We'd like to spend a week in Umbria, probably based out of Spello based on reading Rick's book on Tuscany and also given Slow Travel website ideas. Trouble is, Rick's book only give minor references to Umbrian towns outside of Orvieto and Assisi. We've been to Orvieto, and Assisi is in the plan for the next trip, but also looking at Gubbio, Spoleto, and perhaps others. Does anyone have a favorite Umbrian travel book to recommend? Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32363 posts
Laurel, I haven't used it, but you might have a look at * www.amazon.com/Blue-Guide-Umbria-Third-Guides/dp/0393320162 * - it seems to be getting good reviews (you'll have to cut & paste as I couldn't get the linking to work). You could probably get some ideas for touring by checking This site. Good luck and Happy travels!
Posted by
Bromley, Kent,, UK
1829 posts
We like the Rough Guide series. We used the Tuscany and Umbria edition last time we were in Umbria in 2008. It has lots of detailed and background info as well as good town and wider area maps. http://www.roughguides.com/website/shop/products/Tuscany-Umbria.aspx Make sure you take a drive along and in the Valnerina area, access from near Spoleto. Absolutely wonderful scenery with fortified medieval villages perched above as you drive along the valley bottom.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, U.S.A.
251 posts
I second the Rough Guide recommendation. Get the 'Rough Guide to Tuscany and Umbria.' It has good maps and is pretty good in terms of noting public transportation connections if you need help there as well.
Posted by
A tiny island in Puget Sound WA, USA
166 posts
I recently bought the Cadogan guide for Umbria and really like it. One of the things I like about Cadogan guides is that they generally cover most of the towns in an area and let YOU decide what piques your interest.
Posted by
Portland
3644 posts
Cadogan gets my vote. Lots of detailed information, covering places usually left out of other guidebooks. We've also been very happy with their hotel and restaurant recommendations. We''re seniors and like a bit more charm and comfort than the Rough Guides' recommendations usually afford. Also, we like the occasional "splurge" for dinner.
Posted by
Los Angeles, CA, USA
1449 posts
We used the Rough Guide that has already been recommended and thought it was pretty accurate and helpful.
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
I like Lonely Planet, because the books cram a lot destinations in and they recommend hotels and restaurants that fit my travel style. Guidebook series really do have personalities. The right fit depends on your travel style and budget. I just checked - LP has a guide for Tuscany and Umbria and the most recent edition was published in January 2010.
Posted by
San Jose
84 posts
We have used "The Rough Guide for Tuscany & Umbria" for several trips and have found it to be very helpful. I give it a high recommendation.