10 Things to Do in Assisi

Nestled atop a hill in the Umbrian countryside, Assisi is a medieval town steeped in religious history and spirituality. Among the most religious cultures, it is best known for being the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the religious order of the Franciscans. 

But beyond the town’s namesake, this enchanting destination has much to offer its visitors, which include architectural marvels, significant religious sites, and an authentic and beautiful Italian charm.

While many people may not consider visiting Assisi to be a worthwhile venture during their Italian vacation, they’re missing out. This is because the town isn’t just any old rural Italian destination, but it opens the gateway to discover some of the country’s most significant religious, artistic, and cultural moments, something that you can’t appreciate in its uniqueness anywhere else. 

So, if Assisi has caught your attention but you’re not sure what there is to discover here, you’re in the right place. Our team of Italy experts have plucked out the very best things to do in Assisi during your next Italian vacation, helping you to make the most of what this mesmerising town has to offer.

Visit the Sites of St. Francis of Assisi  

Because Assisi is the home and creation of St. Francis, you must first be introduced to the many sights and locations that played a significant role in his life as he grew to be one of the world’s most renowned saints. 

For one, the churches of Assisi have a story to tell of Saint Francis, with the Basilica of St. Francis being the home of his grave, which can be visited in the lower section of the church. The Oratory of San Francesco Piccolino is worth visiting, too, as it is thought to be the birthplace of St. Francis, making this charming chapel a marker in Franciscan history.

Just outside the town walls, you’ll also find the Church of San Damiano, where it is said that St. Francis was spoken to by a crucifix to rebuild its church. This led to the saint founding the Franciscan order, and the crucifix can now be found in the Basilica of Santa Chiara.

Marvel at the Basilica di San Francesco

One of the most significant landmarks in Assisi, this impressive basilica was built over the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi in the early 13th century. It is one of Italy’s, and the world’s, most important pilgrimage destinations, consisting of two churches – the Upper and Lower Basilica – built on top of one another, the Lower being the original Basilica. Pope Gregory IX laid the first stone the day after St. Francis was canonized, on July 17, 1228.

It’s in the lower Basilica where visitors will find the crypt of St. Francis, with its most beautiful features including detailed frescoes, which showcase the life of the Saint. On the other hand, the Upper Basilica is grander – given its more modern status – featuring Gothic arches and frescoes, which also showcase the life of Saint Francis and beautifully encapsulate the details of these key events.

Visitors will find religious artefacts and artworks throughout the museum in the monastery complex, and beautifully manicured gardens at the front of the Basilica of Assisi. We’d recommend spending at least half a day here when you’re visiting Assisi to be sure that you can fully appreciate its magnitude, grandeur, and the history it tells.

Visit the Cathedral of San Rufino

Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Cathedral of San Rufino has wonderful examples of early medieval stone carvings. Animals form corbels, mythical beasts climb pilasters, delicate foliage entwines capitals, and saints and their symbols guard doorways. In all its artistic glory, this Cathedral is a historical masterpiece of medieval architecture that remains beautifully preserved, and visitors can marvel at its grandeur themselves during a visit to Assisi. 

Some of the most significant parts of the Cathedral include its baptismal font, where it is said that St. Francis was baptized. In its crypt, there lies the remains of San Rufino – the church’s namesake – who was Assisi’s first bishop.

Next to the cathedral is its museum, which has a fantastic collection of sacred artworks, including archeological items excavated from below the cathedral, as well as religious manuscripts. Also, visitors can see the Roman cistern dating back to the 1st century in the cathedral. 

Visiting this cathedral is one of the most interesting things to do in Assisi and is well worth a trip either in the morning or the afternoon before it shuts, when it’s often quieter.

Admire the Views from Rocca Maggiore

 From the Piazza di San Rufino, Assisi’s main square, the old Via Santa Maria delle Rose ascends to the Rocca Maggiore – a picture-perfect castle high above the town.

This 14th-century stronghold boasts some of the most exceptional views of the town, stretching out across the vast and verdant Umbrian countryside. It’s well worth making a trip up to the castle just to indulge in this view, making an excursion up here one of the most fun things to do in Assisi, with the opportunity to take some fantastic photos!

Its history dates back to the 12th century, but the original fortress was destroyed during an uprising, which led to it later being rebuilt in the 14th century to be the stronghold that visitors can step foot in today. Other than indulging in its fantastic views, visitors can explore its towers and chambers, which are connected to the main castle via a rampart walk. Children and adults alike will love to learn of the history of the castle, as it served as a crucial area of defense for the town, making it fun for all ages.

