Top Umbria How to Get Around - page 4

This is an oasis of greenery and uncontaminated nature, where the Tiber opens up to form Lake Corbara. Moving by bike is in perfect harmony with the environment, the vegetation has remained intact for centuries. The territory is covered by oak and chestnut trees, centuries-old woods with constantly changing views. In the hilly areas there are vineyards, olive groves and chestnut trees. On the reliefs there are wild boars, fallow deer and roe deer. Numerous species of birds nest along the shores of Lake Corbara and Alviano, including the kingfisher, the peregrine falcon, the gray heron and the buzzard. We will go to admire two medieval castles, built above beautiful views, in places full of history and art. Finally we reach the Freddano estate, an extraordinary organic winery that we will visit among vineyards and olive trees, and then have an excellent tasting of the organic wines produced here together with platters of typical local products. A truly unforgettable experience

An unusual way to visit Assisi, aboard an exciting vintage tuk-tuk by Ape Calessino. Book this fantastic experience!

The Basilica of Saint Francis is the most-renowned church of Assisi, a breathtaking masterpiece of medieval art and architecture. Discover the secrets of Saint Francis, who lived the high-spirited life typical of a wealthy young man until he had a mystical vision of Jesus Christ, and decided to dedicate his whole existence to the poor and sick people. Admire the marvellous frescoes painted by Giotto, father of modern realistic art, "the most sovereign master of painting in his time”. Visit the Upper Church, slender and bright thanks to its Gothic style and the colorful glass windows, and the Lower Church, where the mortal remains of Saint Francis are preserved among amazing frescoes by the greatest Italian artists of the Middle Ages, like Cimabue and Simone Martini.

Perugia is the city of inverted views: to go up to the city you have to go down into the basement of the hill, you must always be on the move to get the best of every corner, you will never find a fixed point from which to have an overview of the whole ... but then the city turns out to be sweet… like a kiss of chocolate and hazelnut.

Many visitors know of Assisi’s above-ground religious monuments, but not so many know that beneath the ground lies the remains of an ancient Roman forum, a Romanesque cloister, and a crypt. This small-group walking tour shines the light on these underground sites with an itinerary that uncovers the history of the Diocesan Museum, the Crypt of St. Rufino, and Assisi’s Roman Forum. Note that entry fees are extra.

Time passes by and it seems to have forgotten Gubbio, leaving this charming town possessed of an exceptionally evocative medieval atmosphere.

Of all Italian hill towns perhaps Orvieto is the most photogenic and easiest to walk around. Largely pedestrianized and flat, it is easily covered on foot. The medieval streets and alleyways have both imposing palaces and quaint, modest townhouses. Orvieto is full of surprises: round that corner, you catch sight of the imposing Gothic facade of the cathedral for the first time; at the end of an alleyway is the entrance to a Renaissance courtyard; over there is the entrance to an ancient Etruscan tomb. Your photography teacher has lived here for 15 years and knows the place intimately. He has taught photography for 20 years and has been a pro since graduating from photography college in 1977. From the city walls, there are stunning views of the surrounding countryside with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villas and farms across two regions, Tuscany and Umbria.

Filled with historic architecture and steeped in tradition, discover the peaceful and picturesque town of Assisi on this sedate walking tour. Uncover art and ancient Roman temples, see the medieval castle of Rocca Maggiore and explore the basilica of St. Francis—the patron saint of animals—and then the basilica of Santa Chiara, where his tomb lies.

Combine tours of Assisi and Spello with personalized attention on this private tour. With a guide leading you on a thoughtful itinerary, you'll get to know the best of both towns. Learn about the history and culture of each town through commentary tailored to your interests while viewing the Renaissance paintings and 14th-century frescoes.

