O.K., yet another question in my quest to do the "perfect" one week trip to Italy. We will be flying into Rome (tickets booked already). Does it make sense to base in Spoleto and do days trips from there to Rome, Orvieto, Assisi, etc. by train. I know, I know... Rome has so much to offer. It's just that my husband and I like a bit more of a relaxed pace.

It makes sense to me... The cost of accommodations will be less in Spoleto. You'll be in a smaller city in Umbria where you can experience how the locals live (rather than a big, crowded city with narrow streets). And being on the train line makes a lot of sense. There's no right or wrong in travel, just what works for you!

I'd also recommend visiting Spello, a small town just south of Assisi.

Spoleto is a long way from Rome but perfect for scouting out the real Italy of Umbrian towns, excellent food, history, There are several articles on Spoleto and central Italy on www.elegantetruria.com

i second the suggestion for spello. we stayed at a lovely place called palazzo de boci or something similar.( local.. please help with name!)

We loved Umbria but to be honest we didn't care for Spoleto. Its a nice enough town, I guess, but it felt big and sprawling and congested and lacked a lot of charm that the other hilltowns offered. If you are looking for a more relaxed place to base yourself, I would suggest looking elsewhere. Spello would be a perfect base. Also consider Bevagna or Montefalco.

Just my .02. Good luck!
Tracy

Spello is a great small hilltown. The hotel mentioned is the Palazzo Bocci.

http://www.palazzobocci.com/

I stayed there for 4 nights and it was fabulous.

Spello is a lovely town and a good base for visiting Assisi and Umbria. I don't think it would be convenient to stay there and do a day trip to Rome. Since you are flying into Rome, it would make sense to spend a few days there upon arrival or departure and divide the rest of your time in a smaller centre. You will need several days in Rome to see the bare minimum.

Hi Just,

Another vote here for Spello and Palazzo Bocci, but you don't say when you are going. Res needed far in advance for this lovely place! Their restaurant across the street, Il Mulino is outstanding.

You will need a car if basing in Spello. The good news is, parking for the hotel is easy and driving in the tiny town a breeze. So small there is basically no traffic, but yes there are narrow streets.