views of Gubbio and the surrounding Umbrian landscape. :mountain_cableway:
Book Accommodation in Advance
Especially if visiting for the Festa dei Ceri, book your stay well ahead of time. :housewithgarden:
Tips
from all over the internet
Embrace the 'Madman' Tradition
Circle the Fontana del Bargello 3 times and get splashed to officially become a 'madman' of Gubbio! :joy:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Gubbio's medieval streets are steep and cobblestoned. :athletic_shoe: You'll be doing a lot of walking!
Ride the Panoramic Cable Car
The Funivia Colle Eletto offers stunning views of Gubbio and the surrounding Umbrian landscape. :mountain_cableway:
Book Accommodation in Advance
Especially if visiting for the Festa dei Ceri, book your stay well ahead of time. :housewithgarden:
Explore Beyond the Main Square
Wander through Gubbio's narrow alleys to discover hidden courtyards and local artisan shops. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gubbio for its stunning medieval architecture, charming atmosphere, and unique traditions like the Festa dei Ceri and the 'madman's license' at Fontana del Bargello. The panoramic views from Piazza Grande and the cable car are also highly lauded. Some find the town's hilly terrain challenging, and accommodation can be limited during peak events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza Quaranta Martiri is centrally located in Gubbio. If arriving by car, look for parking areas outside the historic center and walk in. Public transport options to Gubbio are limited; most visitors arrive by car or as part of a guided tour. The nearest major train station is in Perugia, from where you can take a bus to Gubbio.
Gubbio is best reached by car. While buses connect Gubbio to Perugia, they can be infrequent. If relying on public transport, plan your connections carefully.
There are several parking lots available around the historic center of Gubbio. It's recommended to park outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and walk into the town.
Yes, Gubbio is a very walkable city, but be prepared for steep inclines and cobblestone streets. Comfortable footwear is essential.
Gubbio is quite a distance from Rome and Florence, making it a long day trip. It's more feasible as an overnight stay or as part of a longer Umbria itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Piazza Quaranta Martiri is a public square and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore the area and enjoy its atmosphere.
Attractions like the Palazzo dei Consoli and its Civic Museum have specific opening hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official websites for the most up-to-date information.
No, the Fontana del Bargello is a public fountain, and participating in the 'madman' tradition is free.
Piazza Quaranta Martiri hosts various events throughout the year, including markets like the National Truffle Market and sporting events like the Granfondo del Montefeltro. 
To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or on weekdays outside of major holidays. The Festa dei Ceri on May 15th is a major event that draws large numbers of visitors. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Piazza Grande offers stunning panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset. The narrow medieval streets, the Palazzo dei Consoli, and the views from the Funivia Colle Eletto are also highly photogenic. +1
Yes, photography is allowed during the Festa dei Ceri, but be prepared for large crowds and be mindful of participants and safety.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photographing Gubbio's medieval architecture. Midday can be harsh, but offers good light for capturing details.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in public areas like Piazza Quaranta Martiri. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide cityscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the piazzas and narrow streets. A tripod can be helpful for low-light photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss regional specialties like strangozzi pasta, truffles (especially during the truffle market), wild boar dishes, and local cured meats and cheeses.
Yes, the area around Piazza Quaranta Martiri and throughout Gubbio's historic center offers numerous trattorias and restaurants serving traditional Umbrian cuisine.
Dining in Gubbio can range from budget-friendly trattorias to more upscale restaurants. Expect to pay around €15-€25 for a main course in a mid-range restaurant.
While traditional Umbrian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options. Vegan options might require specific requests.
Look for 'gelaterias' throughout the town for delicious Italian gelato. Ask locals for their favorite spots for the most authentic experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the narrow streets and piazzas can feel like stepping back in time, sparking imagination. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as Gubbio is hilly. Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid overwhelming crowds. Many trattorias offer simple, kid-friendly pasta dishes.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo travelers can enjoy leisurely meals at local trattorias, soaking in the atmosphere, and perhaps striking up conversations with locals or other travelers. The panoramic views from Piazza Grande and the cable car offer moments of reflection and appreciation for the stunning Umbrian landscape.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the unique perspective from the Funivia Colle Eletto, providing breathtaking aerial views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Festa dei Ceri: A Gubbio Spectacle
The origins of the festival are debated, but it's believed to date back to the 12th century, possibly evolving from pagan rituals or a demonstration of loyalty to Sant'Ubaldo. The intensity of the race is legendary, with participants often receiving a special blessing typically reserved for those in mortal danger, highlighting the risks involved.
Visitors hoping to witness the Festa dei Ceri should book accommodation and plan their travel well in advance, as it's a major draw. While the Ceri race is the main event, the days leading up to May 15th also feature related ceremonies and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city.
Exploring Gubbio's Medieval Architecture
The Palazzo dei Consoli is a prime example of Gubbio's Gothic architecture, dominating Piazza Grande. This imposing structure houses the Civic Museum, offering insights into the town's history. Wandering through the historic center, you'll encounter numerous Gothic palaces, Roman ruins, and charming stone houses, each telling a story of centuries past. The use of local limestone gives Gubbio a distinctive, harmonious appearance.
Beyond the main landmarks, the true joy of exploring Gubbio lies in getting lost in its labyrinthine alleys. Discover hidden courtyards, ancient doorways, and unexpected vistas that reveal the town's enduring medieval character. The Funivia Colle Eletto provides a unique perspective, offering panoramic views of this stone city nestled within the green heart of Italy.
The Quirky 'Madman' Tradition of Gubbio
This tradition is a fun way for visitors to engage with Gubbio's local culture and create memorable experiences. It's a simple yet iconic activity that many tourists seek out. The Fontana del Bargello itself is a charming spot within the town, adding to the overall appeal of this quirky custom.
While the 'madman' tradition is a lighthearted affair, it reflects a deeper sense of community and a willingness to celebrate local quirks. It's a perfect example of how small towns can create unique attractions that resonate with visitors looking for authentic and fun experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit