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Picture of Assisi, Province of Perugia, Italy

Travel Guide for
Assisi

Italy

Mediterranean, mild winters, warm summers

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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Picture of Assisi, Province of Perugia, Italy

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

    (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.

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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

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.

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.

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.

Assisi and Orvieto Guided Day Tour from Rome with Lunch

Assisi and Orvieto Guided Day Tour from Rome with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Travel from Rome to Orvieto and Assisi on this full-day trip, and discover two charming towns set amid picture-perfect Italian countryside. Start your day in Orvieto to see its Gothic showstopper, Orvieto Cathedral, followed by lunch near Lake Trasimeno. Explore the UNESCO-listed town of Assisi in Umbria, learning about its patron, St Francis of Assisi.

3.8 (988 reviews)

From $196 USD

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Attractions

5.0 (22 reviews)
Surroundings of Assisi: in the Footsteps of Saint Francis

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 $297 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi - Private Tour

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 $94 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)
The Wonders of Assisi Private Walking Tour

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 $170 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)
Assisi and Spello Full Day Private Walking Tour

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 $320 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)
Truffle Hunt & Bio Lunch in Assisi

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 $237 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)
Fettuccine & Ravioli Class in Assisi’s Home-Style Cooking School

Fettuccine & Ravioli Class in Assisi’s Home-Style Cooking School

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the magic of Italian pasta-making with this interactive cooking class in Assisi. Perfect for food lovers and travelers eager to dive into the rich culinary traditions of Italy, this hands-on lesson takes place at a charming street-side cooking school, offering an authentic and engaging atmosphere. Under the guidance of a skilled home-cook, you will learn how to craft two classic pasta dishes: fettuccine and ravioli. From mixing the dough to rolling and cutting it by hand, you’ll gain expert tips and techniques to recreate these Italian staples in your own kitchen. You’ll also discover the secrets of traditional fillings and sauces that perfectly complement your fresh pasta creations. Once the cooking is complete, sit down to enjoy your handmade pasta, paired with a carefully selected local wine, and soak in the vibrant ambiance of Assisi. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this class guarantees a fun, delicious, and memorable experience.

From $160 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)
Winery tour with wine tasting from Assisi

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 $101 USD

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