Assisi & Perugia Day Trip from Florence with St. Francis Basilica

About this experience

Escape the hustle of Florence and journey to Umbria’s most breathtaking gems: the medieval capital of Perugia and the mystical town of Assisi, nestled at the foot of Mount Subasio. This excursion offers a deep dive into art, pristine nature and historic towns. Step back in time as you roam Perugia’s glorious, winding streets. Enjoy free time to admire the grand Duomo, discover its ancient landmarks and soak in the lively atmosphere of its historic center. Next, travel to Assisi and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the City of Saints. A local, professional guide will lead you on a guided tour through history, straight into the majestic St. Francis Basilica to marvel at Giotto’s legendary, world-famous frescoes. During your free time, you can explore the town at your own pace, visit the beautiful Basilica of Saint Clare, and pay your respects at the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint. It is the perfect blend of guided history and independent exploration.

Itinerary

English information from the provider

1. Stop 1

   Duration: 60 min

   This tour is perfect for those of you looking for a unique, meaningful, and truly unforgettable day! Meet your friendly and history-loving tour guide at Piazzale Montelungo Bus Terminal. Piazzale Montelungo is located 5-10 minutes walking distance from Santa Maria Novella train station. Find your seat on the comfortable coach bus, and you will depart shortly! During your journey south towards Assisi, your guide will share some interesting information about this gorgeous, hilltop town. The drive will take about 1.5 hours.

2. Stop 2

   Duration: 60 min

   Let’s head to the heart of Italy and discover Umbria, often described—together with Tuscany—as the country’s “green heart”, thanks to its rolling hills, medieval towns, and breathtaking landscapes. In the morning, you will board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and begin your journey accompanied by an expert tour leader, who will assist you throughout the entire day and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience as you explore Perugia and Assisi.

3. Stop 3

   Duration: 30 min

   Perugia, the regional capital of Umbria, is a charming hilltop city rich in history, art, and lively traditions. During your free time, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its most iconic landmarks at your own pace, such as Piazza IV Novembre, with its stunning Fontana Maggiore, the impressive Perugia Cathedral, and the fascinating Rocca Paolina, an underground fortress offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past. Stroll through medieval streets, enjoy the local atmosphere, and soak in the authentic Umbrian charm.

4. Stop 4

   Duration: 30 min

   Perugia is also internationally famous for its chocolate and is home to Eurochocolate, Europe’s most important chocolate festival. You can choose to enhance your experience with an optional chocolate tasting at an Eurochocolate Shop, where you’ll discover the history of Perugian chocolate and sample some of its most renowned creations.

5. Stop 5

   Duration: 120 min

   Next, you will cross the regional border into Umbria, heading to the mesmerizing town of Assisi. Filled with white buildings and incredible churches, the town also naturally overlooks the green, beautiful valley below. Assisi is known as one of the most sacred places in Italy, as it is the home of Saint Francis and Saint Clare. Before learning more and discovering the city, you will have an hour of free time to indulge in a delicious lunch wherever you would prefer. Assisi is known for its fragrant truffle pastas, hearty vegetable soups, herbed meats, and nut and dried fruit crostini desserts.

6. Stop 6

   Duration: 60 min

   Assisi is one of Umbria’s most enchanting towns. Known as the city of Saints Francis and Clare, Assisi rises on a hill once called the “Hill of Hell” (“Colle dell’Inferno”), formerly a burial ground for condemned criminals. The name later changed to “Hill of Paradise” after the foundation stone of the Basilica of Saint Francis was laid.

7. Stop 7

   Duration: 60 min

   An expert local guide will lead you through Assisi’s winding medieval streets, unveiling the secrets of this extraordinary town. You will visit the renowned Basilica of Saint Francis, home to remarkably preserved frescoes by Giotto, Pietro Lorenzetti, Simone Martini, and Cimabue.

8. Stop 8

   Duration: 45 min

   After the guided visit, enjoy some free time to shop in local artisan stores or relax in the main square with a coffee. You can also visit on your own the Basilica of Saint Clare, dedicated to Saint Francis’ sister and the tomb of the tomb of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint.

9. Stop 9

   Duration: 45 min

   After discovering the most of Assisi, you will head about ten minutes away to the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli. It is located about two and a half miles (four kilometers) from the city center. Your guide will lead you into Santa Maria degli Angeli, but it is actually more famous for another much smaller building inside - “Porziuncola.” This very small, stone chapel once housed Saint Francis and his followers, and it is where he started the Franciscan order. Now, you will see the Porziuncola has been decorated in Gothic style frescoes, glorifying the small building. Enjoy some time to appreciate the beauty and importance of “Porziuncola.”

10. Stop 10

    Duration: 120 min

    After a day of fascinating sightseeing, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of photos… It will be time to return to Florence. Hop back onto the comfortable coach bus, and the drive will take about 1.5 hours. You will arrive back in the early evening.

What's included

English information from the provider

• Guided Tour of Assisi with a Professional Local Guide
• Journey by fully-fitted GT Coach with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi on Board
• Chocolate Tasting at a renowned Chocolate Shop in Perugia (if option selected)
• Free Time in Perugia
• Free time to admire Santa Chiara Church and Carlo Acutis' Tomb
• Entrance fee to St Francis' Basilica & Santa Maria degli Angeli Church
• Expert Multilingual Tour Leader

What's not included

English information from the provider

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks

Additional information

English information from the provider

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Entrance into churches requires a strict dress code. We cannot be held responsible for entry denied due to improper dress. Please make sure your shoulders and knees are covered
• English and Spanish are always guaranteed. In order to confirm the excursion in Italian, Portuguese or French a minimum of 4 pax is required
• Please note that the given order of the visits may change
• May be operated by a multilingual guide

Cancellation policy

English information from the provider

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.