Things to do and see in Perugia & Assisi

Question

We were going to spend 4 days in Rome and 4 in Florence but a friend has told us about Perugia and its nearness to Assisi so we are thinking of spending 3 days each in Rome - Florence and 1 -2 days in Perugia./Assisi. It sounds like both cities are a photographer's dream and more manageable than the bigger cities.

If you have been there, what must we see ; where must we eat ? I think it sounds worth less time in Rome and Florence do you agree?

Thanks

Answer 1

Well, Roma and Florence is crowds of people and lines to get into museums, really expensive.

Umbria is far more picturesque and so quiet you'll enjoy every moment in its beautiful hilltop cities and towns. Perugia is worth a visit particularly for the splendid landscapes, fine arts (Umbria National Gallery, Pinturicchio, Perugino and the Raphael fresco, the San Pietro Abbey of the 11th century, Saint Angel Temple, the Collegio del Cambio...) and international atmosphere.

Assisi gathers spirituals and art passionates, I could remember Giotto, who frescoed St. Francis Basilica, and the ancient Minerva Temple for example.

I think Umbria deserves at least 3 days, and remember Perugia and Assisi must be visited, but Umbria offers far more: Trasimeno Lake, Gubbio, Todi, Marmore Falls, Norcia, Spello.  

For more info feel free to leave a comment at the website referenced, I could suggest you the best artisanal gelato in Perugia, and other useful tips for travellers.

Answer 2

I spent 4 days in Perugia; I loved the walls of the town and the medieval feel. There are lots of places to eat and "hang out" after dark if you are young. We spent a day in Assisi and although we are not religious, we loved the whole place and its quirky little shops. We also visited Castiglione del Lago, catching a train from Perugia station.

I would suggest 1 or 2 days in Perugia/Assisi, 2 days in Florence and the rest in Rome. Rome has so much to offer - we spent 7 days right in the heart of Rome, and that was barely enough. I would urge you to spend as much time as possible in Rome!

Buon viaggio!