Would you like to discover the treasures of the Umbria region? On this day trip from Florence, you’ll explore two of its most iconic cities: Perugia, known for chocolate and medieval art, and Assisi, the spiritual home of Saint Francis.
Day Trip Details
We’ll meet at the scheduled time in Piazzale Montelungo, in the heart of Florence. Once everyone has arrived, we’ll leave Tuscany behind and head into the rolling landscapes of Umbria.
Our first stop will be Perugia. Perched on a hilltop, this lively city is full of character. You’ll have free time to explore its landmarks at your own pace, including Piazza IV Novembre, home to the impressive Fontana Maggiore and the Cathedral. Don’t miss the Rocca Paolina, a fascinating underground fortress that reveals a hidden chapter of the city’s history.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in the right place. Perugia is considered the European capital of chocolate, and you can even enjoy an optional chocolate tasting at a Eurochocolate store to learn more about its famous creations.
After some free time, we’ll continue on to Assisi. Did you know that the hill where the town now stands was once known as the “Hill of Hell”? Everything changed with the construction of the Basilica of Saint Francis, and it soon became known as the “Hill of Paradise.”
We’ll stroll through the winding medieval streets as your guide shares the city’s history and secrets. We’ll visit the Basilica of Saint Francis, where you’ll admire frescoes by masters such as Giotto, Cimabue, and Simone Martini. After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore further. You might visit the Basilica of Saint Clare, see the tomb of Carlo Acutis, often referred to as the first millennial saint, or simply relax with a coffee in the main square.
Before heading back to Florence, we’ll make one final stop at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels. This grand church houses the Porziuncola, the small chapel where the Franciscan movement began.
Finally, we’ll return to the original meeting point in Florence, bringing this 11-hour excursion to a close.