Assisi: Walk in the footsteps of St Francis and Carlo Acutis

If you’re planning a trip to Italy and want to connect with its spiritual heart, a tour that explores Assisi’s most revered figures might be just what you’re after. This 2-hour guided walk takes you through the town’s sacred sites, offering insights into the lives of St. Francis of Assisi and Blessed Carlo Acutis—two individuals whose faith and humility continue to inspire.

What really makes this experience stand out is the chance to visit the Basilica of St. Francis, where centuries-old frescoes narrate stories of a saint loved worldwide. Plus, starting at San Rufino Cathedral, where Carlo Acutis’s heart is kept, adds a personal touch that makes the story feel close to home.

On the flip side, because it’s a short tour, it’s quite packed, and if you’re hoping for a deeper dive into each figure’s life, you might find yourself wishing for more time. Still, if you’re after a balanced introduction layered with expert guidance, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful overview without taking up too much time—families, history buffs, or anyone curious about Assisi’s spiritual legacy.

Key Points

• Concise but comprehensive: A 2-hour walk covering key sites and stories of St. Francis and Carlo Acutis
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling
• Visiting iconic locations: Basilica of St. Francis, San Rufino Cathedral, and the Sanctuary of the Spoliation
• Respectful dress code: Important to cover knees and shoulders when entering churches
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later
• Suitability: Ideal for those with limited time who want a meaningful overview of Assisi’s spiritual history

You can check availability for your dates here:

A walk through Assisi: what to expect

This tour offers a gentle introduction to Assisi’s religious and cultural significance, centered around two remarkable figures—St. Francis of Assisi, the beloved saint known for his love of nature and humility, and Carlo Acutis, a modern beatified individual celebrated for his devotion and technological approach to faith.

Starting at San Rufino Cathedral, you’ll see where Carlo Acutis’s heart is kept, which adds a personal touch to this spiritual journey. It’s a compelling way to begin because it puts into perspective just how deeply faith can resonate in someone’s life, even in the digital age.

From there, the tour moves to the Sanctuary of the Spoliation, where Carlo Acutis’s remains are kept. This site is less grand but deeply meaningful; it offers an intimate glimpse into the life of someone who, despite his youth, impacted many with his faith.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Basilica of St. Francis. As you step inside this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll be struck by the imposing architecture and the centuries-old frescoes that adorn the upper church. These murals, painted by master artists, tell stories of the saint’s life, his humility, and his connection to nature and the community. Your guide will highlight notable scenes and explain their significance, making the art come alive.

Detailing the itinerary

Starting point: San Rufino Cathedral

We love this as a starting point because it’s a lively, historic spot that grounds your tour in the heart of Assisi. It’s also where Carlo Acutis’s heart is kept, giving it a special significance. According to reviews, guides are especially praised for their knowledge here—one visitor even mentioned how easy it was to listen to and learn from the guide’s explanations.

Sanctuary of the Spoliation

Next, the tour moves to the Sanctuary of the Spoliation. It’s a relatively brief stop, about 20 minutes, but meaningful. Visitors report that the guide explains the story of Carlo Acutis with patience and clarity. This site, holding his remains, offers a quiet moment of reflection and appreciation for a young person’s faith journey.

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Basilica of St. Francis

The real highlight is the Basilica of St. Francis, where you’ll spend about an hour. Visitors rave about the frescoes—some describe them as “centuries-old,” with intricate details that tell stories of the saint’s life. One review specifically praised how the guide’s explanations made the art accessible and engaging. Walking through both the upper and lower churches, you get to see the contrast between the quiet reverence of the lower church and the majestic, storytelling frescoes upstairs.

End at: Saint Francis Basilica

The tour concludes here, leaving you with a sense of the spiritual atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

The guide: what makes a difference

Multiple reviews mention the guides as a vital part of this tour’s success. One reviewer called Sarah “fabulous,” noting her knowledge and ease of storytelling. Another highlighted how the guide responded patiently to questions, making the experience engaging for all ages—including children, in one case.

This highlights how important a knowledgeable, friendly guide can be, especially in a setting where art and history intertwine. You’ll likely find that the guides go beyond rote facts, sharing stories that deepen your understanding of the saints and their impact.

Practical details and considerations

Duration: Just 2 hours, making it an excellent option if you’re on a tight schedule or want a quick, impactful tour.
Start point: In front of San Rufino Cathedral, with clear coordinates for easy meeting.
Languages: Available in English, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.
Dress code: Given the religious sites involved, modest attire is required—no shorts or sleeveless tops, shoulders and knees covered. This is something to keep in mind, especially during warmer months.
Cancellation policy: Can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.
Price and value: While the tour is not described as inexpensive, the focus on expert guides, intimate access, and the inclusion of multiple significant sites suggest it offers good value for those interested in a well-rounded, respectful exploration of Assisi’s spiritual icons.

Authentic traveler impressions

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and engaging storytelling, which makes the history of St. Francis and Carlo Acutis come alive. One traveler said their guide was “very knowledgeable and great company,” emphasizing that the personal touch added to the experience. Another highlighted how the guide answered questions patiently, even with a young child present.

Many reviews mention the respectful and warm atmosphere. Visitors appreciated the way the stories were delivered—not overly academic, but approachable and meaningful. Several also noted that the frescoes and architecture leave a lasting impression, especially when explained well.

A few reviews mention the importance of the dress code, reminding travelers to dress modestly. Some noted that during certain times of the year, the basilica’s restrictions might mean a bit more planning—something to keep in mind.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for history and faith enthusiasts wanting a brief but rich overview of Assisi’s spiritual history. It’s particularly good if you’re short on time but still want meaningful engagement with the city’s key sites. Families with older children or teenagers might appreciate the stories and art, especially if they enjoy art and history.

People who are interested in St. Francis or modern beatified figures like Carlo Acutis will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s less suitable for those looking for a leisurely, expansive exploration—since it’s quite concise—and it’s not designed as a deep-dive into every aspect of their lives.

This tour offers a well-balanced introduction to Assisi’s most revered figures, centered around expert guides and iconic sites. The combination of visiting the San Rufino Cathedral, Sanctuary of the Spoliation, and the Basilica of St. Francis makes for a compelling, manageable experience that fits into a busy schedule.

Travelers who appreciate art, religious history, and personal stories will find the explanations engaging and illuminating. While it’s a quick tour, the high praise for guides’ knowledge and the chance to see incredible frescoes make it a worthwhile investment.

It’s especially suited for those seeking a respectful, insightful overview rather than an exhaustive deep dive. If you’re after a meaningful glimpse into Assisi’s spiritual legacy with friendly, knowledgeable guidance, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

What language options are available?
The tour is offered in English, Italian, and Spanish, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable option if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience.

Do I need to dress a certain way?
Yes. Since the tour enters churches, modest attire is required—covering knees and shoulders is necessary to gain entry.

Where do I meet the guide?
In front of the entrance of San Rufino Cathedral, with clear coordinates provided for easy finding.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed as a family tour, reviews mention guides answering questions patiently, and older children interested in history will likely enjoy it.

If you’re curious about the stories that shaped Assisi and want to experience its spiritual ambiance in a respectful, engaging way, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a personal, informative look at two figures whose lives embody humility, faith, and devotion—an enriching addition to your Italian journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: