Picture of Assisi, Province of Perugia, Italy

Travel Guide for
Assisi

Q: When is the best time to visit Assisi?

The best time to visit Assisi is in spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be crowded due to festivals and pilgrims.

Q: Where can I find authentic Umbrian food in Assisi?

For authentic Umbrian cuisine, try Trattoria Pallotta in Piazza del Comune or Osteria Piazzetta dell’Erba, both offering local specialties like truffle pasta and wild boar.

Q: What’s a must-see hidden gem in Assisi?

Visit the Eremo delle Carceri, a peaceful monastery in the woods on Monte Subasio, about 4 km from the city center. It’s a quiet spot often missed by tourists and offers stunning views.

Q: How can I get around Assisi without a car?

Assisi is best explored on foot since the town is compact and mainly pedestrianized. Public buses and taxis are also available to reach nearby sites like the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Q: What local products should I buy in Assisi?

Look for artisanal ceramics, local olive oil, Umbrian wines, and truffle-infused products. Shops along Via San Francesco offer authentic souvenirs made by local craftsmen.

Italy

Mediterranean, mild winters, warm summers

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Introduction Key Facts Map Logistics Weather Accommodation Itinerary Attractions FAQ Related Guides

Introduction

Assisi, perched on the gentle slopes of Mount Subasio in Umbria, is a charming medieval town known worldwide as the birthplace of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy. Its ancient stone streets and striking basilicas capture centuries of spiritual history and artistic brilliance.

The town’s culture is deeply rooted in its Franciscan heritage, with peaceful piazzas and lively religious festivals throughout the year. Visitors are drawn not only to its sacred sites, like the Basilica of San Francesco, but also to its warm atmosphere, stunning views, and delicious local cuisine.

Assisi offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for travelers seeking inspiration and authentic Italian charm.

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Key Facts

Location

Umbria, Central Italy

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

28,000

Language

Italian, some English

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Types C/F/L

Time zone

UTCCET/CEST (UTC+1)

Country code

+39

Internet access

Widely available broadband and 4G

Climate

Mediterranean, mild winters, warm summers

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Language:

Italian

hello
ciao (chow)
goodbye
arrivederci (ah-ree-veh-DER-chee)
yes
sì (see)
no
no (noh)
how much
quanto costa? (KWAHN-toh KOH-sta)
please
per favore (pehr fah-VOH-ray)
thank you
grazie (GRAHT-see-eh)
excuse me
mi scusi (mee SKOO-zee)

Map

Logistics

Assisi is easily accessible by train, with regular services from Rome, Florence, and other major Italian cities. The closest train station, Assisi (Santa Maria degli Angeli), is about 5 km from the historic center, and local buses or taxis are available for the short transfer.

If you’re flying, the nearest airport is Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, just 20 minutes away by car or shuttle. Driving is also popular, especially for exploring nearby Umbrian towns, but be aware that historic Assisi has limited parking and restricted vehicle access. Weather rarely disrupts transportation, but in winter, occasional fog may cause minor travel delays.

Weather

Assisi experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), with July and August being the warmest but also quite crowded with tourists. Spring and early autumn are mild, filled with blooming flowers or golden foliage.

The best times to visit are April to June and September to October, when pleasant weather and fewer crowds make sightseeing enjoyable. Winter, from November to February, is cooler and quieter, with average lows around 3°C (37°F); while it’s peaceful, some attractions may have limited hours, so plan accordingly.

Food & Drink

Assisi’s cuisine features Umbrian specialties like truffle-infused pasta, wild boar, hearty lentil soups, and locally produced olive oil. Try regional wines such as Sagrantino and enjoy desserts like rocciata. Traditional trattorias, such as Trattoria Pallotta and Osteria Piazzetta dell’Erba, provide authentic flavors, while Caffè San Francesco offers a stunning view and great coffee.

