Assisi(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For history lovers, stay at Hotel Casa di Francesco, a boutique hotel housed in a former monastery near the Basilica of Saint Francis. The building features original Renaissance stone walls and arches, with rooms decorated in natural materials reflecting medieval simplicity. Guests enjoy guided tours to the Crypt of Saint Francis, Upper Church, and Ancient City Walls, offering deep insights into 13th-century religious life. Its central location allows easy walking access to all major sites, making it ideal for travelers seeking spiritual and historical immersion in Umbria's heartland.

The Old Town (Centro Storico) is the prime neighborhood for visitors. Nestled between the Basilica of Saint Francis and the Ancient City Walls, this historic district offers narrow, quiet streets filled with medieval charm. Walking distance to key landmarks like the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, Castello di Federico II, and the Tomb of Saint Francis, it provides an authentic experience of Umbrian culture. Many family-run guesthouses and boutique hotels are tucked away in alleys, offering a genuine local atmosphere. Peaceful at night, it’s perfect for those wanting to connect with Assisi’s sacred past.

Join a hands-on icon painting workshop at the art studio near the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, where artisans teach traditional egg tempera techniques used since the Middle Ages. You’ll paint your own miniature image of Saint Francis or the Virgin Mary on wood panel. Additionally, visit Piazza del Comune to explore shops like Casa del Lavoro, specializing in handmade leather goods and wool textiles. Try crafting a unique Umbrian embroidery piece—a lasting souvenir that embodies local craftsmanship and spiritual heritage.

Yes, Hotel Palazzo d'Ascoli, a restored 14th-century palace, offers spacious family rooms and child-friendly amenities including a games room and kid-focused guided tours. Free shuttle service connects guests to the Basilica of Saint Francis and Roman Theatre Ruins, ideal for parents exploring with children. The on-site restaurant serves authentic Umbrian dishes with child-sized portions and gluten-free options. Located just steps from Piazza del Comune and the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, it’s a welcoming base for multi-generational travel.

Assisi transforms into a mystical medieval town after dark. As sunlight fades, the golden glow of the Basilica of Saint Francis’ domes bathes the skyline. The ancient city walls and cobblestone alleys light up softly, creating a serene atmosphere. Some hotels, like Hotel Casa di Francesco, host evening walks recounting legends of Saint Francis. Meanwhile, Piazza del Comune often features street performers, local wine tastings, and outdoor dining under the stars—perfect for quiet reflection amid centuries-old stone and sky.

Begin early: Visit the Upper Church of Saint Francis, admiring the frescoes by Cimabue and Giotto. Walk to the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, appreciating its austere Gothic design. Enjoy lunch at a piazza café with local Umbrian flatbread and gelato. In the afternoon, explore Castello di Federico II, then climb to the Tomb of Saint Francis for panoramic views. Conclude with silent meditation at the crypt. Use hotel-provided audio guides for deeper context. This immersive route captures Assisi’s spiritual and artistic legacy in one day.

Must-try dishes include Frittelle di San Francesco, sweet fried pastries made with honey, flour, and vanilla, traditionally served during festivals. Another highlight is Uccelletti alla Umbra, a savory stew of wild herbs and goat cheese. Dine at Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco, known for fresh, farm-to-table Umbrian cuisine. Don’t miss the weekly farmers’ market outside the city walls, where you can buy premium black truffles and artisanal olive oil—ingredients deeply rooted in local tradition and religious rituals.

The facade of the Basilica of Saint Francis is iconic, especially at sunset when golden light illuminates the red terracotta and gilded dome. The Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli’s symmetrical Gothic portal offers striking architectural photography. Hike along the Ancient City Walls to capture sweeping views of Assisi and the surrounding Umbrian hills. The statue of Saint Francis in Piazza del Comune, framed by fountains and cobbled stones, is another favorite spot. Early morning mist drifting over rooftops creates ethereal lighting—ideal for dreamy, timeless shots.

On October 4th, the Feast of Saint Francis brings a grand procession where locals bless animals—a tribute to Saint Francis’s love for nature. Weekly Gregorian chant services are held at the Basilica of Saint Francis every Wednesday evening, performed by monks in the ancient liturgical style, filling the cathedral with reverent echoes. Some hotels also offer meditation and prayer workshops, combining yoga with silence and reflection—allowing visitors to embody the spirit of peace central to Francis’s legacy.

Take a high-speed train (Frecciarossa) from Roma Termini to Assisi-Franciscan Station, a journey of about 1 hour 30 minutes with frequent departures. From the station, free shuttle buses run to the historic center, or walk in 15 minutes. For more flexibility, rent a car via A1 highway, passing through Perugia before turning onto SS75. Park at your hotel and explore on foot—ideal for soaking in the slow rhythm of Assisi and visiting key sites like the Basilica of Saint Francis and Ancient City Walls without rush.