The Etruscan city and capital of the 'green heart of Italy' is often the focus for tourists who visit the central Italian province of Umbria. But from the high valley of the River Tiber to the shores of Lake Trasimeno, northern Umbria has much more to offer. When it comes to northern Umbria, Perugia tends to hog all the news. And for good reason. The Etruscan city is older than Rome and in modern times is far less crowded and more amenable to tourists than the hectic Italian capital.  

The Amanda Knox case did its best to taint Perugia's image but the city and its surroundings survived the media circus that ensued the gruesome murder of Meredith Kercher.  The area continues to be a favourite with tourists and foreign residents due to the laid back lifestyle and high quality of life. The city was also spared the earthquakes that rocked Central Italy last year and earlier this year, even if southeastern Umbria was affected.