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Perugia city break
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Nestled in the heart of Umbria, Perugia enchants visitors with its labyrinth of cobbled lanes, Renaissance palaces and sweeping views across vine-covered hills. A Perugia city break immerses you in centuries of Etruscan and medieval heritage, world-renowned chocolate festivals and exceptional local cuisine. The compact historic centre is perfect for a long weekend, whilst nearby Assisi, Lake Trasimeno and Orvieto add depth to any itinerary. Register today to unlock exclusive offers on handpicked hotels and resorts in and around Perugia, ensuring your Umbrian escape is both unforgettable and exceptional value.
The most beautiful hotels in Perugia
Abbazia Collemedio 4* - Perugia
Set in the rolling Umbrian countryside between Perugia and Assisi, Abbazia Collemedio occupies a beautifully restored Franciscan monastery. Guests enjoy a tranquil outdoor pool, tennis court and traditional restaurant serving regional specialities. Cooking classes offer a hands-on taste of Umbrian gastronomy, whilst Classic and Superior rooms blend historic charm with modern comfort. Choose Bed & Breakfast or upgrade to Half Board to savour the estate's farm-to-table cuisine each evening.
What we love: The peaceful monastic setting, authentic cooking workshops and proximity to both Perugia's art treasures and Assisi's spiritual landmarks.
Borgo Dei Conti Resort 5* - Perugia
This Relais & Châteaux property in the Montepetriolo district pairs neo-Gothic architecture with contemporary luxury. An infinity pool commands panoramic views over Umbrian valleys, whilst the spa offers vinotherapy and signature treatments. Accommodation ranges from Classic Colonica Rooms to family suites, all served on a Bed & Breakfast basis. The resort's elevated position makes it an ideal base for exploring Perugia's museums and venturing to nearby hilltop towns.
What we love: The dramatic infinity pool vistas, Relais & Châteaux pedigree and serene countryside location just minutes from Perugia's historic heart.
Le Tre Vaselle Resort & Spa 5* - Torgiano
Located in the wine village of Torgiano, a short drive from Perugia, Le Tre Vaselle occupies an elegant 17th-century villa. The resort's vinotherapy spa harnesses local grape extracts, whilst the indoor heated pool and gastronomic restaurant showcase Umbrian excellence. Superior Rooms blend period features with modern amenities, and the Bed & Breakfast basis leaves you free to explore Perugia's trattorias or dine in-house. Torgiano's wine museum and cellars add cultural depth to your stay.
What we love: The unique vinotherapy treatments, acclaimed restaurant and easy access to both Perugia and Assisi for day visits.
Villa Paradiso Village 4* - Passignano sul Trasimeno
Positioned on the shores of Lake Trasimeno, Villa Paradiso Village is perfect for families combining a Perugia city break with lakeside relaxation. The large outdoor pool, children's activities and All-Inclusive options ensure stress-free stays, whilst the lake's beaches and boat excursions to Isola Maggiore add variety. Perugia's historic centre is a 30-minute drive, making this an excellent base for those seeking both culture and leisure.
What we love: The family-friendly facilities, All-Inclusive convenience and the chance to blend Perugia's art with Lake Trasimeno's natural beauty.
Why choose Perugia for a city break
What makes Perugia special: history, art and food
Perugia's appeal lies in its seamless fusion of Etruscan foundations, medieval streetscapes and Renaissance masterpieces. The city's Etruscan Arch and underground passages reveal layers of ancient civilisation, whilst the Palazzo dei Priori houses the National Gallery of Umbria—home to works by Perugino and Pinturicchio. Cobbled alleys open onto sun-drenched piazzas where the Fontana Maggiore, a 13th-century sculptural fountain, anchors civic life. Food is equally central: Perugia is the birthplace of Baci chocolates and hosts Eurochocolate each October, drawing confectionery lovers worldwide. Traditional Umbrian dishes—truffle pasta, porchetta, lentils from Castelluccio—fill family-run trattorias, whilst local Sagrantino and Grechetto wines complement every meal. This blend of art, archaeology and gastronomy makes Perugia a richly layered destination that rewards curious travellers seeking authenticity beyond Italy's busier tourist circuits.