Local bars serve tozzetti (biscotti) with vin santo, and vegan and vegetarian options are increasingly available. Tipping isn’t expected, as service is usually included, but leaving small change is appreciated. Seasonal festivals, such as the Olive Oil Festival, offer unique tasting experiences. Reservations are recommended in peak tourist months.

Pizza

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Lasagna

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Risotto

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Tiramisu

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Ossobuco

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Accommodation

Assisi offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels like Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum—housed in a former monastery—to charming boutique guesthouses in the historic center, such as Giotto Hotel & Spa. Budget travelers will find welcoming hostels like Ostello della Pace and family-run B&Bs scattered through the town.

For a serene experience and beautiful views, stay in the upper part of Assisi near the Basilica of St. Francis or around Piazza del Comune, where you’re close to cafes and landmarks. Agriturismos (farm stays) in the surrounding countryside offer rustic charm and local cuisine. Booking.com and Airbnb are great platforms to compare prices and reviews. Book early during festivals and religious celebrations, as accommodations fill up quickly.

Itinerary

Day 1

Begin your journey by immersing yourself in Assisi’s enchanting medieval atmosphere, soaking up its centuries-old charm and panoramic vistas while getting acquainted with its winding streets and timeless spirit.

Stroll Through Via San Francesco

Begin your journey with a leisurely walk along Via San Francesco, Assisi’s picturesque main street. Admire the charming medieval architecture, artisan boutiques, and inviting cafes as you soak in the city’s timeless atmosphere.

Via San Francesco, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Guided Tour of Basilica di San Francesco

Discover Assisi’s spiritual heart with a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Basilica di San Francesco. Marvel at Giotto’s frescoes and breathtaking interiors as you learn about the history of St. Francis and the city itself.

Piazza San Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Scenic Viewpoint at Rocca Maggiore

Hike up to the medieval fortress Rocca Maggiore for spectacular panoramic views of Assisi and the Umbrian countryside. This is a perfect spot for photos and to gain perspective on the historic townscape below.

Rocca Maggiore, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Assisi, City Highlights and Basilica of St. Francis tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

See the highlights of Assisi on a walking tour with a official local guide. Visit the stunning UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica di San Francesco (Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi), the Duomo di San Rufino, the Basilica di Santa Chiara (St Claire) and the lovely main square, Piazza del Comune. Enjoy clear views of the massive 14th-century fort, Rocca Maggiore, which sits on top of the hill. As you walk with your guide, hear about the history and cultural treasures of Assisi.

4.7 (14 reviews)

From $58 USD

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Day 2

Delve into Assisi’s deep spiritual roots, connecting with the legacy of St. Francis through sites and experiences that foster a sense of peace and reflection amid sacred surroundings.

Explore the Basilica di Santa Chiara

Visit the striking pink-stone Basilica di Santa Chiara, dedicated to St. Clare, a close follower of St. Francis. Marvel at the preserved remains of the saint and her relics, and spend time reflecting quietly in its serene interior.

Piazza Santa Chiara, 1, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Walk the Path to Eremo delle Carceri

Take a peaceful forested walk or shuttle ride to Eremo delle Carceri, St. Francis's hermitage retreat. Nestled in the hills, this tranquil sanctuary is ideal for contemplation and absorbing the natural beauty that inspired Francis's prayers.

Eremo delle Carceri, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Meditative Pause at Chiesa Nuova

Visit Chiesa Nuova, the church built over St. Francis’s childhood home. Absorb the profound sense of history and significance, and take a moment for quiet reflection in this unique, lesser-known sacred site.

Chiesa Nuova, Via Santa Maria delle Rose, 34, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Assisi, City Highlights and Basilica of St. Francis tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

4.7 (14 reviews)

From $58 USD

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Day 3

Experience the vibrant cultural tapestry of Assisi, appreciating its artistic traditions, local crafts, and lively community, all woven together in the rhythms of Umbrian daily life.

