TRANSPORTATION IN ASSISI

Assisi, a picturesque hilltop town in Umbria, is known for its narrow, winding streets and stunning medieval architecture. While the town itself is small and compact, getting around may require some planning, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Whether you prefer walking, using public transport, or taking a taxi, here’s everything you need to know about transportation inside Assisi.

🚶‍♂️Walking: The Best Way to Explore Assisi

Assisi is a town made for walking. Its narrow, cobblestone streets are best explored on foot, and most of the major attractions—like Basilica di San Francesco, Piazza del Comune, and Rocca Maggiore—are within walking distance of each other.

  • Highlights to walk to:
    • Basilica di San Francesco: The spiritual heart of Assisi, just a short walk uphill from the main square.
    • Piazza del Comune: The vibrant central square surrounded by medieval buildings.
    • Rocca Maggiore: A historic fortress that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
    • Santa Chiara Church: Dedicated to St. Clare, this church is a little farther from the main area but still within walking distance.
  • Walking Tips:
    • The terrain in Assisi is hilly, so be prepared for some uphill climbs and uneven streets. Comfortable shoes are a must 👟.
    • The town is pedestrian-friendly, and cars are restricted in many areas, especially in the historic center.

🚌Public Transport: Buses

While Assisi is quite walkable, there are also a few options for public transportation if you want to save time or avoid steep inclines.

  • Assisi Bus System:
    The Assisi Bus Station is located at the bottom of the hill, near the Assisi Railway Station. From here, you can take buses to various points within the town or to nearby cities.
    • Getting to the Historic Center:
      • There is a bus that connects the Assisi Railway Station to the town center (Piazza Giacomo Matteotti). This is ideal if you don’t want to walk up the steep hill from the station to the main square.
    • Bus Routes:
      • Buses also run to neighboring towns, such as Perugia and Spello, but for navigating within Assisi itself, the local buses are limited.
  • Bus Tickets:
    • Tickets for buses can be purchased at the ticket machines at the bus station or via mobile apps for added convenience.

🚖 Taxis: Quick and Convenient

For a more comfortable and faster way to get around Assisi, taking a taxi is a great option, especially if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or have mobility issues.

  • Taxi Ranks:
    • Taxis are available at the Assisi Railway Station, Piazza del Comune, and other popular locations.
    • You can also call for a taxi if needed, or arrange one in advance through your accommodation.
  • Taxi Prices:
    • A short trip within the town typically costs around €10-€15, depending on your destination.
    • If you’re traveling from the Assisi Railway Station to the town center, expect to pay between €10-€15 for the ride.
  • Taxi Apps:
    • Taxi Assisi is one of the local services, and you can book a taxi through their app or website for more convenience.

🚗Rental Cars: Driving Around Assisi

Assisi is located in a hilly region, so while it’s best to explore the historic center on foot, a rental car can be handy if you’re planning to explore the Umbria region or venture to nearby towns like Perugia, Spoleto, or Gubbio.

  • Car Rentals:
    • There are several car rental agencies at Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport (PEG) and Assisi Railway Station.
    • Keep in mind that Assisi’s historic center is car-free 🚫🚗, and parking can be limited. Most visitors park in Parcheggio Sant’Andrea or Parcheggio Piazza Matteotti and walk into the center.
  • Parking:
    • The town’s historic area is off-limits to cars, but there are parking lots available at the town’s entrance.
    • Parcheggio Sant’Andrea (a large parking lot near the train station) and Parcheggio Piazza Matteotti (closer to the main square) are the most popular.

🚡Funicular: A Scenic Ride to the Top

For those who want to experience Assisi from a different perspective, the Assisi Funicular offers a scenic and relaxing way to travel from the lower town to the upper part of Assisi.

  • Route:
    • The Assisi Funicular operates between the Piazza San Francesco (lower town) and Piazza della Basilica (upper town), near the Basilica di San Francesco.
    • The funicular ride takes just a few minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding Umbrian landscape.
  • How to Use:
    • Tickets can be purchased at the funicular station, and the funicular runs regularly throughout the day.
    • It’s an ideal option if you want to avoid walking up the hill or need a more comfortable mode of transport.

🚴‍♀️Bicycles: Explore at Your Own Pace

Cycling around Assisi is a great way to explore both the town and its surrounding landscapes. While the town itself is not very bike-friendly due to its steep inclines, you can rent a bike to explore the countryside or use it for trips between nearby towns.

  • Rental Shops:
    • There are bike rental shops in Assisi where you can rent a mountain bike or electric bike for a more comfortable ride.
    • Some rental services also offer guided bike tours of Assisi and its surroundings.