Assisi Full day tour including St Francis Basilica and Porziuncola

This Assisi full-day tour offers a comprehensive journey through one of Italy’s most revered spiritual and historical towns. With visits to iconic sites like the Basilica of San Francesco, the Porziuncola, and the Eremo delle Carceri, it promises an immersive experience into the life of Saint Francis and the town’s artistic charm.

What stands out about this tour is the expertise of the guides—many reviewers mention how their knowledge brings history and spirituality alive. Plus, the small-group setting (capped at 15 people) ensures a more personalized and engaging experience.

The only thing to consider is that some of the most famous basilicas are inside, which means you’ll need to adhere to dress codes—covering shoulders and knees—especially if visiting on a Sunday or religious holiday when interior access might be restricted.

This tour is best suited for travelers interested in religious history, art lovers, and those who appreciate a well-organized, insightful trip with plenty of opportunities for authentic encounters. If you’re curious about Saint Francis or simply want to see Assisi’s stunning sights with a knowledgeable guide, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Marica and Mikelle bring history and stories to life, making the experience memorable.
• Shared Experience: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour balances intimacy and community, ideal for meaningful conversations and questions.
• Rich Itinerary: Covers major basilicas, historical sites, and tranquil hermitages, offering a well-rounded perspective on Assisi’s spiritual heritage.
• Flexible Inside Visits: Although some sites have entrance fees (like the Basilica of San Francesco), the tour provides outside explanations and allows solo entry when interior visits are restricted.
• Authentic Focus: The tour emphasizes Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and other key figures, giving a genuine insight into their lives and legacy.
• Value for Money: At $367.61 per person, considering the expert guidance, transportation, and comprehensive itinerary, many find the cost reasonable for such an immersive experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Assisi Full-Day Tour

Starting Point: The Basilica of San Francesco

The tour kicks off at the Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis in the morning, setting the tone for the day’s spiritual journey. This basilica is not just an architectural masterpiece but also the resting place of Saint Francis himself. While the entrance fee isn’t included (around €3), the exterior and the guide’s narration provide plenty of awe-inspiring moments.

Reviewers like Mary from October 2024 highlight how guides like Mikelle make the history come alive, sharing stories that transform the basilica from just a building into a living storybook. Expect a mix of art, architecture, and tales of Saint Francis’s life, making it more than just a sightseeing stop. Keep in mind that during religious holidays or Sundays, interior visits might be off-limits, but guides will offer rich explanations from outside, ensuring you still get the full story.

The Basilica’s Bright and Ornate Interior

Next, you’ll explore the basilica’s interior, renowned for its stunning cross-vaulted ceiling decorated with gold stars on a blue background, and detailed paintings. Reviewers mention how guides like Marika bring this space to life, emphasizing the spiritual symbolism and artistic craftsmanship. The experience isn’t rushed—most visitors spend around 45 minutes here—allowing time to absorb the ambiance and ask questions.

Santa Maria sopra Minerva and Renaissance Architecture

A short stop at Santa Maria sopra Minerva offers a glimpse into Italy’s layered history—an ancient Roman temple now functioning as a church, dating back to the 1st century. Built in 1539 and later renovated in Baroque style, this site showcases Assisi’s blend of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences. It’s a free stop, providing a contemplative break and visual contrast to the basilicas.

Chiesa Nuova and Basilica di Santa Chiara

The Chiesa Nuova, built on what is believed to be Saint Francis’s original home, features Renaissance architecture with a distinctive brick façade and a hemispherical dome. Just nearby, the Basilica of Saint Clare houses the remains of Saint Clare herself, founder of the Poor Clares. Reviewers like Vito praise the guides’ depth of knowledge here, explaining the significance of the site in Franciscan history.

Visiting Hermitages and Sacred Sites

One of the highlights is the visit to Eremo delle Carceri, a peaceful retreat just 4 km from the town center, where Saint Francis and his followers meditated. Surrounded by mountains and quiet woods, this site offers a stark contrast to the bustling town and provides an authentic glimpse into Francis’s life of prayer. Reviewers appreciate how this site adds a spiritual depth to the tour, with some noting the tranquility that remains here today.

Then, you’ll explore San Damiano, the first monastery of Saint Clare, which played a pivotal role in her community-building efforts. The guide’s stories here deepen understanding of the early Franciscan movement and its influence.

The Grand Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

The tour concludes at Santa Maria degli Angeli, a basilica built on the humble Porziuncola chapel—where Saint Francis founded his order. The size and grandeur of this church are impressive, contrasting with the simplicity of Francis’s ideals but reflecting its role as a place for pilgrims. You’ll likely spend about an hour here, soaking in the atmosphere and appreciating the scale of this important sanctuary.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan in the afternoon, making it comfortable to travel between sites. Starting at 10 a.m. from Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, the schedule allows ample time for exploration and reflection. The small group setting ensures a relaxed pace and more personal interaction with the guide.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price tag of $367.61 may seem steep at first glance, it covers many aspects that travelers value: expert guides, efficient transportation, a carefully curated itinerary, and the opportunity to experience Assisi’s most sacred sites in a single day. Considering the entrance fee to the Basilica of San Francesco alone (around €3), and the depth of storytelling and insights from guides like Marica and Mikelle, many find it a worthwhile investment.

Plus, the reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and the authentic experience they provide. From lively storytelling to thoughtful explanations, the guides deepen your understanding of Saint Francis and the town’s spiritual legacy. The small-group size fosters a more intimate, engaging atmosphere—rare in larger, busier tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those interested in religious history, art, and architecture. It’s perfect if you want a structured, informative day with a focus on Saint Francis and Assisi’s cultural treasures. It also suits travelers who appreciate engaging guides and want to explore at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves walking on hills and cobblestone streets, so it’s best for those with reasonable mobility. If you’re traveling with children or prefer a more leisurely, flexible schedule, this guided tour offers a satisfying balance of structured visits and expert insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but walking on hills and uneven streets is part of the experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from 30 to 45 minutes, giving enough time to explore and listen to the guide’s commentary without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fee to the Basilica of San Francesco (€3) is not included. The guide will explain the sites from outside if interior access is restricted.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned minivan is provided in the afternoon after the main sightseeing.

What should I wear?
A modest dress code is required for places of worship—cover shoulders and knees. This is especially important during religious holidays when interior visits might be restricted.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if needed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of expert guides, a well-planned itinerary covering major sites, and the intimate small-group setting make it a memorable and insightful experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal during the day.

Final Thoughts

This Assisi full-day tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience through one of Italy’s most inspiring towns. From the stunning basilicas to peaceful hermitages, it covers the spiritual landmarks that define Assisi’s character. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge turn historical facts into compelling stories, making the visit more meaningful.

For those interested in religious history, art, and authentic Italian charm, this tour provides excellent value. Its small-group format fosters a personal atmosphere that encourages questions and genuine engagement. While it involves some walking and modest costs for entrance fees, most travelers find that the depth of insight and the beautiful scenery more than compensate.

If you’re looking for a day that combines educational richness, spiritual reflection, and breathtaking views, this tour should be at the top of your Assisi itinerary. It’s a perfect choice for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want a meaningful connection to Saint Francis’s legacy and Assisi’s timeless beauty.

Note: Always check the local schedule for church restrictions during religious holidays or Sundays, as interior visits to some sites may be limited.