Assisi and Orvieto Guided Day Tour from Rome with Lunch

This full-day guided tour from Rome offers an enriching escape into the heart of Italy’s Umbria region, visiting two UNESCO World Heritage sites, Assisi and Orvieto. Priced at $196.04 per person, the trip spans approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes and features transport in an air-conditioned coach. The tour is suitable for those interested in history, religious landmarks, and scenic towns, with a focus on highlights like the Orvieto Cathedral and Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi.

While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, it involves a long day of travel and moderate walking. The included lunch in Magione receives mixed reviews for quality, but overall, the tour provides a well-organized way to explore Umbria’s charm without the hassle of driving or planning logistics.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $196.04 per person for a 12.5-hour guided day trip from Rome
• Major Highlights: Visit Orvieto Cathedral, explore Assisi’s Basilica di San Francesco, and enjoy lunch near Lake Trasimeno
• Transport: Travel comfortably by air-conditioned coach with a knowledgeable tour leader
• Stops: Multiple visits including Santa Chiara Basilica, Roman Temple of Minerva, and Santa Maria degli Angeli basilica
• Physical Level: Moderate walking involved, with some steep climbs in Assisi, suitable for those with average fitness
• Reviews: Strong praise for guides and sightseeing, some criticism for lunch quality and long bus rides

From Rome to the Hilltop Town of Orvieto

The journey begins early, departing from Via Giovanni Amendola, 32 in Rome at 7:15 am. The coach heads north along the River Tiber, with the first major stop at Orvieto, a town that seemingly rises out of volcanic rock. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the scenic landscape before arriving at the famous Orvieto Cathedral.

The Cathedral of Orvieto is a standout, built in the late 1200s, showcasing Gothic architecture. The church’s façade features stained glass, mosaics, and sculptures, making it a highlight for lovers of art and architecture. As the town itself is filled with churches and charming streets, visitors are encouraged to stroll and absorb the atmosphere of this historic center.

Exploring Assisi’s Sacred Sites and Medieval Streets

Following lunch near Lake Trasimeno, the tour continues to Assisi, a town famous for being the birthplace of Saint Francis. The sightseeing begins with a walk through Piazza del Comune, where landmarks like the Town Hall and Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo create a medieval backdrop.

The Basilica di San Francesco is the most significant site, begun in 1228, and comprises upper and lower churches with the remains of Saint Francis interred inside. This visit often leaves visitors with a profound spiritual experience. The Convent of Santa Chiara is also on the itinerary, dedicated to Saint Clare, a follower of Saint Francis, and contains her relics.

The tour guides you through the steep streets and steps of Assisi, which can be challenging for some. A local guide offers insights into the town’s history and the lives of its saints, making the visit more engaging despite the physical effort involved.

Lunch by Lake Trasimeno and Local Food Experience

Lunch takes place near Lake Trasimeno, with a stop at Castiglione del Lago for a typical Italian meal. The experience receives mixed reviews; some find the food decent, with bread praised for its quality, while others note the pork and potatoes were cold and portions small. Drinks are not included, and additional purchases are necessary if you want beverages.

The restaurant is situated in an agri-tourism setting, offering a chance to enjoy the countryside views. This meal provides a break in the day’s busy schedule, though some reviews suggest that a more substantial or varied lunch could improve the experience.

Visiting Santa Maria degli Angeli and the Basilica of Saint Francis

On the return journey, a stop at Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi gives visitors a chance to see its 9th-century basilica, a site where Saint Francis worshipped. This basilica is a revered place, adding a spiritual dimension to the day’s exploration.

Back in Rome, the tour concludes at the meeting point, completing the roughly 12.5-hour itinerary. The overall experience offers a balance of art, history, and religious sites with some physical activity, making it suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels.

The Guide and Group Experience

The guides on this tour are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Some reviews highlight guides like Cristina and Manuel for their warmth and informative commentary. The group size is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Many reviewers appreciate the timely organization and smooth logistics, though some mention the long bus rides and difficulty with steep climbs in Assisi. Listening devices are available but are noted as not always functioning perfectly.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves moderate walking, with some steep inclines especially in the historic parts of Assisi. Travelers should be comfortable with walking on cobbled streets and steps. The guide recommends a moderate physical fitness level for comfort, particularly for those who may find climbing steep hills or stairs challenging.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should dress modestly to enter places of worship, covering shoulders and knees. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. The lunch venue might have disgusting toilets, and paying for toilets is common in Italy, so carrying wipes or tissues could be helpful.

The long travel time means that travelers should be prepared for a full day on the road, with a fair amount of walking and standing. The guide’s commentary is mostly during the bus rides, with opportunities for free time at specific stops.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, religious pilgrims, and scenic town lovers who enjoy a well-organized day exploring two significant towns outside Rome. It suits those comfortable with moderate walking and interested in art, architecture, and spirituality. Not recommended for travelers seeking relaxed pacing or gourmet lunches.

Final Thoughts on Assisi and Orvieto from Rome

This guided day trip offers a rundown of Umbria’s highlights, combining artistic marvels with religious landmarks. The expert guides and smooth logistics make it a reliable choice, though the long bus ride and variable lunch quality are factors to consider.

The tour provides a balanced mix of sightseeing and culture, especially suited for visitors eager to see iconic sites without the stress of drive-yourself arrangements. If you’re prepared for a full day of travel and walking, and enjoy guided historical insights, this tour delivers a rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves moderate walking and some steep climbs in Assisi, so travelers with limited mobility may find certain parts challenging. It’s advisable to assess physical comfort before booking.

Are drinks included during lunch?
No, drinks are not included in the lunch package. Additional beverages can be purchased at the lunch venue.

What should I wear for this tour?
A modest dress code is required for places of worship, with shoulders and knees covered. Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and stairs are recommended.

Can I expect free time at each stop?
Yes, there are opportunities for free time at each major stop. However, the schedule is tight, and some reviews suggest that more free time would enhance the experience.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The visit to Orvieto Cathedral and Assisi’s Basilica of Saint Francis are often considered the most memorable parts, thanks to their architectural beauty and spiritual significance.