Perugia is a city that invites exploration beyond its charming streets and historic sights. For travelers seeking unique experiences, the city offers a delicious mix of tasting tours, scenic adventures, and hands-on activities. Imagine drifting over the Umbrian countryside in a hot air balloon or savoring local chocolates while watching the sunset. These experiences give you a chance to see the region from perspectives most visitors miss—and they turn your trip into something truly memorable. We especially love the hot air balloon ride with Balloon Adventures Italy for its breathtaking views and the food tour led by a local for its authentic insights into Perugia’s culinary scene. Both experiences highlight the region’s beauty and flavor in ways words can’t capture.
Perugia’s variety of tours and experiences means there’s something for every type of traveler—whether you’re after panoramic vistas, gourmet food, or hands-on cooking. From scenic e-bike rides to chocolate tastings, this list covers the best options to help you make the most of your time here.
1. Balloon Adventures Italy, hot air balloon rides over Assisi, Perugia and Umbria
At number one, we recommend the Balloon Adventures Italy experience for its unmatched perspective on Umbria’s landscape. This sunrise hot air balloon ride offers a rare chance to see Assisi, Perugia, and the rolling countryside from the sky, providing a panoramic view that’s hard to match. The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including transfer, flight, and a visit to Cantina Dionigi, where you’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast and wine tasting. It’s a great way to combine stunning scenery with a relaxed, indulgent morning.
What sets this apart is the sheer quality of the experience. The pilot’s expertise ensures safety and a smooth ride, while the views during sunrise are truly spectacular. Reviewers consistently praise it as “the most amazing morning,” with some calling it a “trip of a lifetime.” The boatload of positive comments and a 5.0/5 rating from nearly 200 reviews reflect how well this experience resonates with travelers.
Bottom Line: This is perfect for those who want a dramatic, peaceful experience that offers incredible views and a tasty after-party at a local winery. The combination of scenery, comfort, and local flavor makes it one of the top highlights in Perugia.
2. Taste Perugia Food Tour Led by Local
Second on our list is the Taste Perugia Food Tour, which expertly combines culinary delights with cultural insights. Led by a local guide, this walking tour showcases the best gourmet spots in the historic center, many of which are known only to residents. Over about 3.5 hours, you’ll sample local cheeses, truffles, olive oils, and chocolates, plus learn about the city’s rich traditions.
One of the tour’s major strengths is its small group format, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention. The stops include historic cafes and shops like Osteria a Priori and Antica Spezieria Bavicchi, where you’ll taste everything from fagiolina del Trasimeno to Perugian chocolates. Guests consistently praise the depth of knowledge and delicious tastings—with many calling it “the best food tour in the most beautiful city.”
Bottom Line: For food lovers who want to see Perugia’s culinary scene firsthand, this walk is an ideal way to connect with local producers and enjoy a variety of regional specialties in just a few hours.
3. Organic cooking class with a sommelier in an Olive and wine farm
Next, we have the Organic Cooking Class with a Sommelier at Il Fontanaro, which is one of the most immersive ways to experience Umbria’s farm-to-table tradition. This 3-hour experience begins with a welcome coffee, before you learn to make pasta and other traditional dishes, using ingredients freshly picked from the farm’s garden. The class includes tastings of award-winning olive oils and wines, as well as a buffet lunch of your own culinary creations.
What makes this tour stand out is the hands-on nature and the opportunity to learn about organic farming and local wine production directly from the host. Reviewers rave about the gorgeous setting and the fun, fast-paced lessons, with many calling it “a highlight of their trip.” It’s suitable for all ages and dietary needs, with options for gluten-free participants.
Bottom Line: If you want an authentic, participatory experience that combines cooking, tasting, and learning about regional agriculture, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day.
