Hello expert travelers!
After visiting the main "must see" cities in Italy, we're planning a trip to the Umbria region in May 2025 for a different experience. We never drive in other countries and won't even consider it. We've enjoyed trains (buses less so) in all our travels and want to stick with public transportation. We'll be flying in and out of Rome.
We're quite active and enjoy walking around towns, hiking, and seeing historical sights. And of course, eating!
I've been reading up on various Umbrian cities and I know we want to explore the eastern area first, including Assisi, Spello, maybe Terni, Spoleto and Montefalco. From the eastern area we may visit Lake Trasimeno and would love thoughts and opinions on that, or head up to Cortona. Then we'll work our way south to Orvieto and whatever else there is to see around there. We have about 2 weeks to spend in the area.
My questions are:
1. If we were to choose one base or two bases in the eastern part of Umbria, which would be the most enjoyable and convenient for travel? I keep hearing about how lovely Assisi is, but I also know that getting in and out of the area is tricky since the train station is out of town. Several people have suggested staying in Assisi since there's so much to do and see there. Almost as many have suggested Spello because it's so quaint and pretty. I understand that Perugia has more public transportation opportunities, but I've also heard that it's not all that desirable. Thoughts on any of this?
2. Is Cortona worth staying in for 2 or 3 nights?
3. Is Lake Trasimeno nice in May? Are there hiking opportunities?
4. Are there other cities to see close to Orvieto?
Any help/insights would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!