Sanctuaries and Franciscan Sites surround Assisi

Exploring Assisi’s famous basilicas can sometimes feel like navigating a sea of travelers and crowds, which makes it tricky to truly connect with Saint Francis’s humble spirit. That’s why this small-group tour, focusing on the quieter sanctuaries outside Assisi’s medieval walls, can be such a refreshing experience. It’s a chance to step away from the hustle, learn more in-depth about Francis’s life, and enjoy peaceful surroundings that better reflect his ideals.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines meaningful visits to three key sanctuaries—San Damiano, the Porziuncola chapel, and the Carceri Hermitage—while providing expert guidance and comfortable transportation. Plus, with a small group, the experience feels more personal and attentive. That said, the price tag of around $208 per person might seem steep if you’re on a tighter budget, but for many, the value of deepening your understanding of Franciscan spirituality makes it worthwhile. This trip is especially well-suited for those interested in more than just the sights, wanting a richer and contemplative journey.

Key Points

• Authentic Spiritual Experience: Visit serene sites outside Assisi’s busy center for a more contemplative atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the significance of each site and Saint Francis’s life.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private or group transport makes reaching locations like Carceri Hermitage easier.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Three carefully chosen sites offer a rounded view of Franciscan life and spirituality.
• Time-Efficient: In about three hours, you get a meaningful overview without feeling rushed.
• Price and Value: At around $208, the tour offers the convenience of guided visits and transport, which many find worth the cost.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re considering a visit to Assisi and want to see the spiritual side of Saint Francis beyond the crowds, this tour is a solid option. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a more intimate, guided experience that takes you outside the hustle of the city’s main basilicas and into the quieter corners that Francis himself treasured.

What’s Included:
You get a professional guide and transport, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating on your own or figuring out how to get to sites outside the town walls. The small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures you can ask questions and get personalized attention, making the experience more engaging and less rushed.

The Itinerary Step-by-Step

Stop 1: San Damiano
This church, built in the 12th century, is where Saint Clare founded her community. It’s historically significant as the first monastery of the Order of Saint Clare. When we read about San Damiano, we often think of the icon of Saint Francis receiving his calling—this site offers a sense of the roots of Franciscan and Clarean spirituality. As one reviewer mentioned, “The entire experience of learning more about St. Francis’s life was very enriching,” and guides help bring this history to life. Expect about 40 minutes here, enough to soak in the peaceful ambiance and get a feel for Francis’s early monastic life.

Stop 2: Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli
This church, built on a grand scale, is a striking contrast to the simplicity Francis preached. Its size was dictated by the need to accommodate the large number of pilgrims visiting the Porziuncola chapel—the tiny, humble space where Francis and his followers prayed. The basilica’s sheer scale might seem at odds with Francis’s message of humility, but it reflects the importance of his followers’ spiritual gathering. Visitors often comment on how impressive it is—yet, they appreciate that the visit includes the small Porziuncola chapel itself, where Francis’s legacy is preserved intimately. As one traveler noted, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and personable,” which made the visit even more meaningful.

Stop 3: Eremo delle Carceri
Located about 4 kilometers from Assisi, this tranquil hermitage was a favorite spot of Francis and his followers for prayer and meditation. Surrounded by mountains, it’s a peaceful retreat from the tourist crowds. The white buildings and quiet lanes paint a picture of simple devotion. Here, you get a sense of the contemplative life Francis valued. One reviewer expressed their wish for a longer tour, saying, “I wish it was a little longer to explore more,” which shows how engaging this site can be for those wanting to connect deeply with Francis’s spiritual practices.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the beautiful sites, the real highlight is the guides’ expertise. Multiple reviews praise how knowledgeable and passionate guides make the experience memorable. Francesca, for instance, was called a “wonderful guide,” showing genuine enthusiasm and attentiveness to what visitors hoped to gain. This personalized approach can transform a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful spiritual journey.

Transportation is another plus. Traveling between sites outside Assisi’s main area can be daunting on your own, but with this tour, it’s all taken care of, saving you time and effort. Plus, the visit’s timing—about three hours—strikes a good balance, giving enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $208 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering it covers transport, a guide, and three significant sites, many find it offers good value—especially if you prefer guided, hassle-free access to these locations. The small group size also means your experience will be more intimate than a large bus tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler eager to deepen your understanding of Saint Francis’s spirituality, this tour is a good fit. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quiet, reflective sites and want background stories from knowledgeable guides. It’s also suitable for visitors who might find it challenging to navigate the locations on their own or prefer to have transportation arranged. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those seeking a fast-paced, sightseeing blitz—this is about quality over quantity.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare opportunity to step into the peaceful spaces that shaped Saint Francis’s life outside the crowded basilicas. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll gain insights that bring the sites alive, making your visit more meaningful. The combination of well-chosen sites, comfortable transport, and a small group makes for an immersive experience that many travelers have rated highly.

It’s especially worth considering if you’re visiting Assisi with an interest in spiritual or historical aspects of Franciscan life, or if you simply want a quieter, more reflective experience. While the price might be a hurdle for some, many feel the depth of understanding and peacefulness they gain makes it worthwhile.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for those who want to see Assisi’s main basilicas?
Not exactly. This tour focuses on sanctuaries outside the main city center, like San Damiano, Porziuncola, and Carceri Hermitage, rather than the more crowded Basilica di San Francesco.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, which offers a nice balance of time at each site without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get a professional guide and transportation to the three sanctuaries outside Assisi’s historic center. Admission tickets to each site are also included.

Is the tour group large?
No, it maxes out at 15 travelers, making it more personal and manageable.

Can I cancel this tour if I change my mind?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not specifically geared toward children or families. It’s best suited for adults or older travelers interested in history and spirituality.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot through the provided link, and it’s recommended to book at least 61 days in advance to secure your place.

If you’re after a peaceful, insightful glimpse into Saint Francis’s life and the places that inspired him, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a thoughtful way to connect more deeply with the spirit of Assisi, away from the crowds and noise, guided by experts who truly care about sharing Franciscan history and spirituality.