Assisi, Deruta & organic gourmet lunch at the olive oil farmhouse from SIENA

A Day of Art, Faith, and Flavors: Exploring Assisi, Deruta, and a Gourmet Olive Oil Farmhouse from Siena

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure that combines Italy’s spiritual heritage, artisan craftsmanship, and delicious local produce, this private tour from Siena fits the bill. For $671.41 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours uncovering the magic of Assisi’s Basilica, wandering through Deruta’s ceramics, and enjoying a gourmet organic lunch at a family-run olive oil farmhouse. Led by friendly guides and comfortable transportation, it’s an experience that balances history, artistry, and culinary delights.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is its thoughtfully curated stops—each one offers a distinctive taste of Italy’s soul, from the sacred to the artisanal. The second highlight? The chance to sample exceptional local olive oils and toast with a glass of Montefalco Red or Sagrantino, truly bringing the region’s flavors to life.

A potential consideration? The tour is approximately nine hours long, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the move. Also, while the experiences are mostly outdoor or at free-entry sites, be prepared for a modest amount of walking and some flexibility with timing.

This tour appeals most to travelers eager to combine cultural exploration with authentic local experiences. If you value intimate group settings, personalized attention, and a chance to see Italy’s artistic and culinary traditions firsthand, you’ll find this trip a rewarding day out.

This experience made our article of Our 15 Favorite Siena Lunch Experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit Assisi’s famous Basilica and view Giotto’s frescoes, gaining insight into Saint Francis’ life and spiritual significance.
• Culinary Heritage: Enjoy a gourmet, organic lunch at a family-owned olive oil farm, with tastings and a toast to local wines.
• Artisanal Craftsmanship: Explore Deruta’s renowned ceramics and possibly visit the oldest majolica factory in the world.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a small group size (max 8) ensure a personalized and relaxed experience.
• Cultural Balance: The tour offers a blend of spiritual, artistic, and gastronomic insights, perfect for a well-rounded Italian adventure.
• Value for Money: For roughly $670, you get a comprehensive, curated day that covers multiple regions and highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Assisi, Deruta & Olive Oil Farm Tour

Starting with Assisi: A Sacred Artistic Journey

Your day begins early at 8:30 am with pickup from Siena, where a comfortable vehicle and a friendly guide await. The first stop is Assisi, a town that radiates a sense of peace and divine artistry. Here, we loved how the tour focuses on the Basilica di San Francesco, home to some of Giotto’s most captivating frescoes depicting the saint’s life.

The free entry to this basilica allows for a truly personal experience. We appreciated the way the guide explained the significance of Giotto’s brushstrokes—how they made the biblical stories more accessible and emotionally impactful. The atmosphere inside is mesmerizing, with soaring ceilings and luminous frescoes that have inspired countless pilgrims and art lovers alike.

The short hour-long visit isn’t designed to rush you. Instead, it offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Italy, where faith and art intertwine seamlessly. The peaceful ambiance and stunning visual storytelling make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Italy’s religious artistry.

A Taste of Local Life and Olive Oil at Bevagna

Next, the tour takes you to a cozy, family-run farmhouse outside Bevagna for a gourmet organic lunch. Here, you’ll experience more than just a meal—you’ll learn about the local extra virgin olive oil production, which is integral to the region’s identity.

The lunch itself is a highlight: a carefully prepared meal highlighting regional ingredients, paired with a glass of Montefalco Red or Sagrantino, regional wines known for their depth and character. This toast is a wonderful way to connect with the local traditions and savor the flavors of Umbria.

The setting is intimate, often on a working farm, providing a behind-the-scenes look at olive oil craftsmanship. We loved the warmth of the hosts and how they shared their passion for their product—an authentic taste of Italy’s countryside. The two-hour stop is just enough to enjoy the food, learn about olive oil production, and relax before heading to the next artisan destination.

Artistic Delights in Deruta

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Deruta, a town famous for its extraordinary ceramics. The streets are lined with shops displaying intricate, colorful pottery, and it’s easy to see why Deruta has been a ceramics hub for centuries.

The visit to Ubaldo Grazia, the world’s most ancient majolica factory, is particularly special. Tours often include demonstrations of the traditional pottery-making techniques, allowing you to see artisans at work and perhaps purchase a unique piece as a souvenir.

From the reviews, it’s clear that visitors find this part of the tour inspiring. “You might find that the ceramics are truly beautiful,” one reviewer noted, “and the chance to visit an ancient factory makes you appreciate the craftsmanship behind each piece.” It’s a brief stop at about an hour, but packed with visual and tactile delights.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

A key aspect of this tour’s appeal is its private transportation, which makes the long day more manageable and comfortable. The vehicle is modern, air-conditioned, and the driver, like Roberto or Bruno, earns praise for their perfect English and local knowledge. As one reviewer shared, “The driver took us to many surprises along the journey, including a working farm with Pecorino cheese samples.”

The tour operates in all weather conditions—so dress appropriately—and is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. With groups limited to just 8 people, it offers an intimate setting, allowing for personalized attention and ample time at each stop.

Analyzing the Value and Overall Experience

At $671.41, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, local tastings, and guided visits, it offers a significant value for travelers craving a well-rounded, authentic experience. The small group size ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and the personalized touch makes the experience more meaningful.

The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with comments about the beautiful views, excellent wines, and understanding guides. One traveler called it a “perfect way to get out of Florence,” which hints at the appeal of escaping the city for a taste of genuine regional Italy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for art lovers, gastronomes, and cultural travelers who want to see Italy beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s especially great for those who enjoy small-group experiences and appreciate learning about local craftsmanship and culinary traditions. The combination of history, art, and food makes it a versatile choice for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to savor Italy’s authentic flavors.

The Sum Up

This Siena-based tour offers a compelling blend of spiritual art, regional craftsmanship, and culinary delights. From the breathtaking frescoes in Assisi to the colorful ceramics of Deruta and the flavors of local olive oil, it’s a well-rounded journey into Italy’s soul.

Travelers who appreciate expert guidance, authentic experiences, and the chance to sample regional wines and olive oils will find this trip particularly rewarding. It’s a chance to explore Italy’s artistic and gastronomic traditions in a relaxed, intimate setting.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the carefully curated stops and personalized touches ensure it’s a meaningful and memorable experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking a deeper connection to Italy’s local culture, this tour can be a highlight of your time in Siena.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, gas, tolls, VAT, bottled water, and refreshments on board. The lunch and entrance fees are not included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am with pickup and ending with drop-off back at your Siena accommodation.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available; please advise at the time of booking.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable, private vehicle with air conditioning, ensuring a relaxed travel experience.

How many people are in each group?
This is a small-group tour, with a maximum of 8 participants, offering a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there is potential for some flexibility, but changes should be discussed directly with the tour provider.

In summary, this tour from Siena provides a thoughtful and enjoyable way to experience Assisi’s spiritual art, Deruta’s ceramics, and the flavors of Umbrian olive oil—all in one day. Perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of Italy’s artistic and culinary traditions while enjoying the comfort of private transport and expert guides.