Assisi and Cascia (St. Francis, St. Claire and St. Rita) Private Tour from Rome.

A detailed look at the Assisi and Cascia private tour from Rome

If you’re considering a day trip from Rome that offers both religious significance and stunning art and architecture, this Assisi and Cascia private tour might be just what you’re after. Designed for those who want an immersive experience without the hassle of DIY planning, it takes you through two of Italy’s most revered spiritual sites with expert guides and comfortable transport.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines art, history, and religious tradition in a way that feels accessible and enriching. Plus, the fact that it’s private means you get a more personal, flexible experience—no rushing with big groups or sticking to a rigid schedule.

The possible downside? Since the tour operates mostly as a private experience and includes several church visits, it might not be ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore every site on your own. Also, the price point is on the higher side, but considering what’s included—like luxury transportation, guided insights, and entrance fees—many find it worth the investment.

This tour is perfect if you’re interested in religious history, art, and architecture or if you want a day that deeply explores two significant Italian towns with a knowledgeable guide by your side. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort and personalized attention.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: The tour covers entrance fees, private transportation, and a professional guide, making it a smooth day out.
• Deep Cultural and Spiritual Insight: You’ll visit major sites connected to saints like St. Francis, St. Clare, and St. Rita, with rich stories and religious significance.
• Comfort and Convenience: The luxury vehicle and private chauffeur mean you avoid public transit hassles, plus flexible timing.
• Time Management: With around 11-12 hours, it offers a comprehensive visit but requires an early start.
• Rich in Art and History: From frescoes by Cimabue and Giotto to relics of saints, the sites are treasure troves for art lovers.
• Good for Religious or Artistic Enthusiasts: If you’re drawn to spiritual sites or religious art, this tour hits all the right notes.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi

This is the centerpiece of the trip, and rightly so. Built on a hill, Assisi itself feels like a journey back in time, with cobblestone streets and medieval charm. The Basilica of San Francesco isn’t just a church; it’s a statement of art and faith. The walls and ceilings are decorated with frescoes—some by Cimabue, others by Giotto—that are considered landmarks in art history.

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of these frescoes, which depict stories of St. Francis’s life and teachings. The basilica is also the saint’s final resting place, adding to its spiritual significance. Expect to spend about two hours here, and since admission is free, the focus is on understanding the art and history rather than navigating crowds.

Stop 2: Monastero di Santa Rita da Cascia

Next, we head to Cascia, home of Saint Rita, known as the “Saint of the Impossible.” Even if you’re not deeply religious, her story of faith and perseverance is inspiring. Born in 1381, she married young and endured an abusive marriage before joining the convent. Her story is one of prayer’s power and hope, which many find deeply moving.

The monastery holds her relics and a beautiful chapel. The tour includes admission, so you can explore at your leisure. You’ll also see the church where the Eucharistic Miracle is preserved—a site that draws many pilgrims. The guide shared insights into her life, making the visit both educational and heartfelt.

Stop 3: Basilica di Santa Chiara

This church is distinctively pink, built from local stone, and holds precious frescoes from the XIIth to XIVth centuries. It’s also home to relics of St. Clare and a simple yet powerful crucifix that, according to tradition, called St. Francis to rebuild the church. You might notice the quiet reverence here, enhanced by the relics and art.

The visit is brief—just a minute’s stop—but it’s packed with significance. The guide points out details that bring the space alive, and you’ll get a sense of the spirituality that shaped Assisi’s community.

Stop 4: Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore / Santuario della Spogliazione

This lesser-known stop is a quick visit but packs a punch. It’s connected to Carlo Acutis, a modern saint-in-the-making, who researched Eucharistic miracles across the globe. The church is home to his grave, and his story underscores themes of faith and modern sainthood.

The short visit here offers a glimpse into contemporary Catholic devotion and the miracles that continue to inspire believers today.

Stop 5: Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

The final major site, this basilica features the Porziuncola chapel, the birthplace of the Franciscan movement. Known for its humble origins, it’s where St. Francis founded his community, and it holds a special place in religious history.

You’ll likely spend about an hour here, appreciating the simple beauty of the chapel and learning about the origins of the Franciscan order. The guide’s commentary helps connect the dots between the physical space and the broader spiritual movement.

What We Think About the Tour

The standout feature of this experience is the knowledgeable guide, who brings history, art, and spiritual stories to life. As one reviewer put it, “Luigi and Rosanna took great care of me. They were super nice and very knowledgeable.” That personal touch really makes a difference, especially as the guide navigates the busy sites and shares stories that aren’t in the guidebooks.

The luxury transportation is another big plus. It allows for smooth transitions between sites and a comfortable way to spend the day, especially when you’re covering quite a bit of ground. The timing is well-organized, with enough time at each stop to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

The inclusion of admission tickets and lunch adds value, making this more than just a sightseeing trip but a true guided experience. The meal offers a chance to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen, which many travelers find valuable.

On the downside, since the tour is mostly private and includes a lot of church visits, it might not be suited for visitors who prefer a more relaxed, less structured day or want to explore on their own. Also, the cost—around $948 per person—is significant, but when you factor in transport, guided insights, and entrance fees, many see this as a worthwhile investment.

From the reviews, it’s clear the experience leaves a positive impression. One traveler mentioned feeling like a “queen” and appreciated the extra time and care provided, which speaks volumes about the personalized attention.

Who is this tour best for?

If you’re passionate about religious art, history, or spirituality, and you want a comprehensive, guided experience that eliminates the hassle of logistics, this tour is an excellent choice. It suits those who appreciate comfort, expert insights, and a well-curated itinerary.

It’s especially good for travelers who value insider knowledge and want to learn more than just surface-level facts. The tour’s pace and depth make it a strong pick for those interested in understanding the stories behind these sacred sites.

However, if you prefer wandering freely or have a tight budget, this might not be the best fit. It’s a full-day commitment, and the price reflects the private, guided nature of the experience—so consider your priorities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Since it involves visiting churches and religious sites, children should be comfortable with walking, and the dress code requires knees and shoulders to be covered. The tour is private, so you can adjust the pace if needed.

Are the entrance fees included? Yes, entrance tickets for the Monastero di Santa Rita, Basilica di Santa Chiara, and other sites are included in the price.

What’s the duration of the tour? The whole experience lasts about 11 to 12 hours, making for a full but manageable day trip from Rome.

Is lunch included? Yes, a meal is part of the package, allowing you to rest and enjoy local flavors after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Are transportation arrangements flexible? The luxury vehicle and private chauffeur provide convenience and comfort, with pickup and drop-off included.

Can I book this tour on a Sunday? Yes, though the professional guide isn’t available on Sundays due to masses, but the tour still operates with a guide leading the visit.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a day packed with art, history, and spiritual significance, this private tour of Assisi and Cascia offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to deepen your understanding of Italy’s religious heritage. The combination of renowned basilicas, relics of saints, and stories from passionate guides make it stand out as a meaningful experience.

While it’s on the pricier side, many travelers find the personalized attention, seamless logistics, and rich storytelling worth the investment. It’s best suited for those who really want to dive into Italy’s spiritual side without sacrificing comfort or insights.

Whether you’re a devout pilgrim or someone with a keen interest in art and history, this tour delivers a comprehensive look at two of Italy’s most revered towns, leaving visitors with lasting memories and a better grasp of Italy’s religious and artistic legacy.