Piazza Inferiore di San Francesco (Lower Square of St. Francis), Assisi

This square is like the warm-up spot before diving into the Basilica of Saint Francis, offering the most scenic views of both the complex and the lush Umbrian fields below. It was built around the same time as the basilica, and in the 15th and 16th centuries, they added the porticoes with hexagonal columns to accommodate pilgrims and sellers. Along with the geometric floor made of variously colored stone, these porticoes create a nice perspective play. Partly rebuilt in the 16th century, they were somewhat shaken by the earthquake of 1997.

In any case, the square is quite spacious and perfect for taking some awesome shots, with the Umbrian sky as a background. Its shape is reminiscent of a Renaissance version of a medieval cloister, longer than it is wide. If you head north, there's a steep staircase and a slope leading to the Upper Square. Oh, and there's also an info spot with audio guides, plus bathrooms attached, so you're pretty much all set.