Massa Martana Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the historic hill town in Umbria
Table of Contents
Massa Martana
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Latest page update: 21 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Massa Martana
Massa Martana has a modest selection of established hotels, with accommodation reflecting the town’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic Umbrian setting. Properties in and around the town are praised for comfort, service and authenticity.
San Faustino Resort is a refined choice in the countryside near the town, offering elegant rooms, a pool and excellent reviews for its peaceful setting and hospitality (€€€). Residenza San Pietro Sopra le Acque Resort combines historic architecture with modern comfort, featuring a spa, restaurant and strong guest feedback for quality and attention to detail (€€€). For a more traditional stay, Hotel Tuder in nearby Todi provides spacious rooms, a restaurant and positive ratings for comfort and convenience (€€).
San Faustino Resort is a refined choice in the countryside near the town, offering elegant rooms, a pool and excellent reviews for its peaceful setting and hospitality (€€€). Residenza San Pietro Sopra le Acque Resort combines historic architecture with modern comfort, featuring a spa, restaurant and strong guest feedback for quality and attention to detail (€€€). For a more traditional stay, Hotel Tuder in nearby Todi provides spacious rooms, a restaurant and positive ratings for comfort and convenience (€€).
Where is
Where is Massa Martana?
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The town of Massa Martana is situated within the Province of Perugia and has a population of around 4,000 inhabitants.
It stands at an elevation of 351 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Todi, Acquasparta, Monte Castello di Vibio and Spoleto. |
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Comune di Massa Martana
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Province: Perugia
Region: Umbria Population: 3,621 (in 2024 - source) Size: 78 km² Elevation: 351 metres Close by: Todi, Acquasparta, Monte Castello di Vibio, Spoleto Recommended hotel: Castello Di Montignano Relais & Spa |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Il Borgo Risorto (The Reborn Village)
Listing headline: Il Borgo Risorto (The Reborn Village)
What People Ask About Massa Martana, Umbria
Is Massa Martana worth visiting?
How do I get to Massa Martana?
What are the main attractions in Massa Martana?
What is Massa Martana known for?
What food is typical of Massa Martana?
Related links
Discover
Discover Massa Martana
Set amid the wooded hills of central Umbria, Massa Martana stands on the lower slopes of the Martani Mountains, overlooking the Tiber Valley to the west. The town’s medieval walls enclose a compact centre of stone houses, narrow alleys, and small squares, surrounded by countryside rich in olive groves and ancient woodland. Its position along the old Via Flaminia once made it a key stop for travellers moving between Todi and Spoleto, and it retains much of that historic charm today.
Traces of the Roman road can still be seen nearby, alongside the remains of early Christian churches and bridges that recall the town’s long history. Within the walls, the Church of San Felice and the Church of San Sebastiano display notable frescoes, while the surrounding area features rural sanctuaries and monasteries linked to local pilgrimage routes. Massa Martana is also known for its high-quality olive oil and traditional food festivals. Its location between Todi and Spoleto makes it a peaceful yet well-connected base for exploring Umbria’s central hills and valleys.
Traces of the Roman road can still be seen nearby, alongside the remains of early Christian churches and bridges that recall the town’s long history. Within the walls, the Church of San Felice and the Church of San Sebastiano display notable frescoes, while the surrounding area features rural sanctuaries and monasteries linked to local pilgrimage routes. Massa Martana is also known for its high-quality olive oil and traditional food festivals. Its location between Todi and Spoleto makes it a peaceful yet well-connected base for exploring Umbria’s central hills and valleys.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Massa Martana
- Centro Storico di Massa Martana rests quietly on the slopes of the Monti Martani, its narrow streets winding among stone houses, medieval gates, and hidden archways. The village retains a serene atmosphere, with rustic façades, wooden shutters, and flower-filled balconies. Small piazzas open onto views of rolling hills and distant Apennine peaks. Walking through Massa Martana offers a gentle experience of history, tradition, and Umbrian mountain life.
- Chiesa di San Felice stands within the historic centre, its stone façade modest yet harmonious with the surrounding architecture. Inside, visitors discover baroque altars, sacred paintings, and elegant wooden furnishings reflecting centuries of devotion. The church has long been central to religious celebrations and village festivals. It remains a cherished symbol of Massa Martana’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Catacombe di Villa San Faustino lie just outside the village, a fascinating complex of early Christian burial chambers carved into the rock. The catacombs contain ancient frescoes, inscriptions, and architectural remnants revealing centuries of religious history. Visiting offers a rare glimpse into the region’s early Christian community and artistic traditions. They stand as an intriguing testament to Massa Martana’s ancient past.
- Piazza Umberto I serves as the heart of village life, edged by stone buildings, small cafés, and inviting benches where locals gather. The square hosts markets, traditional festivals, and moments of quiet conversation under the open sky. Cobblestones underfoot and views of wooded hills add rustic charm. It’s the perfect place to pause and enjoy the slow rhythm of Massa Martana’s daily life.
- Guided historical and nature walks in Massa Martana lead visitors through medieval streets, ancient catacombs, and scenic trails into the Monti Martani. Local guides share stories of Roman roads, medieval fortifications, and traditional village life tied to olive cultivation and mountain resources. Tours often include tastings of local specialities such as olive oil, cured meats, and traditional Umbrian pastries. Exploring with a guide reveals Massa Martana’s unique blend of hidden history, natural beauty, and authentic village charm.
Tours and Activities
Massa Martana Tours and Activities
Umbria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Massa Martana
By Rail: The nearest train station to Massa Martana is in Todi Ponte Rio, approximately 15 kilometres away. The station lies on the Perugia–Terni line operated by Trenitalia, with regional trains connecting to Terni in about 45 minutes, Perugia in roughly 1 hour, and Assisi in around 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the station, local buses and taxis provide access to Massa Martana and nearby villages.
By Road: Massa Martana is located in the province of Perugia, Umbria, south of Todi and close to the Monti Martani range. From Perugia, the drive is around 55 kilometres and takes about 50 minutes via the E45. From Todi, it is approximately 15 kilometres and takes roughly 20 minutes by car. Parking is available close to the historic centre and at the entrances to the old town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Massa Martana is located in the province of Perugia, Umbria, south of Todi and close to the Monti Martani range. From Perugia, the drive is around 55 kilometres and takes about 50 minutes via the E45. From Todi, it is approximately 15 kilometres and takes roughly 20 minutes by car. Parking is available close to the historic centre and at the entrances to the old town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Approximately 55 kilometres from Massa Martana, with a driving time of around 50 minutes via the E45. It is the closest airport, offering domestic and short-haul European connections.
- Ancona Falconara Airport: Located about 150 kilometres northeast, taking roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes by car via the SS76. A convenient option for visitors from northern or eastern Italy.
- Rome Ciampino Airport: Around 145 kilometres southwest, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours via the A1 motorway. Suitable for international arrivals from across Europe.
Private Transfers
Massa Martana Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and reliable way to reach Massa Martana or continue your journey from the town to other destinations across Umbria and central Italy. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a relaxed and convenient journey without the need for car hire or public transport.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, which provides the most straightforward option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Massa Martana typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Todi, Acquasparta, and Montefalco, or to nearby destinations such as Spoleto, Foligno, and Perugia.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, which provides the most straightforward option for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Massa Martana typically takes around 45 to 50 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Todi, Acquasparta, and Montefalco, or to nearby destinations such as Spoleto, Foligno, and Perugia.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
