Assisi and St. Francis (Driver Only/Self Touring)

Exploring Assisi and St. Francis with a Driver-Only Tour: Honest Insights for Travelers

If you’re looking to visit Assisi from Rome without the stress of navigating public transport or joining a large group, this Driver-Only/Self-Touring experience might just be what you need. While it doesn’t include a guide, it offers a private, comfortable ride with a friendly, English-speaking driver who can tell you a bit about the sights along the way—and that’s a big plus for many travelers who prefer their trips relaxed and flexible.

What we really love about this tour is its convenience and the chance to explore at your own pace. You get a dedicated Mercedes Benz, pick-up from your hotel, and a route that hits all the major spots of interest without the typical tour rush. Plus, the views of the Umbria countryside are truly worth the journey, offering that quintessential Italian hill-town scenery.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a guided tour. If you’re someone who loves deep dives into history with a licensed guide, you might find this setup a bit light on context. However, if you’re comfortable exploring independently, this trip balances comfort with the freedom to wander and dine when you want.

This experience suits those who prefer a less structured day, enjoy scenic drives, and value privacy over group tours. It’s especially handy if you’re traveling with a small group or a partner and want to avoid the complexities of public transport or large guided groups.

Key Points

• Private transportation offers flexibility and saves time compared to public transit.
• Comfortable ride in a Mercedes Benz makes the day more enjoyable.
• Self-guided exploration allows you to spend as much time as you like at each site.
• Includes pick-up and drop-off from your Rome hotel for added convenience.
• Beautiful views of the Umbrian countryside along the drive.
• Tour is suitable for travelers comfortable with independent sightseeing without a guide.

A Closer Look at the Assisi Day Trip

When contemplating a day trip from Rome to Assisi, the key appeal is the chance to see the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy’s most beloved figures. This tour offers a solid way to experience Assisi without the hassle of public transport or large group guided tours. Instead, you get a private driver, a luxurious Mercedes Benz, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour begins with a visit to the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, which is often overlooked by first-time visitors but is deeply meaningful. It’s the site where St. Francis died, making it a place of spiritual significance. Inside, you’ll find the Capella del Transito and the Porziuncola, both small but powerful spaces. Many travelers appreciate that admission here is free, making it a hassle-free start to your day.

Next up is the Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi. This is the heart of the trip—the basilica itself—home to stunning frescoes by medieval masters like Cimabue and Giotto. Both levels of the basilica are covered, and you can truly appreciate the artistry and devotion that went into these works. The basilica was built right after St. Francis was canonized, giving it an authentic historical feel.

The Piazza del Comune offers a lively stop where you can soak in the atmosphere of Assisi’s main square. It’s built on the site of a Roman forum and features the church of St. Mary Above Minerva. From here, you can grab a quick coffee, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the views of the medieval streets and surrounding hills.

The Basilica di Santa Chiara provides an intimate look at the life of St. Clare, with her preserved body on display. The Gothic architecture is striking, and seeing her garments and hair gives a tangible connection to her story. Many visitors find this part especially moving.

Finally, outside town, the San Damiano convent is where Saint Francis received his calling to rebuild Christ’s church. The simple, humble setting echoes the spirit of the saint and gives a sense of stepping back in time.

The Practicalities: Comfort, Timing, and Cost

The 9-hour duration includes pick-up, travel, sightseeing, and drop-off, making it a full but manageable day. The cost of $811 for up to three people might seem steep at first glance, but consider it a private experience that offers personalized flexibility. The ride in a high-end Mercedes, bottled water, parking fees, and a fuel surcharge are all included, meaning there are few hidden costs.

Since admission tickets are not included, you can choose to explore each basilica and site without extra booking fuss, but be prepared for possible lines or crowds, especially at popular spots like the basilicas. The tour’s flexibility means you can decide how much time to spend at each site—perfect if you want to linger or skip something.

Actual Traveler Experience

One review highlights the punctuality and helpfulness of the driver, stating, “Cesar, our driver was punctual for pick up at our hotel in Rome and throughout the visit to Assisi. He advised us as to what we were going to visit and where to go. Even though we did not employ a licensed guide, Cesar’s information directed us to what we needed.” That’s a clear sign that even without a guide, the driver’s tips can enhance your experience.

How It Compares to Other Options

Other tours, like guided group visits to Assisi or Vatican tours, often come with strict schedules and large crowds. This private approach is more relaxed, giving you control over your day. However, it’s worth noting that if you’re after in-depth historical commentary, you might miss out unless you hire an additional guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and independence. If you enjoy scenic drives, want to avoid the hassle of public transport, and value having a dedicated vehicle, this fits the bill. It’s also good for small groups or couples wanting privacy and flexibility.

However, if you prefer guided tours with detailed explanations and structured itineraries, you might find this format a bit too loose. It’s best if you’re comfortable exploring independently or planning to do some additional research on-site.

Final Thoughts

This Assisi and St. Francis tour offers a thoughtful way to experience one of Italy’s most revered towns without the typical tour group constraints. The private transportation, flexible schedule, and serene views make it appealing for many travelers.

While it doesn’t include a guide, the driver’s local knowledge can help you navigate the key sites efficiently. The ability to spend as much time as you like at each location, combined with the comfort of a luxury vehicle, makes this a worthwhile option if you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized day trip from Rome.

In the end, it’s an experience that balances the spiritual and historical significance of Assisi with the comfort and convenience modern travelers crave. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy exploring independently but want the benefit of private transport and a stress-free approach.

FAQs

Is the transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the ride is in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey regardless of the weather.

Does the tour include a guide?
No, this is a driver-only/self-touring experience. You won’t have a licensed guide, but your driver can advise on what to see and do.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a Mercedes Benz vehicle, bottled water, parking fees, and a fuel surcharge.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel on time.

How long is the trip?
Approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and drop-off.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour doesn’t specify family-specific features, but since it’s mainly self-guided, children comfortable with independent sightseeing should be fine.

Are admission tickets included?
No, tickets are not included, so you can choose to buy entry at each site or explore freely.

What if I want to spend more time in Assisi?
Since it’s a self-touring format, you can extend your time at any stop, provided you coordinate with your driver for pickup.

Is it possible to customize the itinerary?
While the main itinerary is standard, the flexible nature of the trip allows you to spend more or less time at each site, but significant changes would need to be discussed with your driver beforehand.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, private way to visit Assisi, this trip might be just right. It offers a great balance of comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty, making it a solid choice for independent-minded travelers.