Rome: Assisi, Montefalco wines & Perugia Day Trip with Lunch

Traveling from Rome into the heart of Italy’s lesser-known yet stunning region of Umbria offers a different kind of Italian experience—one filled with spiritual sights, rolling vineyards, and historical secrets. This 11-hour guided tour promises to be an engaging journey that balances cultural highlights with indulgent wine tastings and authentic local flavors.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? For starters, it includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, renowned for its stunning frescoes. Then, there’s the chance to sample seven premium wines at the Arnaldo Caprai winery in Montefalco, famous for its Sagrantino. Finally, exploring Perugia’s underground passages and Gothic cathedral adds an exciting layer of discovery.

One consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of walking and multiple stops, which might be tiring for some. Still, if you love combining history, scenic views, and wine in a compact day, this experience is a fantastic choice. Perfect for those craving an authentic Italian escape beyond Rome’s busy streets, especially lovers of art, history, and good wine.

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Key Points

Comprehensive day trip covering Assisi, Montefalco, and Perugia, ideal for exploring multiple highlights in one day
Expert-guided visits to Assisi’s Basilica of San Francesco and Perugia’s underground tunnels
Wine tasting of seven high-quality Umbria wines, complemented by a scenic vineyard lunch
Small group size (limited to 7 participants) enhances personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
Includes transportation from Rome, making logistics hassle-free
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Well-Rounded Journey Through Umbria

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Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at Parking Ludovisi in Rome, where you’ll meet your guide. The tour departs early, giving you a full day of exploration, and includes transportation back to the same starting point. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to settle in and meet your guide—think of it as the first step toward your Italian escape.

Assisi: A Holy and Artistic Marvel

Your first stop is the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, a site that captures the essence of Saint Francis’s spiritual legacy. The guided tour lasts about an hour, during which you’ll explore the basilica’s stunning frescoes by Giotto, which vividly depict the life of St. Francis. Reviewers mention that the artwork is “absolutely breathtaking,” offering a window into medieval art that’s both beautiful and meaningful.

Expect to walk through the basilica’s atmospheric corridors, taking in the religious history and artistic mastery. The guide provides context about the frescoes and the basilica’s significance, making it a worthwhile visit for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Montefalco: The Heart of Umbria’s Wine Region

Next, the tour heads to Montefalco, renowned for its wines, particularly the Sagrantino di Montefalco. The highlight here is a wine tasting of seven high-premium wines at the Arnaldo Caprai winery. You’ll appreciate the opportunity to sample some of Italy’s best reds, with reviews noting exceptional quality and memorable flavors.

The winery setting offers stunning views of the rolling hills, which makes the tasting even more enjoyable. The guide explains the wine-making process, giving you a sense of what makes Umbria’s wines stand out. After tasting, you’ll have time to explore the vineyard and take in the scenery—perfect for snapping photos and savoring the peaceful countryside.

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A Vineyard Lunch with Local Flavors

Following the tasting, you’ll indulge in a lunch in the vineyard, featuring traditional Umbrian dishes paired with the wines you just sampled. This meal lasts about an hour and a half, providing the chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. Reviewers emphasize the quality of the food and the authenticity of the experience, with some mentioning that the dishes are “simple but packed with flavor,” highlighting local ingredients.

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Perugia: Artistic and Underground Treasures

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Perugia, a city that blends medieval architecture with artistic treasures. The visit includes the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, a Gothic masterpiece set in the historic center. Expect about 30 minutes to explore this impressive cathedral.

Then, a guided tour of Perugia Sotterranea reveals the underground secrets of the city—ancient tunnels, medieval corridors, and hidden passages. This underground exploration adds a layer of mystery and discovery to your day. Reviewers praise the guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge, noting that the underground tour “brings history to life.”

Return to Rome

After a full day of sightseeing, wine, and tasty food, you’ll be transported back to Rome, arriving at the original departure point. The long but rewarding day leaves you with a deeper appreciation of Italy’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and culinary delights.

What Travelers Can Expect from the Experience

Transportation and Group Size

The round-trip transportation from Rome is smooth and stress-free, with comfortable coach seating. The small group size (up to 7 participants) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized interaction with your guide and more flexible visits. Many reviews highlight how this smaller group fosters a friendly atmosphere and better engagement.

Timing and Pacing

Starting early, the tour balances structured visits with enough free time to absorb each place. The overall duration, around 11 hours, might seem long but is well-paced, with enough breaks and opportunities to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

From the frescoes in Assisi to the wines in Montefalco and the underground city of Perugia, this tour offers authentic insights into Umbrian culture. The lunch with local dishes is a highlight for many, providing a taste of regional ingredients and traditional recipes.

Value and Cost

Given the inclusion of expert-guided visits, a comprehensive itinerary, wine tastings, a vineyard lunch, and transportation, this tour offers good value. While it’s slightly longer and more involved than a typical day trip, the depth of experience justifies the price for lovers of art, wine, and history.

The Sum Up

This Rome: Assisi, Montefalco wines & Perugia Day Trip packs a punch for travelers eager to explore Italy beyond Rome’s busy streets. It combines cultural highlights—like Assisi’s basilica and Perugia’s underground tunnels—with the leisurely pleasure of wine tasting and sampling local cuisine. The small group format, enthusiastic guides, and scenic routes ensure a personalized experience that feels both immersive and relaxed.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and those wanting a taste of Italy’s scenic countryside, this tour delivers a well-rounded day that’s both educational and enjoyable. It’s a perfect way to see a different side of Italy, with enough flexibility and authenticity to satisfy curious travelers.

If you’re seeking a day that blends art, history, good food, and excellent wine in a manageable package, this trip could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, the tour provides transportation from and back to Rome, making logistics simple and comfortable.

What is the tour group size? The group is limited to 7 participants, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking and outdoor stops.

How long is the visit to Assisi? The guided tour of the Basilica of San Francesco lasts about 1 hour.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s included in the lunch? The lunch features local dishes paired with the wines tasted at the vineyard, focusing on regional flavors.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated? The information doesn’t specify, but it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

What makes the wine tasting special? The winery is famous for its high-quality Sagrantino wines, and tasting seven different wines offers a great variety.

Is the underground tour suitable for everyone? The underground tour involves walking through tunnels and medieval passages; those with mobility issues should verify accessibility.

What kind of views will I see? Expect picturesque rolling hills, vineyard landscapes, and historic cityscapes, ideal for photography.

This detailed review unpacks all the key elements, giving potential travelers a clear picture of what to expect and how to make the most of this charming day trip into Umbria.