Map Of Italy With Assisi

The Charm of Assisi

Assisi, a small medieval town in the province of Perugia, is one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy. This picturesque town is famous for its historic churches, monasteries, and medieval castles. It is also the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. The town is situated on a hill overlooking the Umbrian countryside and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

The Top Attractions

Assisi is full of historical landmarks and cultural attractions. The Basilica of San Francesco is one of the most famous attractions in the town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue. The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is another must-visit attraction. It houses the Porziuncola, a small chapel where St. Francis founded his order.

Other top attractions include the Rocca Maggiore, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the town, and the Eremo delle Carceri, a peaceful hermitage located in the woods outside the town.

Hidden Gems

Assisi is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. One such gem is the Oratorio dei Pellegrini, a small chapel that was built in the 15th century. It is known for its beautiful frescoes and is located in a quiet corner of the town.

Another hidden gem is the Crypt of San Rufino. This underground church is located beneath the Cathedral of San Rufino and is adorned with stunning frescoes and mosaics.

Food Scene

Assisi is known for its delicious Umbrian cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include truffles, porchetta, and wild boar. The town is also famous for its wine, particularly the Sagrantino di Montefalco.

For a truly authentic experience, head to one of the local trattorias or osterias. These family-run restaurants serve traditional Umbrian dishes and offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Assisi can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. One of the best ways to save money is to visit during the off-season. Accommodation and flights are cheaper, and the town is less crowded.

Another way to save money is to take advantage of the free attractions. Many of the churches and museums in Assisi are free to enter, including the Basilica of San Francesco and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Outdoor Adventures

Assisi is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. One of the most popular activities is hiking. The Mount Subasio Regional Park is a popular hiking spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Another popular activity is cycling. There are several bike rental shops in the town, and the surrounding countryside is full of scenic bike routes.

Family-Friendly Activities

Assisi is a great destination for families. Children will love exploring the narrow streets and alleys of the town, and there are plenty of parks and playgrounds for them to enjoy.

The Basilica of San Francesco is also a great attraction for families. Children will love the colorful frescoes and the chance to learn about the life of St. Francis.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Assisi is full of off-the-beaten-path experiences. One such experience is visiting the Eremo delle Carceri. This peaceful hermitage is located in the woods outside the town and is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the Umbrian countryside.

Another off-the-beaten-path experience is visiting the Crypt of San Rufino. This underground church is located beneath the Cathedral of San Rufino and is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists.

Natural Wonders

Assisi is surrounded by beautiful natural wonders. One of the most stunning natural attractions is the Mount Subasio Regional Park. This park is full of hiking trails and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Another natural wonder is the Fonti del Clitunno, a natural spring that has been admired for its beauty since ancient times.

Vibrant Nightlife

Assisi may be a small town, but it has a vibrant nightlife. There are several bars and pubs in the town that offer live music and a lively atmosphere.

The Piazza del Comune is a great place to start your evening. This picturesque square is lined with bars and cafes and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Local Markets

Assisi is home to several local markets where you can sample the best of Umbrian cuisine. The weekly market is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays and is a great place to buy fresh produce, cheese, and cured meats.

The Mercato delle Gaite is another popular market in the town. This medieval market is held in June and features traditional crafts, food, and wine.

Beaches and Mountains

Although Assisi is not located near the coast, there are several beaches within driving distance of the town. The beaches of the Adriatic coast are just a two-hour drive away and offer a great day trip option.

For those who prefer the mountains, the town is surrounded by the stunning Apennine Mountains. The Mount Subasio Regional Park is a popular hiking spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Cultural Immersion

Assisi is full of cultural immersion opportunities. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is to attend one of the many festivals that are held in the town throughout the year.

The Calendimaggio festival, which is held in May, is one of the most popular festivals in the town. It celebrates the arrival of spring and features traditional music, dancing, and food.

Art and Music Scene

Assisi has a rich artistic and musical heritage. The town is home to several museums and galleries that showcase the work of local artists.

The Basilica of San Francesco is also a great place to experience the local art and music scene. The basilica is home to several choirs and orchestras that perform throughout the year.

Walking Tours

Assisi is a great destination for walking tours. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and there are several guided tours available that will take you to all the top attractions.

The Assisi Underground Tour is a popular walking tour that takes you beneath the streets of the town to explore the ancient Roman ruins and medieval cellars.

Architectural Marvels

Assisi is full of architectural marvels. The Basilica of San Francesco is one of the most famous examples of medieval architecture in Italy.

The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is another architectural marvel. This stunning church was designed by the famous architect, Galeazzo Alessi, and is known for its beautiful frescoes and mosaics.

Historical Sites

Assisi is full of historical sites that are waiting to be explored. The Rocca Maggiore, a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the town, is one of the most popular historical sites in the town.

The Roman Forum is another historical site that is worth a visit. This ancient Roman site is located in the heart of the town and offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

Biking Routes

Assisi is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts. The surrounding countryside is full of scenic bike routes that offer stunning views of the Umbrian countryside.

The Assisi to Spello bike route is one of the most popular routes in the area. This 23-kilometer route takes you through picturesque villages and stunning countryside.

Wellness Retreats

Assisi is a great destination for wellness retreats. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Eremo delle Carceri is a popular spot for wellness retreats. This peaceful hermitage is located in the woods outside the town and is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the Umbrian countryside.

With so much to see and do, Assisi is a destination that should not be missed. Whether you are interested in history, art, culture, or outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this beautiful town.