By Shannon Gomes
This enchanting hilltop town of Assisi, located in central Umbria of Italy, will always hold a special place in my heart. I visited Assisi in June of 2022 with my daughter and her dance company and it was a week we all will never forget. One of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world, Assisi is the birthplace of one of Italy’s patron saints, St. Francis, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you love history, food, and art – all while getting a good workout (yes, the hills are very steep!) – the captivating town of Assisi is not to be missed.
Best way to get to Assisi? While you can fly into the small local airport, Perugia, just 20 minutes outside of Assisi, the closest international airport is the Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in Rome. From the Rome airport, you can either rent a car or take a bus to Assisi which takes approximately 4 hours. However a more efficient way to get to Assisi from Rome is via train and only takes 2-3 hours. Once you arrive, you do not need a car in Assisi (very steep medieval town with incredibly narrow streets) as you walk everywhere. But if you do want to explore outside of the town, there are plenty of local taxis.
Best time of year to visit? Springtime or the Fall is the best weather-wise and crowd-wise, but if you don’t mind the heat and crowds – the summertime is bustling in Assisi (and you have plenty of options for delicious gelato all around town!). If you prefer a quieter, peaceful experience, visit in the Winter.
What to pack when visiting Assisi? The most important thing to remember to pack is good walking shoes, because you walk everywhere! Also, the churches require that people cover their shoulders (no tank tops!) and knees so recommend women pack be a shawl or large scarf and bottoms that are longer than a pair of shorts.
Hong long should you stay in Assisi to truly experience it? While many tour groups visit Assisi in just one day, I recommend you stay at least 3-5 days to truly experience everything this magical town has to offer.
Where to stay in Assisi? We had a lovely stay at the Palace Hotel Fontebella, that had postcard-like views from the windows and offered a delicious daily breakfast. Perfect location to walk everywhere in the town!
If you want a luxury option, consider staying at the Nun Assisi Relais & Spa perched on the very top of town. And even if you aren’t staying at Nun Assisi Relais, you must book some time to visit their spa for a few hours. A revitalizing and rejuvenating experience!
Sites not to miss when visiting Assisi include:
Basilica of San Francesco (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000)
Basilica di Santa Chiara
Santa Maria degli Angeli
San Damiano Church
Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
Duomo di San Rufino
Basilica of St. Francis
Rocca Maggiore
Roman Forum and Archaeological Musuem
You can explore all of these sites on your own by foot, or if you prefer guided tours – I recommend booking one with Get Your Guide (download the app for easy use).
If you happen to be in Assisi during the summertime, you might be lucky enough to catch a traditional medieval parade that is performed near the main square before sundown.
Let’s talk food!
Oh, the food! From shaved truffles over pasta to cured guanciale and coppa to the scrumptious gelato, Assisi is a foodie paradise. Be sure to carve out plenty of time to pursue all of the local food shops including the wine, cheese, pastry and gelato shops.
Best restaurants in Assisi?
La Stalla – take a taxi to this agritourismo just outside of town for the most incredible meal I’ve ever had an Italy. Yes, it’s that good!
Osteria Piazzetta Dell’Erba – incredible Japanese/Italian fusion
Bar Giardino San Lorenzo
Locanda del Podesta
Best drinks in Assisi?
When it Assisi, be sure to order an Aperol Spitz (perfect for happy hours!) and of course enjoy some delicious wines from Umbria. Some of the best wine shops in town include:
Francesco’s Wine Shop
Wine Assisi Tesori dell’Umbria
DiWine Assisi
The charm of Assisi is just undeniable. Upon arrival, you are swept into another time and place. Just a few hours from Rome, Assisi is a must-visit town that will always stay with you.
