A Day Trip Guide to Assisi, the Umbrian Hill Town of Saint Francis
Assisi sits on the western slope of Monte Subasio in the hills of Umbria, a medieval town of pale pink stone that turns golden at sunset. It is the birthplace of Saint Francis and Saint Clare, and the great basilica raised over his tomb pulls visitors from all over the world.
The whole historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, small enough to walk in a day yet full enough to fill a longer stay. It also makes an easy day trip from Florence, Siena, or Perugia, each within about two hours. Here is how to reach it, what to see and do, where to eat, and the best places to stay.
Getting to Assisi
Assisi is one of the easiest towns in Umbria to reach, and most people come by train or car. If you come by train, the station sits down in Santa Maria degli Angeli, about four kilometers below the old town, with frequent buses running up to the historic center. Perugia is only a short ride away, while Florence is roughly two hours by train, usually with one change. However, Siena has no direct rail link, so a car or a regional bus works best from there. If you drive, you can leave the car in the lots below the walls and ride the escalators and covered walkways up into town.
Things to Do in Assisi
Basilica of Saint Francis Private Tour
This private guided tour takes you inside Assisi’s most famous church. Your guide walks you through the life of Saint Francis, from his privileged youth to the vision that changed him. Along the way, you see Giotto’s celebrated frescoes up close. The tour also covers the bright Gothic Upper Church and the Lower Church, where the saint is buried among works by Cimabue and Simone Martini.
Truffle Hunting in the Assisi Hills
This two-hour outing heads into the wooded hills above Assisi in search of truffles. Two trained dogs, Lord and Lea, lead the hunt and show off their skills. Once the dogs pick up a scent, you follow the trails and dig the truffles out yourself. Meanwhile, your hosts explain the history, the terrain, and how the search works. Best of all, the pace and route can be adjusted to suit your group.
The Secrets of Underground Assisi
Most visitors only see Assisi’s churches above ground. This small-group walking tour, however, goes beneath the streets instead. There, you explore the remains of a Roman forum, a Romanesque cloister, and an ancient crypt. The route also takes in the Diocesan Museum, the Crypt of Saint Rufino, and the old Roman Forum. Keep in mind that groups are capped at fifteen people, and entry fees are not included.
Basilica of Santa Chiara
This pink and white church honors Saint Clare. She was the noblewoman who followed Francis and founded the Poor Clares. Her tomb lies in the crypt below. A side chapel holds the wooden crucifix of San Damiano, said to have spoken to Francis. The terrace out front looks over the Umbrian valley.
Piazza del Comune and the Temple of Minerva
The main square sits on the site of the old Roman forum. Its centerpiece is the Temple of Minerva, a first century facade with six tall columns. The temple now shelters a small church behind that ancient front. Cafes and the town hall frame the rest of the square.
Rocca Maggiore
This hilltop fortress crowns the town, reached by a steep climb from the center. The walk pays off with the walls, the towers, and the view over the rooftops. It is the best spot in town for photos.
Eremo delle Carceri
The hermitage sits a few kilometers above town, on the wooded flank of Monte Subasio. This is where Francis and his followers went to pray. The setting is quiet and green, with woodland paths and simple stone cells cut into the rock. It is a peaceful counterpoint to the busy basilicas.
San Damiano
A short walk below the walls leads to San Damiano. This small church and convent is where Francis heard his calling, and where Clare later lived. It is simpler and quieter than the great churches in town. The olive groves around it feel much as they would have centuries ago.
Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli
Down on the plain near the station stands this vast basilica. It was built around the tiny Porziuncola chapel, where the Franciscan movement began. The contrast between the huge dome and the little stone chapel is striking. It is easy to reach on the way in or out of town.
Planning Your Assisi Trip
Wear comfortable shoes, because the streets are steep and paved in stone. Remember to dress modestly for the churches, with shoulders and knees covered, or you may be turned away at the door. Spring and early autumn bring the mildest weather and the thinnest crowds, while summer can be hot and busy. If you only have a day, start early at the Basilica of San Francesco before the tour groups arrive, then work your way up through town.
About the Author
Benvenuti! I’m Kim, an Italian travel expert, Italy resident, a Certified Italy Destination Specialist from the Travel Institute (USA) and a Certified Italy Travel Specialist recognized by the National Italian Tourist Board. I bring over three decades of professional travel industry experience to your Italian adventure.