Visit the Museo della Memoria, Assisi 1943-1944

Explore this moving museum dedicated to Assisi's role in sheltering Jews during WWII. The interactive displays and local stories weave history into the fabric of daily life and reflect the area's spirit of solidarity.

Museo della Memoria, Via Frate Elia, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Pottery Workshop with Local Artisans

Participate in a hands-on pottery class at a local artisan studio. Learn traditional Umbrian ceramics techniques and craft your own unique souvenir, while experiencing the generational artistry thriving in Assisi.

Artisan Pottery Studios, Via San Rufino, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Explore the Assisi Market

Stroll through Assisi’s bustling weekly market (usually held in Piazza Matteotti), where locals trade fresh produce, cheeses, textiles, and crafts. Savor the lively atmosphere and sample regional delicacies from enthusiastic vendors.

Piazza Matteotti, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

GRAND TASTE PALERMO - Artisan Food & History Walking Tour

INSTANT

A 'Grand Taste' of The City of Palermo. Authentic Food and Wine with History Walking Tour of Palermo. 11 Must-See Sights and Attractions of Palermo. 3 (UNESCO) Arab-Norman Historical Monuments of Palermo. 20+ Tastes of Traditional Specialty Food & Wine. Fascinating Tales & History Information by your Local Guide. Genuine and Valuable Information about other Places to Visit, Must-See. Sights and Attractions - you can ask your Local Guide. Small-group tour (maximum 14).

4.0 (4 reviews)

From $56 USD

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Day 4

Escape into the natural landscapes surrounding Assisi, embracing moments of serenity and inspiration while exploring the lush countryside and tranquil vistas of Umbria.

Hiking on Mount Subasio

Trek the winding trails of Mount Subasio Regional Park for breathtaking vistas of olive groves, wildflowers, and rustic stone farmhouses. Don't forget your camera for panoramic shots of Assisi and the Umbrian plain!

Parco del Monte Subasio, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Picnic in Bosco di San Francesco

Relax with a serene picnic in the tranquil woods of Bosco di San Francesco. Explore the art installations, historic landmarks, and quiet meadows – a perfect setting to unwind and feel close to nature.

Bosco di San Francesco, Via Ponte dei Galli, 5, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Cycling the Assisi-Spoleto Greenway

Rent a bicycle and follow the scenic cycling route from Assisi towards Spoleto. Experience the picturesque Umbrian countryside, passing vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and quiet villages along the way.

Assisi Greenway Trailhead, Via Patrono d'Italia, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Assisi and Orvieto from Rome: Enjoy a Full-Day Small-Group Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

The tour starts from your hotel, a chance to spend a delightful day out of Rome to visit Umbria, one of the most picturesque regions of Italy rich in vineyards, olive trees and the famous hilltop villages. One of the most famous is Assisi, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mystic town of Saint Francis, surrounded by its ancient walls, was built on the green slopes of Mount Subasio and with its colorful houses of stone, narrow streets, flowering balconies and noble palaces provide beautiful views for memorable pictures (do not forget your camera). An interesting visit to St. Francis Basilica, with its early Renaissance masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue, and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Time for lunch in a typical restaurant (optional) and then the tour continues to Orvieto, where you can admire a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a glistening façade of stained glass, mosaics and sculptures. Soak up Orvieto’s charm and explore the city center and then Back to Rome.

4.8 (66 reviews)

From $312 USD

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Day 5

Savor the distinct flavors of Umbrian cuisine as you celebrate your final day, indulging in local culinary delights and reflecting on the memorable journey before your departure.

Truffle-Hunting and Tasting Experience

Join a local guide for an authentic truffle-hunting adventure in the Umbrian countryside, followed by a guided tasting of fresh truffle-based specialties paired with regional wines. Ideal for food lovers seeking an immersive farewell.

Umbrian countryside near Assisi, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Umbrian Cooking Class with a Local Chef

Partake in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Umbrian dishes such as strangozzi pasta and torta al testo. Enjoy your creations in a convivial, welcoming setting before saying your goodbyes to Assisi.

