Umbria And Le Marche, Italy
While Assisi has a small regional airport, most international travelers arrive via larger hubs in Italy.
Flight prices vary notably based on the season. They typically reach peak during the high season (June-August) and around major holidays (Easter, Christmas, New Year's). The shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often present better value and more comfortable travel conditions. The low season (November-March) generally holds the lowest fares, but flight options might become fewer. Book international flights well in advance, especially for peak travel times.
ACAP provides bus service directly to Assisi train station. Travel time is ~20-30 minutes. Taxis also available, ~€25-€35. Car rental agencies exist at the airport.
Leonardo Express to Roma Termini (~32 min). From Roma Termini, take a train to Assisi (~2-3 hrs). Driving time ~2-2.5 hrs.
Tramvia T2 to Florence SMN train station. From SMN, take a train to Assisi (~2.5-3.5 hrs). Driving time ~2 hrs.
Assisi train station is in Santa Maria degli Angeli (~4 km from historic center). Regional trains connect to nearby Umbrian towns. Long-distance journeys from major cities often need a change at Foligno or Perugia. Purchase tickets at stations or via Trenitalia.
FlixBus offers connections from major Italian/European cities to Perugia or Foligno. Local buses (Busitalia Umbria) connect Assisi with other Umbrian towns.
A valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are legally required for non-EU citizens. Roads in Umbria are scenic. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.
This consideration holds critical importance for drivers. Assisi's historic center largely exists as a ZTL, meaning vehicle access limits to residents and authorized vehicles. Visitors cannot drive into the historic center without specific authorization. Hotels within the ZTL often provide temporary permits for guests to drop off luggage; inquire when booking. Driving into a ZTL without a permit results in hefty fines, often captured by automatic cameras.
Paid parking lots are located just outside the ZTL, typically below the main gates leading into the historic center (e.g., Porta Nuova, Mojano, Matteotti). These might fill quickly during high season, so arrive early if driving. Italian drivers might assert themselves. Maintain caution, especially on winding roads.
While popular in larger Italian cities and coastal areas, motorcycle and scooter rentals exist as less common directly in Assisi. You might locate options in Perugia or other larger Umbrian towns. These might serve as a good option for experienced riders wishing to explore the countryside.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply at airports or train stations in Italy for departing travelers. These costs typically form a component of your flight or train ticket price.
Facilities vary by airport size. Major international airports offer a full range of services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and currency exchange. Assisi train station has basic amenities.
If departing from Assisi train station to a major airport, allow ample buffer time for bus connections from the historic center to the train station, and for potential train transfers. Public transport schedules might show less frequency on Sundays or holidays.
Assisi's historic center largely operates as pedestrian-friendly. Be prepared for steep inclines and uneven cobblestones.
Both guided walking tours and self-guided routes are available. A guided tour imparts valuable insights.
Dedicated bike lanes are limited within Assisi. Cycling is more suitable for the flat plains below.
You purchase single-ride bus tickets at newsstands (edicole), tobacco shops (tabaccherie), or from ticket machines near some major bus stops. A single ticket typically costs around €1.50. It holds validity for a specific duration (e.g., 75 or 90 minutes), allowing for transfers within that time. You might sometimes purchase tickets directly from the bus driver, but they typically cost slightly more (€2.00) and might not always exist as available. Purchase in advance for a smoother experience.
Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM). Service frequency changes. Line C, as the main tourist route, runs quite regularly during daytime hours. Be aware that service often shows reduction on Sundays and public holidays, so check schedules in advance for those days.
Taxis are white with a "TAXI" sign and municipal coat of arms. Find them at designated stands or call from hotels/restaurants. Street hailing exists as less common.
Fares are metered. Train station to historic center costs ~€10-€15. Confirm meter operation. Cash often preferred, but credit cards gain acceptance. Confirm payment options.
Apps like Uber are generally not prevalent or widely available in smaller Italian towns like Assisi. Traditional taxis hold as the main option for on-demand private transportation.
Line C serves as the most important route for tourists. It connects Assisi train station in Santa Maria degli Angeli directly to the historic center.
Stops within the historic center include Piazza Unità d'Italia (near Porta Nuova), Piazza Matteotti, and Piazza San Pietro (close to the Basilica of Saint Francis).
