Heart of Umbria: explore the mystic towns of Orvieto and Assisi

Traveling from Florence to the towns of Assisi and Orvieto offers a perfect escape into Italy’s spiritual and artistic heart. This day trip promises a mix of religious landmarks, medieval streets, and breathtaking vistas—all curated with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. We’ve looked into the details to help you decide if this experience matches your expectations and what you can gain from it.

What we love about this tour? First, it covers two iconic towns in one day—saving you the hassle of planning multiple trips. Second, the guided visits to key sites like San Francesco Basilica and the Duomo are filled with insights, making the experience both educational and meaningful. Third, the free time allocated in Orvieto allows for a relaxed exploration and some lovely shopping or coffee breaks.

However, a possible drawback is that the itinerary can feel rushed, especially in Orvieto, where some reviews mention limited time inside the town’s main attractions. Also, given the length of the day and the bus ride, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and long travel times.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy cultural sites, religious history, and scenic views, and who don’t mind spending significant hours on a coach. It’s a good pick for those wanting an overview of Umbrian gems in one day without the stress of self-organizing transport.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation: A fully fitted coach makes the long day manageable.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with historical and cultural insights.
• Time in Assisi: Visits to San Francesco Basilica, Santa Chiara, and Porziuncola deepen your understanding of St. Francis’ influence.
• Picturesque Orvieto: The Gothic Duomo and views from the town’s cliffside location are highlights.
• Limited free time: Some travelers find the schedule a bit tight, especially in Orvieto.
• Value for money: At $107.98, the trip offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing, guided tours, and entrance fees included for key sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting early from Florence at 7:30 am from Piazzale Montelungo, the journey into the heart of Italy’s Umbria region begins comfortably aboard a fully equipped coach. The roughly 1.5-hour drive is not just transportation but an introduction to the lush landscape of central Italy, with guides sharing snippets about the region’s history, culture, and the towns ahead.

Assisi: A Sacred Medieval Treasure

Your first stop, Assisi, is a town of profound religious significance, famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis. The town’s charm is immediately apparent as you arrive—white-washed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and views of rolling green valleys.

The guided walk inside Assisi is where the experience truly shines. You’ll visit the Basilica of San Francesco, Italy’s oldest Gothic church, built over the tomb of Saint Francis. Expect to see mesmerizing frescoes by Giotto and other masters, illustrating the saint’s life in vibrant colors. The lower church’s frescoes depict the saint’s deeds, while the upper church’s ceiling is a luminous canvas of divine scenes.

Across from the basilica, the Convent of Santa Chiara offers another layer of religious history. The Basilica’s building materials—white and pink striped marble—are striking, and the tomb of Saint Clare inside makes it a moving stop. One reviewer mentioned how the basilica’s design creates a sense of quiet reverence, perfect for reflection.

Santa Maria degli Angeli, just outside the town walls, is where Saint Francis is believed to have found solace and where the small Porziuncola chapel still stands. The Gothic frescoes inside Porziuncola and the peaceful ambiance make it a highlight for many visitors.

The reviews emphasize the guides’ depth of knowledge, with one reviewer saying, “Giuseppe was the best tour guide ever, very engaging and informative.” While some noted the visit to Assisi was a bit rushed, most appreciated the richness of the sites and the stories shared.

Free Time and Lunch

The tour allows about an hour of free time in Assisi, giving you a chance to explore the streets at your own pace, enjoy a local coffee or truffle pasta, or browse shops selling artisanal products. The time is enough for a quick bite and some shopping, as one reviewer mentioned, but it doesn’t permit a deep dive into every corner of the town.

The Marvel of Orvieto: A Cliffside Wonder

Next, you’ll board the coach for Orvieto, perched dramatically on a tuff cliff, with its medieval streets winding around the hilltop. The drive offers scenic views, and the town’s architecture doesn’t disappoint.

The Duomo di Orvieto is the star attraction here. Its façade, adorned with mosaics and sculptures, is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Inside, the stained-glass windows and Luca Signorelli’s famous frescoes (notably the Last Judgment) are stunning. While entrance to the Duomo isn’t included, many reviews note it’s well worth the small extra fee if you wish to step inside and admire the art and craftsmanship.

