What to see in Todi: the city the UN called the world's most liveable

Todi is perched on a hill at 400 metres in the southern part of Umbria, overlooking the River Tiber. In the 1990s a study by the University of Kentucky and the UN declared it the world's most liveable city for quality of life, balance between development and nature, and human scale. It is about 45 km from Agriturismo Il Barco.

Piazza del Popolo

The centre of Todi is one of the most accomplished examples of an Italian medieval square. Piazza del Popolo is surrounded by the Palazzo dei Priori (with its medieval tower), the Palazzo del Capitano, the Palazzo del Popolo (one of Italy's oldest, 13th century) and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata. A square on a human scale, almost always peaceful.

The Temple of Santa Maria della Consolazione

Outside the walls, on the plain below, stands one of the masterpieces of Italian Renaissance architecture: the Temple of Santa Maria della Consolazione (1508–1607). Its Greek-cross plan with four apses and a large central dome has inspired generations of architects. Bramante is considered its probable designer.

The villages in the surroundings

Todi is surrounded by landscapes of extraordinary beauty: vineyards, olive groves and medieval villages dot the surrounding hills. Massa Martana, Collazzone and Fratta Todina are little-known small towns that preserve Romanesque churches, fortresses and unbroken craft traditions.

Todi wine

The Todi area produces Todi DOC, a Sangiovese-based red, and excellent Grechetto whites. Local wineries organise tastings with views over the Tiber and the hills. The Saturday market is one of the most authentic in southern Umbria.

Where to stay near Todi

Agriturismo Il Barco is about 45 minutes' drive from Todi. Its central position in the Umbrian Valley makes it an ideal base for exploring both the north and south of the region on comfortable day trips.