Assisi is a compact hill town with a clear division between the medieval centro storico on the hill and the modern town of Santa Maria degli Angeli in the valley. Each area suits different travel styles. The historic centre is where you want to be if you are here for the basilicas and atmosphere; the valley offers lower prices and easier access to transport. For a complete overview, see our Assisi travel guide.
Assisi Neighborhoods: The Historic Centre (Centro Storico)
The walled medieval town stretches for about 1km along the slope of Mount Subasio. The western end centres on the Basilica of St. Francis; the eastern end around the Basilica of St. Clare. Piazza del Comune marks the midpoint. The centro storico has stone-paved streets, no cars (except residents and deliveries), and everything within a 15-minute walk. Hotels here are converted convents, medieval townhouses, and small family-run alberghi. Three-star hotels average EUR 100-150 per night in high season. Parking costs EUR 15-20 per day in the public lots outside the walls (Piazza Matteotti and Porta San Pietro are the main ones). Best for first-time visitors, pilgrims, and anyone wanting the full Assisi atmosphere. For more information, see our Assisi weather by month.
Assisi Neighborhoods: Santa Maria degli Angeli
This is the modern town in the valley, 4km below the historic centre, built around the massive basilica of the same name. The Assisi train station is here, with direct connections to Rome Termini (2 hours), Florence (2 hours 15 minutes), and Foligno (15 minutes). Hotels are cheaper: EUR 60-90 for a three-star. The area is flat, modern, and has supermarkets, petrol stations, and a greater choice of restaurants that are not tourist-oriented. The Line C bus connects to the historic centre every 30 minutes (EUR 1.50, 10-minute ride). Best for budget travellers, those with a car (free parking at many hotels), and anyone using Assisi as a base for exploring Umbria rather than spending all their time in the old town. For more information, see our best time to visit Assisi.
Assisi Neighborhoods: Countryside Surroundings
The hills and farmland around Assisi are dotted with agriturismi (farm stays), converted farmhouses, and countryside villas with pools. Towns like Spello (8km south), Cannara (10km west), and the slopes of Mount Subasio offer olive groves, vineyards, and panoramic views back towards Assisi. Agriturismi typically cost EUR 80-120 per night for a double room and often include breakfast with local products: fresh ricotta, Umbrian salami, and torta al testo flatbread. You need a car. The trade-off is that you are 15-20 minutes from the historic centre. Best for couples, families seeking a pool and quiet setting, and anyone who wants the Umbrian countryside experience with Assisi as a day trip. For more information, see our things to do in Assisi. For details, see our Assisi events and festivals. For details, see our where to stay in Assisi. For details, see our Assisi travel tips.
