Umbria’s Exclusive Escapes: Luxury Hotels in Assisi
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Italy, Assisi is a serene haven that exudes an unparalleled spiritual and historic charm. This Umbrian gem, famed for its ties to Saint Francis, offers not just a journey through time but an indulgent escape into luxury. For the discerning traveler, Assisi and the surrounding Umbria region present a collection of exquisite hotels that blend historical grandeur with modern opulence, promising a stay that transcends the ordinary. Here, we explore the crème de la crème of Assisi’s luxury accommodations, where unparalleled service, stunning vistas, and divine interiors await.
TOP 10 LUXURY HOTELS IN ASSISI AND UMBRIA
1. Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum
– Price: €450-800/night
– The only 5-star luxury hotel in the historic center of Assisi, this extraordinary property is housed in a brilliantly restored 13th-century Santa Caterina Monastery built in 1275. The 18 exclusive rooms and suites showcase minimalist elegance with original Roman archaeological remains harmoniously blended with contemporary design. The crown jewel is the Nun Spa Museum, set within ancient Roman amphitheatre ruins featuring limestone pillars and a complete Roman bath circuit with four thermal areas at varying temperatures and humidity levels.
– Best season: April to June and September to October
– Insider tip: Book the exclusive 2-hour traditional Roman spa circuit included with your stay for a transcendental journey through ancient bathing traditions – the subterranean grotto spa with 2,000-year-old pillars is truly one-of-a-kind in the world.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
2. Borgo dei Conti Resort Relais & Châteaux
– Price: €350-750/night
– A meticulously restored 17th-century fortified mansion set within a 20-hectare estate overlooking the Nestore Valley. This Relais & Châteaux property underwent a captivating renovation by Spagnulo & Partners, creating a profound dialogue between Umbrian heritage, nature, and Renaissance art. The 40 luxury accommodations feature indigenous materials including Etruscan terracotta from Montone and fabrics curated by Giuditta Brozzetti. The modular spa spans indoor and outdoor areas, while the Cedri restaurant offers innovative Umbrian cuisine.
– Best season: May to October
– Insider tip: Request a table service breakfast rather than the buffet for a more personalized experience, and book a romantic dinner in the historic limonaia that now houses the Rura restaurant.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
3. Borgobrufa Spa Resort Adults Only
– Price: €280-600/night
– A stunning 5-star adults-only wellness destination set in an 18th-century villa on the hills of Torgiano with panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside including Perugia and Assisi. The resort boasts the largest spa in Umbria at 3,000 square meters, featuring heated indoor and outdoor pools connected by a swim-through passage, a salt grotto, Rasul bath, and three private spas. The 49 accommodations range from Garden Rooms to the spectacular 130sqm Luxury Love Suite with private sauna and indoor heated pool.
– Best season: Year-round (ideal for wellness retreats)
– Insider tip: Book the outdoor hot tub room category for private Jacuzzi access with views over the Umbrian hills, and don’t miss sunset drinks on the panoramic terrace of the 4 Sensi restaurant.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €180-400/night
– Perched in the medieval quarter of Assisi just 200 meters from the Basilica of San Francesco, this elegant 4-star hotel offers breathtaking views of the Umbrian valleys from its panoramic terraces. The 77 air-conditioned rooms feature refined furnishings, and the property boasts three restaurants including L’Estasi serving traditional Umbrian specialties with over 600 wines. The spa includes an indoor pool with hydromassage jets, Turkish bath, Finnish sauna, and a comprehensive menu of wellness treatments.
– Best season: Late Spring to Early Autumn
– Insider tip: Request a room on the upper floors for unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside and ask about the panoramic penthouse suite with 70sqm terrace overlooking the Umbrian Valley.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
5. Palazzo Bontadosi Hotel & Spa
– Price: €200-450/night
– A Renaissance palazzo transformed into a boutique luxury hotel, set directly on the main square of Montefalco within 15th-century town walls. This design-forward property features an art gallery on the ground floor and an exclusive spa in the medieval basement with heated swimming pool, steam bath, and hydrotherapy showers. The 11 soundproofed rooms blend contemporary design with historic architecture, each offering views of either Montefalco’s Town Square or the spectacular Umbrian Valley.
– Best season: Autumn for the Sagrantino wine harvest
– Insider tip: Book the exclusive spa for couples (€40 per person) for private use, including evening sessions from 9:30pm to 11:30pm – and don’t leave without tasting the legendary Sagrantino wine native to Montefalco.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €180-400/night
– This enchanting 14th-century castle turned luxury country house is perched on a hill just 5km from Assisi, surrounded by a 50-hectare private estate of olive groves, orchards, and forests. The 20 rooms feature rustic elegance with exposed wooden beams, wrought iron beds, and fine fabrics, while the restaurant serves exceptional Umbrian cuisine using ingredients from the on-site organic farm. The Exclusive Spa offers Turkish bath, emotional showers, and Kneipp path, while the outdoor pool delivers sweeping valley views.