Assisi is a must-see in Umbria, especially famous because it is the birthplace of Saint Francis, who founded the Franciscan religious order here in 1208. Assisi is fascinating for spiritual, artistic and historical reasons: the remains of the Ancient Roman city and the breathtaking churches from the Middle Ages make it one of the most beautiful towns in Italy! Discover the Roman Forum (main square) and the impressive Temple of Minerva, whose columns still stand after more than 2000 years! Then, time to follow your knowledgeable guide to the medieval city of St. Francis and his followers, and have a look at the most beautiful churches in Assisi: the Basilica of St. Clare, the Gothic church that contains her mortal remains, the Cathedral of St. Rufinus, in Romanesque style, and the most-renowned Basilica of Saint Francis. Here you will admire the breathtaking frescoes painted by famous Italian artists like Giotto and Cimabue, and you will discover two superimposed churches, known as the Upper Church, slender and bright, in Gothic style, and the Lower Church, where Saint Francis was buried.

Most visitors to Assisi focus on the Basilica of St. Francis. With this private tour, go beyond the UNESCO-listed church and cover the best of the medieval hill town with a guide in just a few hours. Begin at the Basilica to learn about its art and architecture, then continue on to marvel at the churches of St. Peter, St. Clare, and St. Rufino plus the main Piazza del Comune.

Learn about the history and architecture of the medieval city of Assisi. Assisi is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and certainly the most sacred. Here, in fact, St. Francis was born, founder of the Franciscan order and patron saint of Italy, and it was from here that he began his journey towards the attempt to re-establish a poor and charitable church. You will stroll through the charming squares and narrow streets of the old town and learn about the city's layered past as you admire ancient Roman ruins and medieval buildings. Together with our guide, you will discover the wonders of the Basilica of San Francesco, a Unesco heritage site.

Orvieto's clifftop has been inhabited for more than 2,500 years, but most visitors miss out on its long history. Dive into the city's culture and architecture and cover the top sights in just a few hours on this private walking tour. Follow your local guide to discover views over the beautiful Paglia Valley and explore the city's winding streets and magnificent architecture. Opt to enter the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral (tickets own expense), considered to be one of the most important in Europe.

In a unique territory you can admire beautiful landscapes, the route winds through ancient villages and places full of history. The stops in a cellar of ancient origins and in an oil mill where oils are still produced using artisanal methods make this experience unique. After the visit to the underground cellars of the Salviano Castle, we will taste the noble wines and local products in an ancient, noble, medieval environment. The tasting of extra virgin olive oils on typical bruschetta accompanied by olive and truffle pâté is truly particular, original and surprising. Thus we understand how many varieties of oils exist, their characteristics, combinations, blends or monocultures, suitable for different palates, combinations and tastes.

Explore the enchanting cities of Cortona and Montepulciano during your transfer from Assisi (or Perugia) to Florence with our experienced driver and uncover the hidden gems of Tuscany! Immerse yourself in a full-day trip through the iconic landscape of rolling hills, cypress-lined avenues, and medieval hilltop towns, while enjoying delightful wines. We will pick you up at your location. Our first stop is Cortona, a picturesque Etruscan town at 600 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of the valley and Lake Trasimeno. Cortona is also famous as the setting of the beloved film Under the Tuscan Sun. For lunch, our driver will recommend a place for you to eat. Next, we’ll visit Montepulciano, where we'll explore the city and visit two Historic Cellars. See colossal oak barrels holding Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, followed by a wine tasting and explanation of its unique characteristics. In the afternoon, we will drop you off in Florence at your destination.

Extra-virgin olive oil produced on the hillsides of Umbria is so prized that it is known as “green gold”. With this experience, connect with a local farming family to visit their organic olive estate and explore the world of Umbrian olive oil. Stroll through the groves to see how olive trees have been cultivated for centuries, then learn to recognize premium olive oil with a guided tasting of both oil and wine.

Board a tuk-tuk and enjoy a spiritual tour while exploring Assisi on a private tour. A unique and unrepeatable experience to discover the life of St. Francis. Take advantage of this fantastic tour to discover a magical medieval Assisi! Assisi is the city of Saints, Saint Francis and Saint Clare, and is the symbol of a message of peace to breathe at every step of its beautiful streets. Assisi is an Umbrian jewel in the province of Perugia that lies gently on the slopes of Mount Subasio. From here St. Francis started to try to change the Church as an institution and, as Giosuè Carducci described it, “Assisi is a great beautiful thing, country, city and sanctuary” to be bewitched by. Assisi, with its historic center and its symbolic monuments, became a UNESCO site in 2000 because it is considered a rare example of historical continuity between the city, its cultural landscape and the entire territorial system.