Best time to go: seasons, festivals and weather
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather for a Perugia city break, with daytime temperatures between 15–25°C and fewer crowds than summer. May brings the Perugia Flower Show, transforming the historic centre into a botanical showcase, whilst July hosts Umbria Jazz, one of Europe's premier music festivals, filling piazzas with open-air concerts. October's Eurochocolate festival is a highlight for food enthusiasts, with tastings, workshops and chocolate sculptures lining Corso Vannucci. Summer (July–August) can be hot and busy, though evening breezes make terrace dining delightful. Winter is quieter and cooler, ideal for museum visits and cosy trattorias, though some rural attractions may have reduced hours. Whenever you visit, Perugia's compact centre and year-round cultural calendar ensure there's always something to discover, from sacred music in December to contemporary art exhibitions in spring.
Who it suits: couples, culture seekers, short family breaks
Perugia's intimate scale and rich cultural programme make it ideal for couples seeking a romantic, art-filled escape. Strolling hand-in-hand through lamplit medieval lanes, sharing aperitivo on Piazza IV Novembre and exploring Renaissance frescoes create memorable moments. Culture seekers will relish the National Gallery's collection, Etruscan museums and the chance to attend concerts, exhibitions and festivals throughout the year. Families with older children enjoy the city's walkability, gelato stops and interactive experiences such as chocolate workshops during Eurochocolate. The nearby countryside offers cycling, cooking classes and farm visits, adding variety for multi-generational groups. Perugia is less suited to those seeking beach resorts or high-energy nightlife, but for travellers who value history, gastronomy and authentic Italian life, it delivers an enriching and accessible city break. The presence of the University for Foreigners also lends a youthful, cosmopolitan edge to the historic core.
Suggested itineraries
Quick weekend (48 hours): highlights and a timed route
Day 1 (Morning): Arrive mid-morning and check into your hotel. Head straight to Piazza IV Novembre to admire the Fontana Maggiore and Perugia Cathedral. Climb the cathedral's bell tower for panoramic views. Lunch: Enjoy a light lunch at a café on Corso Vannucci. Afternoon: Visit the National Gallery of Umbria inside Palazzo dei Priori (allow 90 minutes). Stroll through the Etruscan Arch and explore the Rocca Paolina underground passages. Evening: Aperitivo on Piazza della Repubblica, followed by dinner at a trattoria serving truffle pasta. Day 2 (Morning): Take the 8:30 bus to Assisi (30 minutes). Explore the Basilica of St Francis and the medieval town centre. Lunch: Dine in Assisi. Afternoon: Return to Perugia by 15:00. Visit the Perugina chocolate factory or browse artisan shops. Evening: Sunset walk along the city walls, farewell dinner and gelato on Corso Vannucci. This compact itinerary captures Perugia's essence whilst including Assisi's spiritual highlights.
3?day itinerary: deeper museums, neighbourhoods and day trip to Assisi
Day 1: Follow the morning and afternoon of the 48-hour route above, adding a visit to the Collegio del Cambio to see Perugino's frescoes. Dine in the Borgo Sant'Angelo neighbourhood for a local atmosphere. Day 2: Morning trip to Assisi (as above), but extend your visit to include the Basilica of Santa Chiara and a walk through the Rocca Maggiore fortress. Return to Perugia by late afternoon. Evening: attend a concert or exhibition if available, or enjoy a wine-tasting session at an enoteca. Day 3 (Morning): Explore the Etruscan Well (Pozzo Etrusco) and the Ipogeo dei Volumni necropolis outside the centre (taxi or local bus). Lunch: Return to the centre for a leisurely meal. Afternoon: Visit the University for Foreigners' historic palazzo, browse the weekly market (if Saturday) or relax in the Giardini Carducci park. Evening: Farewell aperitivo and a final stroll. This three-day plan allows deeper immersion in Perugia's art, archaeology and neighbourhoods.
