Family-Friendly Adventures in Assisi, Umbria!

Assisi Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels (Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful family day-out at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi, a place brimming with history and serene beauty!

Morning: Visit to the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels

Start your day early by heading to this majestic basilica located at the foot of the hills of Assisi. If you"re staying in central Assisi, the basilica is easily accessible by local bus or taxi—just a 10-minute ride away.

Upon arrival, marvel at the grand facade of the church, which encloses the tiny Porziuncola, the chapel where St. Francis of Assisi founded his religious order and famously received Clare of Assisi into the Franciscan community. This is a fantastic spot for teaching kids about humility and the beginnings of the Franciscan Order. The chapel itself is a humbling example of simplicity and devotion.

Fun Fact: The basilica is home to the Transitus Chapel, which marks the spot where St. Francis passed away. This poignant site can be a touchstone for discussing the history and impact of this beloved saint.

Midday: Picnic and Relaxation

After exploring the basilica, enjoy a family picnic in the surrounding gardens. The green spaces provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal and some downtime for the kids to play.

Afternoon: Rose Garden and the Museum

Post lunch, stroll over to the Rose Garden, a peaceful area that was once a forest where St. Francis and his companions lived. It"s said that roses in this garden bloom without thorns, symbolizing the saint’s commitment to peace and love.

Next, visit the museum within the basilica complex. It showcases artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks that offer a deeper insight into the Franciscan heritage.

Evening: Gelato in Assisi

Cap off your day with some delicious gelato in the town of Assisi. Head back to the center, which is bustling with quaint shops and gelaterias, perfect for a sweet treat before you say goodbye to this spiritually enriching day.

Enjoy your family-friendly adventure in Assisi, where history and tranquility meet!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Porziuncola Museum (Museo della Porziuncola)

Why Visit?

Morning: Visit to Porziuncola Museum (Museo della Porziuncola)

Starting Point: Begin your family day out at the Porziuncola Museum, located within the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Assisi. To get there, take a local bus from Assisi center, which is frequent and convenient, or drive if you’ve rented a car, as there is ample parking available.

Time: Plan to arrive by 10 AM to avoid the crowds and to fully enjoy the exhibits.

Activities

1. Tour the Museum: Explore the museum which showcases the history and significance of St. Francis of Assisi, who founded the Franciscan Order. The museum houses important artworks and artifacts related to the saint’s life and the Franciscan order.

2. Visit the Porziuncola Chapel: Within the same complex, visit the tiny Porziuncola chapel, the actual stone chapel restored by St. Francis himself. This chapel is a profound piece of Christian history and an emotional experience considering its connection to St. Francis" life.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local eateries near the basilica, where you can taste some Umbrian specialties like ‘Torta al testo’ (a traditional flatbread).

Afternoon: Stroll and Play Time at Monte Subasio

Getting There: Drive or take a bus towards Monte Subasio, approximately 30 minutes from the museum.

Activities

1. Nature Exploration: Spend the afternoon in the nature of Monte Subasio. It’s perfect for a family hike and offers breathtaking views of the Umbrian landscape. There are trails suitable for all ages, ensuring a fun and adventurous experience for the kids.

Fact: Did you know that St. Francis often retreated to Monte Subasio to meditate and pray? Walking these paths can offer a chance to discuss the values of peace and simplicity with your kids.

Evening: Return to Assisi

Dinner: Wrap up your day with dinner in Assisi, trying some gelato or other local desserts.

This one-day itinerary balances historical exploration with nature and local culture, making it a fulfilling experience for a family outing in and around the Porziuncola Museum.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lake Trasimeno (Lago Trasimeno)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Explore Castiglione del Lago

Start your adventure at Castiglione del Lago, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Arrive early and grab breakfast at a local café. Then, visit the majestic Rocca del Leone, a 12th-century fortress offering panoramic views of Lake Trasimeno. Kids will love exploring the ramparts and secret passages. Afterward, stroll along the charming streets and have lunch at a lakeside restaurant to try some local fish dishes like "Tegamaccio."

Getting There: Castiglione del Lago is easily accessible by train from major cities like Florence and Rome. The town is a short walk from the station.

Day 2: Ferry Ride and Isola Maggiore

Take a ferry from Castiglione del Lago to Isola Maggiore, the second largest island on the lake. The ferry ride itself is a fun experience for kids, watching the water and spotting wildlife. Once on the island, enjoy a leisurely walk exploring the fishing village, visit the lace museum to see beautiful hand-crafted lace, and have a picnic by the lakeshore.

