Summary
Assisi is a medieval hill town situated in central Italy’s Umbria region, renowned as the birthplace of Saint Francis. With thousands visiting annually, the Saint Francis Basilica is one of Italy’s most frequented churches, alongside numerous other sites linked to Saint Francis located in and around the town.
Assisi Location
Located 26 kilometers east of Perugia, the largest city in Umbria, and roughly 180 kilometers north of Rome, Assisi is easily accessible for travelers seeking an enriching experience of Italian culture.
Where to Stay in Assisi
- Nun Assisi Relais Spa Museum is a highly rated 5-star hotel situated in the historic center near the main square and cathedral.
- Brigolante Guest Apartments offers three apartments in a newly renovated palazzo in the city center. For visitors with a car looking to stay in the countryside, additional apartments are available in a restored 16th-century farmhouse.
- Consider exploring various accommodations to discover the perfect place to stay in Assisi.
Top Tourist Sights and Attractions in Assisi
- The Basilica of Saint Francis, or San Francesco, is Assisi’s most popular attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This monumental complex, dedicated to Saint Francis, dates back to the 13th century and features the saint’s crypt, stunning frescoes, and valuable artworks.
- Church of Saint Clare (Santa Chiara), dedicated to the devoted friend of Saint Francis, contains her tomb. The church displays a beautiful pink and white facade along with a striking rose window, housing the San Damiano Crucifix that Saint Francis encountered in 1206.
- San Rufino Cathedral showcases a 12th-century Romanesque facade with the baptismal font where Saints Francis and Clare were baptized, making it a significant spiritual site.
- Two Castles stand proudly atop the town. The larger Rocca Maggiore was originally constructed in 1367 and later expanded. The smaller castle, though partially restored, features three towers that are accessible to the public.
- A Roman Amphitheater from the first century now showcases a garden, surrounded by charming medieval houses.
- Piazza del Commune, the main square of Assisi, features a fountain, the 13th century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, an adjoining tower, and the Palazzo dei Priori. The Temple of Minerva is an iconic structure overlooking the square.
Saint Francis Sites Near Assisi
In addition to historical sites within the town, several significant spiritual locations associated with Saint Francis can be found just outside Assisi, either amid the slopes of Mount Subasio or in the valley below.
Shopping in Assisi
As visitors stroll through the bustling streets, they will encounter numerous souvenir stalls offering religious items and charming trinkets. Moreover, specialized shops and artisan boutiques provide a fantastic opportunity to discover unique mementos and gifts.
Assisi Transportation
The train station is located 3 kilometers below the town, with connecting buses available to facilitate travel between Assisi and the station. Visitors can expect approximately 2 hours of train travel from Rome, 2.5 hours from Florence, and around 20 minutes from Perugia. Buses also connect Assisi to Perugia and other locations within Umbria.
For those looking to explore the broader Umbria region, car rentals can be arranged for pick up in Orvieto through Auto Europe. Note that the historic center, or centro storico, restricts vehicle access to those with special permits; therefore, if arriving by car, it is advisable to park in lots located outside the town walls.
