2 Hour The Secrets of Assisi Underground Walking Guided Tour

If you’re someone who’s already fallen for Assisi’s above-ground marvels—like the stunning basilicas and iconic churches—you might be surprised to learn there’s a whole other world beneath those streets. The Secrets of Assisi Underground Walking Guided Tour offers a peek into the city’s lesser-known, underground layers of history. This isn’t your typical sightseeing walk; it’s a chance to see the Roman Forum, ancient crypts, and frescoed basements that tell stories often overlooked.

What really draws us in about this tour are two standout features. First, the small group size, capped at 15 people, creates an intimate setting where your guide can answer questions and tailor explanations. Second, the knowledgeable guide—praised by past participants—brings the history of these sites to life with depth and clarity. However, a potential drawback is that entry fees are extra, so the total cost can add up, especially if you’re visiting multiple sites.

This tour is perfect if you’re a history buff, love uncovering secret corners of cities, or simply want an authentic, less crowded experience of Assisi’s layers of past. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling that connects the dots between ancient Rome, medieval architecture, and St. Francis’ spiritual world.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of Assisi’s underground sites beyond the usual landmarks
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and better interaction
• Knowledgeable guides help bring history and art to life with engaging stories
• Entry fees are extra, so budget accordingly
• Ideal for history lovers and curious travelers wanting more than surface-level sights
• Duration is just about two hours, making it a manageable addition to your day

If you’re planning to visit Assisi, chances are you’ve already read about its jaw-dropping basilicas, the Basilica of St. Francis, and the charming streets. But what about what lies beneath? That’s exactly what this tour focuses on—uncovering the underground layers that tell a different story of the city’s past.

In our experience, what stands out most about this tour is how it turns a typical walk into a journey through time. It’s not just about seeing relics; it’s about understanding how Assisi’s history is written into its very foundation. The fact that it’s a small-group experience makes it more personal and allows the guide to answer specific questions, which really enhances the overall understanding.

One of the highlights—and something appreciated by past visitors—is the expert guiding. Clair, in particular, received praise for her deep knowledge of art and history, making each artifact and site meaningful. She helped everyone see every item and hear each story as if they were alive centuries ago. That kind of storytelling turns a simple tour into a memorable experience.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the entrance fees are not included. This means that the price of $132.42 per person covers only the guided aspect, and you’ll need to pay separately for access to sites like the Museo Diocesano, Crypt of San Rufino, and the Roman Forum. For some travelers, this adds up, but it’s a typical approach for many guided tours of archaeological sites.

Analyzing the Itinerary in Detail

Let’s walk through what each stop offers and why they matter.

Stop 1: Museo Diocesano and Crypt of San Rufino

This is where the tour really gets interesting. The basement of the Diocesan Museum holds remains of an 11th-century Romanesque cloister and the Crypt of San Rufino, which is said to be a favorite prayer spot for St. Francis himself. The crypt’s walls are decorated with rare frescoes, making this a highlight for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Past visitors, like Jane, have been particularly impressed by Clair’s storytelling here: “Armed with her deep knowledge of art, she delivered a wonderful appreciation for every painting and artifact now confined to the underworld!” The crypt’s atmosphere is quite evocative, with its dim lighting and age-old frescoes creating a connection to the medieval past.

It’s important to note that admission tickets are not included for this site, so factor that into your budget. The experience of stepping into this quiet, prayerful space where St. Francis once meditated is priceless.

Stop 2: Museo and Roman Forum

Beneath Assisi’s bustling piazza lies the Roman Forum, uncovered during excavations in 1836. This site features the base of a Roman temple, access gates to a monumental cistern, and a tetrastyle temple dedicated to Castor and Pollux. The remnants are a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Roman origins, and you get to see the paving stones, foundations, and ancient structures, giving a real sense of walking through history.

Clifton’s review highlights how engaging this part of the tour is: “The guide was excellent. Very knowledgeable and explained so much. Answered many questions. Walk was easy.” It’s a straightforward exploration, but it adds depth to your understanding of Assisi’s layered past.

Again, entry tickets are separate, but the opportunity to stand where Romans once built and worshipped adds a tangible feeling of continuity through the ages.

Beyond the itinerary, several factors elevate this experience. The small group size means fewer crowds and more personal interaction—perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace and the chance to ask questions freely. Past travelers talk about how the guides make the experience memorable, sharing stories and details that you won’t find in guidebooks.

The duration of around two hours makes it manageable even on a busy travel day, and the flexibility of meeting at the Cathedral of San Rufino simplifies logistics. Plus, the mobile ticket option adds convenience, allowing you to start when you’re ready without fuss.

Who will love this tour

This experience is best suited for those with a curiosity about history, art, and archaeology. If you enjoy seeing the unseen parts of cities—those underground layers that reveal how people lived centuries ago—you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with walking and exploring smaller, less crowded spaces.

It’s also a fantastic option if you want a more personal, engaging guide rather than a large bus tour or self-guided walk. And given the praise for Clair’s deep knowledge, you’ll benefit from a guide who truly loves sharing Assisi’s secrets.

At $132.42 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Assisi, but several factors justify the price. You’re paying for expert guidance, small-group intimacy, and access to rare underground sites that many travelers never see. Since entry fees are extra, your total spend will be higher, but that’s typical for specialized archaeological tours.

Considering the two-hour duration, it offers a concentrated dose of history, art, and storytelling, making it a good value for those who appreciate depth over surface sightseeing. If you’re someone who loves uncovering hidden stories and enjoys guided explanations, this tour will resonate.

In essence, if you’re fascinated by hidden histories and want a personalized exploration of Assisi’s underground layers, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value knowledgeable guides and detailed storytelling. It’s not designed as a family adventure or a casual stroll, so if you’re traveling with young children or prefer a leisurely pace, you might want to consider other options.

Overall, it’s a compelling addition to any Assisi visit—an opportunity to see beyond the usual and connect with the city’s ancient roots in a quiet, contemplative way.

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, on average, it’s booked about 12 days ahead, so planning early helps ensure availability.

Are the entry fees included in the price?
No, entry to the Museo Diocesano, Crypt of San Rufino, and the Roman Forum are extra. Be prepared for additional costs.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best for those interested in history and archaeology. It involves walking and exploring underground spaces, so comfort with that is helpful.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Cathedral of San Rufino in Piazza San Rufino and finishes back at the same point.

Is it possible to cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour unique compared to other Assisi experiences?
The focus on underground sites and the small group setting with expert guiding makes it stand out. It offers an intimate, detailed look at parts of Assisi most visitors never see.

All in all, the Secrets of Assisi Underground Tour offers a fascinating, detailed look at layers of history that most travelers overlook. If you’re keen on uncovering Assisi’s hidden stories and appreciate guides who can bring history alive, this is definitely worth considering.