Assisi with children: among history, nature and spirituality on a family scale

Assisi is one of Italy's most fascinating destinations: a medieval town that has remained intact over the centuries, the birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare, and a UNESCO heritage site. But beyond its historical and religious importance, Assisi is also an ideal city to visit with the family.

Here, time seems to stand still. Strolling through the stone alleys, climbing gently toward a hidden church or stopping to look at a panorama of the Umbrian valley becomes an engaging experience even for the little ones. Assisi conquers with its authentic atmosphere, with the silence that speaks, with the stories that intertwine saints, nature and art.
And then there are the details that enchant children: a small church inside a basilica, two overlapping churches, a forest that looks like a fairy tale, caves to explore, low little doors like in a gnome house. Every corner becomes a discovery, every step a little adventure.

Why visit Assisi with children

It is a small, quiet and safe town.
It's easy to get around on foot (even though it's all up and downhill!).

It has a fascinating history and is accessible to even the youngest children.
It is perfect for a long weekend or day trip. Assisi offers so much to see, but without ever being chaotic or tiring. A perfect place to combine culture, spirituality and slow family time.

What to see in Assisi with children

Assisi is the city of St. Francis and the main things to see are all related to his figure.

Santa Maria degli Angeli and the Porziuncola

At the foot of Assisi is the great basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli. Park your car and enter, you will be amazed!
As you enter the Basilica, you will be confronted with a surprise that will captivate even the smallest of children: inside is a smaller church, the Porziuncola, restored by St. Francis and the place where he died in 1226. A kind of "matryoshka" that amazes young and old alike.

Basilica of St. Francis

Once in Assisi, the first stop is of course the Basilica of St. Francis.
Park nearby (covered or outdoors) and walk to the church. Children will be intrigued by the fact that it consists of two overlapping churches: the Upper and Lower Basilica. Inside you can admire frescoes by Giotto that tell the life of St. Francis like a big picture book.

The Bosco di San Francesco

A short distance from the Basilica of St. Francis, there is the Forest of St. Francis. This place of the soul, a forest of no less than 64 hectares, in the territory where the patron saint of Italy lived and preached together with his companions, giving birth to the Franciscan order, can be accessed either from the upper entrance, which opens in the surrounding wall of the square in front of the Upper Basilica, or in the lower one at the former monastery of Santa Croce. Since 2011, the Bosco di San Francesco has been open to visitors and pilgrims thanks to FAI-Fondo Ambiente Italiano, which acquired and restored it in all its parts.
In the forest there are paths for walking and meadows in which to picnic

Here the tickets for the Bosco di San Francesco

Old town and craft stores

Walking through the alleys of Assisi is like going back in time. The main streets are walkable even with a stroller (pay attention only to the ups and downs). Children will enjoy discovering craft workshops and little stores with wooden toys, ceramic objects, scents and colors.

Church of Santa Chiara

Another stop not to be missed is the Basilica of Santa Chiara, patron saint of televisions and founder of the Poor Clares.
A short walk from the church is also a small playground, ideal for an outdoor break.

Hermitage of the Prisons

For those who crave a more immersive experience in nature, Eremo delle Carceri is perfect.
It is located a few miles from Assisi and is nestled in the woods, built around the caves where St. Francis and his companions used to retreat in prayer.
Not suitable for strollers (the path is gravel), but can be tackled with a baby carrier or backpack. Children love it: it looks like a small labyrinth carved into the rock, with low porches, stairs and hidden nooks and crannies to explore.
Outside you can take a walk through the meadows and woods.

Around Assisi

Around Assisi, there are plenty of outdoor activities, some more suitable for adults, such as tandem
paragliding and quad
biking, and others that are perfect for children and families. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Carriage ride through the Umbrian hills (with tasting for mom and dad!)

A few minutes from Assisi, in Rivotorto, there is a very special experience that the whole family will enjoy: a relaxing ride in a horse-drawn carriage, among vineyards, olive groves and rolling Umbrian hills.
A chance to experience the countryside slowly, at a trotting pace, admiring the landscape and breathing good air.
Also suitable for small children, the carriage is covered and comfortable.

Here for more info and reservations: Carriage ride through the Umbrian hills

Discovering Assisi by e-bike: nature, freedom and zero fatigue

Want to explore the surroundings of Assisi in an active but family-friendly way? (Gr)e-bike rental is the perfect solution!
Pedal-assisted bikes allow you to tackle the Umbrian climbs effortlessly, making the route enjoyable even for the untrained. There are models available that are also suitable for kids and child seats, so the whole family can ride together in freedom.
From medieval lanes to paths through olive groves and vineyards, it's a wonderful way to discover Umbria with a different look, enjoying the silence, views and gourmet stops along the way.

Here for more info and booking: E-bike rental in Assisi

A walk with alpacas: tenderness, nature and smiles

In Foligno, just a few kilometers from Assisi, there is an activity that wins over young and old alike: a close encounter with dolcissime alpacas , to be petted, cuddled and accompanied on a peaceful nature walk.
During the experience, children will get to know these curious and tame animals, guided by experienced companions who explain how to interact with respect and gentleness. You will walk together along simple paths, perfect even for young children, surrounded by hills, trees and silence.

Here for more info and reservations: Walk with alpacas in Foligno

Practical info for families

Park at the base of town (e.g., John Paul II) and use escalators
Streets are uphill: light stroller or sling recommended
Spring and fall are ideal times to visit

Here are great addresses for Sleep in Umbria with children