Todi
A serene hilltop town overlooking the Tiber valley, often cited as one of the most livable towns in the world, with a perfectly proportioned medieval piazza.
Things to do
- Stroll Piazza del Popolo — One of Italy's finest medieval squares, flanked by the Duomo, Palazzo dei Priori, and Palazzo del Popolo.
- Visit the Duomo di Todi — A Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with a stunning rose window and ancient crypt.
- See Tempio di Santa Maria della Consolazione — A Renaissance masterpiece just outside town, attributed to Bramante's circle.
- Walk the Etruscan-Roman walls — Three layers of ancient walls surround the town; walk the perimeter for valley panoramas.
- Explore the underground cisterns — Roman-era cisterns beneath the town can be visited and offer fascinating engineering history.
Food to try
- Palomba alla Ghiotta — Wood pigeon roasted with olives and offal, a classic Todi game dish.
- Torta al Testo — Umbrian unleavened flatbread stuffed with prosciutto and soft local cheeses.
- Lenticchie di Castelluccio — Tiny lentils from nearby Castelluccio, cooked simply with olive oil and herbs.
- Sagrantino Passito — A rich, sweet dessert wine made from dried Sagrantino grapes grown near Montefalco.
Local customs & good to know
- Todi Festival — A prestigious late-summer arts festival fills the piazzas with music, theatre, and dance each August.
- Antique Market Etiquette — The monthly antique market on the main square draws serious collectors; browse respectfully and bargain politely.
- Quiet Town Pace — Todi embraces a slow lifestyle; most shops close for a long lunch, so plan sightseeing around local rhythms.