Getting There: Ferries run regularly from Castiglione del Lago. Check timetables in advance as they can vary seasonally.

Day 3: Water Sports and Cycling

Dedicate your last day to some outdoor activities. Rent bikes and cycle around the lake’s perimeter or part of it, as there are routes suitable for all ages and abilities. For water enthusiasts, various spots around the lake offer canoeing, sailing, and windsurfing.

Getting There: Bike and water sports equipment rentals are available in multiple locations around the lake, including Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno.

Interesting Fact: Lake Trasimeno is not only Italy’s fourth-largest lake but is also part of a regional park, which is home to a wide variety of birds, making it a great spot for bird watching.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fontana Maggiore

Why Visit?

Welcome to a magical day at Fontana Maggiore, the heart of Perugia’s historical narrative and a marvel of medieval craftsmanship!

### Morning: Arrival at Fontana Maggiore

- Getting There: Fontana Maggiore is centrally located in Piazza IV Novembre, easily accessible by public transport. Take the Minimetrò to Pincetto Station, and from there, it"s a short walk through the bustling streets filled with the aroma of fresh espresso.

- Explore the Fountain: Designed by Fra Bevignate and sculpted by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano between 1275 and 1278, this fountain is a masterpiece of medieval art. The basin is adorned with biblical scenes and signs of the zodiac, perfect for sparking the imagination of young minds. Kids can play a game of spotting different animals and mythological figures!

### Midday: Lunch and Museo Capitolare di San Lorenzo

- Lunch: Enjoy a family-friendly meal at one of the nearby trattorias offering delicious Umbrian pasta and kid-approved gelato.

- Visit Museo Capitolare: Just a stone"s throw from the fountain, visit the Museo Capitolare di San Lorenzo to view artifacts and artworks that delve deeper into the city"s ecclesiastical history. The museum is small enough to not overwhelm, but rich with interesting pieces that complement the stories seen at the fountain.

### Afternoon: Corso Vannucci and Perugina Chocolate House

- Stroll Down Corso Vannucci: Named after the famous painter, this bustling street is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Window shop, or pick up unique souvenirs.

- Chocolate Experience: End your day on a sweet note at the Perugina Chocolate House. It"s a short bus ride to San Sisto where you can dive into the delicious world of chocolate making. The kids will love the hands-on chocolate art class, and everyone can savor their own creations.

Fontana Maggiore is not just a fountain but a gateway to exploring Perugia’s rich history and vibrant culture, making it an unforgettable experience for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Collegio del Cambio

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful day exploring the Collegio del Cambio in Perugia, an exquisite blend of history and art perfect for a family outing!

Morning: Arrival at Collegio del Cambio

Start your day early by heading to Palazzo dei Priori in the heart of Perugia. The building is easily accessible by public transport; simply take the MiniMetrò to the Pincetto stop, from where it’s a short walk through charming medieval streets. The Collegio del Cambio, housed within this historic palace, opens at 10 AM. It"s wise to arrive early to savor the quiet ambiance before the crowds.

Exploring Collegio del Cambio

Dive into Renaissance art as you step into the stunning rooms of the Collegio del Cambio. The highlight for many is the Sala dei Legisti, decorated with breathtaking frescoes by Pietro Perugino, a master painter who taught Raphael. These frescoes, depicting mythological and historical themes, provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about Renaissance art in an engaging way. Don"t miss the intricate woodwork and the detailed carvings in the guild’s meeting hall, which reflect the opulence of the period.

Interactive Activity

Participate in the family-friendly workshop usually held in the adjoining hall (check availability beforehand). These workshops are designed to explain the art and history of the guilds in an interactive manner, perfect for keeping young minds enthralled.

Lunch Break

By now, it’ll be time to grab some lunch. Head to a nearby café or restaurant; Perugia is famed for its delightful Umbrian cuisine. Try some local favorites like umbricelli pasta or torta al testo.

Afternoon Stroll and Gelato

Wind up your visit with a leisurely stroll around Perugia’s historic center. Enjoy a gelato from one of the local artisanal shops as you wander – a perfect sweet treat to conclude your educational and fun-filled day at Collegio del Cambio!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.