Umbria Jazz Winter

Umbria Jazz Winter, the colder season’s counterpart to the famed Umbria Jazz Festival, is a musical event that brings warmth and excitement to the historic town of Orvieto. Held every December, this festival transforms Orvieto into a haven for jazz lovers, filling its medieval streets and ancient buildings with the smooth, captivating sounds of jazz. With a diverse lineup of international and local artists, Umbria Jazz Winter offers an enchanting experience combining superb music with Orvieto’s timeless beauty.

How do you get to the Umbria Jazz Winter Festival?

Travelling to Orvieto is convenient, with several options available:

By Air: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in Rome is the closest major airport, 130 kilometres from Orvieto. You can take a train or rent a car from the airport to reach Orvieto.

By Train: Orvieto is well-connected by Train, with regular services from Rome, Florence, and other major Italian cities. The journey from Rome takes approximately an hour, making it a quick and scenic trip.

By Car: For those who prefer to drive, Orvieto is accessible via the A1 motorway. The drive through the picturesque Umbrian countryside is a delightful experience in itself.

Hotel recommendations for the Umbria Jazz Winter

Orvieto offers a variety of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some recommendations:

Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini: Located in the heart of Orvieto’s historic centre, this charming hotel combines modern amenities with historic charm. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the town and enjoying the festival.

La Badia di Orvieto: Set in a former abbey, La Badia offers a unique and luxurious stay. The hotel features beautifully restored rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Hotel Duomo: Steps away from Orvieto’s magnificent cathedral, Hotel Duomo provides comfortable rooms and excellent service. Its prime location is perfect for festival-goers who want to be close to the main venues.

Altarocca Wine Resort: For a more tranquil retreat, Altarocca Wine Resort is a short drive from Orvieto. Surrounded by vineyards and offering spa facilities, it’s an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Exploring Orvieto and Surroundings

Host of the Umbria Jazz Winter: Orvieto Town

Surrounding Area

Civita di Bagnoregio: Known as the “Dying Town,” Civita di Bagnoregio is a short drive from Orvieto. This enchanting village, perched on a hilltop, is accessible only by a pedestrian bridge and offers breathtaking views.

Lake Bolsena: A beautiful volcanic lake about 30 kilometres from Orvieto, Lake Bolsena is perfect for a day trip. Enjoy boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the shore.

Todi: Another charming town in Umbria, Todi is known for its medieval architecture and picturesque setting. Explore its historic centre, visit the stunning Church of San Fortunato, and enjoy local cuisine in one of its many restaurants.

Things to Do and See

While the Umbria Jazz Winter Festival is the main attraction, there’s plenty more to see and do in and around Orvieto:

Museo Claudio Faina: This museum, opposite the cathedral, houses an impressive collection of Etruscan artefacts, providing insight into the region’s ancient history.

Wine Tasting: Umbria is renowned for its wines, particularly Orvieto Classico. Visit local wineries for tours and tastings and sample some of the region’s best wines.

Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Umbrian cuisine. Many local chefs offer classes where you can learn to make traditional dishes such as pasta, truffles, and wild boar.

Markets and Shopping: Explore Orvieto’s markets and shops for unique souvenirs and local products. The town is known for its ceramics, textiles, and gourmet foods.

The Jazz Experience

At the heart of Umbria Jazz Winter is the music. The festival features a variety of performances, from intimate club sessions to grand concerts in historic venues. Highlights often include:

Concerts in the Duomo: The majestic Orvieto Cathedral hosts some of the festival’s most memorable performances. The combination of stunning acoustics and awe-inspiring architecture creates an unforgettable experience.

Teatro Mancinelli: This elegant theatre is one of the festival’s main venues. It hosts various concerts, from big band performances to solo recitals by world-renowned jazz artists.

Street Performances: Orvieto’s streets and squares come alive with impromptu performances and jam sessions. Musicians gather to share their passion, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Jazz Lunches and Dinners: Many local restaurants and wine bars offer special jazz-themed menus during the festival. Enjoy a meal with live jazz music, blending culinary and musical delights.

Late-Night Sessions: The music continues into the night with late-night sessions in clubs and bars around Orvieto. These intimate settings provide a unique opportunity to enjoy jazz in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Umbria Jazz Winter in Orvieto celebrates culture, history, and the joy of discovery. Whether you’re a dedicated jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a charming Italian getaway, Orvieto offers an unforgettable experience. From the soul-stirring sounds of jazz resonating through historic venues to the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty, Umbria Jazz Winter is a melodic celebration that will leave you longing for more.