Centro Storico Spello
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Centro Storico Spello

4.8
·341 reviews·Spello, Italy

Spello, the 'City of Flowers,' enchants with its medieval stone alleys, vibrant floral displays, and rich Roman and Renaissance heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers in full bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Centro Storico Spello

Centro Storico Spello

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers in full bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Spello, the 'City of Flowers,' enchants with its medieval stone alleys, vibrant floral displays, and rich Roman and Renaissance heritage.

4.8
(341 reviews)

"Spello might be the most beautiful and pittoresk place to visit near Assisi. It takes your breath away."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets and inclines are everywhere! :athletic_shoe: Explore Spello's centro storico with ease.

🌸 Admire the Flowers

Spello is the 'City of Flowers'! :hibiscus: Look up and around; every corner is a photo op.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Flower-Draped Alleys

Flower-Draped Alleys

Throughout the Centro Storico

Wander through narrow streets bursting with colorful flowers cascading from window boxes and balconies.

Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore

Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore

Piazza della Chiesa

Marvel at the stunning Baglioni Chapel frescoes by Pinturicchio within this historic church.

Porta Consolare

Porta Consolare

Main entrance to the historic center

Step through this impressive Roman-era gate, a grand introduction to Spello's ancient charm.

Villa dei Mosaici

Villa dei Mosaici

Via Tommaso Nucci

Discover intricate Roman mosaics, offering a glimpse into the town's ancient past.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Flowers and Stone

Spello's charm lies in its ancient stone streets adorned with vibrant flowers. Wander through its medieval alleys, soak in the atmosphere, and discover hidden courtyards. Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the best light.

Timing is Everything for Infiorate

If you're planning to witness the famous Infiorate (flower carpets), mark your calendar for Corpus Domini weekend. This spectacular event transforms the streets into living art, but expect significant crowds.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Flowers in full bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Corpus Domini weekend
Why
Spectacular Infiorate flower carpets
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration of alleys
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Un piccolo tour di Spello, tra vicoli tortuosi e antiche case in pietra. 🏘️ Ci siete mai stati? 😍 _________________________________________ #spello #borghiitaliani #whatitalyis #borghitalia #ig_italia #umbria #scorci #yallersumbria #medievalworld #kings_villages #bestdiscovery #best_streetview #arkiromantix #travelreels #umbriatourism #volgoumbria #villages #italia_dev #bevisuallyinspired #bestpla...
mark.trob
2.6K likes • 93.7K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets and inclines are everywhere! :athletic_shoe: Explore Spello's centro storico with ease.

🌸 Admire the Flowers

Spello is the 'City of Flowers'! :hibiscus: Look up and around; every corner is a photo op.

Summer is in the air 🇮🇹 #spelloitaly #spello #friday #italy #bellaitalia #italia #MedievalVillage #centrostorico #travel #travelgram #fridayvibes #highlightseveryone #everyoneシ゚ #flowerseveryonehighlights #follower #everyonefollowers
sonounamammadolce
5 likes • 115 views
Il borgo dei fiori⁣🌸⁣ ⁣⁣ Cosa vedere a Spello⁣👇🏻⁣ ⁣⁣ 📍Porta Consolare⁣⁣ La principale porta d’ingresso alla città, risalente all’epoca romana. È un’imponente struttura storica che segna l’accesso al centro storico di Spello.⁣⁣ Indirizzo: Via Consolare⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 📍Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore⁣⁣ Famosa per gli affreschi del Pinturicchio nella Cappella Baglioni. Questa chiesa è un gioiello dell’arte rina...
travelife.it
22K likes • 1.5M views

📸 Capture the Alleys

The narrow, flower-filled alleys are iconic. :camerawithflash: Get lost and find your perfect shot.

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy authentic Umbrian cuisine at local trattorias. :forkandknife: Gusto Bistro is a popular choice.

