Many artists and architects have called Perugia home through the ages, including Pietro Vannucci, who was the teacher of the famed Renaissance artist Raphael. The Galleria Nazionale dell' Umbria houses some of the most important art pieces in the region, including five statues by Arnolfo di Cambio, the "Madonna with Child" by Duccio di Boninsegna and statues of the Perugian patron saints by Ambrogio Maitani. The museum also houses several frescos, tablets and sculptures. The Museo Archeologico is housed in the former Dominican convent of San Domenico and features collections that include Paleolithic and Aeneolithic remains from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Other museums and galleries in Perugia are the Palazzo della Penna, Accademia delle Belle Arti, Museo di Storia Naturale, Museo Capitolare San Lorenzo, Cappella di San Severo and Historic Museum Perugina.
Perugia's many churches and art monuments are an important part of the cities identity. Churches, such as the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo and Chiesa di San Domenico, have served Perugia for more than 700 years. The Benedictine abbey, Chiesa di San Pietro, was built in the sixth century and houses 14th century art work by local artists. Other churches in Perugia are the Chiesa di San Filippo Neri, Chiesa di San Domenico and Chiesa di San Ercolano. Monuments have also played an integral part in the city's history. The Rocca Paolina is a fortress that has defended Perugia during several struggles. It affords panoramic views of the city and surrounding area. The Palazzo dei Priori dates to 1270 and is at the heart of Perugia. The Galleria Nazionale dell' Umbria is on the building's third floor.
Perugia has many accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels and bed and breakfasts to camping sites and country houses. When reserving rooms, it is best to specify if breakfast is to be included because Italian law requires breakfast to be an extra charge. Hotel options include the Dal Moro Gallery Hotel and the elegant Hotel Romantik Le Silve di Armenzano. Visitors to Perugia also have the option of staying in a historic residence, such as the country hotel Ripa Relais Colle del Sole or the quaint hamlet of Palazzi Rufini.
Perugia shares a small international airport with Sant'Egidio. The airport is 12km from Perugia and can be reached by bus. The bus leaves the Piazza Italia in town and from the main train station. The airport has free parking and many national and international car rental companies. The state-run FS railway system operates trains out of the Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Perugia's suburb of Fontivegge. This train station can be reached in 15 minutes by bus from the city center. Besides the local bus system, national bus lines connect Perugia with cities, including Naples. A taxi service also also serves the area.
The region of Umbria has its own culinary specialties based on basic ingredients, including olive oil, boar, lamb, hard wheat pasta and black truffles. Other common dishes feature fish, cereal, vegetables and herbs. Many of the restaurants, such as Assisi, Gubbio and Da Massimo, prepare such traditional Umbrian cuisine. Da Massimo is on the banks of Lake Trasimeno and adds a special touch for dining events. Naturally, many pizzerias are in town, including La Botte, Al Massiano and La Ghianda. Cocktails, beer and a socializing is found in the town's many pubs and cafes.
