piazza grande

A friend recommended that we visit Gubbio while we were in Italy for Christmas. We took a train from Rome, exiting at the closest train station in Fossato di Vico. We then boarded a bus for the 12 mile trip to Gubbio. This medieval hill town is in the Umbria region of central Italy. Our trip took about 3hrs. and, unfortunately, we had not allowed very much time to explore the town. We had toasted sandwiches at a small cafe and stopped at a nearby information center for a bus schedule. By the time we emerged, the mountainside Christmas tree lights were on and it was beautiful! Visit the site below to see really good pictures of the Gubbio Christmas tree.http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/12/gubbio-italy-christmas_n_6289756.htmlWe visited the nativity in the Church of San Francesco and wandered around the lower town trying to get the best views of the mountainside tree. Then we worked our way through the hillside town moving uphill. Lights and decorations throughout the town captivated our attention. There were life-size characters dressed as people might have been in the time of Jesus, posed in everyday chores; these were spread out over several streets, outside of stores and in piazzas. This lovely town would not be easy to explore if you have mobility issues.

We love to go to Gubbio near Christmas time. They have a way of celebrating that even heretics like me can enjoy. Browse this piazza and the streets and enjoy. The Christmas tree on the side of the mountain is, supposedly the largest in the world. I don't doubt it!

I recommend any visit to Gubbio because as small as it is, there is a lot to see. The pink Duomo is one with an unforgettable fresco by il Pinturicchio. The statue of San Francesco meeting the wolf is another. The Fontana dei Pazzi which is a bit of a challenge to find among the tiny winding streets in the medieval centre of Gubbio but worth while! If you go around it three times apparently you go mad... oh well! The Civic Museum is worth a visit if you want to see the Eugubian Tablets. And last but not least, the 'piece de resistance' or jewel in Gubbio's crown, the Piazza Grande with its spectacular view of the Umbrian countryside. The spacious piazza with the 14th century Palazzo dei Consoli is quite a site to behold.

Gubbio is a charming medieval town just down the road from Umbertide and Perugia. The town is set against the slopes of Mt. Ingino and you requires a bit of a hike to reach the upper levels and the main piazza. But the hike is worth it. From the central piazza you will enjoy a lovely view of the church and the surrounding country side. There are plenty of ceramic stores, truffles and good food to be found in Gubbio and the people are very friendly, especially if you speak to them in Italian! It is also great fun to stop in the Don Matteo Bar - named after the famous Italian TV character - the charming priest who solves crime in Gubbio. You can find posters and TV trivia from the show while sipping an espresso.

access to the lift was very handy but be aware of closing and opening times or otherwise be prepared for a steep climb

You've struggled through the narrow streets in your car to get to the hotel. You've finally found the car park, and settled into your hotel room. Now for the reward, a glass of cold prosecco under the awnings of the Hotel Relais Ducale in the Piazza Grande. Wonderful. The Palazzo dei Consoli on one side, the Palazzo dei Podesta on the other, and beyond a wonderful landscape view of beautiful Gubbio. Bliss.

We enjoyed our lunch on the Piazza, srved by the great Staff of the Hotel Relais Ducale. Moderately priced, great food, great location, and a great staff.

This is one of the most beautiful and elegant Renaissance squares we have seen in Italy. Worth the trip!

An amazing view which houses the Palazzo Ducale. Stunning place to take a breather on the walk up to the cable car.

We only had a few rainy, cold hours to spend in Gubbio, but we'll go back in better weather. The Piazza Grande is the focal point of this lovely, steep city, every nook and cranny of which begs to be explored.

Was quiet the day we were there, beautiful and sunny and the view was terrific. Large and open, it was a great spot to sit and take in the charm of Gubbio and, of course, that view.

Great views from this very large open piazza, constructed in good quality stone material. A great spot for the Don Matteo TV series.

By Italian city standards, Gubbio is small, not that attractive, but full of charm.This city is ideal for those who are searching for antiquities.Maybe one of the most amazing things about Gubbio, is seeing this walled city nestled on a mountainside from far.Its people are very kind and friendly.

Umbria is modest, like Tuscany but without the pomp. And if you travel around Umbria then you MUST visit Gubbio. It is modest and restrained but has enormous beauty and really amazes as you turn each corner. The people are open and friendly, prices are very reasonable and the city offers much more than the guides can tell you, just take time to walk around and take photos. And chat to the locals they all seem to enjoy a quick chat in English. Italy at its unpretentious best. Well worth several visits,as the surrounding coutryside makes driving a real pleasure.

Visit the ancient town of Gubbio in the afternoon on the fourth Sunday of the month to enjoy the antique/art/pottery market circling the piazza on the first level of the town. Then, walk up the hill a short way and take the public elevator to the Piazza Grande to see the view that extends for miles and miles. On the top level of the town stands the Duomo. One caveat: if you want to dine at any of the wonderful Umbrian restaurants in Gubbio, you need to have reservations for 7pm or later.