Alternative: culture + relaxation (include Umbria countryside or Lake Trasimeno)
For travellers seeking a blend of sightseeing and downtime, base yourself in the Umbrian countryside and make day visits to Perugia. Day 1: Arrive at a rural resort such as Borgo Dei Conti Resort or Villa Paradiso Village on Lake Trasimeno. Settle in, enjoy the pool and spa, and dine on-site. Day 2: Morning drive to Perugia (20–30 minutes). Visit the historic centre's highlights—Fontana Maggiore, National Gallery, Rocca Paolina—then return for an afternoon spa treatment or lakeside walk. Day 3: Explore Lake Trasimeno: take a boat to Isola Maggiore, cycle the shoreline or visit the medieval village of Castiglione del Lago. Day 4: Day trip to Assisi or Orvieto, returning to your resort for a final evening of Umbrian cuisine and relaxation. This itinerary suits couples and families who want culture without the intensity of consecutive city days, blending art, nature and wellness seamlessly.
Top things to do & local experiences
Historic centre: Piazza IV Novembre, Fontana Maggiore, Perugia Cathedral
Piazza IV Novembre is Perugia's beating heart, a sloping square where locals gather and visitors pause to admire the Fontana Maggiore. Sculpted by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano in the 1270s, the fountain's bas-reliefs depict biblical scenes, zodiac signs and allegories of the months—a masterclass in medieval storytelling. The adjacent Perugia Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo) presents a modest façade but harbours treasures within: the Chapel of the Holy Ring, said to hold the Virgin Mary's wedding band, and frescoes by Federico Barocci. Climb the bell tower for sweeping views over terracotta rooftops and the Umbrian hills. Opposite the cathedral, the Palazzo dei Priori—one of Italy's finest Gothic civic buildings—houses the National Gallery and the Sala dei Notari, a vaulted chamber adorned with 13th-century frescoes. Spend an hour simply sitting on the fountain's steps, watching street musicians and soaking in the timeless atmosphere of this UNESCO-recognised ensemble.
Museums & culture: National Gallery of Umbria, Etruscan sites
The National Gallery of Umbria (Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria), housed in Palazzo dei Priori, is essential for art lovers. Its chronological galleries trace Umbrian painting from the 13th to the 19th century, with standout works by Perugino, Pinturicchio, Piero della Francesca and Gentile da Fabriano. Allow at least 90 minutes to appreciate the altarpieces, frescoes and sculptures. For a deeper dive into Perugia's ancient past, visit the Etruscan Arch (Arco Etrusco), a monumental gateway dating to the 3rd century BC, and the Etruscan Well (Pozzo Etrusco), a 36-metre-deep cistern showcasing advanced hydraulic engineering. The Ipogeo dei Volumni, a short bus ride from the centre, is a beautifully preserved Etruscan tomb with carved urns and inscriptions. The Collegio del Cambio, the former money-changers' guild hall, features Perugino's frescoes of classical heroes and Christian virtues—a Renaissance gem often overlooked by hurried visitors. Together, these sites reveal Perugia's layered identity, from Etruscan roots to Renaissance flowering.
Food & drink: local dishes, chocolate (Eurochocolate), wine & markets
Perugia's culinary scene celebrates Umbrian tradition and innovation. Start with strangozzi al tartufo—hand-rolled pasta with black truffle—or torta al testo, a flatbread stuffed with sausage, cheese and greens. Porchetta, slow-roasted pork seasoned with wild fennel, is a street-food staple, whilst lentils from Castelluccio and fagiolina beans appear in hearty soups. Chocolate is synonymous with Perugia: the city is home to Perugina, maker of Baci chocolates, and each October Eurochocolate transforms Corso Vannucci into a chocolate lover's paradise, with tastings, sculptures and workshops. Wine enthusiasts should seek out Sagrantino di Montefalco, a robust red, and crisp Grechetto whites from nearby vineyards. The Saturday market in Pian di Massiano offers fresh produce, cheeses and cured meats, whilst enotecas along Corso Vannucci pour local labels by the glass. Many countryside resorts, including Abbazia Collemedio, offer cooking classes where you can learn to make pasta, sauces and desserts under the guidance of Umbrian chefs.
