Umbria And Le Marche, Italy
Spring (April-May): Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The weather feels mild and pleasant. Autumn (September-October): Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The weather stays pleasant, with moderate rainfall. This season brings beautiful fall foliage.
Summer (June-August): Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). July and August often see temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F). Humidity generally stays lower than in coastal areas. Rainfall less frequently occurs than in spring, but occasional thunderstorms arise. Winter (November-March): Temperatures generally range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Frost might occur, and occasional snow, notably at higher elevations on Monte Subasio. November and December experience higher rainfall.
Beginning in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries (including the U.S., Canada, Australia, UK) need an ETIAS authorization before travel. This is not a visa. It exists as an electronic travel authorization, akin to the ESTA for the United States. Apply online. The cost will be €7, valid for three years or until your passport expires. Travelers need this authorization to board flights or other transport to the Schengen Area.
When active, apply for ETIAS online well before your travel dates. This process moves swiftly, but early application prevents last-minute issues. A valid email address and payment method become necessities. The authorization electronically links to your passport. The three-month validity requirement beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area strictly applies. If your passport nears this limit, renew it before your trip. Airlines might deny boarding if your passport falls short of this requirement.
Crowds at their peak
Warm weather, all attractions extended hours, lively atmosphere, long daylight hours.
Largest crowds, longer lines, bustling environment, highest prices for accommodation and flights. July/August heat often makes daytime exploration strenuous.
Balance of good weather and fewer crowds
Pleasant temperatures, comfortable conditions for walking/outdoor activities, smaller crowds.
More rain, notably late spring/autumn. Smaller attractions/businesses might have slightly reduced hours in late October.
Fewest crowds, tranquil atmosphere
Fewest crowds, quiet, contemplative atmosphere. Lowest prices for accommodation/flights. Potential snow offers picturesque views.
Colder temperatures. Shorter daylight hours. Some smaller businesses/restaurants might have limited hours or close for seasonal breaks.
The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) widely apply in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Many ATMs ("Bancomat") exist throughout Assisi and Santa Maria degli Angeli. Carry some cash for smaller purchases, local markets, and smaller establishments. Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid card issues.
Tipping in Italy differs from countries like the United States. It carries less mandate and exists more as a gesture of appreciation for good service. Restaurants: A "coperto" (cover charge per person) or "servizio" (service charge, usually 10-15%) might augment your bill. If a service charge already exists, no additional tip is necessary. If no service charge exists, rounding up the bill or leaving a few Euros (5-10% for excellent service) is appreciated but not obligatory. Cafes/Bars: For coffee at the bar, you might leave small change, perhaps rounding up to the nearest Euro. Taxis: Round up the fare to the nearest Euro. Tour Guides: For an informative tour, €5-€10 per person is a welcomed tip. Hotel Staff: Small tips, like €1-€2 per day for housekeepers or porters, gain appreciation for good service.
Accommodation €30-€60 (hostel/basic B&B), Meals €20-€40 (street food/picnic/simple trattoria), Local Transport €5-€10, Attractions €0-€10, Misc €5-€10. Total Daily: €60-€130.
Accommodation €70-€150 (3-star hotel/charming B&B/agriturismo), Meals €40-€80 (mid-range restaurants), Local Transport €10-€20, Attractions €10-€30, Misc €10-€20. Total Daily: €140-€300.
Accommodation €180+ (4/5-star hotel/boutique), Meals €90+ (fine dining), Local Transport €20-€50, Attractions €30+, Misc €20-€50. Total Daily: €340+.
Hostel bed: €25-€40. Basic B&B: €50-€90. Mid-range hotel: €100-€180. Luxury hotel: €200+. Agriturismo: €70-€150.
Coffee: €1-€1.50 (standing). Pizza: €7-€15. Pasta: €10-€18. Main course: €18-€30+. Multi-course: €30-€50. Glass of wine: €4-€7. Gelato: €3-€5.
Italy generally exists as a very safe country, but local conditions awareness warrants attention.
Sunburn/Heatstroke: In summer, the sun can be intense. Apply Sunscreen, wear a hat, seek shade during hottest parts, and stay hydrated. Mosquitoes: Present in warmer months. Insect repellent if sensitive. Foot Blisters: Assisi’s cobbled streets test feet. Wear Broken-in, comfortable walking shoes. Traveler's Diarrhea: Less common; practice good hand hygiene.
