5 day itinerary
Assisi
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Assisi
Welcome to Assisi! After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the town. Start your exploration at the , which houses the famous Porziuncola, a small chapel where St. Francis of Assisi founded the Franciscan Order. Take some time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the beautiful frescoes.
In the afternoon, head up to the historic center of Assisi. Begin at the , a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Italy. Explore the Upper Basilica, adorned with stunning frescoes by Giotto and other renowned artists. Then, descend to the Lower Basilica, where you can pay your respects at the tomb of St. Francis.
Day 2: Exploring Assisi's Cultural Heritage
Start your day with a visit to the , dedicated to St. Clare, one of St. Francis' closest followers. Admire the beautiful rose window and the tomb of St. Clare. From there, make your way to the , which was converted into a church in the 16th century. Marvel at the blend of Roman and Christian architecture.
Afterwards, take a stroll through the medieval streets of Assisi, stopping at the , a fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local trattorias, savoring traditional Umbrian cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the , another important religious site in Assisi. Admire the beautiful frescoes and the stunning rose window. End your day with a visit to the , the oldest church in Assisi, and explore its charming piazza.
Day 3: Day Trip to Perugia
Today, take a day trip to the nearby city of Perugia, the capital of the Umbria region. Explore the historic center, starting at the Piazza IV Novembre, the heart of the city. Admire the stunning Palazzo dei Priori, the Gothic cathedral, and the beautiful Fontana Maggiore.
Visit the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria, which houses an impressive collection of Italian art, including works by Perugino and Pinturicchio. Take a stroll along the ancient Etruscan walls and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Indulge in some retail therapy at the local shops, where you can find delicious chocolates and other regional specialties. Don't forget to try the famous Perugina Baci chocolates!
Day 4: Assisi's Natural Beauty
Today, take a break from the city and explore the natural beauty surrounding Assisi. Start your day with a visit to the , a peaceful hermitage located in the woods on the slopes of Mount Subasio. Enjoy the tranquility and breathtaking views from this spiritual retreat.
Afterwards, head to the , a nature reserve that was once the hunting ground of St. Francis. Take a leisurely hike through the forest, following the trails that lead to various chapels and hermitages. Enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the , located just outside Assisi. This charming church is surrounded by olive groves and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Day 5: Assisi's Culinary Delights
On your last day in Assisi, immerse yourself in the local culinary scene. Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delicacies. Pick up some ingredients for a picnic or a cooking class later in the day.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Umbrian dishes. From handmade pasta to hearty stews, you'll get a taste of the region's rich culinary heritage. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious meal paired with local wines.
End your day with a visit to a local winery, where you can sample some of the region's finest wines. Raise a glass to a memorable trip to Assisi and toast to the beautiful memories you've made.
Safe travels and enjoy your time in Assisi!