Assisi Itinerary 10 Days: A Spiritual and Scenic Journey (2026)

Arrive in Assisi and check into your accommodation. Take some time to settle in and then head out to explore the charming streets of the town center. Get lost in the maze of narrow alleyways, admire the medieval architecture, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this spiritual place. As you wander through the town, you will come across numerous churches, chapels, and shrines. Take a moment to step inside and admire the beautiful frescoes and works of art. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Umbrian dinner at a local trattoria and savor the flavors of the region.

Today is dedicated to exploring the life and legacy of St. Francis. Start your day at the Basilica of St. Francis, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy. This magnificent church is divided into two levels: the Upper Basilica, with its famous frescoes by Giotto depicting the life of St. Francis, and the Lower Basilica, which houses the saint's tomb. After visiting the basilica, make your way to the Chiesa Nuova, a church built on the site of St. Francis's birthplace. You can also visit the Oratorio di San Francesco Piccolino, a small chapel where the saint is said to have been born. In the afternoon, take a walk to the Eremo delle Carceri, a hermitage located in a forest on the slopes of Mount Subasio. This is where St. Francis and his followers would retreat for prayer and contemplation.

Today, you will learn about the life of St. Clare, a follower of St. Francis and the founder of the Order of Poor Clares. Start your day at the Basilica of St. Clare, which houses the saint's tomb and the famous San Damiano Cross, the cross that is said to have spoken to St. Francis. After visiting the basilica, make your way to the San Damiano Convent, a simple and rustic convent located just outside the town walls. This is where St. Clare and her followers lived a life of poverty and prayer. The convent is a peaceful and spiritual place that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Poor Clares.

Today, you will discover the Roman history of Assisi and enjoy panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside. Start your day at the Roman Forum, which was the center of public life in Roman Assisi. You can still see the remains of the temple of Minerva, which has been converted into the church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. In the afternoon, hike up to the Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress that towers over the town. The fortress offers stunning views of Assisi, the surrounding countryside, and the Umbrian valley. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset and take some memorable photos.

Today, you will take a day trip to Perugia, the capital of Umbria. This vibrant and historic city is known for its Etruscan and Roman roots, its medieval old town, and its delicious chocolate. Start your day at the Rocca Paolina, a massive fortress built by Pope Paul III in the 16th century. You can explore the underground passages of the fortress, which now house a market and exhibition space. After visiting the Rocca Paolina, make your way to the Piazza IV Novembre, the main square of Perugia. Here, you will find the Fontana Maggiore, a magnificent medieval fountain, and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. In the afternoon, indulge in some of the local specialties, such as Baci Perugina chocolate and Strangozzi pasta.

Today, you will immerse yourself in nature and spirituality at the Bosco di San Francesco, a sacred forest that has been restored by the FAI (Italian National Trust). This beautiful forest is located at the foot of the Basilica of St. Francis and offers a peaceful and contemplative experience. You can follow the walking trails through the forest, cross the medieval bridge over the Tescio river, and visit the restored 13th-century mill. The forest is also home to a land art installation by the artist Michelangelo Pistoletto, called "Terzo Paradiso" (Third Paradise). This installation consists of 121 olive trees planted in the shape of the mathematical symbol for infinity, with a third circle in the middle representing the union of nature and artifice.

Today, you will indulge in the flavors of Umbria with a wine tasting tour in Montefalco. This charming hill town is known for its Sagrantino wine, a full-bodied red wine that is unique to the region. You can visit one of the many wineries in the area, learn about the wine-making process, and sample some of the local wines. In addition to wine, Montefalco is also known for its beautiful medieval architecture and its stunning views of the Umbrian valley. Take some time to explore the town's narrow streets, visit the church of Sant'Agostino, and admire the frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli in the church of San Francesco.

Today, you will discover the art of ceramics in Deruta, a town that has been famous for its hand-painted pottery since the Middle Ages. You can visit one of the many ceramic workshops in the town, see the artisans at work, and even try your hand at painting your own piece of pottery. In addition to the workshops, you can also visit the Museo Regionale della Ceramica, which houses a vast collection of ceramics from Deruta and other parts of Umbria. The museum provides a fascinating overview of the history and evolution of this traditional craft.

Today, you will visit the charming town of Spello, which is famous for its Infiorata, a festival that takes place every year on the ninth Sunday after Easter. During the festival, the streets of the town are covered with intricate carpets of flowers, creating a stunning and colorful spectacle. If you are not visiting during the Infiorata, you can still enjoy the beauty of Spello's flower-decked streets and balconies. In addition to its flowers, Spello is also known for its Roman and medieval architecture. You can visit the church of Santa Maria Maggiore, which houses a magnificent chapel with frescoes by Pinturicchio, and the Roman gate of Porta Venere.

Enjoy a final Umbrian breakfast and take some time for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to revisit your favorite spots in Assisi or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere of this special place. When it is time to leave, make your way to the airport or train station for your departure. As you leave Assisi, you will carry with you the memories of a journey that has been both spiritual and scenic, a journey that has touched your heart and soul.