Assisi and Orvieto from Rome: Enjoy a Full Day Tour in Umbria

Taking a day trip from Rome to explore the enchanting towns of Assisi and Orvieto offers a refreshing change of scenery. This guided tour promises a taste of Italy’s spiritual and artistic treasures, all within a comfortable, small-group setting. Whether you’re captivated by St. Francis’ legacy or mesmerized by Gothic architecture, this trip delivers.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see two iconic towns in one day without the hassle of planning or navigating. The expert guides and smooth transportation mean you can relax and focus on soaking in the sights. A possible snag? The tour is quite full on timing, so you’ll want to be ready to move briskly, especially in Assisi’s narrow streets.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path stops but still want the comfort of a guided experience. If you’re interested in art, history, or simply want to escape Rome’s hustle for a day, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Two UNESCO-listed towns in one day—Assisi and Orvieto—offering a mix of spiritual, artistic, and scenic highlights.
• Small-group size guarantees more personal attention and interaction with guides.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minivan with pickup and drop-off included.
• Includes entrance tickets to major sights like the Basilica of San Francesco and Orvieto Cathedral.
• Flexible timing during stops allows for sightseeing, shopping, or tasting local food and wine.
• Highly rated guides bring history and stories vividly to life, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Rome. The first stop is the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi, a site of remarkable historical and religious significance. You’ll get to explore the basilica’s early Renaissance masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue, along with the modest yet meaningful Porziuncola, the tiny chapel built around the original hut where Saint Francis and his followers gathered.

This site is a favorite among travelers for its spiritual atmosphere and artistic treasures. One review notes, “The Church in Orvieto was beautiful. We then journeyed through Assisi’s narrow streets, which are full of colorful houses and flower-decorated balconies—perfect for photos.” Expect a blend of history, art, and local color here, with about 2 hours allocated for the visit, including entrance fees.

Next, you’ll visit the Basilica di Santa Chiara, built shortly after Saint Clare’s death. This church, built around 1257-1265, preserves her remains and offers a quieter, contemplative moment after the bustling Basilica of San Francesco. It’s a quick stop but meaningful—perfect for understanding the Franciscan legacy beyond Saint Francis himself.

The Pinacoteca Comunale Palazzo Vallemani offers a dash of art appreciation, showcasing frescoes and baroque interiors. Although not included in the ticket price, this museum enriches the cultural fabric of Assisi, and many reviewers have enjoyed the chance to see medieval and Renaissance works up close.

The highlight of Assisi is the Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco, with its stunning frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, and the atmospheric cloisters. Here, you’ll spend about an hour, enjoying the spiritual ambiance and incredible artworks. One traveler commented, “Marie’s narration made the basilica’s history come alive—her enthusiasm was contagious.”

After a good dose of history and art, you’ll have about an hour for lunch and free time. Many travelers choose to sample local food at a recommended restaurant, or just wander the streets, shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a glass of Umbrian wine. One review notes, “The lunch spot in Assisi was the best of our entire vacation!” Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The journey continues as the group heads toward Orvieto, a dramatic hilltop town perched above a lake. The Duomo di Orvieto is the centerpiece—one of Italy’s finest Gothic cathedrals, known worldwide for its ornate façade and stunning interior frescoes, including Luca Signorelli’s famous JUDGMENT DAY. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving ample opportunity to admire the craftsmanship and take photos.

Finally, you’ll explore Orvieto itself, a city with roots dating back to the Etruscans. Its ancient caves, narrow streets, and panoramic views make it one of Italy’s most captivating towns. You’ll have around 30 minutes here to stroll and take in the scenery, including views from the cliffs overlooking the countryside.

Transportation and Group Size: Making the Journey Comfortable

One of the real advantages of this tour is traveling in a luxury, air-conditioned minivan. The group size is limited to a maximum of 48 travelers, but many reviews mention smaller, more intimate groups, sometimes even private tours. The pickup and drop-off service means you avoid the hassle of navigating Roman streets or figuring out public transport.

Traveling in a comfortable vehicle allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive through Umbrian countryside. The stops for recharging the electric vehicle (when applicable) are brief and scheduled with safety in mind, ensuring a smooth, stress-free journey.

Guides and Experience: Authentic, Knowledgeable Storytelling

The strength of this tour lies in its guides—many reviewers praise their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to tell stories that bring these historic sites to life. For instance, one traveler raved, “Marie’s narration made the basilica’s history come alive—her enthusiasm was contagious.” Another noted how the guides’ insights added depth to the experience, especially during the visit to Assisi’s churches and Orvieto’s frescoed interiors.

While some reviewers mention that guides may speak quickly or that radios can help hearing explanations, overall, the guides are considered professional, friendly, and well-informed.

Value and Cost: Is It Worth It?

At $311.17 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for those eager to explore Umbria’s spiritual and artistic gems. Entrance tickets, transportation, and guided commentary are included, making it a good value considering the comfort and quality of the sites visited.

Many travelers have described it as “worth every penny,” especially given the convenience of having transportation and skip-the-line access to major sights. The small-group format enhances the experience, allowing more personal interaction and flexibility.

Authentic Experiences and Travel Tips

Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly guides, gorgeous views, and the opportunity to try local food and wine during free time. A few tips: arrive early, wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and stairs, and bring a camera or smartphone for countless photo moments. Be prepared for a fast-paced day, but know that the highlights are worth it.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This full-day trip is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of art, history, and scenery without the hassle of planning multiple day trips. It suits travelers who enjoy culture, appreciate guided storytelling, and value comfort during their explorations. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to see Italy’s charming hill towns and their treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Entrance tickets to the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi and Orvieto Cathedral are included, along with transportation in a luxury minivan, a professional guide, and headsets for hearing the guide clearly at San Francesco.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. The tour offers about an hour of free time for lunch, shopping, or relaxing, so you can choose to enjoy a local restaurant or grab a quick snack.

How long do we stay at each site?
Expect approximately 2 hours at Assisi, including visits to multiple basilicas and the art gallery, about an hour for free time and lunch in Assisi, 30 minutes at Orvieto Cathedral, and 30 minutes exploring Orvieto itself.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 48 travelers, but many reviews describe it as a small-group experience, which allows for more personal attention from guides.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides for their expertise, storytelling skills, and ability to make historic sites come alive.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for some walking and stair climbing, especially at Assisi’s churches and Orvieto’s cathedral.

Can I customize my experience?
The schedule is fixed, but some stops are flexible for shopping or tasting local food. If you want a more leisurely experience, consider staying longer in each town.

What transportation is used?
A modern, air-conditioned minivan provides the journey between sites, ensuring comfort and convenience.

In The Sum Up

This Assisi and Orvieto day trip from Rome offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully organized way to experience two of Italy’s most picturesque towns. The combination of stunning architecture, spiritual sites, and scenic vistas makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a deeper connection to Italy’s cultural heart, without the stress of navigating on your own.

The tour’s expert guides, comfortable transport, and inclusive entry tickets make it excellent value—especially for travelers eager to see the highlights efficiently. Whether you’re a lover of art, history, or simply looking to enjoy Italy’s serene countryside, this trip caters to a broad range of interests.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that balances sightseeing with free time to explore or relax. If you’re interested in small-group intimacy and the chance to learn stories behind the sights, this tour will likely leave you with lasting memories—and maybe even a few new favorites in Italy.

Happy travels!