Day trips and practical add?ons
Assisi in a day: itinerary and transport options
Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis, lies just 25 kilometres east of Perugia and makes an unmissable day trip. Buses depart Perugia's Piazza Partigiani roughly every hour (journey time 30–40 minutes; tickets €3–5). Arrive early to beat coach groups. Begin at the Basilica of St Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising an upper and lower church adorned with Giotto and Cimabue frescoes. Allow 90 minutes to explore both levels and the crypt holding St Francis's tomb. Walk uphill through medieval lanes to Piazza del Comune, where the Roman Temple of Minerva stands remarkably intact. Visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara, then climb to the Rocca Maggiore fortress for panoramic views over the Vale of Spoleto. Lunch at a trattoria serving crescia (local flatbread) and Umbrian wines. Return to Perugia by mid-afternoon, or linger for sunset if you prefer a slower pace. Assisi's spiritual atmosphere and artistic treasures complement Perugia's civic grandeur perfectly.
Lake Trasimeno & Orvieto: how to include them
Lake Trasimeno, Italy's fourth-largest lake, lies 30 kilometres west of Perugia and offers a serene contrast to the city's stone streets. Rent a car or take a regional train to Passignano sul Trasimeno or Castiglione del Lago. Spend the morning exploring lakeside promenades, medieval castles and taking a ferry to Isola Maggiore, a tiny fishing island with artisan lace-makers and a Franciscan monastery. Pack a picnic or dine at a lakeside trattoria serving freshwater fish. Alternatively, head south to Orvieto (90 minutes by car or train), a dramatic hilltop city famous for its Gothic cathedral, whose façade is a riot of mosaics and sculpture. Explore the Pozzo di San Patrizio, a double-helix well, and the underground caves carved into volcanic tuff. Both destinations work as half- or full-day excursions; if you're staying at Villa Paradiso Village on Lake Trasimeno, you can combine Perugia visits with lakeside relaxation.
Wellness/slow travel: countryside hotels and spa ideas
For travellers seeking rest and rejuvenation alongside cultural discovery, Umbria's countryside resorts deliver world-class wellness in tranquil settings. Borgo Dei Conti Resort, a Relais & Châteaux property near Perugia, offers vinotherapy treatments, an infinity pool with valley views and guided nature walks through olive groves. Le Tre Vaselle Resort & Spa in Torgiano specialises in wine-based therapies, indoor heated pools and yoga sessions, all within a 17th-century villa. For a truly unique experience, the eco-retreat Eremito Hotelito de l'Alma near Todi offers silent dinners, rock-carved relax areas and a monastic atmosphere designed to disconnect and restore. Many properties include cooking classes, wine tastings and e-bike hire, allowing you to explore Umbria's hilltop villages and vineyards at your own pace. Combining a Perugia city break with two or three nights at a countryside spa creates the perfect balance of culture and calm.
Getting to Perugia: flights, airports and transfers
Which UK airports fly to Perugia and nearby hubs
Perugia is served by Perugia San Egidio Airport (PEG), a small regional airport 12 kilometres east of the city centre. Direct flights from the UK are limited and seasonal, typically operated by Ryanair from London Stansted during peak months. For year-round options, fly into Rome Fiumicino (FCO) or Florence Airport (FLR), both well connected to UK hubs including London Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Manchester, Edinburgh and Bristol. Rome is approximately 200 kilometres south of Perugia (2–2.5 hours by car or train), whilst Florence lies 150 kilometres north (1.5–2 hours). Bologna Airport (BLR) is another alternative, 180 kilometres away with good rail links. When booking, compare total journey times: a direct Stansted–Perugia flight may save time despite fewer frequencies, whilst Rome or Florence offer more flight choices and the chance to add a stopover. Check the latest offers for package deals that include flights and transfers to Perugia-area hotels.
How far is Perugia from the airport and transfer options
From Perugia San Egidio Airport (PEG), the city centre is just 12 kilometres away. A taxi costs around €20–25 and takes 15–20 minutes. The airport bus (Autolinee Umbria) runs to Piazza Italia in the historic centre; tickets cost approximately €8 and the journey takes 30 minutes. If arriving at Rome Fiumicino, take the Leonardo Express train to Roma Termini (30 minutes), then a Trenitalia or Italo high-speed train to Perugia (2–2.5 hours total). From Florence Airport, the Volainbus shuttle connects to Santa Maria Novella station (20 minutes), followed by a regional train to Perugia (2 hours). Car hire is available at all airports and offers flexibility for exploring Umbria's countryside, hilltop towns and wine estates. Many hotels, including Abbazia Collemedio and Borgo Dei Conti Resort, can arrange private transfers on request—ask when booking.
