Assisi City highlights and St. Francis Basilica Tour

Assisi City Highlights and St. Francis Basilica Tour: A Deep Dive into Italy’s Sacred Town

When you think of Assisi, you probably picture cobblestone streets, peaceful churches, and bustling piazzas—this tour captures all that, plus a generous dose of history, art, and spirituality. For just around $57, you’ll spend 2.5 hours exploring the most iconic sites of this Umbrian jewel, guided by a certified local expert. Your journey begins at Parcheggio Saba Matteotti, a convenient starting point just outside the town, from where you’ll dive into Assisi’s layered past and spiritual significance.

What we love about this experience is how it balances visual beauty with meaningful storytelling. First, there’s the chance to admire the stunning Gothic architecture of St. Clare’s Basilica, home to the San Damiano Cross, famously linked to St. Francis’s inspiring call to “rebuild the Church.” Second, walking through Assisi’s narrow streets to the Birthplace of St. Francis offers a rare glimpse into the humble origins of this beloved saint. Plus, the tour’s small size—max 15 people—means you’re sure to get personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

A possible consideration is the need for appropriate dress code to enter religious sites—covering shoulders and knees—so pack accordingly. Also, since guided tours inside the Basilica of St. Francis are not permitted on Sundays and religious holidays, you should be prepared for a quieter, more self-guided visit inside that day. This tour offers a fantastic introduction, especially for those keen to combine history, art, and local charm.

If you’re someone who appreciates a knowledgeable guide and authentic insights, this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly appealing if you want to see Assisi’s main sights without the hassle of planning, while still enjoying a personal touch in a small group setting.

Key Points

Expert-guided tour ensures you learn the stories behind Assisi’s most important sites.
Visits include St. Clare Basilica, Piazza del Comune, Temple of Minerva, and St. Francis Basilica.
Small group size (max 15) offers a more personal and relaxed experience.
The tour covers both religious and secular history, blending spirituality with local life.
Entry to St. Francis Basilica costs an extra €3.00, not included in the tour price.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walkthrough of Assisi’s Top Highlights

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Starting Point at Parcheggio Saba Matteotti

Our journey begins at this convenient parking lot just outside the ancient town walls. It’s a practical choice, especially if you’re arriving by car, and signals the start of your journey into Assisi’s layered history.

Basilica of Saint Clare

The first major stop is the Gothic Basilica of St. Clare, a striking church dedicated to St. Clare, the close follower of St. Francis. The guide, perhaps a lively local named Anna or Luca, will walk you around for about 20 minutes, focusing on the San Damiano Cross—famous for its divine voice that inspired St. Francis to “rebuild the Church.” The crypt, where St. Clare is buried, is a place of quiet reverence and reflection.

We loved the blend of Gothic design with simple spirituality, and the way the guides explain the importance of this church beyond its architecture. The San Damiano Cross is a real highlight—its vivid colors and biblical scenes make it feel alive even centuries later.

Piazza del Comune and the Temple of Minerva

Next, we stroll through Assisi’s bustling main square, Piazza del Comune. It’s where locals still gather, and the atmosphere buzzes with life. Dominating the square is the Temple of Minerva, an ancient Roman temple that was converted into a church in medieval times. The preserved facade offers a window into Assisi’s long history, blending pagan and Christian traditions.

The guide will tell stories about how Assisi evolved from Roman times into a medieval hub of faith and commerce. We appreciated how this stop highlights Assisi’s layered past, reminding us that history isn’t just about saints and churches—it’s also about the people, pagan traditions, and architecture that shaped the town.

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Basilica of St. Francis

Finally, the crown jewel of this tour is the Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning approximately 40 minutes, your guide will lead you through the upper and lower basilicas, where stunning frescoes by Giotto and his workshop depict the life of St. Francis and biblical stories.

Walking into this basilica, you’ll immediately notice the artistic richness—colors, scenes, and figures that have inspired countless visitors. The tomb of St. Francis, located within the basilica, is a deeply moving site that often leaves travelers feeling a sense of connection with the saint’s message of peace, humility, and love.

While you’ll see the basilica from the outside on some dates when interior access is restricted, the guide will explain its architecture, history, and artwork in detail, enriching your appreciation.

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Ending at the Basilica di San Francesco

The tour concludes back at the basilica, giving you time to reflect or explore on your own. It’s a good chance to soak in the atmosphere or revisit favorite spots before continuing your exploration of Assisi.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond its well-chosen sites, this experience shines because of the knowledgeable guides—reviewers praise guides like Michael, who “gave a great overview,” and others for being “friendly and very knowledgeable.” Their stories bring life to the stones and frescoes, transforming mere sightseeing into meaningful understanding.

The small group size ensures questions are welcomed, and you get a more relaxed, personal feel. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid large, impersonal tours and prefer a more authentic, storytelling approach.

Another strong point is the balance of highlights—you don’t just see the basilica, but also get a taste of local life and Assisi’s ancient past with the Roman temple and town streets. This approach offers a well-rounded picture of the town’s history and spiritual significance.

Practical Details & Tips

Price & Value: At $56.94, the tour offers good value, especially considering the depth of information and the small-group intimacy. Keep in mind that entrance tickets (around €3) are extra, but the guide’s insights significantly enhance the visit.
Duration & Timing: At 2.5 hours, it’s a manageable commitment, perfect for fitting into a day trip. Check the availability for start times, as the exact schedule varies.
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users and those over 95, mainly due to the cobbled streets and some uneven surfaces.
Dress Code: Remember to dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees—if you plan to enter churches, especially St. Francis Basilica.
Best for: History and art lovers, those interested in religious sites, and travelers who appreciate guided storytelling with a personal touch.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s primarily geared toward adults and older children interested in history and art, younger kids might enjoy the frescoes and stories, though the walking and modest dress requirements could be challenging for some.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, the €3 fee for entry to St. Francis Basilica is paid separately on site. The tour itself is guide-led and does not include entry fees.

Can I join this tour on Sundays or religious holidays?
Yes, but guided tours inside the Basilica of St. Francis are not allowed on Sundays and major Catholic or national holidays. You’ll see the church from outside and enter alone when silent.

How many people are usually in the group?
A maximum of 15 people, making it a small, personal experience.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind when booking ahead.

In The Sum Up

This Assisi City Highlights and St. Francis Basilica Tour offers a well-balanced, engaging way to explore one of Italy’s most revered towns. It’s perfect for travelers who want to understand the spiritual and historical layers of Assisi without the hassle of planning every detail. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the intimate setting, makes this experience especially rewarding for those eager to connect with the town’s soul.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or revisiting Assisi, this tour will deepen your appreciation for its art, history, and the enduring legacy of St. Francis. It’s a value-packed introduction that leaves plenty of room for personal exploration afterward.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, well-organized way to see Assisi’s highlights with friendly guides and a small group, this tour is a smart choice. Just pack modest clothing, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a day filled with beauty, stories, and inspiration.