San Feliciano on Lake Trasimeno

The old fishing village of San Feliciano sits on a hill right by the shores of Lake Trasimeno. Its houses are built from the area’s characteristic sandstone, and narrow lanes and steep stairways wind through the village. The lakeshore and hillside setting shape two sides of its character, which you can take into account when choosing your destination. San Feliciano is therefore a place whose character is closely tied to the water and fishing.

Museum and crafts

The Museo della Pesca e del Lago Trasimeno is located next to the northern fishing harbor. Through the “culture of water” and the development of fishing, it explores the language, history and lives of the communities that have settled around the lake. Its focus therefore extends beyond fishing itself: the lives of the communities around Lake Trasimeno are also part of the story. Its location beside the harbor connects this look at history with a specific place in San Feliciano.

Filet a Modano offers a distinct perspective on local craftsmanship. In San Feliciano, this technique combines two forms of craft: making a fishing net and embroidery. In this way, a process directly connected to fishing comes together with a textile technique. Filet a Modano adds a local craft dimension to the story of fishing.

Fishermen can be seen untangling nets along the lakeshore and in the harbors. If you would like to observe this activity in particular, check before your trip whether it is currently taking place locally.

Beyond San Feliciano, fishing is also part of the history of the lake as a whole. The Cooperativa dei pescatori del lago has been in existence since 1928 and is now the leading fishing center on Lake Trasimeno. This regional context complements the museum’s themes: it focuses on the communities around the lake and the development of fishing, while the cooperative points to the importance of fishing across the lake as a whole.

Festivals and dates

The Festa del Giacchio takes place every year in San Feliciano. It is dedicated to a fishing activity that has been passed down for generations on Lake Trasimeno. The 2026 edition ran from July 24 to August 2. If you plan to attend a later edition, check the event dates for the year in question.

Another fixed date is January 24: on the feast day of Saint Feliciano, a relic of the saint kept in the parish church is put on display every year. Alongside the fishing festival, there is therefore also an annual religious observance with a set date.

Activities on the lake

The “Fisherman for a Day” activity is open to visitors. Before booking, check whether it is currently available. Another way to experience the lake is to take a private boat from San Feliciano to Isola Polvese; the trip is free of charge. The stated operating period for this seasonal service is July 15 to August 30. Before your trip, check current operating days, reservation options and any weather-related restrictions.

Discover more destinations: Crocemarroggia, Giomici, Mezzopiano, Gaglietole, Ospedalicchio, Monte Castello Di Vibio, Vitellino, Civitella d'Arna.

For the broader travel overview: Perugia.