Private Full-Day Tour of Assisi and Cortona from Florence

If you’re considering a day trip from Florence to the scenic towns of Assisi and Cortona, this private tour promises a blend of spiritual history, stunning views, and charming streets. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on extensive reviews and the detailed itinerary, it seems like a carefully curated experience that offers a lot for those eager to see more of Italy’s rolling landscapes and historic sites.

What really catches the eye are the luxury transport in a Mercedes vehicle with Wi-Fi and the flexibility to explore each town at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a huge perk, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or parking. One thing to consider is that food, entrance fees, and wine are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals and extras, but that’s pretty standard for private tours of this nature.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfort and flexibility over a packed group schedule. If you’re someone who enjoys personal attention, the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Saint Francis, and explore picturesque towns at leisure, this could be a solid choice. It might not be ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer guided tours with guide-led commentary throughout.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience allowing you to explore Assisi and Cortona at your own pace
• Luxury transportation in a Mercedes vehicle with Wi-Fi for comfort and convenience
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Florence saves time and hassle
• Visit important religious sites like Basilica di San Francesco and Basilica di Santa Chiara
• Scenic drive through Tuscany and Umbria offering beautiful views
• Time in Cortona to wander, take photos, and soak up the atmosphere
• Cost reflects a premium experience with personalized service and convenience
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and independence rather than guided narration

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting from Florence

The day begins with hotel pickup in Florence, where a private driver in a Mercedes will meet you. This isn’t just about transportation; it’s about setting the tone for a stress-free day. The drive south takes approximately two hours, giving you ample time to relax and admire the rolling hills of Tuscany and Umbria. The scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile, with lush landscapes rolling past your window as your driver navigates the countryside.

Arriving in Assisi

Once in Assisi, your driver will drop you off in this hilltop town with mesmerizing views. Known for its religious significance as the birthplace of Saint Francis and Saint Clare, Assisi is a place where history, spirituality, and beauty collide. The town’s white buildings rise above the green valley below, creating a picture-perfect setting that you’ll want to capture.

You’re given several hours here, which is generally enough to explore the key sites independently. The reviews highlight how much visitors appreciated the freedom to wander famous streets and the absence of crowds during low season. Many loved walking the same cobblestone streets Saint Francis did generations ago, and the town’s special aura is palpable.

Visiting Religious Landmarks

The Basilica di Santa Chiara, decorated with marble from nearby mountains, is a quiet, spiritual spot. Inside, Saint Clare’s tomb lies beneath the church, and the building’s stark simplicity makes it a poignant memorial. One reviewer described it as an “extremely religious site,” emphasizing its significance and beauty.

The Basilica di San Francesco is a true highlight — the oldest Gothic church in Italy and the resting place of Saint Francis himself. Inside, frescoes by Cimabue, Lorenzetti, and Giotto vividly depict the Saint’s life, adding to the sacred atmosphere. Visitors often quote how the frescoes glow with life, making it a must-see for art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Adjacent to these is the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, home to the Porziuncola, a tiny chapel where Saint Francis founded the Franciscan order. Its Gothic frescoes and peaceful setting make it a noteworthy stop, especially if you’re interested in religious history.

Lunch Break (Own Expense)

After soaking in the spiritual ambiance, you’ll have time for lunch, which, according to the review, is at your own cost. This gives you the option to choose a local trattoria or a casual cafe, perfect for sampling regional fare or simply relaxing before heading to Cortona.

Moving to Cortona

Next stop is Cortona, the town made famous by the film Under the Tuscan Sun. It’s a hilly, medieval town with Etruscan roots, offering panoramic views and a chance to stroll through authentic streets filled with flowers and historic architecture. The two-hour visit is a sweet window to take photos, sip a coffee, or just enjoy the atmosphere.

Reviews praise Cortona’s medieval charm and the views of the rolling countryside, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone seeking that quintessential Tuscan experience. The town’s small size ensures you can explore at your leisure without feeling rushed.

Return to Florence

After your time in Cortona, your driver will pick you up for the journey back to Florence, arriving in the early evening. The comfort of private transportation means you won’t need to worry about navigating or waiting for public transit, and the Wi-Fi in the vehicle is a small but appreciated touch, letting you share your experiences or plan the next part of your trip.

The Experience from Real Travelers’ Perspectives

Many reviews highlight the knowledge of the drivers and the flexibility they were given. One traveler exclaimed about their driver Oswaldo, who went above and beyond by changing stops to accommodate them and explaining everything along the way. This personal service seems to be a real highlight.

Others appreciated the stunning views during the drive, calling the scenery “beautiful,” and noted that the free time in Assisi and Cortona was enough to enjoy the towns without feeling rushed. Several reviewers pointed out that the price for this private service is justified by the comfort and personalized attention.

However, not all reviews were glowing. A reviewer felt the driver’s role was mainly transportation, with less input or guided commentary, which might matter if you’re looking for a more guided experience. Keep in mind, this is a self-guided exploration with private transportation, not a guided tour with a guide leading you through each site.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $630.36 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but for the luxury transport, private service, and flexibility, the price can be justified. The comfort of a Mercedes vehicle with Wi-Fi and hotel pickup adds convenience and makes the day feel special. Given the two-hour drive to Assisi, several hours of free time, and scenic countryside, many feel it offers good value for travelers who prioritize comfort and independence over guided narration.

Remember, entrance fees, food, and drinks are not included, so you should budget accordingly. Still, the overall experience—avoiding crowds, exploring iconic sites, and soaking in the views—makes it a compelling option for those who want a relaxed yet enriching day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized service, scenic drives, and the chance to explore at your own pace, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer luxury transport over crowded group tours and want the flexibility to linger or skip sites as they wish.

It’s a good fit for history buffs, art lovers, or spiritual travelers, given the religious sites and beautiful frescoes. If you’re travelling with family or friends and want a comfortable, private experience, this tour offers that too.

Final Thoughts

This private full-day tour of Assisi and Cortona offers a balanced blend of history, scenic beauty, and flexibility. With the comfort of private transportation and the freedom to explore on your own, it’s well-suited for travelers who prefer an independent yet comfortable day trip. While not a guided tour with commentary at every turn, the driver’s local knowledge and the stunning locations make it a memorable way to see more of Italy’s lesser-known treasures.

If you value luxury, privacy, and the opportunity to set your own pace, this experience could be just right. Be prepared for the extra costs of meals and entrance fees, but rest assured that you’ll arrive and depart with ease, avoiding the stress of public transport.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Florence, making your day hassle-free from start to finish.

How long is the drive from Florence to Assisi?
The drive takes about two hours, offering a comfortable start to your day with scenic views along the way.

Can I explore Assisi and Cortona on my own?
Absolutely. The tour provides you with free time in each town to wander, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace.

Are entrance fees and meals included?
No, entrance fees, food, and drinks are at your own expense. You should budget for these separately.

What’s the size of the group?
This is a private tour for your group only, providing personalized service and flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While family-friendly, the tour’s focus on independent exploration means it’s best for those comfortable walking and managing their own time in the towns.

What language does the driver speak?
The driver is an English-speaking guide, ensuring smooth communication and helpful explanations.

How much time do I get in each town?
You’ll have about 3 hours in Assisi and 2 hours in Cortona, enough to explore and enjoy the sites at leisure.

Is this experience worth the cost?
For travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and avoiding crowds, many find the price justified, especially considering the private transport and scenic routes.

This tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation, ideal for those wanting a more tailored experience of Italy’s beautiful towns. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s definitely worth considering.