Sanctuaries and Franciscan Sites surround Assisi

Exploring Assisi’s sacred sites can be overwhelming, especially when the Basilica of Saint Francis is crowded with visitors. This tour offers a peaceful, in-depth look at some of the most meaningful Franciscan spots outside the busy city center. It’s ideal for those who want a quieter, more contemplative experience away from the crowds, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides passionate about sharing Franciscan spirituality.

What we love about this tour is how it balances authenticity and comfort. You’re transported comfortably between sites, allowing you to focus on the serenity of these spiritual places. Plus, the small-group format means more personalized attention and deeper insights from your guide. However, if you’re expecting a quick, whirlwind visit or prefer exploring independently, this guided tour might feel a little structured.

It’s best suited for travelers interested in Franciscan history, spirituality, and authentic experiences. If you’re keen to understand the roots of Saint Francis’ humility and devotion, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with his legacy.

Key Points

• Peaceful Experience: Visiting sanctuaries outside Assisi’s bustling center allows for reflection.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding with passionate storytelling.
• Valuable Insights: Learn about Saint Francis’ life and spiritual practices at key sites.
• Comfortable Transport: All transportation is included, saving time and hassle.
• Authentic Visits: Focused visits to San Damiano, Porziuncola, and Carceri Hermitage.
• Small Group: Intimate setting with up to 15 travelers for a personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Assisi Franciscan Tour

When we first learned about this tour, we appreciated its focus on some of the most important yet peaceful sanctuaries outside Assisi’s busy medieval walls. What makes this experience stand out is the way it balances ease of access with authentic spirituality—all within about three hours. The entire experience is designed to deepen your understanding of Saint Francis’ life and his simple but profound message, away from the tourist throngs.

Booking and Price Point

At $208.23 per person, this tour offers a well-curated, intimate journey into Franciscan sites with a professional guide and transport included. Many travelers book about 61 days in advance, indicating its popularity among those planning ahead. For the price, you gain not just access but expert insights, comfortable transportation, and a chance to see lesser-visited sites that are often overlooked in larger city tours.

What’s Included?

With the tour, you get admission tickets to all three sites—San Damiano, Porziuncola, and Carceri Hermitage—plus a guided experience. The small group, capped at 15, ensures personalized attention. Plus, the use of mobile tickets simplifies entry, keeping things straightforward and stress-free.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Start at the Basilica di Santa Chiara, in the heart of Assisi, and finish back at the same spot, making logistics simple. The transportation is arranged, meaning you don’t need to worry about navigating public transit or finding your own way to sites like the Hermitage of Carceri, which is about 4 km from the city center.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

San Damiano

Our journey begins at San Damiano, a 12th-century church with a monastery that played a pivotal role in Franciscan history. Built in the 12th century, it’s famously linked to Saint Clare, who established her community there. The guide explains how Saint Clare’s community was the first of the Franciscan women, highlighting the importance of women in Franciscan spirituality.

Reviewers appreciated the quiet and contemplative atmosphere here, contrasting sharply with the crowded streets of Assisi. One noted, “The entire experience of learning more about St Francis’ life was enriched by our guide’s competence.”

Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

Next, the tour visits the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, a grand church built to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims. It’s the seventh largest Christian church, but its size underscores the scale of Franciscan influence. Sitting within its walls is the Porziuncola, a tiny chapel where Saint Francis founded his movement, which remains a powerful symbol of humility and devotion.

Though the basilica’s grandeur might seem at odds with St. Francis’ teachings of simplicity, the guide explains that the building was designed to serve the faithful, creating a space where everyone can connect spiritually. Visitors often comment on the majestic yet accessible feel of this site, with one reviewer mentioning, “The basilica is impressive but still feels welcoming, embodying both reverence and community.”

Eremo Delle Carceri

The final stop takes you 4 km outside Assisi to the Hermitage of Carceri, a peaceful retreat where Saint Francis and his followers meditated and prayed. The white building and its surroundings—mountains and quiet lanes—offer a stark contrast to the city’s busier sites.

Here, the guide shares stories of Francis’ prayer life and the importance of solitude, which many visitors find especially moving. “First, Francesca was a wonderful guide,” one review states, “she was very knowledgeable and passionate about Francis and Assisi.” The Hermitage’s atmosphere fosters reflection, making it a perfect finale for those seeking spiritual inspiration.

The Authentic Experience

Throughout the tour, the guides emphasize Franciscan humility and devotion, bringing to life the saint’s simple yet profound approach to life. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Francesca for their passion, knowledge, and attentiveness to what visitors want to experience.

The tour’s pace allows for meaningful exploration without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of admission tickets means no long lines or surprises at each site, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—connecting with Franciscan spirituality.

The Value of This Tour

At its price, this experience offers more than just sightseeing. It’s a chance to reflect, learn, and connect with the core values of Saint Francis—humility, simplicity, and love. The small-group setting is particularly valuable for those who want a more personal, insightful visit compared to large, busier tours.

The transportation included is a significant perk, saving you time and effort, especially considering the Hermitage is a bit away from Assisi’s center. This convenience allows you to enjoy the sites fully, without worrying about navigation or parking.

Authenticity and Learning

What sets this tour apart is the guided commentary—not just facts but stories and insights that bring Franciscan life to light. As one reviewer noted, their guide Francesca was “very knowledgeable and passionate,” making the experience memorable.

Suitable for Different Types of Travelers

Whether you’re a devout Franciscan or just interested in history and spirituality, you’ll find this tour enriching. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer a quiet, contemplative approach over the hustle of the city’s more popular sites.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. This tour offers a balanced blend of authentic spirituality, expert guidance, and convenient logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds, deepen their understanding of Saint Francis, and see key sites that reveal the true essence of his life and teachings.

The small-group format fosters a more intimate experience, and the knowledgeable guides make the history and spirituality come alive. If you’re seeking a meaningful, well-organized way to explore Assisi’s Franciscan heritage, this tour provides genuine value.

It’s especially ideal for those with a deep interest in Franciscan spirituality or anyone wanting a peaceful, insightful visit to Assisi’s sacred sites. Just remember to book in advance, as popularity suggests it fills up quickly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport between the sites, making it easy to visit places outside the city center without worry.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, offering enough time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join, but a child rate applies only when sharing with two paying adults.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Basilica di Santa Chiara and ends back at the same location, simplifying logistics.

Are tickets included?
Yes, admission tickets to San Damiano, Porziuncola, and Carceri Hermitage are included.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the small-group size makes it adaptable for various mobility levels.

What makes this tour special?
The passionate guides, peaceful sites, and focus on authentic Franciscan spirituality create a deep, meaningful experience that differs from standard city tours.