Assisi Fullday from Rome with Papal Blessing on Parchment and Lunch Included

Exploring Assisi from Rome: An Honest Look at the Fullday Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Italy and have a soft spot for religious history or just want to experience the charm of Assisi beyond the typical day trip, the Assisi Fullday from Rome with Papal Blessing might catch your eye. This tour promises a full day of exploring sacred sites, a delicious local lunch, and a special Papal blessing on parchment—all while traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What we genuinely like about this experience is how it combines a deep dive into St. Francis’s life with the scenic beauty of Umbria. Plus, the inclusion of wine tasting and a nice lunch adds a real flavor of the region. However, one thing to consider is that some travelers have found the schedule a bit rushed, especially during the visit to the basilicas. If you’re someone who loves taking your time, this might be a point to keep in mind.

This tour seems best suited for those interested in religious history, cultural exploration, and enjoying authentic Italian cuisine. If you’re traveling with a curious mind and a love for meaningful experiences, this could be a good fit. But if leisurely sightseeing is your priority, you might want to weigh the tight schedule.

Key Points

• Focused on religious sites with in-depth visits to basilicas and sacred sites in Assisi
• Includes a Papal blessing on parchment, adding a special touch to the experience
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and dropoff in Rome
• Gourmet lunch and wine tasting provide a true taste of regional cuisine
• Potential for a rushed experience at the basilicas, depending on guide and schedule
• Private guide option enhances the personal experience, if selected

A Detailed Look at the Assisi Fullday Tour

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive glimpse into the life of St. Francis and his legacy, along with a taste of the scenic and spiritual charm of Assisi. It’s structured as a full-day trip, starting early in the morning around 7:30 am, so you’ll want to be ready for a day packed with sightseeing and culture. The price, around $930 per person, is on the higher side, but it includes quite a few features that add value—like hotel pickup, a private vehicle, and a meaningful Papal blessing.

The Journey from Rome to Assisi

The experience kicks off with pickup at your accommodation in Rome, which is a real plus, removing the hassle of arranging transport yourself. Traveling in an air-conditioned, fully insured vehicle means you can relax and enjoy the landscape as you transition from Rome’s hustle to the peaceful hills of Umbria. The drive itself, although about 2 hours, is a chance to settle in before stepping into the spiritual world of Assisi.

Critical Highlights of the Itinerary

Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

Your first stop is at the Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco, the most iconic site in Assisi. This basilica is built on the spot where St. Francis is buried and is famous for its stunning frescoes and the sense of serenity that permeates the space. The basilica’s significance is both religious and artistic, with frescoes that are considered masterpieces and offer a glimpse into medieval life and spirituality.

Travelers are generally pleased with this part of the tour, but some, like Rachel, did feel that the time was a bit tight. She noted, “the guide was very good, but she was forced to rush because of the time pressure,” which underscores that if you want to linger at each site, this might not be the best tour for you.

Basilica of Santa Chiara

Next, the tour takes you to the Basilica di Santa Chiara, which is built with the characteristic pink stone from nearby Subasio mountain. Here, you’ll find beautifully preserved frescoes from the XIIth to XIVth centuries, and the atmosphere is intimate and reflective. This stop provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the artistry and devotion of the period.

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli and Porziuncola

The final religious stop is at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, home to the Porziuncola, the tiny church where St. Francis started his movement. This site holds immense historical importance for Franciscans and pilgrims alike. It’s a peaceful, humble space that contrasts with the grandeur of the basilicas in Assisi, offering a more personal connection to the origins of the Franciscan order.

Lunch and Wine Experience

After the spiritual exploration, you’ll head to a charming restaurant in Campello sul Clitunno, surrounded by olive groves and scenic hills. The two-hour lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a showcase of regional flavors. Think seasonal products, truffle cured meats, and high-quality extra virgin olive oils—all paired with a fine local wine. The inclusion of wine tasting and a light gourmet lunch provides an authentic taste of the area’s culinary traditions.

Many reviews praise the lunch as “elegant and hospitable,” and the wine as “of excellent quality,” which is a real highlight for food lovers. It’s a lovely way to unwind, reflect on the morning’s visits, and savor Italy’s culinary craftsmanship.

The Papal Blessing on Parchment

One of the unique features of this tour is the Papal blessing on parchment in English. This isn’t just a symbolic gesture; it’s a meaningful keepsake for many travelers, especially those with a spiritual inclination. The blessing adds a personal and sacred element to the day, making it more memorable.

Return to Rome

After a leisurely lunch and some time to enjoy the scenery, the journey back to Rome begins. The return trip is straightforward, and by late afternoon, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, tired but enriched by the day’s experiences.

The Realities of the Tour: Pros and Cons

While this tour offers a lot, it’s important to recognize the potential downsides. As noted by one traveler, “the tour was very rushed,” and the guide had to cover three basilicas in a limited amount of time. If you are someone who prefers to explore at a slow pace, taking in every detail and spending extra moments in reflection, this may feel hurried.

That said, the guide’s expertise and the well-organized schedule help to maximize the visit, especially if your priority is to see the main sites efficiently. The private guide option, if selected, could improve this experience, allowing for more personalized pacing.

The price, at nearly $930, reflects the inclusion of private transportation, lunch, wine, and the Papal blessing. For those deeply interested in religious history, this could be a worthwhile investment. But if you’re on a tighter budget, or looking for a more relaxed day, you might find similar experiences cheaper or with a more leisurely schedule.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly suited for history and faith enthusiasts who want to get a comprehensive look at Assisi’s sacred sites in a single day. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates guided insights and culture in religious history, this tour offers a solid package. It’s also ideal for those who value comfort, as the transportation and included amenities make the day smooth and hassle-free.

However, if your main goal is to enjoy a slower pace or spend more time exploring each basilica, you may need to consider other options or discuss customizing the schedule.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who want a structured, informative, and convenient way to visit Assisi’s most important religious sites, this tour provides a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of the Papal blessing on parchment, regional cuisine, and wine tasting adds meaningful touches that elevate the day beyond just sightseeing.

The main caveat is the schedule’s tightness, which might leave some wishing for more time in each location. If you’re okay with a brisk visit and enjoy the convenience of travel logistics handled for you, this tour could be a very rewarding option.

Ultimately, this tour offers a chance to connect with Italy’s spiritual heritage while enjoying regional flavors and scenic views—all in one thoughtfully curated package.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff within Rome, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the drive from Rome to Assisi?
The journey takes approximately two hours each way, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

What’s included in the lunch?
You’ll enjoy a gourmet light lunch featuring seasonal products, truffle cured meats, and extra virgin olive oils, paired with a quality local wine.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the private tour option allows for modifications and personalization based on your preferences, if booked in advance.

What is the Papal blessing on parchment?
It’s a special blessing in English that you receive on a parchment, offering a meaningful keepsake of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While suitable for most travelers interested in religious history and culture, the tight schedule and walking may require some flexibility for children.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a worry-free option if plans change.

If you’re eager to explore Assisi’s sacred sites comfortably from Rome, with the added bonus of regional cuisine and a spiritual blessing, this tour could be a meaningful choice. Just be prepared for a busy day and a schedule that moves quickly—perfect if you’re eager to see the highlights without fuss.