4. Perugia: Olive Oil Tasting & Mill Guided Visit
For those interested in local food traditions, the Olive Oil Tasting & Mill Guided Visit at Antico Frantoio Trampolini offers an engaging 1.5-hour look into olive oil production. This experience includes a guided tour of a historic mill dating back to the 1300s, where you’ll see ancient olive presses and terracotta jars. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of 5+ premium olive oils, paired with bread, cheeses, and spreads.
The personal approach, with the owner leading the tour, makes this experience intimate and educational. Reviewers highlight how the guide explains the nuances of each oil and makes the tasting both delicious and informative. It’s a perfect activity for foodies wanting to deepen their understanding of Umbrian olive oil.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about olive oil craftsmanship and want a relaxed, small-group experience, this mill tour provides a flavorful and authentic taste of Umbria’s culinary heritage.
5. Chocolate Factory Tour and Tasting in Perugia
Chocolate lovers should not miss the Chocolate Factory Tour and Tasting. For about an hour, you’ll explore a local chocolate workshop, learning how artisan pralines and hot chocolates are made. The tour includes tasting heritage recipes, and you’ll enjoy a gelato or hot chocolate paired with biscotti.
This tour combines culinary art with a sweet story, perfect for families or anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a short but delightful experience, rated 4.3/5, which provides a fun and tasty snapshot of Perugia’s rich chocolate tradition. The guide shares insights into the history of chocolate in Perugia, adding educational value to the indulgence.
Bottom Line: For a quick, fun, and flavor-packed activity, this chocolate tour hits the sweet spot, especially if you want a light, engaging experience.
6. Perugia: Ebike Rental and Tours in Umbria
If you prefer active exploration, the Ebike Rental and Tours route is hard to beat. This guided bike ride takes you through Perugia’s hills and countryside, with options for different routes and durations. The tour includes product tastings and the chance to enjoy spectacular views without breaking a sweat.
What makes this a great choice is the flexibility—whether you want a relaxed loop around the hills or a more adventurous ride, the guides tailor the experience. Reviewers note that the professional guides and the well-maintained bikes make for a smooth ride, perfect for a sunny day. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to combine scenery with exercise.
Bottom Line: For outdoor enthusiasts ready to explore on two wheels, this Ebike tour offers a healthy, scenic, and customizable way to see Perugia and beyond.
7. Perugia: Sunset Walking Tour with Chocolate/Gelato Tasting
Finally, the Sunset Walking Tour provides a relaxed way to experience Perugia’s most beautiful viewpoints before dinner. Over two hours, you’ll walk through key sites like Piazza Italia, Rocca Paolina, and Pincetto, with stops for gelato and chocolates along the way. The highlight is catching the sunset from the city’s top vantage points, with pictorial views as the city lights start to sparkle.
This tour suits travelers looking for a gentle stroll that combines scenic views with sweet treats. The reviews mention how the guided visits are informative but relaxed, and the chocolates on the steps of the Duomo are a memorable touch.
Bottom Line: If you want a romantic, low-key evening activity that combines superb views with delicious chocolates, this tour is a perfect match.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Perugia
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and pace. For spectacular scenery and a special occasion, the hot air balloon is unbeatable. If you’re a food lover, the Taste Perugia Food Tour or the olive oil and mill visit offer authentic, flavorful insights. For active travelers, the Ebikes combine exploration with exercise, while those seeking a relaxing evening might prefer the Sunset Walking Tour.
Think about your budget—the food tours and chocolate tastings tend to be more affordable, while balloon rides and private classes offer more exclusivity. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the balloon ride, which is rated 5.0/5 from 192 reviews.
Final Thoughts
Perugia’s range of tours and experiences means there’s something to match every travel style. Whether you choose an awe-inspiring hot air balloon ride, an immersive food tour, or a hands-on cooking class, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Umbrian culture and scenery. For travelers seeking a luxury splurge, the balloon adventure tops the list; for those on a budget or short on time, the chocolate or olive oil tours deliver great value and flavor.
Don’t wait to book—these experiences fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Whichever you pick, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable taste of Perugia that will stay with you long after you leave.