Assisi and Orvieto Guided Day Tour from Rome with Lunch

Assisi and Orvieto Guided Day Tour from Rome with Lunch
Rating: 4.0 / 5 (988 reviews)
Price: $196.04 per person
Duration: Approximately 12.5 hours
Location: Rome, Italy

This full-day excursion takes you from the bustling streets of Rome into the serene hills of Umbria and Tuscany, visiting two of Italy’s most captivating towns: Orvieto and Assisi. For around a hundred ninety dollars, you’ll enjoy a guided journey through centuries of history, stunning architecture, and authentic Italian countryside—plus a shared lunch overlooking Lake Trasimeno.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the guides’ wealth of knowledge—they bring history alive through engaging stories—and the opportunity to see two UNESCO World Heritage sites in a single day. The towns are charming, their streets lined with history, art, and character that photographs simply can’t do justice.

However, one consideration is the long travel time. Expect most of the day to be spent on the coach, especially since the itinerary involves a lot of moving from place to place. If you prefer a relaxed pace or more free time, this might feel a bit rushed, especially in Assisi.

This tour suits those eager to experience Italy’s historic towns without the hassle of planning transport or navigating on your own. It’s perfect for travelers with a moderate walking ability who want a guided introduction to Assisi and Orvieto’s highlights, and for anyone intrigued by religious history, stunning architecture, and panoramic countryside views.

Key Points

• Comfortable group size: Max 30 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Orvieto Cathedral, Assisi’s basilicas, and a scenic lunch stop.
• Guided insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Time management: The schedule is tight; expect some walking and limited free time.
• Authentic experiences: Visits to religious sites, quaint towns, and local eateries.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, guides, and lunch, making it a good deal for the sights covered.

Exploring Assisi and Orvieto: An In-Depth Look

When we talk about Italy’s central regions, two towns often leap to the top of the list for their beauty and historical significance: Orvieto and Assisi. This guided day trip from Rome offers a practical way to see both, with a well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and a taste of local cuisine.

The Journey from Rome: A Scenic Drive with Expectation

Your day begins early, with a pickup at Via Giovanni Amendola, 32 in Rome. The coach, air-conditioned and comfortable (though some reviews noted issues with AC in the summer heat), departs at 7:15 am, heading north along the Tiber River toward Umbria.

The coach ride is about 1.5 hours, giving you your first chance to settle in and enjoy the countryside views. Expect rolling hills, vineyards, and small towns whizzing past; for many, this is an essential part of the experience—seeing Italy’s land change as you move away from the city’s hustle.

Orvieto: Gothic Charm and Artistic Marvels

Your first stop is the stunning hilltop town of Orvieto, perched dramatically on volcanic rock. The town’s long history dates back to the Etruscans, and its atmospheric streets are filled with medieval charm. The highlight here is the Orvieto Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its façade shimmers with mosaics, sculptures, and stained glass, providing endless details to admire.

Walking around Orvieto, you’ll pass numerous churches and quaint shops—perfect for soaking up authentic Italian ambiance. As one reviewer put it, they loved “the town’s quaintness and the locals’ warmth,” making it more than just a sightseeing stop but an authentic taste of Italy’s artistic soul.

Admission to the cathedral isn’t included, but most visitors agree it’s worth the few euros. Many mention that they appreciated the guide explaining the history and significance of the site, making the visit more meaningful.

A Typical Italian Lunch Near Lake Trasimeno

Next, the tour takes you across the rolling hills of Umbria and Tuscany, heading toward Lake Trasimeno. The stop here is for a local lunch, often in a rustic setting—some reviews praise the delicious pasta, fresh bread, and friendly service. It’s a chance to taste regional flavors and relax before continuing your journey.

One reviewer noted that the lunch was “wonderful” and that the restaurant’s hospitality made it a highlight, even if some found the meal somewhat ordinary or the drinks not included.

Assisi: A Sacred Town with a Living Spirit

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its religious heritage. It’s the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, the beloved patron saint of Italy, known for his love of nature and simplicity.

Your guided walk includes visits to the Basilica di San Francesco, with its beautiful frescoes, crypt, and the tomb of St. Francis himself. The Basilica of Santa Chiara is another highlight, containing the remains of St. Clare, founder of the Poor Clares.

In addition, you’ll see Piazza del Comune, the Town Hall, and Roman ruins like the Temple of Minerva, offering a fascinating blend of religious and secular history. Several reviews lauded Kristina’s storytelling and her ability to share insightful details, making the visit both educational and spiritually moving.

Additional Religious and Cultural Sights

Later, your guide will take you to Santa Maria Maggiore, where the relics of San Carlo Acutis are kept, and the Sacro Convento di San Francesco. Though some felt that the walking around Assisi involved a lot of hills and steps, most agree it’s worth the effort, especially for those interested in religious history.

Return Journey and Final Stop

On the way back to Rome, you’ll stop in Santa Maria degli Angeli, a basilica where Saint Francis is said to have worshipped. The return trip offers a chance to relax—though some reviews mention the coach’s less-than-ideal air conditioning—and reflect on a day filled with history, views, and spiritual encounters.

Practicalities and Considerations

While this tour offers a well-rounded experience, a few practical points are worth noting. The coach can be tight for some, especially with many stairs and hilly streets in Assisi. Several travelers mention that more free time would enhance the experience, allowing you to explore or shop at your own pace.

The lunch is included but sometimes described as “nothing special,” with drinks not provided and food being cold or average. If you’re a foodie, you might consider bringing snacks or planning a small picnic.

The guided tours are highly praised—our guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, making the history come alive. However, a few reviews noted some distractions during the bus ride, such as guides spending time on the phone, which can affect the overall experience.

The cost includes transportation, guides, and lunch, making it a reasonable option for those who want a hassle-free way to see two iconic towns. It’s not a budget tour but offers good value for the comprehensive experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for history buffs, religious travelers, and culture seekers who want to see key highlights without planning logistics themselves. It’s especially suited for those willing to walk and climb steps, given the hilly terrain of Assisi.

If you’re looking for a relaxed pace with ample free time, this tour might feel a little rushed, but if you value guided insights, stunning sights, and a taste of authentic Italy, it delivers.

The Sum Up

The Assisi and Orvieto guided day tour from Rome offers a solid mix of art, history, religious significance, and scenic countryside. The guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, and the visit to two UNESCO sites makes it a worthwhile experience. While the lunch could be improved and the transport might get warm in summer, the opportunity to explore these captivating towns in one day is hard to beat.

It’s a great option for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without the hassle of self-driving or coordinating multiple tours. Expect a full but rewarding day, with enough charm and insight to leave you feeling inspired—and a little more connected to Italy’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Rome to Orvieto?
The coach ride takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a scenic preview of Italy’s countryside.

Does the tour include entrance fees to sites?
No, entrance to the Orvieto Cathedral and other sites is not included, but most are inexpensive and worth the few euros.

Is there free time in Assisi?
The schedule is quite packed, with limited free time, so plan accordingly if you want to explore on your own.

What is the meal like during the lunch stop?
The lunch is described as tasty with good regional dishes, but some found it average or cold, and drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Given the hills and steps in Assisi, this tour may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

In sum, this day trip is a rich taste of Italy’s spiritual and artistic treasures, perfect for those eager to see iconic towns with guided expertise and effortless logistics.