Before your trip, save all important phone numbers (emergency services, your accommodation, your bank, travel insurance, and embassy) in your phone. Also, write them down and keep a physical copy in a separate location from your phone.
While not a requirement for entry, carrying a record of your routine vaccinations and a doctor's note for any specific medical conditions or prescribed medications (especially for controlled substances) proves useful in an emergency. If you have severe food allergies or specific dietary requirements, learn a few Italian phrases to communicate this clearly to restaurant staff.
Assisi presents experiences for various budgets. Prices might vary depending on travel style, from budget-conscious to luxury. These estimates provide a general idea of daily expenses in Euros (€).
The cost of accommodation notably changes based on location (historic center vs. Santa Maria degli Angeli), time of year (high season vs. Low season), and lodging type. Staying within the historic walls brings convenience for sightseeing but generally means a higher price and often parking outside the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone).
Agriturismos, while offering an unique rural experience and often great value, typically necessitate a car due to their countryside locations.
Local bus ticket (Assisi): Approximately €1.50 for a single ride, valid for a certain time frame. Train from Assisi station to Assisi town (bus link): Included if you buy a train ticket to "Assisi (Centro)." Taxi from Assisi train station to town: €10-€15.
Train tickets: Purchase at station ticket counters, self-service machines, or online via Trenitalia.
ItaloTreno is another high-speed rail operator but does not serve Assisi directly.
Basilica of Saint Francis: Entry is free (donations welcomed). Rocca Maggiore: €5-€6. Roman Forum and Archeological Museum: €5-€7. Diocesan Museum: €5-€7.
Main basilicas (St. Francis, Santa Chiara) and many other churches provide free entry.
Assisi does not feature a comprehensive city pass.
Daily car rental: €30-€70 (excluding fuel and insurance).
Compare policies from reputable providers for suitable coverage. DiscoverCars.com
Car rental prices fluctuate based on season and booking time.
Provider | Focus | Noteworthy |
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World Nomads | Adventurous travelers | Emergency medical coverage, adventure activities, travel delays |
SafetyWing | Digital nomads, remote teams | Subscription-based, includes some home country coverage |
Insubuy | Foreigners visiting the US, broader options | Medical and travel-related coverage, comparison platform |
Being informed about local conditions is a wise approach.
Carry enough for your trip plus extra days, in original packaging with labels. Doctor's note for controlled substances.
Small supply of preferred brands for common issues (pain relief, allergies, upset stomach).
Learn Italian phrases to communicate clearly with restaurant staff. Direct communication is the best approach.
Plan your emergency contacts. Share your itinerary and contact details with a trusted person at home. Arrange communication in an emergency. Consider international roaming or an eSIM for immediate connectivity.
Road Safety for Pedestrians: Assisi's historic center largely accommodates pedestrians. Outside ZTL or when crossing, drivers may not always yield. Use marked crosswalks, look both ways, and stay aware of traffic.
General Awareness: Assisi is safe, but stay aware, especially in crowded areas. Avoid leaving bags unattended. Use hotel safes for valuables.
Natural disaster risks exist. While central Italy experiences seismic activity, Assisi generally sees minor tremors, and buildings adhere to strict safety codes. Forest fires might occur in very dry summer months.
Your passport must possess validity for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. It also needs issuance within the last 10 years.
You might receive a request for proof of onward or return travel, like a confirmed flight ticket.
You might provide proof of where you plan to stay, like hotel bookings or an invitation letter if residing with friends or family.
Assisi exists as a very safe town, with low crime rates. Its religious significance and smaller size contribute to a peaceful atmosphere. However, vigilance remains prudent.
While credit cards receive wide acceptance, small businesses, market vendors, and some bus services might prefer or mandate cash. Carrying small denominations of Euros proves useful for these situations and for small tips. Avoid exchanging large amounts of currency at airports or major tourist areas, as rates often remain unfavorable.
ATMs linked to major networks (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Cirrus) generally extend good exchange rates. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card freezes due to suspicious activity.
Accommodation costs vary based on location, time of year, and lodging type. Historic center stays convenience but with a higher price and ZTL parking.
"Coperto" and "servizio" are common. The "coperto" covers table service, bread, and linen. The "servizio" is a service charge. Check your bill. Small tips are typically cash.