Guided Tour of Assisi. Francesco, Chiara and Carlo Acutis

If you’re thinking about visiting Assisi, chances are you’re after more than just pretty streets — you want to experience its profound spirituality and rich artistic heritage firsthand. From what we’ve seen, this specific 2.5-hour guided tour could be just what you’re looking for. Offered at around $154 per person, it packs in a blend of religious history, stunning artwork, and scenic town views, all guided by an expert who makes the experience personal and engaging.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances deep historical insights with breathtaking sights. The guide’s knowledge is clearly a highlight, with reviews calling her “exceptional” and “so knowledgeable.” Plus, the tour covers some of Assisi’s most iconic spots, from Saint Francis’ basilica to charming piazzas — perfect for those who want a meaningful taste of this hilltop town.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves walking through Assisi’s often narrow and historic streets, which can be a bit tricky during busy times or if you have mobility issues. Also, since the entrance fees to the basilicas aren’t included, you might want to budget a little extra if you plan to explore inside these sacred sites.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value religious history, art, and scenic landscapes — whether you’re visiting alone, as a couple, or with friends. If you’re after a comprehensive, insightful look at Assisi in a manageable time frame, this tour might be a great choice.

Key Points

• In-depth historical and art commentary from a knowledgeable guide
• Visiting Assisi’s most iconic sites, including Saint Francis’ tomb and basilicas
• Beautiful scenic views and photo opportunities in the town’s piazzas
• Flexible and personal experience, praised for guide’s engagement and extra time spent
• Cost includes tickets to the basilica and an audio system for clear listening
• Not including entrance fees to certain sites or personal expenses like souvenirs

What to Expect from the Tour: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point: Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi

The tour kicks off at the Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, right next to the Basilica information office. Our guide meets the group here, and this is where the magic begins. The tour lasts about two and a half hours — a reasonable chunk of time to soak in Assisi’s spiritual aura without feeling rushed.

The tomb of Saint Francis is a major highlight, and it’s remarkable to think his remains have rested here for over 800 years. The basilica’s interior is a feast for the eyes, with over 5,000 square meters of frescoes by giants like Giotto, Cimabue, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti. You’ll get a sense of the Franciscan virtues depicted in these paintings, which tell stories of humility, compassion, and faith.

The guide’s commentary here is praised for making the history come alive. Danielle describes her experience as “very detailed” and appreciates the personal touch, saying she “loved the walk through the church and other details of town.”

The Sanctuary of Dispossession and Saint Carlo Acutis

Next, the tour stops at the Parrocchia Santa Maria Maggiore, also known as the Sanctuary of Dispossession. This is where Saint Francis famously renounced his family’s wealth, symbolizing his vow of poverty and dedication to spirituality. It’s a significant site because it connects the town’s religious roots to the modern-day veneration of Blessed Carlo Acutis, whose remains are also kept here.

Guido’s review highlights the emotional aspect of this stop, especially for young believers: “It’s a place where thousands of pilgrims arrive to venerate Carlo’s remains and learn about his life, blending faith with modern technology.”

Piazza del Comune: The Heart of Assisi

After the spiritual stops, the tour flows into the Piazza del Comune, the historic heart of Assisi. This piazza is a living museum with buildings dating back over 2000 years. Here, you’ll see the Roman temple now called Santa Maria sopra Minerva, and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, which still functions as the town hall.

Lynn comments on how parking can be tricky here, which is good to keep in mind if you’re driving. She notes that the only open lot was distant, making her late, but she still found the tour worth it.

The piazza’s lively atmosphere is perfect for a quick snack or a relaxed stroll. Many visitors enjoy sampling local delicacies like pasta with truffle or enjoying ice cream while browsing souvenir shops.

End at Piazza Santa Chiara

The final stop is at Piazza Santa Chiara, which offers breathtaking views of the valley below. The Basilica of Santa Clare is nearby, and if you choose to visit inside, you can see the Crucifix of San Damiano — famous for inspiring Francis’ religious calling — and the tomb of Saint Clare herself.