See the Tempio di Minerva

The Temple of Minerva dates from the first century BC and was converted into the church of Santa Maria Della Minerva in 1539. The ancient Roman temple is situated in the town’s heart of the Piazza del Comune, with a fantastically preserved façade and six Corinthian columns being just a handful of its most exemplary features. 

The temple’s Baroque interior stands in stark contrast to the classical architectural exterior, which was a result of its conversion into a Christian church by Giacorno Giogetti in the 17th century. Records suggest St. Francis would preach on the steps of this temple during his lifetime, and visiting this structure is one of the more unique things to do in Assisi.

Take a Break in the Piazza del Comune

The Piazza del Comune is Assisi’s main square, as it was in Roman times when it was the forum. It acts as a hub for people-watching, enjoying a delicious cup of Italian coffee (or a glass of local Umbrian wine!), and marvelling at the city’s history that surrounds you here, including the Temple of Minerva and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. 

In the morning, you’ll often see residents doing their shopping or meeting friends and family to start the day. In the afternoon, it is often filled with tourists admiring its history and taking a break before they begin exploring the town again. 

You’ll find lots of gelaterias and cafés around the piazza, as well as local shops selling trinkets, artisanal gifts, and local delicacies. Stop to purchase a souvenir of your travels or sample a quick bite before you venture off again and discover more things to do in Assisi.

Stop by Santa Chiara Church

This Gothic church dedicated to St. Clare was built in 1265 to honor the enthusiastic disciple of St. Francis, who founded the order of Clarissines.

The building’s distinct stone facade of pink and white makes it immediately recognisable amongst the other churches of Assisi. When you venture into the church, one of the most significant things you’ll find – as we’ve mentioned – is the crucifix that was said to have spoken to St. Francis, prompting him to begin his journey of spirituality. 

Other remarkable features of the church include its small museum that houses relics of St. Francis and St. Clare, including St. Clare’s prayer book. The chapel houses Clare’s remains too, visible to pilgrims through a glass encasement. This is one of the more spiritually significant things to do in Assisi, which many religious visitors are deeply moved to see.

Stroll Along Via San Francesco

The Via San Francesco is one of Assisi’s most significant streets, connecting the town centre with the Basilica of St. Francis. Its charming cobblestone structure is lined with quaint shops, including souvenir stores, delicatessans serving local delights like truffles and olive oils, restaurants, and cafés. 

When visiting Assisi, you have to factor in the time to stroll leisurely along Via San Francesco and put your head through the door of these local shops – the livelihoods of many residents of Assisi. You’ll see small shrines and religious symbols everywhere you look along this street, which is the same path that St. Francis would have taken to the Basilica and other parts of town. In other words, visitors have the opportunity to literally walk in the Saint’s footsteps.

Climb the Torre del Popolo

The medieval Torre del Popolo is a medieval tower dating back to the 13th century that offers a fantastic vantage point in the centre of the town to see across its rooftops and out towards the Umbrian hills. 

It stands proudly in the centre of Assisi, noticeable to visitors as they approach this hilltop town. Visitors can actually climb to the top of the tower, though its stone staircase is narrow and needs to be climbed carefully. Its bells ring in Assisi to mark the hours, and its position allows visitors to gain a unique perspective of the town during their visit.

Discover Art at the Pinacoteca Comunale

Palazzo Vallemani houses Assisi’s art collection, much of it from decommissioned Assisi churches and convents. For art lovers looking for what to see in Assisi that will spark their interest, this is well worth a visit, with works ranging from the 14th to the 17th century. Artworks here include pieces by Giotto’s followers – more specifically, Puccio Capanna – alongside other notable Italian artists. 

The museum is also home to a range of archaeological artefacts and choir books, showcasing not only Assisi’s impressive artistic heritage but also its history. So, for those hoping to understand not only the town’s historical and religious significance, but also its artistic heritage, this is a great way to broaden your horizons to discover new culturally enriching experiences. 

Summary

From discovering spiritual churches to indulging in sensational countryside views, Assisi is a destination that allows visitors to unravel a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and religious experiences. It’s no wonder this well-preserved hilltop town is loved by many, but it surprisingly still remains less discovered compared to other destinations in Umbria and its neighbouring Tuscany region. 

This is why we love to shout about Assisi at every opportunity we can get, and we hope that we’ve inspired you to visit this Italian destination like no other!

If you’d like expert insight to plan your trip to Assisi, speak to one of our expert team members today, who will be happy to help! Or, if you’re ready to start your adventure in Assisi, browse our tours on our website!

Enquire