27Aug 2018 by admin

Orvieto

Day Trips, Orvieto
Orvieto is a lovely town in Southwestern Umbria on the border with Tuscany.  It has etruscan origins and was built high atop a giant volcanic rock.  The big sight to see here is the duomo which was begun in 1290.  The town has some nice shops.  My favorite is a men's and women's clothing shop near the duomo that sells samples.  Luckily the sample size is about a 6 and I can usually find a fun dress. Parking: Set your GPS to Parcheggio Piazza Cahen.  There is typically plenty of parking under shade trees. Feed the meter (Euro 1.50 per hour) for as long as you plan to stay, press the green button, and place the printed ticket on your dashboard.  As you look towards the town, take the street to the…
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19Aug 2018 by admin

Hosteria Mattta

Marsciano, Restaurant Recommendations
This is a small restaurant run by a crazy but passionate lady.  She speaks English.  There is a small outdoor patio in the back that is fun to sit on if you have a small (under 6) group.  She changes her menu every few weeks and loves to converse with her guests and make recommendations. The food was very good and creative.  We ate here for two lunches.  It's open for lunch and dinner and closed on Tuesdays.  This restaurant can accommodate any type of food restrictions and is particularly good at gluten free. You could park in the city lot for free and walk up into town or there are a small number of parking spaces just past the restaurant. Marsciano is a 15 minute drive from the house. …
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19Aug 2018 by admin

Osteria Novecento

Restaurant Recommendations, Short Drive
Osteria Novecento is by far the best restaurant in the area.  I would go here at the beginning of your trip because you will likely want to visit it a second time before you go.  The restaurant features typical umbrian fare but with a gourmet delivery.  We've never had anything bad here and have tasted most things on the menu.  They also have specials that change regularly.  It is a small restaurant so you will definitely want reservations if you are a large group or if it is a weekend.  The waitress speaks some English.  It has a couple of outdoor tables but no real view. It is cozy in the winter with an indoor fireplace. From Casa Grifone it's about a 20-minute drive.  You go across the highway exit opposite…
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19Aug 2018 by admin

Pizzeria Cavour – Todi

Restaurant Recommendations, Todi
For unique and delicious pizzas and a beautiful outdoor view in Todi, go to Pizzeria Cavour.  We've been coming to this place since the very first time we visited Umbria in 2003.  It's likely considered by locals to be more touristy but I still love it.  Ask for a table outside (a fuori).  Enjoy pizzas like pear and gorgonzola or one with squash and truffle or any of the basics if you aren't into unusual flavors.  They have an English menu and most of the staff speak English. The main waiter is pretty cranky - that's the only downside - so get your order in at the beginning because he won't likely come back to check on you later (i.e., order plenty of drinks when you place your order.) Although…
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