Assisi holidays

How to reach Assisi

Flight time: Flights to Assisi usually land at Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi Airport, which is just a 20-minute drive from the town. A direct flight from London takes about 2 hours 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can also arrive via Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, which is connected to more UK cities, with a flight time of between 2.5 and 3 hours.

Transfer time:

• The easiest way to reach Assisi from Perugia Airport is by taxi, with the trip taking around 20 minutes.

• Buses are also available, connecting to Assisi's town centre in 30–40 minutes.

• If you travel via Rome, you can catch the train to Assisi, which takes approximately 2.5 hours and sometimes involves a change at nearby Foligno.

Price:

• A taxi from Perugia Airport to Assisi costs roughly €40.

• Taking the bus is a more affordable option, and will set you back just a couple of euros.

• Train fares from Rome to Assisi typically range from €20–€30, depending on the service.

Best time to visit Assisi

Timing your trip to Assisi depends on whether you want to explore with fewer crowds or experience its lively festivals. The town’s hilltop setting is breathtaking all year round, but each season offers something unique. Here’s a guide to help you plan:

• March to May sees the arrival of spring in Assisi, with mild weather and colourful blooms. Temperatures steadily rise from around 10°C to 20°C, rainfall levels are moderate and the sun shines for about 5–7 hours each day. This is a relatively quiet time to visit, with the exception of Easter, when religious pilgrims descend upon the town in droves.

• June to August is the peak season for holidays to Assisi, with the consistently warm weather and sunshine drawing visitors to its medieval streets. Temperatures hover around 25°C to 30°C, rainfall is minimal and you’ll enjoy up to 11 hours of daily sunshine. Expect crowds, especially during the Assisi Festival in early August.

• September to November is ideal if you want a balance of good weather and fewer tourists. Temperatures gradually cool from around 24°C in September to a much fresher 14°C by November. Rainfall increases, but the 6–8 hours of daily sunshine still makes sightseeing a joy.

• December to February sees fewer tourists and an altogether calmer atmosphere. Daily temperatures average 5°C to 10°C, with roughly 4–6 hours of sunshine. It’s the perfect time to visit if you like spending cosy evenings in traditional trattorias and exploring religious sites like the Basilica of St Francis without the crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the main language, but English is widely understood in tourist spots. That said, learning a few Italian phrases will be much appreciated by the locals.

• Local habits and customs: Italians value politeness, so try to greet people with a friendly “buongiorno” or “buonasera” when entering shops or cafés. Assisi’s religious significance also means that modest attire is advisable when visiting churches and religious sites.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases and public transport.

• Getting around: Assisi is a compact town best explored on foot – although its steep streets can be challenging. Bus services connect the upper and lower parts of the town, with a single ticket costing €1.30 if bought in advance or €1.50 on board (remember to have the right change). If you’re planning on venturing to nearby towns, regional trains from Assisi station are affordable, coming in at around €3–€10 for a single trip.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses the standard European 220 volts, with two-pin round plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Assisi is on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Assisi

The serene Umbrian town of Assisi is a spiritual haven as well as a feast for the eyes, blending religious significance with sweeping countryside vistas. Whether you’re here for the history, the culture or simply to soak up its tranquil beauty, Assisi holidays offer no shortage of memorable experiences. Here are some of the best:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Piazza del Comune (Town Hall Square): Assisi’s central square is the ideal starting point for taking in the town’s architecture, beginning with the beautifully preserved Temple of Minerva.

• Mount Subasio: A short drive or hike will bring you to the natural park of Mount Subasio. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a picnic while taking in Umbria’s rolling scenery.

• Porta Nuova: One of the town’s gateways, it offers picture-perfect views of the surrounding countryside, as well as the dramatic skyline featuring Assisi’s rooftops and bell towers.

Parks and gardens

• Monte Subasio Park: This natural park is perfect for everything from gentle nature walks to more strenuous hikes. Its trails are a favourite among pilgrims retracing St Francis’s steps.

• Bosco di San Francesco (Wood of Saint Francis): This peaceful woodland, run by the Italian National Trust, provides a lovely contrast to the hustle and bustle of the town. It’s full of art installations and walking paths that evoke St Francis’s connection to nature.

