Discover the best things to do in Assisi, Italy, in 2026 with Jubilee celebrations, historic sites, food, nature walks, hotels, and tips for a memorable visit.
Planning a trip to Assisi, Italy, during the Franciscan Jubilee Year? The Jubilee of Saint Francis in 2026 turns this hilltop city into a living celebration of peace, reconciliation, and simplicity.
Each sacred space offers a different atmosphere and spiritual focus, allowing pilgrims to follow the life, calling, and legacy of Saint Francis in a deeply personal way.
Whether you come for faith, history, food, or scenery, Assisi in 2026 feels purposeful without being overwhelming – welcoming without ever feeling touristy.
Table of Contents
🕊️ Celebrate the Jubilee of St. Francis of Assisi
Celebrating the Jubilee doesn’t require rigid plans or deep theological knowledge. It’s about slowing down and stepping into the spirit of Saint Francis himself – a man known for humility, joy, peace, and an extraordinary love for all of creation.
St. Francis of Assisi famously preached to birds, called animals his brothers and sisters, and believed simplicity was the surest path to happiness. In 2026, the Jubilee invites visitors to experience those values, even if only briefly.
Meaningful ways to celebrate:
- Attend Jubilee Masses, evening prayers, or candlelit services
- Walk designated pilgrimage routes linking Franciscan sites
- Spend quiet time in reflection, inspired by Francis’s life of humility
- Join talks or guided walks focused on peace, reconciliation, and care for creation
- Visit natural spaces around Assisi, honoring Francis’s deep love of animals and nature
- Practice a “Franciscan day”: walk everywhere, eat simply, disconnect, and observe the world gently
Even choosing one of these allows you to experience Assisi not just as a place, but as a way of life – if only for a day.
⛪ Explore the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis
Officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, Italy, this sacred complex is the spiritual heart of the town and the central destination of the Jubilee year.
Both monumental and deeply personal, it invites pilgrims to move slowly, reflect deeply, and absorb its powerful atmosphere.
What makes this site so meaningful:
- Upper Basilica: Bright, soaring, and filled with frescoes that visually narrate the life of Saint Francis
- Lower Basilica: Dimmer and more contemplative, ideal for quiet prayer and reflection
- The Crypt: The tomb of Saint Francis, where silence naturally takes over
- Frescoes as storytelling: Perfect for visitors of all backgrounds – no guidebook required
- Jubilee significance: Special liturgies, pilgrim gatherings, and moments of prayer take place here
Helpful tips for pilgrims and visitors:
- Move slowly and allow time for stillness
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for a calmer atmosphere
- Spend a few moments in silence at the tomb, even if briefly
- Explore the surrounding courtyards, gardens, and viewpoints for quiet reflection
- Stop by the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, Italy, gift shop for thoughtful keepsakes
This is not a place to rush. The Basilica leaves many pilgrims feeling humbled, grounded, and quietly transformed – making it one of the most unforgettable experiences in Assisi.
🌸 Visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara
The Basilica of Santa Chiara offers a more serene and intimate spiritual experience. Dedicated to Saint Clare, it reflects trust, perseverance, and quiet strength.
Why pilgrims stop here:
- Houses the tomb of Saint Clare, Francis’s closest spiritual companion
- Light-filled interior that encourages calm and stillness
- Home to the San Damiano Cross, which spoke to Saint Francis
- A strong focus on humility, courage, and faithfulness
- Peaceful space ideal for personal prayer or journaling
Helpful tips:
- Spend time in the crypt for a quieter experience
- Visit midday when sunlight fills the church
- Reflect on listening and responding to your own calling
🕊️ Reflect at San Damiano
San Damiano is one of the most emotionally resonant places in Assisi. Its simplicity makes Saint Francis’s calling feel close and personal.
Why it’s so powerful:
- Site where Francis heard Christ call him to “rebuild my Church.”
- Later home of Saint Clare and the Poor Clares
- Surrounded by gardens and olive trees
- Encourages silence, discernment, and attentiveness
- Feels deeply human and approachable
Helpful tips:
- Sit quietly rather than rushing through
- Walk the grounds slowly as a moving prayer
- Ideal place to reflect on life direction or decisions
🕯️ Light a Candle at the Cathedral of San Rufino
The Cathedral of San Rufino connects pilgrims to beginnings and foundations.
Why pilgrims visit:
- Baptismal site of Saint Francis
- Strong symbolism of renewal and identity
- Less crowded, allowing unhurried prayer
- Romanesque architecture that feels grounded and steady
- A place to reflect on personal beginnings and commitments
Helpful tips:
- Pause at the baptismal font for reflection
- Light a candle for family or loved ones
- Visit between major sites for a quieter moment
🏛️ Explore Santa Maria degli Angeli & the Porziuncola
The immense Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli is often considered the emotional center of a Franciscan pilgrimage. It was built to protect one of the smallest and most sacred places in Christianity – the Porziuncola – where the Franciscan story truly began.