Cooking School Assisi, Via San Rufino, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

Visit to Enoteca for Wine and Olive Oil Tasting

Savor the celebrated flavors of the region during a tasting at a local enoteca, sampling award-winning Umbrian wines and extra-virgin olive oils. Engage with experts to deepen your appreciation of these regional treasures.

Enoteca Properzio, Piazza Chiesa Nuova, 9, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy

2 hours Private Activity - Truffle hunting in Assisi

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

We will take you to discover the Assisi hills and together we will go in search of truffles, the only and most precious product of nature. Our dogs will show you their skills and we will reveal all the secrets of this famous "black gold" of the earth. A walk through the woods and paths will allow you to fully experience the unique relationship with nature and with our dogs, Lord and Lea, who will come to you with light smells, hidden traces and together with them you will be the one to dig the truffles out of the ground and uncover them. You will be told about the history, the terrains and the different ways to search. You will spend two hours in absolute harmony and tranquility and based on the participants and their age or other factors we can decide together the length and difficulty of the route to take.

4.9 (16 reviews)

From $64 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (22 reviews)

Assisi: the Three Major Basilicas. St. Francis, St. Clare and Porziuncola chapel

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

See the highlights of Assisi on a tour with a knowledgeable official guide. This tour will allow you to know about the most important churches in assisi. St. Francis Basilica, St. Clare Basilica and Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels with Porziuncola.

From $180 USD

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5.0 (22 reviews)

Surroundings of Assisi: in the Footsteps of Saint Francis

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

This unforgettable excursion will give you the chance to leave the beaten path and take an inside look at Francis' real way of life. He took Jesus' message of simplicity and non-materialism to heart and challenged the decadence of the Roman Church. It will be an authentic experience for those travelers who are not in a hurry and have time to listen to the silence.

From $291 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)

Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi - Private Tour

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

The Basilica of Saint Francis is the most-renowned church of Assisi, a breathtaking masterpiece of medieval art and architecture. Discover the secrets of Saint Francis, who lived the high-spirited life typical of a wealthy young man until he had a mystical vision of Jesus Christ, and decided to dedicate his whole existence to the poor and sick people. Admire the marvellous frescoes painted by Giotto, father of modern realistic art, "the most sovereign master of painting in his time”. Visit the Upper Church, slender and bright thanks to its Gothic style and the colorful glass windows, and the Lower Church, where the mortal remains of Saint Francis are preserved among amazing frescoes by the greatest Italian artists of the Middle Ages, like Cimabue and Simone Martini.

From $92 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)

Truffle Hunt & Bio Lunch in Assisi

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

Follow a passionate truffle expert in an exciting and instructive Truffle Hunt surrounded by the green woods of Umbria!

From $233 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)

Assisi and Spello Full Day Private Walking Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This tour indeed will show you two of the most charming hilltowns of central Italy. You will also enjoy 14th Century frescoes and Reanaissance paintings. It will be like to back to the past!

From $314 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)

The Wonders of Assisi Private Walking Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

Learn about the history and architecture of the medieval city of Assisi. Assisi is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and certainly the most sacred. Here, in fact, St. Francis was born, founder of the Franciscan order and patron saint of Italy, and it was from here that he began his journey towards the attempt to re-establish a poor and charitable church. You will stroll through the charming squares and narrow streets of the old town and learn about the city's layered past as you admire ancient Roman ruins and medieval buildings. Together with our guide, you will discover the wonders of the Basilica of San Francesco, a Unesco heritage site.

From $166 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)

Winery tour with wine tasting from Assisi

MANUAL

Free Cancellation

Discover the process of organic winemaking and taste the most sumptuous combinations of sweet and dry wines with cheeses, jams and other typical dishes of Umbria.

From $99 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)

Sanctuaries and Franciscan Sites surround Assisi

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This small group tour will allow you to know about the most authentic places to feel the spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi.

From $209 USD

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