Assisi: Basilica of Saint Francis Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Italy’s Umbria region, the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is a must-see. This tour offers a focused, one-hour glimpse into one of Italy’s most revered religious sites, guided by a knowledgeable local. We’ve looked at what makes it special, and honestly, it’s a solid choice for anyone interested in art, history, or spirituality — especially if you’re short on time but want a meaningful experience.

What we really like about this tour is how accessible it is — a quick but comprehensive way to get a sense of the basilica’s significance and beauty. The inclusion of expert guide insights makes the visit richer than just wandering around on your own. Plus, the frescoes by Giotto are a highlight for art lovers, and the chance to see Saint Francis’s tomb is genuinely moving. On the flip side, since the tour is only an hour, you won’t get an exhaustive look at everything, so if you’re a hardcore art lover or history buff, you might want to combine this with a longer visit later.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a well-organized, insightful snapshot of the basilica, especially those who value expert storytelling and art appreciation. It’s also a great pick if you prefer guided tours to exploring alone, and the price point is quite reasonable given what you get.

Key Points

• Quick and Focused: An hour-long guided tour that covers the highlights of the basilica.
• Art and Faith Combo: See frescoes by Giotto and other medieval masters, plus the tomb of Saint Francis.
• Expert Guidance: Learn the significance of the basilica from a local guide, enhancing your understanding.
• All-Inclusive Price: Entrance fees are included, so no surprises on site.
• Flexible Scheduling: Check available start times; bookings are flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Good for Art and History Enthusiasts: Offers a balance of spiritual and artistic insights in a manageable timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Basilica Tour

Starting Point and Overview

The tour kicks off at the lower entrance of the Basilica of Saint Francis. This is where you’ll meet your guide, ready to lead you through what is arguably one of Italy’s most treasured churches. The basilica itself is a towering, bilevel structure from the 13th century, built to house the tomb of Saint Francis of Assisi. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once inside, you’ll quickly see why — the architecture and frescoes are nothing short of breathtaking.

Visiting Saint Francis’s Tomb

Your first stop is the tomb of Saint Francis, located on the lower level. It’s a site that draws pilgrims and visitors alike, and standing there, you can’t help but feel the weight of history and devotion. The guide will tell you stories about Saint Francis, his life, and why his tomb remains a focal point of the basilica.

The Frescoes and Artistic Highlights

From the tomb, you’ll move into the altar area, where frescoes depicting the life of Jesus adorn the walls. These artworks, some by Cimabue and others by Giotto, are considered masterpieces of medieval art. We loved the way the guide brought these images to life with stories behind the scenes — it transforms the static images into narratives that feel alive.

Giotto’s fresco cycle on the side walls of the upper church is a highlight. These paintings vividly portray the life of Saint Francis and are regarded as groundbreaking work that changed the course of Western art. The guide will explain their symbolism and artistic techniques, making the experience much richer than simply admiring the images.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cloister and Additional Spaces

Next, you’ll explore the friary cloister, an atmospheric spot that offers a moment of calm amidst the awe-inspiring surroundings. It’s a quieter area where you can reflect on what you’ve seen so far and enjoy the architecture of the monks’ living space.

The Upper Church Experience

As the tour concludes, you’ll ascend to the upper church, where the stunning frescoes continue, depicting the life of Saint Francis. These murals are not only artistically significant but also deeply meaningful for understanding the saint’s legacy. While the tour is concise, it covers the essential visuals and stories that make this basilica such an iconic site.

What the Tour Includes and Practical Details

The price of around $57 per person is quite reasonable for such an in-depth, guided experience. Entrance fees are included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs once you’re there. The tour lasts about an hour, making it perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.

The guide is English-speaking, and you’ll meet at the lower entrance. The activity ends back at the starting point, so you’re free to explore more of Assisi or continue your day elsewhere.

The Experience from Reviewers

One reviewer, Daniela, summed it up well: “Es war super. Unsere Führerin war sehr unterhaltsam und hat uns die Geschichte über Basilika sowie von Franz von Assisi sehr gut vermittelt. Ich würde diese Führung jedem empfehlen.” Her enthusiasm points to the guide’s storytelling skills, which seem to make a big difference in turning a visit into a memorable experience.

Another positive note from reviews is how artfully the frescoes are explained, transforming static artworks into stories that resonate. The inclusion of well-known artists like Giotto and Cimabue adds a layer of cultural depth that art lovers will appreciate.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re short on time but want to see the key highlights of the Basilica of Saint Francis, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suitable for those interested in art, history, or religious sites, and who prefer guided insights to self-guided wandering. Be aware that, due to the time constraint, you’ll only get a taste of what the basilica has to offer — if you’re deeply interested in exploring every corner or spending hours immersed in the art, consider extending your visit later.

Final Thoughts

This assisi basilica tour delivers a balanced experience — offering art, history, and spirituality in a manageable, one-hour format. The inclusion of a local guide helps bring the site’s stories to life, making it more than just a walk-through. The frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue aren’t just beautiful; they’re part of Italy’s artistic heritage, and seeing them here in context is a real treat.

The price point, combined with the convenience of included entrance fees and flexible scheduling, makes this a compelling option for travelers looking for a meaningful, guided experience. It’s especially ideal if you prefer learning from an expert rather than exploring solo, and if you’re curious about Saint Francis’s legacy beyond just photos and sightseeing.

If you’re visiting Assisi and want a thoughtful, artful introduction to its crown jewel, this tour ticks all the boxes — it’s a worthwhile investment of your limited time.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick but insightful visit.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the entrance fees are included in the ticket price, so you won’t have to pay extra at the site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically targeted at children, the tour’s focus on art and history can be engaging for older kids, especially those interested in art or religious sites.

What language is the guide?
The tour is conducted in English, suitable for most international travelers.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the lower entrance of the basilica and ends back there, so you’re free to explore more afterward.

Is this tour good for art enthusiasts?
Absolutely, it highlights masterpieces by Giotto, Cimabue, and others, providing a meaningful context to appreciate the frescoes.

In summary, if you’re after a concise, guided exploration of one of Italy’s most important religious and artistic sites, this basilica tour offers a gratifying glimpse into Saint Francis’s world. It balances historical storytelling with visual grandeur, making it a worthwhile addition to your Assisi visit — especially if you’re short on time but want depth over distraction.

You can check availability for your dates here: