Assisi (St. Francis and St. Claire) and Cascia (St. Rita) Private Tour from Rome

Exploring Italy’s Spiritual Heartland: Assisi and Cascia on a Private Day Tour from Rome

Taking a full day to visit Assisi and Cascia from Rome can be a rewarding way to deepen your understanding of Italy’s spiritual and cultural heritage. This private tour offers a carefully curated experience, combining visits to historic basilicas, revered saints’ tombs, and charming hilltop towns—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and an expert English-speaking guide.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the seamless blend of convenience and authenticity: all logistics taken care of, allowing you to focus on the awe-inspiring sights and stories. However, a potential consideration is that the tour runs for around 10 to 11 hours, so it’s best suited for those who have good energy for a long day of sightseeing.

This tour suits travelers who love history, religious sites, and scenic views, especially those eager to explore beyond Rome’s city limits. If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized day that dives into Italy’s religious roots and scenic beauty, this trip is hard to beat.

Key Points

• Comfortable Private Transport: Luxury, air-conditioned vehicles with a private chauffeur ensure a smooth, climate-controlled journey.
• In-Depth Visits: Multiple basilicas and sites, including St. Francis’s Basilica and Santa Rita’s Shrine, provide rich insights and photo opportunities.
• Expert Guidance: An English-speaking tour escort (except on Sundays due to masses) helps interpret the sites’ significance.
• Stunning Scenery: You’ll enjoy picturesque views of rolling hills and forests that make the journey visually rewarding.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off from your Rome hotel simplify logistics, making this a stress-free experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to lesser-known sites like Carlo Acutis’s grave add a personal touch to the spiritual exploration.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The day kicks off with pickup from your Rome hotel, setting the tone for a hassle-free adventure. From there, the journey begins through the undulating hills of Umbria, where lush forests of Monte Subasio stretch endlessly—something you’ll enjoy observing from the comfort of your private vehicle.

Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco d’Assisi

Our first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica of St. Francis, a monument that embodies the town’s medieval charm. Built quickly after St. Francis’s death, this basilica is more than a church—it’s a pilgrimage site, famously designed under the guidance of Brother Elias, who was both an architect and a key figure in the Franciscan order.

Most travelers, including a reviewer who called the experience “¡una experiencia inolvidable,” highlight the emotional impact of visiting the basilica. You’ll see the tomb where the saint is buried and marvel at the frescoes that adorn the walls—artwork dating from the 12th to 14th centuries that vividly depict biblical scenes and the life of St. Francis. Our guide, Giuseppe, was praised for explaining these stories with precision and passion, making the history come alive.

Basilica di Santa Chiara

Next is the Basilica of St. Clare, an elegant pink stone structure built with the characteristic rock from Monte Subasio. This church holds precious frescoes from the 12th to 14th centuries, adding to the visual feast. One highlight here is the Crucifix in the chapel—a piece that, according to tradition, called St. Francis to reform the church, perfectly illustrating how art and legend intertwine in Assisi.

Travelers have remarked that visiting Assisi’s key basilicas feels like stepping into a living cathedral of stories, with the guide’s insights helping to connect the dots between faith, history, and art.

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli and the Porziuncola

A short drive takes us to Santa Maria degli Angeli, notable for its vast scale—it’s the seventh-largest Christian church worldwide. Here, the famous Porziuncola chapel, the very birthplace of the Franciscan movement, is a must-see. It’s a humble, yet powerful site where St. Francis founded his order and where he died in 1226. The basilica’s grandeur contrasts with the simplicity of the original chapel, but both evoke a sense of spiritual purpose.

The basilica’s size allows for throngs of pilgrims, which is a testament to its ongoing relevance. The experience of standing in the space where St. Francis passed away is often described as moving and humbling.

Basilica di Santa Rita in Cascia

The journey then leads to Cascia, a captivating hilltop village famous for Santa Rita, born in 1381. She originally wanted to join an Augustinian convent but was compelled into a marriage that lasted 18 difficult years. Her story of forgiveness and faith resonates deeply with visitors. Her tomb, located in the basilica dedicated to her, draws pilgrims seeking miracles and solace.

Some travelers point out the emotional impact of visiting Santa Rita’s shrine, especially given her story of perseverance and forgiveness. The guide offers insights into her life’s trials, adding depth to the visit.

The Sanctuary della Spogliazione and Carlo Acutis

The final stop is the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore, or the Sanctuary of Carlo Acutis. This young beatified saint, who died at only 15 from leukemia, is revered for his devout faith and his love for Eucharistic miracles. His grave, in accordance with his wishes, is visited by many who seek inspiration from his example.

Guests who visited this site note the poignant sense of youth and devotion that Carlo’s story embodies. It’s a fitting ending that combines faith with the modern age.

How the Tour Works in Practice

Transportation is a standout feature—luxury, air-conditioned cars with a private driver make the long day comfortable and stress-free. This is especially helpful when traveling through Umbrian hills, where the views alone justify the trip.

Timing is structured to maximize each stop, though the explicit mention of two hours at the Assisi basilicas and one hour at Santa Rita suggests a pace that balances depth with practicality. Keep in mind, the tour is not guided in the basilicas on Sundays due to mass, but the private escort still provides rich commentary outside those times.

The group size is private, meaning you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. The guide, while not specified by name in all reviews, is noted for his clarity and enthusiasm, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Analyzing the Value

For $954.12 per person, this tour might seem steep, but considering the all-inclusive logistics, private transport, entrance fees, and expert guidance, the value becomes more tangible. Visiting multiple basilicas and two distinct towns in one day, with comfort and personalized attention, offers a comprehensive spiritual and cultural experience that’s hard to match independently.

The fact that most travelers book this tour about 89 days in advance shows its popularity and perceived value. It’s ideal for those who treasure in-depth exploration, comfort, and authentic encounters with Italy’s religious landmarks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with spiritual depth. It suits those who don’t mind a long day of sightseeing but prefer to have logistics handled and information provided by an expert guide. It’s especially appealing to history buffs, art lovers, and faith-based travelers eager to see the stories behind Italy’s iconic saints.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, insightful way to explore Italy’s sacred sites beyond Rome, this tour offers a meaningful, beautifully organized experience.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip to Assisi and Cascia offers a rare chance to connect with Italy’s religious heritage in a comfortable, well-organized setting. From the stunning frescoes and ancient basilicas to the heartfelt stories of saints like Francis, Clare, Rita, and Carlo Acutis, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation of Italy’s spiritual landscape.

The convenience of private transport, the flexibility of an expert guide, and the chance to see some of Italy’s most treasured religious sites make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking depth and authenticity. The views, the stories, and the atmosphere of these towns combine to create a memorable experience that many travelers find truly inspiring.

Whether you’re a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, this tour offers a comprehensive, respectful look into the stories that shaped Italy’s spiritual identity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, especially if shared with two paying adults, but keep in mind the long day and walking involved.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local cafes during free time.

What should I wear for visiting the basilicas?
Modest clothing is recommended—shoulders and knees covered—as these are religious sites.

Can I customize the visit or extend my time at certain sites?
This is a private tour, so you might be able to discuss preferences with your guide, but the itinerary is generally fixed to fit the day’s schedule.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, including transport and all visits.

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Rome hotel are included, adding to convenience.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all basilicas and sites listed include admission, so no extra tickets are necessary.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund.

Is this tour available on Sundays?
Yes, but note that guide commentary inside basilicas isn’t available on Sundays due to masses, although the guide still provides insights outside.

This detailed, authentic look at the Assisi and Cascia private tour highlights its value for travelers eager for a meaningful, scenic, and spiritual day outside Rome.