Il 17 Febbraio è stata la giornata internazione del gatto e noi abbiamo avuto l’occasione di visitare Spello come ambassadors dei @borghitalia per la X edizione di “Sensualità di gatto”. Una manifestazione che celebra questo animale domestico tramite l’arte, in particolare attraverso la poesia e la pittura. Abbiamo avuto l’opportunità anche di visitare la Cappella Baglioni nella Collegiata di Sant...
8axel8
2.8K likes • 95.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets and inclines are everywhere! :athletic_shoe: Explore Spello's centro storico with ease.

🌸 Admire the Flowers

Spello is the 'City of Flowers'! :hibiscus: Look up and around; every corner is a photo op.

📸 Capture the Alleys

The narrow, flower-filled alleys are iconic. :camerawithflash: Get lost and find your perfect shot.

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Enjoy authentic Umbrian cuisine at local trattorias. :forkandknife: Gusto Bistro is a popular choice.

🚗 Park Outside Walls

Parking lots surround the historic center. :red_car: Easy access to the town.

What Travellers Say

4.8
(341 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Spello is lauded as a breathtakingly beautiful and picturesque town, often called the prettiest in Umbria. Visitors praise its charming streets filled with flowers, friendly locals, and excellent restaurants, offering an authentic Italian experience. While it lacks typical tourist trinket shops, its genuine atmosphere and historical richness are highly valued.

"Spello the city of flowers and arts. Spello might be the most beautiful snd pittoresk place to visit near Assisi. It takes your breath away."

Sari Ristilä-Happonen

"Google called it the prettiest city in Umbria, this small walled city is not your Gelato and Pizza shop on every corner there actually are not enough of them. The tourist are a mix of Italians that are just out for a stroll and a wonderful lunch at Gusto Bistro or Americans on a bike tour. They don’t have I ❤️ Spello T Shirts or men selling scarves and toys on the street. What they have are beautiful streets filled with flowers and friendly people are just enjoying life. All the restaurants are good and there are parking lots surrounding the city so weekend activities can be enjoyed. Shop local and you won’t be ripped off. Spello is, what Italy was."

Joe Rice

"Absolutely a must visit PERIOD"

Russell Milles

What People Like

Incredibly picturesque streets
Abundant flowers everywhere
Authentic Italian charm

What People Dislike

Fewer souvenir shops

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Spello's centro storico is best accessed by parking in the designated lots outside the ancient walls. From there, it's a pleasant walk into the heart of the town. Many visitors arrive by car, and the parking is well-organized. If arriving by train, the station is a short walk from the historic center, making it a convenient base for exploring Umbria.Instagram

Yes, Spello has a train station that connects it to major Umbrian cities like Assisi and Perugia. From the station, it's a short and scenic walk to the historic center, making it a great option for those without a car.Instagram

Several parking lots are available around the perimeter of the historic center. These are clearly marked and provide convenient access to the town's attractions. Parking is generally affordable and readily available, especially outside of peak event times.

Access to the centro storico for private vehicles is restricted. It's recommended to park in the designated lots outside the walls and explore the town on foot to fully appreciate its charm and avoid traffic congestion.

Absolutely! Spello's central location and excellent transport links make it an ideal base for day trips to nearby towns like Assisi, Perugia, and Spoleto.Instagram Its charming atmosphere also makes it a delightful place to stay.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter and explore the centro storico of Spello. You can wander freely through its charming streets and alleys at any time.

While the town itself is free to enter, some specific attractions like the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore (for the Baglioni Chapel) or the Villa dei Mosaici may have small entrance fees or require donations for upkeep. It's always best to check on-site for the most current information.

Opening hours for churches can vary. The Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore is generally open during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check locally or online for specific times, especially if you wish to view the Baglioni Chapel.

The famous Infiorate event takes place on the weekend of Corpus Domini, typically in late May or June. This is a very popular time, so book accommodations and plan your visit well in advance.Instagram+1

Yes, guided tours are available and can offer deeper insights into Spello's history and art. You can often find local guides in the town square or book in advance through local tourism offices.