Why it matters so deeply:
- Protects the Porziuncola, the tiny chapel where the Franciscan Order was founded
- Marks the place of Saint Francis’s death, making it a site of profound gratitude and humility
- Striking contrast between the vast basilica and the simple chapel at its heart
- Emphasizes Franciscan values of simplicity, trust, and obedience
- Invites kneeling, silence, and deep personal prayer
Helpful tips for pilgrims:
- Enter the Porziuncola slowly and quietly, allowing the space to speak
- Visit the nearby Transit Chapel, which marks Francis’s passing from this life
- Pause at the Fountain of the 26 Spouts in the basilica courtyard
- Use the flowing water as a moment to rest, reflect, or offer a prayer of thanksgiving
- Allow extra time – many pilgrims feel unexpectedly moved and choose to stay longer
For many visitors, this is where the pilgrimage becomes personal, emotional, and unforgettable.
🌲 Retreat to Eremo delle Carceri
The Eremo delle Carceri is a retreat into silence and nature.
Why pilgrims include it:
- Forest hermitage used by Saint Francis for solitude
- Embodies Francis’s love of nature and animals
- Ideal for contemplation and quiet prayer
- Stone paths, caves, and prayer cells create intimacy
- Encourages listening rather than speaking
Helpful tips:
- Walk as silently as possible
- Bring water and comfortable shoes
- Perfect final stop to integrate the pilgrimage experience
🏰 Climb up to Rocca Maggiore
Rocca Maggiore isn’t just about views – it’s a place of pause, perspective, and quiet reflection, especially meaningful for pilgrims visiting Assisi.
Why pilgrims often include Rocca Maggiore:
- The uphill walk mirrors the physical and spiritual journey of pilgrimage
- Panoramic views invite gratitude and contemplation over the Umbrian valley
- Fewer crowds make it ideal for silence and prayer
- The fortress symbolizes protection, endurance, and watchfulness
- Benches and overlooks offer natural stopping points for reflection
Helpful tips for pilgrims:
- Wear good walking shoes; the path is steep but well-marked
- Go early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light
- Bring water and take your time – this is not a race
- Use the climb as a walking prayer or moment of thanksgiving
It’s a powerful way to step back, breathe deeply, and see Assisi, both physically and spiritually, from a higher place.
🌿 Walk in Nature Like Saint Francis
Assisi’s surroundings are just as powerful as its buildings.
Peaceful outdoor experiences:
- Walk wooded trails on Monte Subasio
- Visit Bosco di San Francesco for quiet nature paths
- Follow countryside paths between olive groves and stone walls
These walks embody the Franciscan love of creation and simplicity.
🏘️ Wander the Old Town Without a Plan
Some of the best moments in Assisi happen accidentally. Cobblestone streets lead to hidden piazzas, small bakeries, artisan shops, and viewpoints overlooking the valley.
What you’ll love discovering:
- Quiet side streets away from crowds
- Local cafés that are perfect for people-watching
- Handmade ceramics and regional products
- Unexpected views at every turn
This is where Assisi feels most alive.
🏨 Book Hotels in Assisi, Italy
Hotels in Assisi, Italy, offer a wide range of accommodations.
Popular options include:
- Historic guesthouses inside the old town
- Comfortable mid-range hotels with views
- Elegant properties for a quieter stay
Staying overnight lets you experience Assisi after day visitors leave.
🍝 Eat at Restaurants in Assisi
Restaurants in Assisi reflect Umbrian traditions with simple, seasonal, and satisfying Italian food. Here are some local specialties to try:
- Handmade pasta with truffles
- Umbrian lentils and rustic soups
- Wild boar and grilled meats
- Local wines and olive oil
- Traditional desserts with espresso
Meals are slow and social – embrace it.
📍 Where Is Assisi, Italy?
Assisi is located in Central Italy, in the Umbria region. It sits on the slopes of Mount Subasio, about 170 km (105 miles) north of Rome and 30 km (18 miles) southeast of Perugia.
The town overlooks the beautiful Umbrian Valley and is famous for its medieval streets, religious heritage, and scenic countryside.
🚆 How to Get to Assisi
Assisi is easy to reach and well-connected, yet still feels wonderfully removed from the rush of big cities. Most travelers arrive via Rome or Florence, then continue by train to Assisi station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride up to the historic center.
- Fly into Rome or Florence
- Take a direct or connecting train to Assisi station
- Use a local bus or taxi to reach the historic center
Once there, walking is the best way to explore.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Assisi
The weather in Assisi, Italy, is beautiful year-round, but the season you choose shapes the experience. Crowds and Jubilee events all matter, so timing your visit helps you enjoy the town at its most peaceful and rewarding.
- Spring: Mild weather, flowers, and ideal walking conditions
- Autumn: Harvest season and comfortable temperatures
- Summer: Lively but warmer and busier
- Winter: Quiet, reflective, and atmospheric
Assisi doesn’t shout for attention – it invites you in gently. In 2026, the Special Franciscan Jubilee celebrations make that invitation even stronger. Come ready to walk, reflect, eat well, and experience a town that quietly changes people who pass through it.
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