Skip to content

Assisi as a pilgrimage destination: places and travel planning

Find accommodation

2 adults · no children · 1 room
Advertisement · We may receive a commission if you book.

Assisi brings together the churches associated with Saint Francis and Saint Clare, a medieval hill town and several destinations in the surrounding area. A well-planned stay separates the historic centre from Santa Maria degli Angeli and allows time for hills, cobbled streets and changing church schedules.

Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi with equestrian statue Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi with upper church, tower and equestrian statue in the foreground; visually tested image for the pilgrimage destination Assisi. Photo: Jessyangeli90 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Key places and addresses

  • Basilica di San Francesco: Piazza San Francesco 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.
  • Basilica di Santa Chiara: Piazza Santa Chiara, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.
  • Cathedral of San Rufino: Piazza San Rufino 3, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.
  • Porziuncola: Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, Piazza Porziuncola 1, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy.
  • Assisi railway station: Piazza Dante Alighieri, Santa Maria degli Angeli, 06081 Santa Maria degli Angeli PG, Italy.
  • Eremo delle Carceri: Località Eremo delle Carceri, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Plan the churches in the old town

The Basilica di San Francesco, Santa Chiara and San Rufino can form the focus of a first day. The route between them includes slopes, steps and uneven paving, so comfortable shoes and realistic walking times matter. Religious services take priority over sightseeing, and access rules may differ for individual visitors, groups and special celebrations.

The upper and lower churches at San Francesco are separate spaces with different visitor arrangements. Check current opening information, services and any temporary restrictions shortly before travelling. Dress respectfully and allow extra time for queues or security procedures where applicable.

Santa Maria degli Angeli and Monte Subasio

Porziuncola is below the hill town, inside the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli. It is best treated as a separate stop rather than added to a tightly timed old-town walk. The railway station is nearby; local connections, taxi availability and travel times should be checked for the day of travel.

Eremo delle Carceri lies outside the centre on Monte Subasio. The journey, terrain and weather can make it a half-day excursion rather than a quick visit. Plan water, suitable footwear and additional time if you want to combine the retreat with walking.

Advertisement

Choose accommodation by location

Accommodation in the old town shortens the route to San Francesco, Santa Chiara and San Rufino, but may involve slopes and restricted vehicle access. Santa Maria degli Angeli is convenient for the railway station and Porziuncola. Drivers should confirm parking, access and luggage arrangements with their accommodation before arrival.

For wider comparisons, see Rome and Vatican as a pilgrimage destination and the overview of pilgrimage travel.

Questions about a stay in Assisi

How long should I stay?

One full day can cover the principal churches if walking times and services fit together. Two nights allow a calmer visit and time for Porziuncola or Eremo delle Carceri.

Is Assisi suitable for people with reduced mobility?

Some sites are accessible, but the old town has slopes, steps and uneven surfaces. Check the route to each church and the accessibility of the accommodation before booking.

Can I visit Porziuncola from Assisi?

Yes. It is in Santa Maria degli Angeli below the historic centre. Allow a separate travel window and check the local connection on the day.