The Italian town of Assisi is the famed birth and burial place of St. Francis, but also boasts exceptional historical beauty that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Framed by the undulating hills of Umbria and the woods of Monte Subasio, Assisi’s pristinely preserved medieval town exudes traditional elegance.

Things to do

Perched high above the valley, the Basilica di San Francesco is the crowning glory of Assisi and is its most alluring pilgrimage site. Discover the celebrated life of St. Francis through vibrant frescoes created by medieval artists, before venturing down to the crypt where the elaborate neo-Romanesque tomb of St. Francis lies.

Retrace the steps of St. Francis through the Eremo Delle Carceri, a series of narrow caves known to be the spiritual refuge of Italy’s patron saint. See the stones upon which he prayed and slept before admiring the bronze statues in the nearby Woods of St. Francis.

Wander the cobblestone streets and try some of the local cuisine. Stop by a local delicatessen to sample Umbria’s famed “Norcia” cured pork sausages or duck into La Bottega Patisserie for a gelato made with local ingredients from nearby Perugina Chocolate Factory.

Relax in Piazza del Commune, an inviting medieval square with alfresco restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. Admire the Temple of Minerva and its stately Corinthian columns built by the Ancient Romans in the 1st century B.C. For panoramic views of Umbria Valley, don’t miss the Rocca Maggiore, a 14th-century castle built atop the highest point of Assisi.

Getting around

Assisi is a 20-minute taxi ride from Umbria International Airport in Perugia or 3.5 hours by train from Rome. The train station is located at the foot of Assisi, so it’s best to take a taxi or public bus to the hilltop town. Assisi’s medieval streets are best explored by foot.