Assisi – in the footsteps of St. Francis

Assisi – In the Footsteps of St. Francis: A Detailed Look at the Experience

If you’re considering a tour that brings you closer to the soul of Assisi and one of its most beloved figures, St. Francis, this guided experience might just be what you’re after. With a solid reputation and consistently high ratings, it offers a chance to explore iconic sites with a knowledgeable local guide, all in a manageable 2 to 3-hour window. What makes it stand out? First, the tour’s curated itinerary is packed with meaningful stops, and the guide’s insights truly enhance the experience. Second, the focus on St. Francis’s life and legacy offers a rich, immersive perspective that’s both educational and inspiring.

That said, there’s a key consideration—this is a private tour, so it’s tailored to your group, which can mean a more personalized experience. The price, at around $240 for up to 10 people, might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but considering the depth of the sites visited and the included guide, it’s often seen as a solid value. One thing to keep in mind: the tour doesn’t include entry tickets to the basilicas, so you’ll need to purchase those separately, which adds to the overall cost.

This experience is especially well-suited for those who want a guided, in-depth look at Assisi’s most sacred sites and appreciate expert storytelling. History buffs, art lovers, and people interested in St. Francis’s teachings will find it particularly rewarding. If you’re traveling with a group or a partner and enjoy engaging conversations about history and spirituality, this tour offers a rich, manageable adventure through the city’s key landmarks.

Key Points

• Customizable private tour for up to 10 people that offers a personal touch.
• Includes visits to major sites like Basilica di Santa Chiara, San Rufino Cathedral, and the Basilica of St. Francis.
• Expert local guide enhances storytelling and historical insights.
• No included basilica tickets, so plan for additional entrance fees.
• Duration of 2-3 hours makes it easy to fit into a busy day.
• Highly rated, with 41 reviews and a perfect 5.0/5 score.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive, yet manageable journey through Assisi’s most meaningful sites related to St. Francis. It’s a well-structured itinerary that balances historical detail, spiritual significance, and visual beauty. We found that the precise stops and storytelling style really bring the city’s history to life—something you might not get on your own.

Starting Point: Parcheggio B Assisi

The tour kicks off conveniently near public transportation, making it accessible whether you arrive by train or bus. The meeting point is clear, and the guide tends to reach out beforehand with helpful instructions, which makes the whole process less stressful.

Basilica di Santa Chiara

Our first stop is the Basilica di Santa Chiara, home to the remains of St. Clare. This site is also notable for housing the Crucifix of San Damiano, famously linked to St. Francis. The simple, mystical atmosphere here is compelling—many visitors comment on how the quiet dignity of the basilica leaves a lasting impression. The admission is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs at this point.

Cattedrale di San Rufino

Next, we visit the San Rufino Cathedral, where St. Francis was baptized. The church’s Romanesque architecture is fascinating, and the intricate figurative details on its facade provide plenty of visual interest. One reviewer described the facade as “a book yet to be interpreted,” which captures the intrigue of this striking building. Again, admission is included, helping you focus on the experience without added hassle.

Chiesa Nuova

The third stop is the Chiesa Nuova, built in the 1600s on what is believed to be the birthplace of St. Francis. It’s a quieter, less crowded spot, but meaningful—especially for those interested in the personal history of the saint. It’s also noteworthy that it once belonged to his father, Pietro Bernardone. The admission is included here as well.

Piazza del Comune

Then we move to the lively Piazza del Comune, the heart of Assisi’s historic center. Here, you can see the remains of the ancient Temple of Minerva (now Santa Maria sopra Minerva) and the medieval palaces like Palazzo dei Priori. It’s a lively spot full of history and local flavor, and it’s free to visit, so you can soak in the atmosphere without extra costs.

Basilica of San Francesco

The highlight is undoubtedly the Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco. It’s home to Giotto’s famous frescoes and artworks by Cimabue, Lorenzetti, and Simone Martini. The guide explains how these masterworks narrate the relationship between St. Francis and Christ, and you’ll get a sense of the spiritual and artistic significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. While the basilica’s entrance isn’t included in the tour price, many find that the experience of hearing about the art and history from a guide makes the visit even more meaningful.

The Experience of the Guided Tour

Based on reviews, the guides consistently shine in their ability to convey stories that resonate. One reviewer called Monia “a terrific guide,” noting that she took time to tailor the experience to their interests. The personalized touch really elevates the tour beyond just a sightseeing walk.

Another review highlights how the guide’s storytelling helped them connect with the legacy of San Francesco, emphasizing that the tour isn’t just about buildings but about understanding the saint’s message, which remains relevant today. The guide’s pre-tour contact is also appreciated—it makes the whole experience feel smooth and well-organized.

The group size of up to 10 people ensures plenty of opportunity for questions and interaction, making it an engaging experience for those who want to understand the history rather than just see it. This small-group nature means individual attention, which many travelers find invaluable.

The Practicalities

The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it suitable even for those with tight schedules. It’s accessible to disabled travelers, though some mobility considerations apply—particularly on slopes and uneven surfaces. The cost per group (around $240) might seem high, but considering the detailed guiding, site visits, and the personalized experience, many reviewers see it as good value for money.

Note: Entrance tickets to the basilicas and sacred convents are not included, so be prepared to buy those separately if you wish to go inside. This can add to the expense, but it also means you can choose whether to enter or simply admire the exteriors.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you love historical storytelling, art, or spiritual journeys, this tour will likely satisfy. It’s ideal if you want a curated, insightful experience with a knowledgeable guide who can adapt to your interests. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples seeking a more personalized way to experience Assisi’s sacred sites.

However, if you’re traveling solo and prefer self-guided exploration, this might feel a bit structured. Likewise, if you’re primarily interested in visiting the basilicas’ interiors, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a meaningful, well-organized way to explore Assisi through the lens of St. Francis’s life and legacy. The combination of carefully selected sites, a friendly and knowledgeable guide, and the opportunity for personalized engagement makes it stand out among many city tours. While the price might be a consideration, the depth of insight and the quality of the guiding often justify the expense.

It’s especially suited for those who want to understand the spiritual and artistic significance of Assisi’s landmarks without rushing or feeling lost in the crowd. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or someone seeking a quiet moment of reflection, this tour can help you connect more deeply with the city and its most cherished saint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is accessible to disabled people if accompanied or provided with motor vehicles, but some slopes and uneven surfaces might be challenging for independent travelers with limited mobility.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 2 to 3 hours, making it easy to fit into your schedule without feeling rushed.

Are tickets to the basilicas included?
No, the entrance fees for San Francesco Basilica and Sacred Convent aren’t included, so you’ll need to buy those separately if you wish to go inside.

What’s the group size?
Your group will be private, up to 10 people, allowing for personalized attention and more engaging conversations.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, most travelers of all ages have found it engaging. Keep in mind that some sites involve walking on slopes and uneven terrain.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

Who is the tour provider?
It’s operated by Umbria guida turistica ed escursionistica, a trusted local guide service.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 84 days ahead, especially in peak seasons, ensuring you secure your spot.

In all, this guided tour offers a calm, insightful way to connect with Assisi’s most meaningful sites, especially if you want to go beyond just sightseeing and truly understand the legacy of St. Francis. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances storytelling with ease of access, making it a worthwhile choice for many travelers eager to experience Assisi’s spiritual heart.