Assisi - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Assisi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Assisi, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Assisi and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Assisi, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Assisi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Assisi

Assisi is a beautiful medieval city located in the Umbria region of Italy, just a few hours away from Rome. It's famously known as the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron Saint of Italy. The city is filled with stunning Romanesque and Gothic churches, narrow winding streets, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Assisi is a popular destination for pilgrims, history buffs, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in Italian culture. It's also a great place to sample traditional Umbrian cuisine and wine.

What to visit in Assisi

Assisi is a beautiful medieval town located in the region of Umbria, in central Italy. Here's a list of some of the main tourist attractions: 1. Basilica di San Francesco: This basilica is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. It houses many important pieces of art, including frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue.
2. Rocca Maggiore: This castle, located on the highest point of the town, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It was built in the 12th century and was used as a military stronghold.
3. Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli: This basilica is located at the foot of the hill where Assisi is built on. It is home to the Porziuncola, a small chapel where St. Francis founded his order of monks.
4. Piazza del Comune: This is the main town square, where you can admire the beautiful Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Torre del Popolo, which used to house the town's bell.
5. Eremo delle Carceri: This hermitage, located in the woods outside Assisi, was a favorite retreat of St. Francis. You can hike to its tranquil location and see the small cells where Francis and his companions used to live.
6. Basilica di San Pietro: This basilica, located just outside the town walls, dates back to the 10th century and has beautiful frescoes and a crypt with a Roman cistern.
7. Temple of Minerva: This Roman temple, built in the 1st century BC and converted into a church in the 16th century, is a testament to Assisi's rich history.
Overall, Assisi is a beautiful town full of history, art, and religious significance, and is a must-visit destination in Italy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Assisi.

When to go on holiday to Assisi

The best time to visit Assisi is during the spring (April - June) and autumn (September - October) seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months (July-August) can be hot and crowded with tourists, while the winter season (November - February) can be quite cold and rainy, with fewer tourist activities available. Additionally, if you are interested in attending the traditional celebrations, it's recommended to visit Assisi during specific dates such as St. Francis Feast on October 4th or the Calendimaggio Festival in early May.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Assisi

Assisi is a beautiful town in Italy that is famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By Plane: The nearest airport to Assisi is the Aeroporto Internazionale di Perugia, which has several flights from various destinations in Italy and Europe. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to get to Assisi.
2. By Train: If you are coming from Rome or Florence, you can take a train to the Assisi train station. The station is located in the valley, and you can then take a bus or a taxi that will take you to the historical center of Assisi.
3. By Bus: Assisi is relatively well-connected by bus to other cities in Italy, such as Rome, Florence, and Perugia. There are several bus companies that offer routes to Assisi, so you can choose the one that fits your travel plans best.
Once you arrive in Assisi, there are several landmarks to visit, such as the Basilica of Saint Francis, the Piazza del Comune, the Eremo delle Carceri, and the Rocca Maggiore.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Assisi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Assisi

Assisi, known for being the birthplace of St Francis, is also famous for its delicious and authentic cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Assisi with a short description for each: 1. Porchetta: A succulent and aromatic roasted pork dish stuffed with herbs and spices.
2. Sformato di patate e tartufo: A savory potato tart made with truffles.
3. Strangozzi: A traditional Umbrian pasta made with flour, water, and served with a variety of sauces such as tomatoes, meat, mushrooms, and truffle cream.
4. Torta al testo: A flatbread baked on a griddle and typically served with cold cuts, cheese, or vegetables.
5. Cinghiale (Wild Boar): A succulent meat dish prepared in a variety of ways such as slow-cooking in tomato sauce, grilled, or roasted.
6. Crostini alla Norcina: Toasted bread with a creamy and flavorful spread made from pork sausage, truffles, and cream. 7. Umbrian Lentils: Small dark lentils grown in Umbria and cooked with herbs and vegetables.
8. Pecorino cheese: A cheese made from sheep's milk that is often used in pasta dishes, salads, and meat preparations.
9. Umbrian cheeses: There is a large variety of cheese typical of Umbria, including Bagoss, Pecorino, and Caciocavallo.
10. Montefalco Sagrantino: A full-bodied red wine made in the region known for its intense aromas of blackberry, plum, and spices, and a perfect pairing with the local cuisine.
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Assisi an expensive destination for tourists?

Assisi can be considered a moderately expensive destination in Italy, especially during the peak tourist season in summer. Accommodation costs are higher and restaurants tend to charge more than other parts of the country. However, there are ways to save money while visiting Assisi. Staying in budget-friendly accommodation outside the city and eating at local trattorias can help keep costs down. Additionally, visiting during the off-season when there are fewer tourists can also be more affordable. Overall, it is possible to enjoy Assisi without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Assisi

The best areas to find accommodation in Assisi are the historical center, which is full of quaint streets and charming old buildings, and the area surrounding the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, which is home to many hotels and guesthouses. Both areas are conveniently located within walking distance of the town's main attractions, including the Basilica of Saint Francis, the Cathedral of Santa Maria degli Angeli, and the Rocca Maggiore castle. You can choose to stay in either of these areas depending on your preferences and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Assisi here:
Booking.com

Is Assisi a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Assisi is generally a safe place for tourists. It is a small town located in the Umbria region of Italy, and it is known for its historical and religious significance. The town is popular among tourists from all over the world, and the local authorities take measures to ensure the safety of visitors. However, as with any town or city, it is always recommended to practice common sense and take precautions to ensure your safety. Be mindful of your surroundings, keep your valuables secured, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas, particularly at night.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Assisi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Assisi the most?

Assisi, Italy is a great travel destination for all types of travelers, including couples, families, and young people looking for fun.
Couples will enjoy Assisi because it is a beautiful and romantic town with picturesque views, stunning landscapes, and historic architecture. The town is peaceful and offers a romantic ambiance with its narrow, cobblestoned streets lined with quaint shops and restaurants. Couples can also take a romantic stroll in the medieval center, view stunning frescoes, and explore the Basilica of San Francesco.
Families will enjoy visiting Assisi because it is a historic town with plenty of museums, landmarks, and other attractions for kids of all ages. The town is also accessible, so families can easily walk through the center, explore the castle and learn about the town's history.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy Assisi because it offers various outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. It is also home to various bars and nightclubs that host parties every night, especially during the summer months.
In summary, Assisi is an exciting destination that offers something for everyone. The town's friendly atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty make it an excellent choice for couples, families, and young people looking to have fun.

How to get around Assisi

Assisi, being a small town, is easily walkable. However, if you prefer to use transportation, the best options include buses, taxis, or renting a car. There is also a funicular (a type of cable railway) that connects the lower part of the town to the historic center. Keep in mind that if you rent a car, the historic center is a restricted traffic zone, so you will need to park outside and walk or take the shuttle bus to reach it.

What to see around Assisi

Certainly, here are some places you could consider visiting on a day trip from Assisi, Italy: 1. Perugia - The capital of the Umbria region, Perugia is a vibrant university town with a rich history and culture.
2. Spello - A charming, picturesque hillside town known for its flower-filled streets, medieval architecture, and beautiful views of the Umbrian countryside.
3. Gubbio - One of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Italy, Gubbio is famous for its medieval architecture and Gothic palaces.
4. Orvieto - A city perched high on a hill, famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and the well-preserved medieval town that surrounds it.
5. Todi - A tranquil medieval town located on a hill overlooking the Tiber river valley.
6. Montefalco - Known as the "balcony of Umbria," Montefalco is a picturesque hilltop town famous for its vineyards and wine production.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Assisi!
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