Approximate journey times and booking tips
London Stansted to Perugia (PEG): 2 hours direct (seasonal). London to Rome, then Perugia: 5–6 hours total (2.5-hour flight + 2.5-hour train/drive). London to Florence, then Perugia: 4.5–5.5 hours total (2-hour flight + 2-hour train/drive). Book flights 8–12 weeks ahead for the best fares, and consider mid-week departures to avoid weekend premiums. If connecting via Rome or Florence, allow at least 90 minutes between landing and your onward train to account for baggage claim and station transfers. Trenitalia and Italo offer advance-purchase discounts; book trains online as soon as your flights are confirmed. For car hire, compare rates on aggregator sites and book directly with major providers for better insurance terms. Members can access exclusive hotel-and-flight packages that streamline planning and often include airport transfers, saving time and money. Always check visa requirements (UK passport holders currently enjoy visa-free stays up to 90 days in the Schengen Area).
Practical tips for your Perugia city break
Getting around: walkability, public transport and parking
Perugia's historic centre is compact and almost entirely pedestrianised, making walking the best way to explore. Most major sights—Piazza IV Novembre, the National Gallery, Rocca Paolina—lie within a 15-minute stroll of one another. The city is built on a steep hill, so wear comfortable shoes and expect cobbled inclines. A unique feature is the MiniMetrò, an automated people-mover linking the lower town (Pian di Massiano car park) to the centre in seven minutes; it's free with a valid bus ticket and offers a fun, scenic ride. Local buses (operated by Busitalia) serve outer neighbourhoods and nearby towns; single tickets cost around €1.50 and are valid for 90 minutes. If driving, park at Pian di Massiano or Pellini multi-storey car parks (€1–2 per hour) and take the MiniMetrò or escalators into the centre. Street parking in the historic core is restricted to residents. For day trips, regional buses and trains are reliable and inexpensive; timetables are available at the tourist office on Piazza Matteotti.
Where to stay: neighbourhoods and hotel types
Staying in Perugia's historic centre puts you steps from major sights, restaurants and evening passeggiata. Look for boutique hotels or B&Bs along Corso Vannucci or in the quieter Borgo Sant'Angelo quarter for authentic atmosphere. For more space and amenities, countryside resorts offer pools, spas and tranquillity whilst remaining within a 15–30 minute drive of the centre. Abbazia Collemedio and Borgo Dei Conti Resort combine rural charm with easy Perugia access, ideal for couples and families who want both culture and relaxation. If planning day trips to Assisi and Lake Trasimeno, consider basing yourself at Le Tre Vaselle in Torgiano or Villa Paradiso Village on the lake, both offering excellent facilities and central Umbrian locations. The curated selection ensures quality, value and exclusive member rates across all property types.
Money, safety and local etiquette
Italy uses the euro (€). ATMs are plentiful in Perugia's centre; notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks. Many restaurants and shops accept cards, but carry cash for small purchases, market stalls and rural trattorias. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is customary. Perugia is generally safe, with low crime rates; exercise normal precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport. The city has a visible police presence, and locals are helpful if you need directions. Dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders and knees); some sites may refuse entry otherwise. Italians appreciate attempts to speak Italian—learn basic phrases like buongiorno, grazie and per favore. Lunch is typically 12:30–14:30, dinner from 19:30 onwards; many shops close for a midday break. Sundays see reduced opening hours, though major museums and restaurants remain accessible. Respect quiet hours in residential areas and always greet shopkeepers when entering.