Travel through the green fields and vineyards of Umbria on a trekking bike, without the inhibition of glassed-in tour bus windows. You can focus on the scenery as your guide leads the way through Bevagna and listen to commentary on the area's medieval history. Visit an organic winery for a tasting and settle down for a provided picnic lunch in a scenic spot.

Book transportation to visit one of Assisi's most beautiful places. The Carceri Hermitage is one of the must-sees if you come to Assisi. The Eremo delle Carceri, a serene and sacred retreat nestled on the slopes of Monte Subasio, just outside Assisi. This peaceful hermitage, surrounded by ancient oak trees and tranquil nature, was a beloved refuge of St. Francis of Assisi and his followers. Here, they sought solitude, prayer, and communion with God in the simplicity of nature. As you walk through the narrow pathways and stone structures, you'll sense the deep spirituality that still permeates this place. The small chapels, caves, and cells reflect the humble and ascetic lifestyle that St. Francis and the early Franciscans embraced. Notice the simplicity of the surroundings, which echoes their commitment to a life of poverty and contemplation.

Don’t just explore Umbria’s scenery—on this tour, taste the products that the region is famous for. Meet your guide at the Assisi railway station and take a private vehicle to your destination---a traditional winery in the hills above the city. Tour the grounds, learn how olive oil and wine are made, and enjoy a full lunch featuring bruschetta, artisan cheeses with jams and balsamic vinegar, and traditional Umbrian desserts.

Discover the secrets of authentic Italian cuisine with this 4-hour home cooking experience in Assisi. Visit a typical Umbrian home; get hands-on as you cook up an array of appetizers, pastas, and meat dishes; then tuck into your delicious homemade creations, accompanied local wine and dessert.

Experience the gorgeous countryside of Umbria on a full-day bike tour that features a lunch stop at an agriturismo farm. Pedal past vineyards, olive orchards, and picturesque villages with an engaging guide who shares live commentary about this region of Italy. Take a well-deserved break for a multi-course lunch at an agriturismo farm, with the option to swim in their pool in warm weather.

Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over some of Italy’s most beautiful scenery, and complement your journey with a delicious breakfast and wine tasting, on this one-of-a-kind outing. Meet in the early morning and take to the skies in the company of an experienced pilot; you’ll enjoy a special perspective on Assisi, Perugia, and the lovely Umbrian countryside. Upon landing, you’ll transfer to the Cantina Dionigi winery, where you can enjoy traditional local nibbles and wines.

Spello, known as one of the most beautiful town in Italy thanks to its wonderful medieval buildings made of pink limestone and colorful flowers, dominates the amazing Umbrian Valley from the slopes of Mount Subasio. Particularly beautiful are the remains of the Ancient Roman city, called “Splendidissima Colonia Julia” (“Most Beautiful Julia Colony”) by Emperor Augustus: imposing walls, majestic city gates and, above all, the Villa of Mosaics, one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the last 20 years. You will visit a wonderful Roman villa, that takes its name from the splendid colorful mosaics that refer to the beautiful Umbrian countryside, depicting wild birds and grape harvest, but also to exotic and fantastic animals, such as panthers and sea monsters. Entering the city through the Roman Porta Consolare (Consular Gate), you will enjoy the fascinating alleys of the medieval Spello and its wonderful churches. In the Church of Sant’Andrea Apostolo you will admire a sixteenth-century masterpiece painted by Pinturicchio, one of the greatest artists of the time, nicknamed “the Little Painter”. This notorious Umbrian artist is also the author of the frescoes of the Baglioni Chapel in the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maggiore: here you will also admire a splendid floor made of Deruta ceramics and the famous self-portrait of Pinturicchio, discovering all the details hidden in his masterpieces! Finally, enjoy the spectacular Porta Venere, built in Roman times but flanked in the Middle Ages by the mighty Towers of Properzio, and the breathtaking view of the Umbrian Valley!