Assisi – in the footsteps of St. Francis

Assisi – in the footsteps of St. Francis: A detailed review

If you’re heading to Italy and want to experience the spiritual and artistic essence of one of the country’s most revered saints, this Assisi tour is worth considering. Priced at about $240.74 for a group of up to ten people, it offers a 2 to 3-hour journey through the city’s most significant sites related to St. Francis of Assisi. Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience is designed for those who want an authentic, manageable glimpse into the saint’s life and the city’s medieval charm.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances deep historical insights with stunning art — especially the masterpieces by Giotto and the Sienese painters — all while visiting real, lived-in spaces like the basilicas and public squares. The personal touch, with guides like Monia, who have been praised for their knowledge and friendliness, makes the experience feel more like a visit with a knowledgeable friend than just a cookie-cutter tour.

A small caveat to consider: since the entrance tickets to the Basilica di San Francesco and the Sacred Convent are not included in the tour price, you’ll need to budget separately for these must-see sights. Also, the tour’s walking pace suits most visitors, but those with mobility issues should check accessibility details beforehand, especially as some sites involve slopes.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, art lovers, and spiritual seekers. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking for a focused, intimate experience rather than a large group or bus tour. If you appreciate guides who connect personally with their guests, this small-group setup should be a highlight.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of St. Francis’s key sites in Assisi.
• Expert-guided commentary enhances understanding of both religious and artistic significance.
• Art lovers will appreciate access to masterpieces by Giotto, Cimabue, and others.
• Accessible for most travelers, with some considerations for slopes and mobility.
• Price includes some entry tickets, but not to the basilicas themselves.
• An intimate experience perfect for those who prefer a personal, detailed tour.

A closer look at the Assisi experience

The itinerary and its significance

This tour is thoughtfully designed around six key stops that tell the story of San Francesco and his impact on Assisi. Each site offers a different window into his life, faith, and the city’s history.

Basilica di Santa Chiara

We start at the Basilica di Santa Chiara, where the remains of St. Clare lie, and where the Crucifix of San Damiano is displayed. This crucifix famously spoke to St. Francis, inspiring him to rebuild the Church. The simplicity and spiritual power of this space have a magnetic pull, even today. Visitors often comment on how the mysticism emanates from the humble surroundings, making it a moving start to the tour.

Cattedrale di San Rufino

Next, we visit the Cathedral of San Rufino, known for its Romanesque architecture and intricate façade, which many find like a “book yet to be interpreted,” packed with figures and symbolism. This is also where St. Francis was baptized, anchoring his story to this historic space. The admission tickets are included here, making it easier to focus on the experience rather than ticket lines.

Chiesa Nuova

We then stroll to the Chiesa Nuova, built in the 1600s but containing the presumed birthplace of St. Francis, belonging to his father, Pietro Bernardone. This site offers a personal connection to the early life of the saint, and its preservation of the birthplace provides a tangible link to Francis’s roots.

Piazza del Comune

The Piazza del Comune is the lively heart of Assisi, where ancient Roman ruins sit side by side with medieval palaces. Here, we see the remains of the Temple of Minerva, now the Santa Maria sopra Minerva church, and the Palazzi dei Priori. It’s a perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere and get a sense of how Assisi’s medieval civic life played out.

Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi

The main event is the Basilica of San Francesco, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It houses a fresco cycle painted by Giotto, illustrating the life of St. Francis. Visitors describe it as a “masterpiece of art,” and many feel it’s a must-see for art lovers. The guided commentary helps you understand the scenes and their theological messages, which are as relevant today as they were centuries ago.

The Sacred Convent

The tour ends with a visit to the Sacred Convent of San Francesco, where we admire works by Cimabue, Simone Martini, Lorenzetti, and Giotto. Here, the artistry narrates the relationship between St. Francis and Christ — a visual storytelling that’s both inspiring and enlightening.

Why this tour offers great value

While the tour price covers a knowledgeable guide and some tickets, the real value lies in the careful curation of sites and the personalized approach. Reviews highlight guides like Monia, who explain everything clearly and tailor the experience to the group’s interests. This makes the visit feel more like a personal journey than a generic walk.

On top of that, the artwork and architecture are world-class, offering an opportunity to see masterpieces that define Western art history. The small group size ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd, and you get the chance to ask questions or linger at points of interest.

A note on the cost

Compared to some larger, more commercial tours, this experience’s price reflects the quality of the guide and the intimacy of the group. Since tickets to the basilicas are not included, you might want to budget an additional €10-15 per site. Still, many travelers feel that the expert guidance and local insight are worth the extra expense.

Who will enjoy this tour most?

This tour is perfect for travelers who value a detailed, meaningful experience over just ticking boxes. If you enjoy art, history, or spirituality, and appreciate guides who connect personally, you’ll find it rewarding. It’s also great for those who prefer to see key sites without the hassle of large groups or buses.

Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have found it enriching, especially when interested in the story behind the art and the personal legacy of St. Francis. If you have limited time but want to absorb the essence of Assisi in a manageable format, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private activity, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the pace of your group and how long you linger at each site.

What is included in the price?
Your guide is included, along with admission tickets for the Basilica di Santa Chiara and San Rufino. However, tickets to the Basilica of San Francesco and the Sacred Convent are not included.

Is the tour accessible for disabled visitors?
Most travelers can participate, but the slopes mean that individuals with mobility issues should check accessibility details or consider assistance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Parcheggio B Assisi and ends at the Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, right near the basilica.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund, making it a flexible option for your plans.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 84 days ahead, which shows how popular this experience is.

Are the guides local?
Yes, the guides are local experts, passionate about sharing Assisi’s stories and art.

Do I need to buy tickets separately for the basilicas?
Yes, tickets for the Basilica of San Francesco and the Sacred Convent are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to visit inside.

Final thoughts

This Assisi tour dedicated to St. Francis offers a well-balanced mix of history, art, and spiritual insight. It’s especially suited for those who prefer an intimate and informative experience with a guide who genuinely engages with their guests. The sites visited are among the most meaningful in the city, and the artwork—particularly Giotto’s frescoes—are unforgettable highlights.

With expert guidance and thoughtful site selection, the tour offers good value for those interested in seeing Assisi through a meaningful lens. It’s perfect for visitors who want a deeper understanding of St. Francis’s legacy and the artistic treasures that have immortalized him. If you’re ready to walk in the footsteps of one of Italy’s most loved saints, this tour will leave you with rich memories and a deeper appreciation of Assisi’s spiritual and artistic treasures.