Historical monuments

• Basilica of St Francis: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the spiritual heart of Assisi. The frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue are masterpieces of medieval art, while the crypt houses the tomb of St Francis himself.

• Basilica of Santa Chiara: Dedicated to St Clare, this distinctive pink-and-white-striped church holds her tomb and the famous San Damiano crucifix that inspired St Francis.

• Rocca Maggiore: This imposing fortress overlooks the town, offering panoramic views. The 106-step climb to the top of the tower not only provides a fascinating glimpse into Assisi’s medieval past but is rewarded with stunning scenery.

• San Damiano: A tranquil monastery situated just outside the main town. It’s said that St Francis wrote his famous “Canticle of the Creatures” here, inspired by the peaceful surroundings.

Day trips in the area

• Perugia: Just a 30-minute drive away is the capital of Umbria, renowned for its Etruscan history, vibrant student life and chocolate.

• Spello: This small neighbouring town is well worth visiting to see the extraordinary Roman Villa of Mosaics. It’s also celebrated for its annual – and very colourful – Infiorata flower festival.

• Gubbio: A charming medieval town located about 45 minutes from Assisi, famous for its well-preserved ancient Roman and medieval architecture.

Activities for families in Assisi

Assisi may be steeped in history, but it’s also a fantastic destination for a family holiday. The town offers a mix of outdoor spaces and interactive activities to keep everyone entertained.

• Parks and gardens: The Bosco di San Francesco is a big hit with families, offering shaded walking paths, open meadows and the chance to connect with nature. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this beautiful setting.

• Interactive museums: The Assisi Treasure Museum is great for curious children, offering hands-on exhibits that showcase the town’s religious and artistic heritage. Explore fascinating art restoration techniques or discover ancient artefacts.

• Historical monuments and sites: Older children will enjoy the adventure of climbing Rocca Maggiore. Its medieval towers and corridors will ignite imaginations, while the spectacular views make it well worth the physical effort.

• Nature trails: Take a drive out to Mount Subasio, which has accessible paths suitable for family hikes, and plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way.

Free things to do in Assisi

Experiencing Assisi’s unique culture and charm doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. There are plenty of low-cost and free activities to enjoy in this spiritual town.

• Free events: Assisi’s religious calendar is dotted with events that are free to attend. For example, the Feast of St Francis in October features processions, music and celebrations.

• Free guided tours: Several local groups offer free walking tours of Assisi’s historic centre, covering key sights like the Piazza del Comune and ancient city walls.

• Churches: Many of Assisi’s churches, including the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the Church of San Damiano, are open to the public without an entrance fee.

• Explore Assisi by public transport: While walking is the best way to see Assisi, the town’s public buses provide a convenient, low-cost alternative.

• Outdoor spaces: Enjoy the Bosco di San Francesco or the scenic trails around the town for free. Nature is Assisi’s greatest asset, and its panoramic scenes come at no cost at all.

Local dishes in Assisi

No holiday to Assisi is complete without sampling the region’s simple but flavourful cuisine. The focus here is on fresh, local ingredients, often showcasing Umbria’s rich bounty of olive oil, truffles and meats such as wild boar. Here are just some of the dishes, desserts and drinks you’re likely to see on Assisi’s menus:

Some typical dishes

• Strangozzi al Tartufo: If you want to sample one of the most luxurious tastes in Umbria, try this handmade pasta served with a rich black truffle sauce.

• Porchetta: A local speciality, this slow-roasted pork is stuffed with garlic, rosemary and fennel. It’s often enjoyed in sandwiches or as a part of a platter with bread and cheese.

Meat dishes

• Cinghiale in Umido: This hearty wild boar stew is cooked with red wine, tomatoes and herbs, offering a true taste of traditional Umbria.

• Agnello Scottadito: These grilled lamb chops seasoned with rosemary and salt are a favourite for their tender, smoky flavour.

Sweets and desserts

• Rocciata: A pastry similar to strudel, filled with apples, nuts, honey and spices. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

• Ciaramicola: This colourful ring-shaped cake, traditionally made at Easter, features a light lemony flavour and a bright pink glaze made using Alchermes liqueur.

Local drinks

• Sagrantino wine: A bold red wine from the nearby village of Montefalco, known for its intense flavour and ageing potential.

• Vin Santo: This sweet dessert wine is perfect for dipping cantucci biscuits at the end of your meal.