Assisi and Perugia Private Day Trip from Rome: Chocolate and Art

Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco d'Assisi

Piazza S. Francesco, 2, Assisi, 06081, Italy

The Basilica of San Francesco is a revered sanctuary and a key Christian pilgrimage site, drawing millions of global travelers yearly. Since 1230, it has held the mortal remains of St. Francis who, by tradition, chose this burial site—a hillside where the "lawless" were once laid to rest.Canonized just two years after his death on July 16, 1228, construction of this grand Basilica began the very next day. Today, the complex is an artistic masterpiece, famed for its architecture and priceless frescoes. The Upper Basilica boasts a radiant, soaring Gothic design, while the Lower Basilica is low-arched and austere. At the heart of the sanctuary lies the Crypt with the sacred Tomb of St. Francis.Your tour also includes visits to other extraordinary landmarks: the Basilica of Santa Chiara and the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Basilica di Santa Chiara

Piazza Santa Chiara 1, Assisi, 06081, Italy

The Basilica of Santa Chiara is the second most visited landmark in Assisi, housing the sacred body of St. Clare. Inside, your tour explores two of her famous miracles: the protection of her sister Agnes and the miracle of the bread, shared with her community at San Damiano. Built with Mount Subasio’s iconic pink and white stone, the Basilica stands on a grand square offering sweeping views over the valley and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.Born Chiara Scifi (1194–1253), St. Clare was a close collaborator of St. Francis and the founder of the Poor Clares. She was canonized in 1255 by Pope Alexander IV in Anagni Cathedral.

Assisi

Assisi, Italy

Assisi is the legendary birthplace and final resting place of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy, and St. Clare. With human roots reaching back to the Neolithic era and still protected by imposing ancient walls, the town perfectly preserves the charm of a timeless Umbrian medieval village. Dominating the landscape are its crowning wonders: the magnificent Basilica of San Francesco and the majestic fortress of Rocca Maggiore.As the homeland of St. Francis, Assisi breathes his spiritual legacy. Deeply ascetic, Francis was affectionately known as "il poverello" (the poor man of Assisi) for his radical choice to renounce all material wealth, embracing a minimalist life in absolute harmony with nature and the spirit.

Perugia

Perugia, Italy

Perugia seamlessly blends its majestic Etruscan roots with a vibrant medieval soul, proudly preserving the treasures of its glorious past. Today, it stands as a major cultural destination and the prestigious home to a university dating back over 700 years. Lively, brilliant, and full of hidden secrets, Perugia rewards travelers who explore it with curiosity.Your discovery begins at the ancient Rocca Paolina fortress. Riding the modern escalators through historic stone vaults and contemporary passages, you will ascend directly into the beating heart of the city, where locals and students gather. Beyond its breathtaking art, Perugia is world-renowned for its chocolate. Every autumn, the city hosts Eurochocolate, Europe's largest chocolate festival, and it has been the proud home of the iconic Perugina brand since 1907.

Fontana Maggiore

Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Italy

At the absolute heart of Perugia’s historic center lies Piazza IV Novembre, a stunning square flanked by the city’s most important heritage buildings and the magnificent Fontana Maggiore. Here, you can admire the imposing Duomo, the majestic Palazzo dei Priori (the Town Hall), and the historic Logge di Braccio. The centerpiece, the Fontana Maggiore, is a true medieval masterpiece, featuring intricate sculptured statues and a central bronze basin that beautifully overflows with water.

Pozzo Etrusco

Piazza Danti 18, Perugia, 06123, Italy

The Etruscan Well is one of Perugia's most fascinating and mysterious attractions. Located right by Piazza Danti, this engineering marvel dates back to the 3rd or 4th century BC, serving as a testament to the advanced architectural skills of the ancient Etruscan civilization. Boasting a staggering depth of 37 meters and a maximum diameter of over 5 meters, this colossal structure features a spectacular modern footbridge crossing its massive cavity. Visitors can descend into the depths of the well to truly grasp its monumental proportions and timeless echo.

Palazzo dei Priori

Corso Vannucci 19, Perugia, 06123, Italy

Palazzo dei Priori is a monumental palace standing proudly opposite Perugia Cathedral in Piazza IV Novembre. Dating back to the 14th century, this historic landmark has long played a central role in the city's political life. Its striking Gothic facade features a grand semicircular staircase and elegant, intricate three-light windows, while its crenellated rooftop lends it a fairytale, castle-like appearance. Today, while remaining the active seat of local government, the palace houses the National Gallery of Umbria—a world-class museum founded in 1878 that safeguards one of the region's finest collections of medieval and Renaissance art.

The Cathedral of San Lorenzo stands proudly in the very heart of Perugia’s historic center. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, its exterior features a striking geometric pattern of local pink and white stone, which was unfortunately completed only along the lower section. The rest of the facade's grand decoration was left unfinished, giving this majestic monument a unique, timeless character that whispers centuries of local history.

Casa del Cioccolato Perugina

Viale San Sisto 207/C, Presso Stabilimento Nestle' Italiana Spa, Perugia, 06132, Italy

Perugia is world-renowned for its chocolate. Every autumn, the city hosts Eurochocolate, Europe's largest chocolate festival, and it serves as the proud home of the iconic Perugina brand, which has been crafting sweet delicacies since 1907. Located just outside the city center, the Perugina factory features the "Casa del Cioccolato" (Chocolate House) and a historical museum. This makes for a fantastic, decadent alternative attraction—perfect for families and anyone with a sweet tooth! The guided factory tour takes about 1.5 hours, during which you will watch the active production lines, enjoy an indulgent chocolate tasting session, and explore over a century of sweet Italian history in the museum.