– Best season: Autumn for spectacular foliage
– Insider tip: Book the exclusive outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking Assisi for a sunset experience at 34°C with panoramic views – it’s available for private use and offers one of the most romantic settings in Umbria.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
7. Le Silve di Armenzano Natural Resort
– Price: €200-450/night
– A magical escape into nature, this resort is carved from an ancient 1200 AD hostel atop a 230-hectare estate in the Monte Subasio Natural Park, just 11km from Assisi. The property combines the sober elegance of a Franciscan convent with modern comforts, featuring rooms with antique furniture and views that inspired Dante Alighieri. Certified Gluten Free Friendly by AIC, the restaurant showcases refined Umbrian cuisine with products from the on-site farm. Three swimming pools, horseback riding, and extensive hiking trails complete the experience.
– Best season: Spring for blooming countryside
– Insider tip: Book a room with terrace for morning coffee amidst breathtaking vistas, and note that the final 1.5km is on unpaved road – worth the adventure for the unmatched tranquility and views.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
8. Valle di Assisi Hotel & Spa
– Price: €150-350/night
– Set at the foot of Mount Subasio within 60 hectares of unspoiled Umbrian countryside, this resort offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. The property features spacious rooms with valley or garden views, an outdoor pool overlooking Assisi, and a comprehensive wellness center. The panoramic terrace provides stunning views of the medieval town while the restaurant serves locally-sourced Umbrian specialties.
– Best season: May to September
– Insider tip: Book a cooking class to learn authentic Umbrian recipes, and take advantage of the hotel’s strategic location for day trips to Perugia, Spello, and Bevagna.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
– Price: €180-380/night
– A period Renaissance-style hotel occupying a historic palazzo in the heart of Assisi, Hotel Fontebella offers refined accommodations with exquisite views of the Umbrian Valley. The air-conditioned rooms maintain their historic character while providing modern comforts. The highlight is Il Frantoio restaurant, mentioned in the Michelin guide, featuring a cellar with over 300 wines and specializing in truffle dishes and handmade pasta.
– Best season: Year-round
– Insider tip: Book a table at Il Frantoio for the truffle tasting menu paired with wines from their extensive cellar – the white truffle season (October-December) is particularly spectacular.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
10. Relais Todini – Residenza d’Epoca
– Price: €250-500/night
– A magnificent 17th-century noble residence set on a hilltop estate with 360-degree panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside between Todi and Spoleto. This member of Small Luxury Hotels features 12 individually appointed suites with original frescoes, antique furnishings, and modern amenities. The property includes an infinity pool overlooking the valley, extensive gardens, and a refined restaurant serving traditional Umbrian cuisine with ingredients from the estate’s organic gardens.
– Best season: April to October
– Insider tip: Request the suite with original 17th-century frescoes, and arrange a private tour of the estate’s olive groves followed by a tasting of their award-winning extra virgin olive oil.
– Book Now: Official Website | Hotels.com | Booking.com | Expedia
Expert Travel Tips
1. Timing Your Visit: While Umbria is beautiful year-round, the best times to visit are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) for mild weather, fewer crowds, and spectacular natural beauty. Summer offers vibrant festivals but expect higher temperatures and more visitors.
2. Local Experiences: Engage with local culture by participating in cooking classes, wine tastings, and truffle hunts. Umbria’s rich culinary heritage – from Sagrantino wines to black truffles – is a highlight for many luxury travelers. Many of these hotels can arrange private experiences with local producers.
3. Getting Around: Renting a car is highly advisable for exploring Umbria’s rolling hills and medieval towns at your own pace. The most scenic properties are often accessed via winding country roads, which add to the charm but require comfortable driving skills.
4. Booking Strategy: For the best rates and room assignments, book directly through official hotel websites and mention any special occasions. Many properties offer exclusive amenities for direct bookings, and the personal touch from concierge teams can transform your experience.
5. Cultural Immersion: While the hotels themselves offer exceptional experiences, venture out to explore Assisi’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, the medieval towns of Spello and Bevagna, and the Umbrian wine country around Montefalco and Torgiano.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to reach Assisi from Rome?
A: The most convenient way to reach Assisi from Rome is by train, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours via Foligno. Alternatively, renting a car offers the flexibility to explore the scenic routes of Umbria at your leisure. The drive takes about 2.5 hours via the E45 highway. Perugia’s Sant’Egidio Airport offers limited international connections and is just 15km from Assisi.
Q: Are these hotels suitable for families with children?
A: Most luxury hotels in Assisi and surrounding Umbria cater to families, offering spacious accommodations, children’s activities, and tailored experiences. Note that Borgobrufa Spa Resort is adults-only (15+ years). For families, properties like Valle di Assisi, Le Silve di Armenzano, and Castello di Petrata offer excellent facilities including outdoor pools and nature activities.
Q: Can dietary restrictions be accommodated at these hotels?
A: Yes, all listed hotels are well-equipped to accommodate various dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy considerations. Le Silve di Armenzano holds official AIC certification for celiac-safe cuisine. It is advisable to communicate any specific needs in advance to ensure the culinary teams can prepare accordingly.
Conclusion
Assisi and the enchanting Umbrian countryside offer a tapestry of historical riches, natural beauty, and luxurious tranquility. From the archaeological wonder of Nun Assisi’s Roman spa to the expansive wellness retreats of Borgobrufa, each property provides a unique window into this serene world while delivering uncompromising comfort and service. Whether seeking spiritual solace in medieval cloisters, culinary adventures among truffle hills, or simply a peaceful retreat amidst olive groves and vineyards, Umbria’s luxury accommodations promise an unforgettable experience. Venture into the heart of Italy’s green heart and let the journey of discovery and indulgence begin.