Guido describes this part as a peaceful, scenic spot to conclude the tour, and many reviews, like Barbara’s, praise her guide for sharing interesting details about the basilica and its history. The tour concludes here, but the area is perfect for lingering over a meal or a drink, enjoying the town’s relaxed vibe.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour price covers all fees and taxes, along with tickets to the Basilica of San Francesco and an audio system for easy listening. This means you won’t have to worry about surprise costs during the experience.

However, entrance to the basilicas themselves isn’t included, so if you want to go inside, you’ll need to pay separately. The overall value comes from the expert guiding, the informative commentary, and the convenience of a well-structured itinerary.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour starts at the Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, easily accessible near public transport. It ends at Piazza Santa Chiara, close to many restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot to unwind afterward.

Duration and Group Size

At about 2 hours 30 minutes, this tour fits comfortably into a day of sightseeing. Since it’s a private experience, only your group participates, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized atmosphere.

Price and Value

At roughly $154 per person, the cost might seem a bit steep for some, but considering the included tickets, the detailed explanations, and the personalized service, many find it worthwhile. Excluding entrance fees for basilicas, the guide’s insights and the scenic stops deliver good value.

Accessibility and Suitability

While most travelers can join, keep in mind Assisi’s streets can be uneven and narrow, especially during busy periods. The reviews don’t specify family friendliness, but the tour’s focus on art and history makes it more suited for adult visitors or older children interested in cultural stories.

Authentic Reviews: What Past Participants Say

Many reviews highlight the guide’s outstanding knowledge and personal approach. Brigitte describes her experience as “making the tour personal,” noting extra time spent exploring hidden gems. Danielle echoes this, appreciating the detailed history and her guide’s storytelling.

Guillermo mentions that “visiting Saint Francis’ tomb was a magical experience,” while Barbara praises her guide for emphasizing the spiritual and historical significance of the sites. The consistent praise for the guide’s flexibility, knowledge, and engaging manner suggests you’re in good hands.

Lynn points out the parking challenge but appreciates her guide’s helpfulness, highlighting how helpful local insights can make or break the experience.

In summary, the reviews reinforce that this tour is well-regarded for its knowledgeable guides, stunning artistic sites, and scenic views that make Assisi so special.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal if you’re interested in religious history, art, and scenic towns, and you prefer a guided approach that offers depth without overwhelming. It’s perfect for those who want to understand the significance of Assisi’s sites through engaging storytelling.

It’s also a good fit for travelers comfortable with walking and navigating historic streets. If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends who enjoy cultural and spiritual exploration, this tour will likely suit you well.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a thoughtfully curated introduction to Assisi, this tour offers a balanced mix of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty. The trusted guide, Begoña Sánchez, has received high praise for her personal approach and wealth of knowledge, making the experience both educational and memorable.

While the price includes many benefits like tickets and an audio guide, keep in mind that entrances to basilicas are extra. Still, considering the scope of what’s covered — from Saint Francis’ tomb to panoramic views — many will find this tour to be an excellent value for a meaningful visit to Assisi.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply someone looking to soak in Italy’s spiritual atmosphere, this tour seems like a solid way to make the most of your time in one of Italy’s most enchanting towns.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally geared toward adults and older children interested in religious sites and art, it involves walking through historic streets, so very young children might find it less engaging or tiring.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Are entrance fees to basilicas included?
Tickets to the Basilica of San Francesco are included, but other basilica entrances might require separate payment.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The reviews suggest it’s in English, but you might want to check with the provider for specifics.

Is the tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis and ends at Piazza Santa Chiara.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The data doesn’t specify, but given Assisi’s historic streets, some areas might be challenging for mobility aids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and perhaps a camera for the stunning views and artwork.

Can I visit the basilicas inside after the tour?
Yes, but note that entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you wish to explore inside.

Exploring Assisi with a knowledgeable guide can truly deepen your appreciation of this special town. If history, art, and spiritual significance resonate with you, this tour might be just the right way to experience the best of Assisi in a short time.