One reviewer called Orvieto a “magnificent” town, highlighting its charming shops, friendly locals, and picturesque streets. The St. Patrick’s Well is another highlight, a fascinating engineering feat that served as a water supply during sieges. It’s a quick but memorable stop that offers a glimpse into medieval ingenuity.

The free time in Orvieto is about an hour, which some travelers find just enough for a stroll, some window shopping, and soaking in the views. It’s a good chance to sip local wine or pick up souvenirs — as one reviewer raved, “It’s worth every euro,” especially for its scenic beauty and authentic atmosphere.

Returning to Florence

After a full day, the coach departs Orvieto around 3 pm for the return trip, and most arrive back in Florence by early evening. The return journey is relaxed, and guides often share additional stories or tips for further exploration in Florence.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation: The fully fitted coach ensures a comfortable ride, especially since the day involves a lot of sitting. A smaller bus was used in some cases, which might affect comfort depending on your preference.

Group Size: The max of 30 travelers keeps the experience intimate enough for questions and interaction, but some reviews suggest the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially during busy tourist seasons.

Guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Expect a mix of historical facts, religious anecdotes, and local tips.

Price and Value: At around $108 per person, this tour provides a good bang for your buck—entrance fees to key churches are included, and you get guided visits, transportation, and free time. Compared to the cost of arranging your own transport and entry tickets, it’s quite reasonable.

Timing: The early start means you avoid the worst midday crowds but requires a full day commitment. If you’re not a fan of long bus rides, be prepared for about 3 hours of travel total.

What Could Be Improved?

Some reviews point out that the schedule can feel hurried, particularly in Orvieto where visitors wish for more time to explore the town’s treasures or visit the Duomo interior. Others note that the guides sometimes seem more focused on logistics than storytelling, and that the inclusion of maps or more detailed info during the trip could enhance the experience.

Lastly, the church entrance policy requires appropriate dress—shoulders and knees covered—which is standard in religious sites but worth noting if you’re planning to go inside.

Who Should Book This Tour?

History and religious site enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed visits to basilicas and the stories about Saint Francis and Saint Clare.

Sightseers wanting a scenic escape from Florence’s bustling streets will enjoy the stunning views, architecture, and photo opportunities.

Travelers with a full day to spare will find this a convenient way to see two remarkable towns without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.

If you prefer a relaxed pace and more time inside each town, this tour might feel a little rushed, so consider whether your travel style can accommodate packed schedules.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts at Piazzale Montelungo, which is within walking distance from Santa Maria Novella train station.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire trip lasts about 11 hours, including travel time, guided visits, free time, and return.

Can I visit the Duomo di Orvieto inside? Entrance to the Duomo isn’t included in the price, but many find it worth the small extra fee for its stunning frescoes.

Are entrance fees to the churches covered? Yes, entrance fees to San Francesco Basilica, Santa Chiara, and Santa Maria degli Angeli are included.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a long day and some walking; children who enjoy walking tours and religious sites should be fine.

What should I wear? Churches require strict dress codes—cover shoulders and knees. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Is there free time in Assisi and Orvieto? Yes, but it’s limited—about an hour in each town—to explore or relax on your own.

Is the tour multilingual? Yes, English and Spanish are guaranteed, with Italian, Portuguese, and French available on request for groups of four or more.

Final Thoughts

This Heart of Umbria tour offers a well-balanced introduction to two of Italy’s most beloved towns. With expert guides, beautiful sights, and the convenience of transport, it’s a practical choice for those seeking a cultural and spiritual day trip from Florence. While a few find the schedule tight and wish for more free time, the overall experience delivers a meaningful peek into Italy’s religious heritage and stunning architecture.

Ideal for history buffs, art lovers, and travelers eager to experience authentic Italian towns without the hassle of planning, this tour provides excellent value—especially if you’re okay with a full, energetic day. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity along for the ride.

Happy exploring, and may your day trip be as enchanting as the towns themselves!