For travellers who are looking for a serious view of the basilica, you need only look out most windows for a postcard shot. If your view isn't perfect enough, head to the rooftop deck with a view of the basilica with Monte Subasio as its backdrop.
It's hard to believe, but this is the world's only chocolate-themed hotel.
The rooms in this lovely 15th-century palazzo, half of which is occupied by the owners (descendants of the original occupants), have been restored in the simple elegance that Italians are famous for: white walls, terracotta floors, a few pieces o.
One of Umbria's few five-star hotels and a truly spectacular experience, the palace's special touches include frescoed public rooms, impeccably decorated bedrooms, a garden terrace for summer dining, and helpful trilingual staff.
In a location both quiet and central, this spotless hotel is partially housed in a building dating back to the 1300s.
This 18th-century palazzo with suits of armour in the reception offers fabulous deals during the week and in low season. Cross-vaulted rooms are stately if a bit dark, complete with carved ceilings and recently upgraded bathrooms.
The price is right at this central three-star hotel, a renovated palace. The rooms are a tad sterile but fully outfitted with TV, minibar and telephone, and the owners run the yummy bakery below.
Rooms are medieval old but have been upgraded with armoire kitchenettes to become blissful apartment suites named after St Francis' Canticle of the Creatures – Brother Fire, Sister Water etc.
The service on our visit was less than friendly and the amenities scarce, but the location and heavy advertising keeps it full most of the year.
Set a bit further away from the cathedral than most other hotels, this is nevertheless an excellent choice.
Practically perfect hospitality is one of the main draws of the Zuccari family's second hotel.
This 18th-century building is enviably located in the middle of Spello and pleasantly outfitted with a sitting room and fireplace, terraces with hilltop views and updated guest rooms.
With rooms in two locations (those at the Albergo Il Duomo round the corner are slightly smaller), this hotel is as quiet as it is comfortable.
In the southeast part of town facing the hills, this former noble palace exudes romance and charm down to the last detail, from the delicate breakfast china to the historical oak and wrought-iron furnishings.
The price is not a mistake. Perfectly located on a tiny side street less than 30m from the Palazzo del Comune, it's a wonder these rooms are also clean and hospitable.
This three-star hotel on the Piazza Duomo was undergoing a full renovation when we visited, so check the website for the most recent prices.
Sometimes you truly feel like you live in a palace, even just for a night or two.
You'll be so close to the centre of Perugia that you can practically crawl to most sights. Although the building is hundreds of years old, the décor is from the 19th century and 1920s.
Fancy looking at a fresco during breakfast? How about staying in a room once frequented by Dante Alighieri? All rooms have minibars, satellite TV and phones in the bathroom, and many have gorgeous views of the surrounding valley.
If the 10am to 4pm lockout doesn’t scare you off, then you’ll appreciate the sweeping countryside view and wafting sounds of church bells from the hostel’s terrace, where guests often gather after making dinner.
Student groups, couples appreciating the handful of private rooms, backpackers and pilgrims all can find their bliss at Assisi's HI hostel. Beautiful and quiet, it's just off the road coming in from Santa Maria degli Angeli.
In a great location near the Università per Stranieri but quiet enough for visiting parents, this family-run two-star hotel is a popular choice. Rooms are furnished with simple but comfortable antique furnishings, and a few even have fireplaces.
With a sauna, fireplace and an outdoor terrace, the Charleston is an enticing location in both winter and summer. The 17th-century building has been thoroughly renovated with double-paned windows, parquet floors and handsome modern furniture.
A few kilometres from the city centre is Perugia’s main HI hostel. It’s large (80 beds) and doesn’t have the romance of the city centre hostel, but it’s clean (towels €1, laundry €3), there’s no curfew and the lockout is only 10am to 2pm.
On a cobbled alley, Valentina offers casually elegant, spacious rooms, a couple with kitchen facilities, and also has an apartment sleeping four.
This is one of the top-rated hostels in central Italy, and for a very good reason.
Besides being impeccably run, you would hardly ever know you're staying in an HI youth hostel. This former barn has dorm, doubles and family rooms all with views of the surrounding lake.
