Amelia

Perched on a rocky hill in Umbria, overlooking the Tiber and Nera River is the pretty town of Amelia. Known for its historic walls, which house a wonderfully preserved medieval city you will find the Piazza del Duomo with its pink brick cathedral and 30-metre-high Torre Civica (Civic Tower), and the lovely Amelia museum with archaeological finds dating back to ancient times. Be sure to time your visit with the Palio dei Colombi, Amelia’s main festival. During two weeks in late July and early August, riders on horseback compete against each other, representing the city's five medieval neighbourhoods (contrade); it’s a fascinating sight. After all that energy, take the opportunity to taste the local delicacies – delightful vegetable soups and ‘strozzapreti’ – flour or potato dumplings. Or, take the family to nearby town Lago Vecchio, where you can rent a rowboat on the small river round wispy willow trees. Lovely.