What to pack and seasonal considerations
Pack comfortable walking shoes with good grip for Perugia's cobbled, hilly streets. Layers are essential: spring and autumn can be cool in the morning and warm by afternoon, whilst summer evenings remain pleasant. Bring a light rain jacket year-round, as showers can occur unexpectedly. In summer, sun hats, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are vital; temperatures can reach 30°C. Winter visitors should pack a warm coat, scarf and gloves, as temperatures drop to 5–10°C and some hilltop sites can be breezy. A small day pack is useful for carrying water, snacks and guidebooks during sightseeing. If attending Umbria Jazz or Eurochocolate, book accommodation well ahead and expect crowds; comfortable shoes and patience are your best allies. For countryside stays at properties like Borgo Dei Conti Resort, bring swimwear and casual resort wear. A universal plug adapter (Type L, three-pin) is necessary for UK devices. Download offline maps and a translation app to navigate confidently.
Perugia rewards those who seek more than postcard snapshots. Its cobbled lanes whisper stories of Etruscan engineers, medieval merchants and Renaissance masters, whilst its trattorias and chocolate shops celebrate centuries of culinary craft. Whether you spend a weekend immersed in art and architecture, extend your stay to include Assisi's spiritual treasures and Lake Trasimeno's tranquil shores, or blend city exploration with countryside spa retreats, Perugia offers a city break rich in authenticity, beauty and flavour. Register today to unlock exclusive offers on handpicked hotels and resorts, ensuring your Umbrian escape is as seamless as it is unforgettable.
Perugia city break
Two to three days is ideal for a Perugia city break. A weekend (48 hours) allows you to explore the historic centre's highlights—Piazza IV Novembre, the National Gallery of Umbria, Rocca Paolina and the Etruscan Arch—plus a half-day trip to Assisi. Adding a third day lets you visit deeper museums (Collegio del Cambio, Etruscan Well), enjoy a cooking class or wine tasting, and explore neighbourhoods at a leisurely pace. If you wish to include Lake Trasimeno, Orvieto or countryside relaxation, extend to four or five days and base yourself at a rural resort.
Absolutely. Perugia offers an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds of Florence or Rome, with world-class art, Etruscan heritage, exceptional food and a vibrant cultural calendar. The compact historic centre is perfect for a short break, and its central Umbrian location makes day trips to Assisi, Lake Trasimeno and Orvieto effortless. Whether you're drawn by Renaissance frescoes, chocolate festivals, medieval architecture or simply the chance to sip wine in a sun-drenched piazza, Perugia delivers richness and charm in equal measure.
Perugia San Egidio Airport (PEG) receives seasonal direct flights from London Stansted, typically operated by Ryanair. For year-round options, fly into Rome Fiumicino or Florence Airport from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and other UK hubs, then continue to Perugia by train (2–2.5 hours from Rome, 1.5–2 hours from Florence) or hire a car. Bologna Airport is another alternative with good rail connections. Compare total journey times and costs; sometimes a connecting itinerary via Rome or Florence offers more convenient schedules.
Perugia San Egidio Airport (PEG) is 12 kilometres east of the city centre—a 15–20 minute taxi ride (€20–25) or 30-minute bus journey (€8). If arriving at Rome Fiumicino, Perugia is approximately 200 kilometres away (2–2.5 hours by train or car). From Florence Airport, the distance is 150 kilometres (1.5–2 hours). Many hotels can arrange private transfers; enquire when booking to streamline your arrival.
Umbria boasts many stunning towns, each with unique character. Assisi, with its Basilica of St Francis and medieval lanes, is spiritually and architecturally breathtaking. Orvieto, perched on volcanic tuff, dazzles with its Gothic cathedral and underground caves. Spello enchants with flower-filled alleys and Roman gates, whilst Gubbio offers dramatic mountain settings and medieval festivals. Perugia itself combines grandeur and intimacy, blending Etruscan roots with Renaissance art. The answer depends on personal taste—art lovers may favour Perugia, pilgrims Assisi, foodies Orvieto.
Yes, Perugia is an excellent destination for culture seekers, food lovers and couples wanting an authentic Italian city break. The historic centre is compact and walkable, packed with museums, churches, Etruscan sites and atmospheric piazzas. The culinary scene celebrates truffle pasta, porchetta and Baci chocolates, whilst festivals like Umbria Jazz and Eurochocolate add vibrancy. Perugia also serves as a perfect base for exploring Assisi, Lake Trasimeno and Orvieto. It's ideal for travellers who prefer depth and authenticity over mass tourism and tick-box sightseeing.