Family Adventure in Assisi

A Day of Discovery

Today was all about diving deeper into the history and culture of Assisi. While the religious significance of this town is undeniable, I was keen to explore its ancient roots. I was looking forward to seeing what stories the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria and the Cattedrale San Lorenzo had to tell. Plus, we had a delicious itinerary of local restaurants to keep our energy up!


Explore the treasures of the past at the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria, where history and culture come alive in the heart of Perugia.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Pizzeria I Monaci. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee was the perfect way to kickstart our explorations. It's amazing how a simple meal can set the tone for an entire day. The restaurant was charming, with a rustic feel that made me feel right at home. Nang enjoyed a cappuccino, while Ananda opted for a pastry. I, of course, had to try their pizza. It was delicious, with a thin, crispy crust and flavorful toppings. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a delightful start to our day.


Experience authentic Italian dining at Ristorante Pizzeria I Monaci in Assisi – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

After breakfast, we headed to the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria. Located in Perugia, a short train ride from Assisi, the museum promised a journey into the region's pre-Roman past. The train ride itself was quite scenic, offering glimpses of the rolling Umbrian hills. I was particularly interested in seeing the Etruscan artifacts, as I've always been fascinated by this ancient civilization. Nang was excited about the prospect of learning more about the local history, and Ananda, ever the curious one, was eager to see some ancient relics.

The museum did not disappoint. It was filled with an impressive collection of Etruscan artifacts, including intricately carved funerary urns, ancient coins, and bronze statues. I was particularly struck by the level of craftsmanship and artistry displayed in these objects. It's incredible to think that these items were created thousands of years ago. Ananda was fascinated by the coins, while Nang spent a considerable amount of time examining the funerary urns. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the museum, soaking in the history and culture of the region. It was a truly enriching experience.

For lunch, we decided to try Trattoria Spadini, a local gem known for its authentic Umbrian cuisine. This cozy trattoria was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We managed to snag a table and were soon presented with a menu filled with tempting dishes. I opted for the penne alla norcina, a local specialty made with creamy sauce and black truffles. Nang chose the antipasto, while Ananda went for a classic pasta dish. The food was absolutely delicious, bursting with fresh, local flavors. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, adding to the overall experience. It felt like we were getting a true taste of Umbrian culture.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Spadini in Assisi – where every meal is a celebration of tradition and flavor.

After lunch, we made our way to the Cattedrale San Lorenzo. This beautiful cathedral, with its Baroque architecture, stands as a testament to the city's rich religious history. The cathedral's facade, seamlessly integrated with the surrounding buildings, was quite striking. Inside, the atmosphere was serene and peaceful. The high ceilings, intricate artwork, and stained-glass windows created a sense of awe and reverence. We took our time exploring the cathedral, admiring the beautiful details and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. It was a welcome contrast to the bustling streets outside.


Discover the stunning Cattedrale San Lorenzo in Perugia, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a vibrant center of local culture and spirituality.

As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at Caveau del Capitano - Ristorante&Enoteca. This charming restaurant, with its cozy and intimate setting, was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. The restaurant had a rustic, old-world charm, with stone walls and soft lighting. We started with a selection of local wines, followed by a delicious meal of traditional Italian dishes. I enjoyed a hearty plate of pasta, while Nang opted for a fish dish. Ananda, as always, went for the pizza. The food was excellent, and the service was attentive and friendly. It was the perfect way to end our day.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Caveau del Capitano in Assisi - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli and the charming village of Rasiglia. I'm particularly excited about Rasiglia, known as the Little Venice of Umbria, with its picturesque canals and watermills. We'll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Ristorante il Vicoletto for lunch and Osteria del Corso Cucina & Sushi for dinner. It's quite the culinary contrast, and I'm eager to see what they have to offer. We might even stop by Vino Osteria Winebar for a drink.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Assisi, soaking in the atmosphere of this beautiful town. The warm evening air, the sound of church bells, and the laughter of locals created a magical ambiance. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore such a rich and fascinating place with my family. As we walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible blend of history, culture, and cuisine that Assisi has to offer. It's a place that truly nourishes the soul.

Back at Hotel Porta Nuova, we relaxed in our room, reminiscing about the day's adventures. Ananda was already asleep, dreaming of ancient coins and delicious pasta. Nang and I sat on the balcony, enjoying the cool night air and the stunning views of the Umbrian countryside. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and I can't wait to see what new discoveries await us in this beautiful corner of Italy.


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

As I sign off for the night, I'm reminded of a quote I once read: Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. Today, I certainly feel richer, not just in knowledge, but in experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.