Family Adventure in Assisi

Day 6: Embracing the Spirit of Assisi

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of Assisi. After five days of exploring this enchanting town, I felt a profound connection to its history, art, and spirituality. It was a day filled with visual and culinary delights that I am excited to share.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ghiotto Ristorante - Assisi. Nang and Ananda were particularly excited, as they had read some wonderful reviews about it. Ghiotto certainly lived up to its reputation. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff was incredibly welcoming. I opted for a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a pastry, while Nang enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and Ananda chose a plate of fresh fruit. It was the perfect way to start our day of exploration. I’ve always believed that a good meal sets the tone for the day, and Ghiotto did not disappoint.

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to explore the Piazza inferiore di San Francesco. As we approached the Basilica, the sheer scale of the structure was breathtaking. The lower square was bustling with pilgrims and tourists, all eager to experience the spiritual heart of Assisi. The Basilica di San Francesco is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere is one of profound reverence. We took our time wandering through the square, soaking in the ambiance and admiring the intricate details of the Basilica’s façade. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of this sacred place, knowing full well that no image could truly do it justice.


Experience the charm and history of Piazza Inferiore di San Francesco in Assisi, where culture and spirituality intertwine in a stunning Italian setting.

Assisi is more than just a place; it's a feeling, a sense of peace that washes over you as you walk its ancient streets.

After spending a considerable amount of time in the lower square, we decided to visit the Pinacoteca Comunale Palazzo Vallemani. The art gallery is housed in a beautiful palace, and the collection is a treasure trove of Umbrian art. As we walked through the various rooms, we were transported back in time. The gallery features paintings from the 13th to the 16th centuries, offering a glimpse into the region's rich artistic heritage. Ananda, who is particularly interested in history, was fascinated by the exhibits detailing Assisi's role in protecting Jewish people during the Second World War. It was a sobering reminder of the town's commitment to compassion and humanity.


Explore the Pinacoteca Comunale Palazzo Vallemani in Assisi, where art and history come alive through exquisite collections and stunning architecture.

One of the highlights of the Pinacoteca was the Maestà attributed to Giotto. The artwork was stunning, and it was incredible to see the skill and artistry of the masters from centuries ago. Nang was particularly drawn to the religious artworks, finding solace and inspiration in the depictions of saints and biblical scenes. I appreciated the opportunity to see these masterpieces up close, feeling a sense of connection to the artists who created them and the stories they told.

Following our visit to the Pinacoteca, it was time for lunch. We chose Ristorante-Osteria - Enoteca San Pietro, a charming eatery known for its traditional Umbrian cuisine. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff was incredibly friendly. We started with a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, accompanied by a glass of regional wine. For our main courses, I opted for the truffle pasta, while Nang chose the roasted lamb. Ananda, ever the adventurous eater, ordered the wild boar stew. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. The Enoteca San Pietro truly captured the essence of Umbrian cuisine, and it was a delightful culinary experience.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine with gluten-free options at Ristorante-Osteria - Enoteca San Pietro in the heart of Assisi.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Assisi, eventually finding ourselves at HUMILIS Made in Assisi (Boutique Assisi S. Francesco). Nang had been wanting to find a special souvenir to remind her of our trip, and this boutique seemed like the perfect place. HUMILIS offers a beautiful selection of handcrafted jewelry, all made with high-quality materials. Nang spent a considerable amount of time browsing the various pieces, eventually choosing a delicate silver necklace with a pendant of Saint Francis. She was thrilled with her purchase, and I knew it would be a cherished reminder of our time in Assisi.


Explore exquisite handcrafted jewelry at HUMILIS Made in Assisi, where tradition meets modern elegance in the heart of Italy's historic town.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Mangiar Divino for dinner. This restaurant had been highly recommended by several locals, and we were eager to try it out. Mangiar Divino lived up to its name – the food was divine. The restaurant had a romantic ambiance, with soft lighting and elegant décor. We started with a selection of antipasti, including bruschetta, olives, and marinated vegetables. For our main courses, I chose the steak, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Nang enjoyed the seafood risotto, while Ananda opted for the lasagna. Each dish was a work of art, both in terms of presentation and taste. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations and ensuring that our dining experience was truly memorable.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mangiar Divino in Assisi - where every bite tells a story.

After dinner, we took a final stroll through the illuminated streets of Assisi. The town was quiet and peaceful, and the stars twinkled above us. We reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful and historic town. As we walked back to Hotel Porta Nuova, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Assisi had captured our hearts, and we knew that we would carry its spirit with us long after we left.


Discover Hotel Porta Nuova in Assisi: A family-friendly haven with modern amenities, close to historic attractions and vibrant local culture.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria and the Cattedrale San Lorenzo in Perugia. I am particularly excited about the museum, as I have a keen interest in history and archaeology. Nang is looking forward to seeing the cathedral, drawn to its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. We’ll start the day with breakfast at Ristorante Pizzeria I Monaci, followed by lunch at Trattoria Spadini and dinner at Caveau del Capitano - Ristorante&Enoteca. It promises to be another day filled with exploration, discovery, and culinary delights.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Traveling with Nang and Ananda has been an incredible experience, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with them. Assisi has been a highlight of our trip, and I know that we will cherish these memories for years to come. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – to experience new cultures, to taste new flavors, and to create lasting memories with the ones I love. Goodnight from Assisi!