I would love some insight on the logistics of taking the train between these towns. It's a Sunday night before we take possession of the car (right by Perugia station, open from 9:30 to 1:00.) The easiest thing would be to check in early at a dumpy, commuter hotel right by the station, store our luggage, then continue on to visit Assisi for the rest of the day. We'd probably train back in time to have dinner in Perugia, buy college kids some drinks, and be hungover--but just across the street--as we get our car on Monday morning. Harder but more idyllic would be to stay in any of the ample choices of cute B&B's in Assisi. No big city diversions, just a quiet evening with the town to ourselves. But then we'd have to start the next day schlepping and get on the train with luggage to get to the car. There's also the option of staying in Perugia's historic center if someone can recommend a 'must stay' sort of Albergo as it seems Perugia has a few interesting accommodation options as well. This is my weekend planning dilemma and any seasoned advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!
Once in Perugia you could take a taxi up to the really nice Hotel Fortuna to spend the night there. You would be about 50 meters from the connected two main piazze. There are many restaurants, cafes, and gelatorie nearby. The next morning you could take a taxi down to the car pick-up location and continue your journey. Buon viaggio,
Thanks RB, that place is quite nice! Frescoed ceilings, exposed stone arches, awesome views make it look like a real gem. But I guess I should mention that, at 128 euros, it's over our theoretical max budget by about 30. This is imposed by my practical wife who wants to save posh surrounding for our own home. Our goal is to average 85 a night so we can make Europe a yearly thing. Keep the suggestions coming though. I guess I'm a vicarious, window-shopping glutton for punishment.
Bill, when are you planning on going? If in peak season you can kiss your 85 euro budget goodbye unless you want to stay in dumps or really far away from the main sites. Or be willing to give up a private bath. That would save you some money, but most Americans are not willing to trade that away.
Bill, you can save some money by looking at hostels, even the worst probably won't be worse than a "dumpy, commuter hotel". Lots of them I've noticed have doubles, bathrooms are still down the hall but it's doable for a night.
We'll be in this area in mid-April. We are staying in Orvieto for 75E and Siena for 65E (shared bath) so we could spend 100 this night and still keep within our average. There are no hostels anywhere near the Perugia train station or I might consider it. Has anyone checked out the luggage storage at either of these stations? Thanks.
Bill, as per the Trenitalia site, both Perugia and Assisi have Left Luggage Facilities.
Taking the local train from Perugia to Assisi is reasonable, but you then need to take a city bus up to the town. Bus fare is always cheaper if you buy before you get in the bus. We stayed at a wonderful B & B in Assisi, Hotel Lieto Soggiorno, that we booked via Booking.com. The rooms were very nice and peaceful and the owner was very kind and helpful. The place was an uphill climb, but everwhere in Assisi is uphill. Happy travels, Becky