A day in Assisi departing Rome city DA | Private Service

If you’re planning a trip to Rome and are craving a change of scenery that mixes history, spirituality, and small-town charm, a day trip to Assisi might just be what you need. This private tour promises a well-rounded experience, taking you out of the bustling city to explore one of Umbria’s most beloved towns. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, based on what’s included and feedback from past travelers, it looks like a balanced way to soak in Assisi’s highlights without feeling rushed.

What we particularly like about this tour is that it offers private transportation, meaning you’re not stuck with strangers, and the driver is there to make your day comfortable and relaxed. Plus, the itinerary hits all the major sites—like the Basilica of St. Francis and San Damiano—giving you a chance to connect with the spiritual and architectural richness of Assisi. A small but notable drawback is that the tour doesn’t include admission tickets—so if you want to visit interiors like the basilicas, you’ll need to budget extra for that, and some sites might be crowded or closed depending on the day.

This tour is best suited for those who want a flexible, guided experience with a focus on cultural and religious landmarks. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a small-group atmosphere, enjoy historical sights, and prefer a day where most logistics are handled for them. If you’re interested in learning about St. Francis, exploring medieval streets, and enjoying authentic Umbrian cuisine, this package could fit well into your Italy plans.

Key Points

• Private transportation offers comfort and flexibility during your day trip.
• Major sights like Basilica of St. Francis and San Damiano are included, giving you a thorough overview.
• Transportation time from Rome is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes each way, so be prepared for a full day.
• Admission fees are not included, so plan extra if you wish to enter the basilicas or other sites.
• Local guides and driver explanations were praised for their knowledge, enhancing the experience.
• Timing and pacing are designed to let you explore at your leisure, making it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed tour.

An Honest Look at the Assisi Day Tour

If you’re eyeing a day out of Rome, this tour offers a convenient, private way to see some of the most meaningful sights in Assisi. We’re all familiar with the challenge of balancing travel time with sightseeing—this tour seems to strike that balance well. The pickup service from Rome and a private driver means you skip the hassle of public transport, and your driver becomes your personal guide on the way there.

The approximately 10-hour duration includes around 2.5 hours of travel each way, which might sound long, but it ensures plenty of time to explore without feeling hurried. The itinerary has a solid focus on Assisi’s spiritual and historical sites, with specific stops at key religious landmarks—like the Basilica of St. Francis, where Giotto’s frescoes can be appreciated (though ticket costs are separate). Visiting the Piazza del Comune lets you enjoy the town’s medieval charm, and a stop at the San Damiano Monastery, where St. Francis penned his famous Canticle, is a highlight.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Stop 1: Rome
Your day begins with a pickup in Rome, setting the tone for a smooth journey. The tour departs from a central point, and you’ll be on your way in an air-conditioned minivan designed for small groups—up to 8 people. This setup feels intimate and allows for personalized attention from your driver and guide.

Stop 2: San Damiano
The Sanctuary of San Damiano is a peaceful spot that’s historically significant as the place where St. Francis composed the Canticle of the Creatures. The tour allows about an hour there, though admission is free. It’s a serene setting that makes for a reflective stop, even if you don’t go inside.

Stop 3: Basilica of Santa Chiara
This basilica is dedicated to Assisi’s patron saint, Clare of Assisi. The church’s crypt houses relics, and the architecture alone gives a sense of the town’s medieval history. Like San Damiano, entry is free, but don’t forget to budget for any additional entrance fees if you want to explore further.

Stop 4: Tomb of Saint Charles Acutis
Here, you’ll visit the resting place of the young Blessed Charles Acutis, who dedicated his life to faith and technology. It’s a less-visited but meaningful site, especially if you’re interested in modern spirituality.

Stop 5: Basilica of St. Francis
The iconic basilica is the main attraction, famous for Giotto’s frescoes depicting St. Francis’ life. The tour mentions no admission fee, but you might find that entering the basilica or the tombs involves extra costs or crowds, which can impact your experience.

Stop 6: Assisi’s Historic Center and Lunch
A two-hour stroll through the charming streets of Assisi lets you soak in its medieval atmosphere. You’re free to wander, shop, or sit down at a local restaurant. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so you can choose a place that fits your taste and budget—there are plenty of charming options serving delicious Umbrian specialties.

Return to Rome
After a relaxed afternoon, you’ll hop back into your vehicle for the 2-hour drive home, reflecting on a day filled with history, art, and spirituality.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer summed it up simply: “I found Rome fantastic. The monuments of a unique sobriety. And the driver who explained to us with a thorough knowledge. Super driver.” That highlights the quality of the guide’s explanations, which many travelers appreciated, making the experience more meaningful. Since the driver is well-informed, you’re likely to get some interesting stories and context during transit.

Even though the review was about Rome itself, it hints at the value of knowledgeable guides—something that’s echoed in the praise for this tour as well. The fact that the group is private also means you can tailor your experience a bit, ask questions freely, and enjoy the day at your own pace.

Practical Considerations

While the overall experience seems thoughtfully planned, keep in mind that admission costs are separate. If you’re passionate about viewing the interiors of Assisi’s basilicas, you’ll need to budget extra. Also, the longer travel times mean you’ll want to be comfortable with spending a good part of the day on the road.

The cost of around $571 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering private transportation, the convenience, and the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide-driver, many find it to be good value—especially for those who prefer a stress-free, comprehensive day trip without the hassle of coordinating public transport or group tours.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private Assisi day trip is suited for travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience without the logistical headaches. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple who appreciates personalized service. If you’re deeply interested in religious sites, history, and art, this tour hits all those marks, with the bonus of a driver who doubles as a storyteller.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer to control their pace—stopping for photos, wandering around the piazzas, or enjoying a leisurely lunch. Since the tour is private, it’s flexible enough for special requests, making it a good choice for travelers who value comfort and intimacy.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned minivan is included for the entire day, making for a smooth trip between Rome and Assisi.

How long is the drive from Rome to Assisi?
The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes each way, so be prepared for a full day out.

Are admission tickets included?
No, admission to basilicas and other sites like San Damiano and Santa Chiara are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you want inside access.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on religious and historical sites suggests it’s suitable for older children or teenagers interested in history and art.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you may have some flexibility. Discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package—you can dine at your own pace in the historic center.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some peace of mind if your plans change.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through platforms like Viator, which offers secure reservations and detailed information.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip to Assisi from Rome offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances comfort, cultural depth, and flexibility. The focus on key spiritual sites, combined with knowledgeable guides and private transport, makes it an appealing option for those wanting to explore at a relaxed pace without sacrificing the richness of Assisi’s sights.

If you love discovering religious landmarks, appreciate well-informed guides, or simply want a hassle-free way to see this beautiful Umbrian town, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value comfort and personalized attention, making a full day of sightseeing both enjoyable and meaningful.

On the other hand, if you’re eager to explore interior sites extensively or prefer a very budget-friendly option, you might want to look into other alternatives or plan your own day. But overall, for a comprehensive, guided experience that minimizes stress, this trip has a lot going for it.