The Conference Venue

The main conference will take place at the Auditorium San Francesco al Prato of Perugia, Founded in 1255 by the Friars Minor, the convent of San Francesco al Prato served as a place of worship and a shelter for pilgrims.

  • Via S. Francesco, 4, 06123 Perugia PG
  • Accessible by bus and MiniMetrò from the train station
  • 15 km from Perugia S. Egidio Airport (PEG)
  • Main lectures in Aula Magna, Ground floor

The workshops will take place at the "Pietro Vannucci" Accademia di Belle Arti (ABA) of Perugia, founded in 1573 as the Accademia del Disegno, is one of the most active and dynamic institutions for higher artistic education in central Italy.

  • Piazza San Francesco al Prato, 5, 06123 Perugia (PG)
  • Accessible by bus and MiniMetrò from the train station
  • 15 km from Perugia S. Egidio Airport (PEG)
  • Main lectures in Aula Magna, Ground floor

About Perugia

Perugia is a historic city located in the heart of Italy and the capital of the Umbria region. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, the city combines Etruscan, Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences, reflected in its architecture, museums, and artistic landmarks. Its historic center, built on a hilltop and surrounded by ancient walls, preserves centuries of history and offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Perugia is also home to the University of Perugia, one of Italy's oldest universities, founded in 1308. This long academic tradition contributes to the city's vibrant international atmosphere, attracting students and researchers from across the world. With its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and dynamic academic environment, Perugia provides an inspiring setting for bringing together the international AI research community for AIxIA 2026.

Rich History

Etruscan origins dating back to the 6th century BC, with well-preserved medieval walls, gates, and historic architecture.

University City

Home to the University of Perugia, founded in 1308 and among Italy's oldest universities, with a large and diverse international student community.

Art & Culture

A rich artistic heritage featuring museums, Renaissance masterpieces, and the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria, which houses works by artists such as Perugino, Pinturicchio, and Fra Angelico.

Food & Wine

A renowned culinary tradition featuring Umbrian specialties, local wines, and Perugina chocolate, famous worldwide for Baci Perugina.


How to Reach Perugia

Perugia is well connected by air, rail, and road to the rest of Italy and Europe.

By Airplane

The nearest airport is the Regional International Airport of Perugia – S. Egidio (PEG), 15 km from the city centre.

A paying shuttle bus connects the airport with Perugia centre (~€3.50). Reservations: +39 075 592 141 or airport.umbria.it.

Direct flights from:

  • Milan Malpensa – Mon–Fri, Skybridge Airops
  • Trapani – Wed & Sat, Ryanair
  • London Stansted – Mon, Thu & Fri, Ryanair
Other Airports

Fly into a larger hub and continue by train or car:

Airport Distance
Roma Fiumicino (FCO) ~210 km
Ciampino – Rome (CIA) ~150 km
Ancona (AOI) ~90 km
Florence (FLR) ~160 km
Pisa (PSA) ~230 km

From Roma Fiumicino: daily coaches by Sulga (~€20 one-way), or Leonardo Express + direct train to Perugia.

By Train

Main station: Perugia Fontivegge (P.zza Vittorio Veneto). From there:

  • Buses to the historic centre (€1.50, valid 70 min)
  • MiniMetrò – urban rail to the hilltop centre. €1.50. See minimetrospa.it
  • Taxi stand directly outside the station

Timetables at trenitalia.it.


Practical Information
Accommodation

The conference secretariat will provide a list of recommended hotels near the venue. Early booking is advised.

Weather in October

Expect temperatures between 8–15°C. Rain is possible, pack a jacket and light waterproof clothing.

Currency & Payments

Italy uses the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, ATMs are available throughout the city centre.

Language

The official conference language is English. Basic Italian phrases are appreciated but not required.