Assisi private tour: home of St. Francis, a place of Peace

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, particularly to the enchanting region of Umbria, a private walking tour of Assisi offers a chance to walk through centuries of spiritual and architectural history. This guided experience, focused on the life and legacy of St. Francis, promises not only visits to iconic basilicas but also a taste of authentic Umbrian village life. We’re here to help you understand what makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your itinerary—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Two things we especially like about this tour: first, the chance to see the famous frescoes by Giotto in the Basilica of St. Francis, which are considered masterpieces of medieval art. Second, the intimate, private setting allows for a more relaxed and detailed exploration, perfect for those who want to go beyond the typical tourist crowds. One possible consideration is that the tour is just two hours long, so it’s a brisk overview rather than an in-depth deep dive into Assisi’s many sights. Still, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who value quality over quantity and want a knowledgeable guide to illuminate Assisi’s spiritual and medieval highlights. If you’re interested in art, history, or the life of St. Francis himself, this tour is well suited for you.

Key Points

• Focus on St. Francis: The tour centers around Assisi’s most famous son, visiting the basilicas and relics associated with him.
• Rich visual experience: Admire Giotto’s frescoes, which are considered some of the most important medieval artworks.
• Authentic medieval atmosphere: Wander through Assisi’s narrow streets, squares, and historic sites that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
• Expert guidance: A licensed, knowledgeable guide offers context and stories behind each site.
• Convenient private group: The tour is tailored to your group size (up to 20), ensuring a personalized experience.
• Value for money: For $385.17, you gain access to multiple key sites and an expert guide, combining convenience and insight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Assisi Experience

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour begins at Piazza Santa Chiara, a lively square with a charming fountain, and then proceeds to the Basilica of St. Francis, which is arguably the jewel of the tour. Inside, you’ll find the Upper Church in Gothic style, decorated with Giotto’s frescoes illustrating biblical scenes and the life of St. Francis. These paintings are more than just art; they’re a visual storytelling portal into the religious imagination of medieval Europe. Travelers often mention how the frescoes by Giotto are breathtaking, with Andrea’s review noting: “Tutto il nostro gruppo è stato super soddisfatto,” emphasizing the guide’s ability to make these complex works easily understandable.

The Lower Church, in Romanesque style, is equally impressive with frescoes and stuccos in gold, along with the crypt of St. Francis carved into the rock. Here, the tomb and relics of the saint are housed, offering a spiritual connection to the centuries of pilgrims who have visited. This site’s importance isn’t just religious; it’s an artist’s and historian’s treasure chest that encapsulates medieval architecture and devotion.

Exploring Assisi’s Medieval Streets and Squares

After soaking in the basilica’s majesty, you’ll wander through the historic center, discovering Assisi’s medieval streets, temples, towers, and fountains. The Town Square (Piazza del Comune), once a Roman forum, is an open-air museum with the Palace of the Capitano del Popolo, the Captain’s Tower, and the Fountain of the Three Lions. The Temple of Minerva, transformed into the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, showcases a blend of ancient and baroque styles, which you’ll appreciate for their architectural history.

The Cathedral of San Rufino is another highlight—this oldest church in Assisi is where St. Francis and St. Clare were baptized. Its Gothic architecture, Roman remains, and the simple beauty of the interior make it a very meaningful stop for those interested in the roots of Franciscan spirituality.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Santa Chiara, founded by St. Clare herself. Inside, the Crucifix that spoke to St. Francis in San Damiano and the relics of St. Clare provide a deeply spiritual ending to your journey through Assisi.

The Practicalities and What You’ll Get

This private tour includes a licensed guide who will share stories and insights that are difficult to find in guidebooks. The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable introduction, especially if you’re tight on time but want quality over quantity. Starting from Piazza Santa Chiara, the meeting point is convenient, and the tour ends back at the same spot, so logistics are straightforward.

While ticket prices for museums and attractions are not included, the overall value lies in the guided experience—your guide’s knowledge enhances the visit, turning a sightseeing walk into a meaningful encounter. As one reviewer notes, “Miriam ci ha illustrato e spiegato le bellezze di Assisi,” highlighting the value of a good guide.

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Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a focused, meaningful introduction to Assisi’s religious and medieval sites without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable for those interested in art, history, or spirituality, and who prefer a private, customized experience. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group, this will give you a personalized touch.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $385.17, this private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Assisi’s spiritual core and medieval architecture. The inclusion of frescoes by Giotto and visits to St. Francis’ basilica and relics make it a compelling choice for those with even a passing interest in art and religious history. The knowledgeable guide ensures you don’t just see the sights, but understand their significance, which makes the experience richer.

What truly sets this tour apart is the small-group feel, allowing for questions and interaction that larger tours often lack. The pace is manageable, and the stops are carefully curated to highlight the most meaningful sites. It’s a great way to get an authentic taste of Assisi in a short amount of time, especially if you’re a first-timer.

However, if you’re a serious art or history buff who wants to explore every nook and cranny, this tour may serve as a starting point rather than a comprehensive exploration. Still, for most visitors, it strikes a wonderful balance between depth and practicality.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy history and art will find the frescoes and medieval streets engaging. The short duration also makes it easier for younger visitors to stay interested.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Italian?
Absolutely. The tour is conducted in English, and the guide is licensed, ensuring clear communication.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because you’ll be exploring Assisi’s narrow streets and churches. Dress appropriately for church visits—cover shoulders and knees if required.

Are tickets for the basilicas included?
No, museum and attraction tickets are not included, so you should plan for additional costs if you wish to enter certain sites.

How flexible are the starting times?
Availability varies, so check the schedule when booking. The tour duration is fixed at about 2 hours, and starting times depend on current bookings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option for uncertain travel plans.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, tailored to your group, which means more personalized attention and flexibility in the itinerary.

What makes this tour stand out from other Assisi walks?
The focus on St. Francis’ life, the inclusion of Giotto’s frescoes, and the personalized guidance make it a richer, more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

In choosing this tour, you’re investing in a thoughtfully curated experience that combines art, spirituality, and Umbrian charm. It’s best suited for those who want to understand Assisi’s significance without the rush of larger, more generic sightseeing options. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper appreciation, this private walk offers clarity, beauty, and authentic insights into one of Italy’s most beloved towns.

You can check availability for your dates here: