Umbria full-day tour of Orvieto and Assisi

This full-day tour includes the home of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and ecology, as well as Cortona, perched high on a hill enclosed in stone walls. You will be escorted through the scenic hills of Umbria and Tuscany where you will be introduced to the historic architecture and timeless art in Assisi and Cortona.Assisi dates back to Etruscan and Roman times and is perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio, offering incredible views over picturesque valleys. You will wind your way through narrow streets while being presented with the fascinating history of the area. Every year on October 4, the celebration of St Francis is held, his humble way of life has made him Italy’s most loved saint. You will pay a special visit to the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi where you will see Giotto’s frescoes documenting the life of the beloved saint. From there you will celebrate Saint Claire of Assisi, one of Francis’ followers, at the Basilica of Santa Chiara. It is time now for a little free time to explore this famous pilgrimage site, after which you will continue on to the birthplace of the Franciscan Order, the massive Santa Maria degli Angeli Church, the 7th largest Christian church.You will stop for a photo opportunity in Passignano Sul Trasimeno and then onwards to the final stage of the tour, Cortona. Surrounded by stone walls, and built by the Etruscans, the town was used for filming the famous movie "Under the Tuscan Sky". The views over the hills and valleys of this incredible area are sublime. Take lots of photos to capture these memories.