📸 📸 Photography

Spello is incredibly photogenic! The flower-draped alleys are a must-capture.Instagram+1 Don't miss the views from Porta Consolare, the intricate details of the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, and the charming streetscapes throughout the centro storico.Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden glow. This is also when you'll encounter fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed shooting.Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in historic Italian towns to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by local authorities.

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the narrow alleys, and a prime lens with a wide aperture is excellent for low-light conditions inside churches.Instagram

Focus on the details: the flowers, the ancient stone, the textures of the walls, and the play of light and shadow. Look for unique perspectives in the winding alleys and try to convey the peaceful, timeless atmosphere of this beautiful borgo.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Spello offers delicious Umbrian cuisine. Look for local specialties like strangozzi pasta, truffles, cured meats, and excellent olive oil. Many restaurants also feature seasonal dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

Yes, Spello has several excellent restaurants and trattorias perfect for lunch. Gusto Bistro is frequently recommended for its quality food and pleasant atmosphere [Review Summary]. Many places offer set menus or daily specials.

Besides Gusto Bistro, other highly-rated options include Osteria del Buongustaio and Il Pinturicchio. These establishments are known for their authentic Umbrian dishes and charming settings.

While traditional Umbrian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. You can often find vegetable-based pasta dishes, salads, and antipasti. It's always a good idea to inform your server of any dietary needs.

While not as ubiquitous as in some larger Italian towns, you can find delightful gelato shops in Spello, perfect for a sweet treat as you explore the historic center.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Spello's compact and pedestrian-friendly centro storico makes it a great destination for families. The winding alleys and flower-filled balconies provide endless visual delight for children, turning exploration into a treasure hunt. Pack sturdy walking shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven. Consider a picnic lunch with local treats purchased from a bakery or market to keep things relaxed and budget-friendly. The Villa dei Mosaici can also be an engaging stop to spark kids' imaginations about ancient life.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Spello offers a safe and welcoming environment for solo travelers. Its small size means you can easily navigate and explore at your own pace. The friendly atmosphere and the sheer beauty of the town encourage spontaneous interactions. Consider joining a local walking tour to gain insights and meet fellow travelers. Enjoying a leisurely meal at a trattoria is also a perfect way to soak in the local culture.

📸 Photographers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchantment of Spello's Flowers

Spello is famously known as the 'City of Flowers,' and this title is well-earned. Throughout the warmer months, the ancient stone streets are transformed into a vibrant tapestry of color as residents meticulously adorn their balconies, window sills, and doorways with an astonishing array of flowers.Instagram This tradition is deeply ingrained in the town's identity, creating a breathtakingly picturesque atmosphere that captivates visitors. The sheer abundance and variety of blooms, from geraniums and petunias to climbing roses, make every alleyway a potential work of art.Instagram

This floral splendor culminates in the spectacular Infiorate event, held annually on the weekend of Corpus Domini. During this unique festival, the streets of the centro storico are carpeted with intricate designs and images created entirely from flower petals.Instagram+1 Local artists and residents work tirelessly through the night to craft these ephemeral masterpieces, turning the town into an open-air gallery. The Infiorate is a testament to Spello's dedication to beauty and its deep connection to nature, drawing visitors from around the world to witness this extraordinary display.

Exploring Spello's Roman and Medieval Heritage

Spello's history is etched into its very stones, showcasing a rich blend of Roman and medieval architecture. The town is entered through impressive ancient gates, such as the Porta Consolare, a testament to its Roman origins.Instagram+1 Walking through the centro storico, you'll encounter remnants of its past at every turn, from the sturdy city walls to the layout of the narrow, winding streets that characterize medieval urban planning. The Villa dei Mosaici offers a direct window into Roman life, with its well-preserved floor mosaics depicting scenes from antiquity.Instagram

The Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore stands as a significant historical and artistic landmark. While its origins are medieval, it houses the breathtaking Cappella Baglioni, adorned with Renaissance frescoes by the renowned artist Pinturicchio.Instagram This chapel is a highlight for art lovers and history buffs alike, showcasing the artistic achievements of the period. Exploring Spello is like stepping back in time, with each corner revealing another layer of its enduring historical narrative.

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