When visiting Assisi, the guided tours cut straight to what matters in this remarkable Umbrian hill town. The must-do experience is a private walking tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis – its world-class frescoes and spiritual significance come alive with expert explanation. For something different, the countryside tours shine: tuk-tuk rides wind through medieval streets, while truffle hunting excursions and quad bike adventures showcase the stunning rural landscape. I especially love the small-group format most operators use, typically 8-12 people max, which keeps things intimate and allows for good interaction with guides. The best tours offer easy cancellation and English-speaking local experts who know their history cold. Let’s explore the top-rated tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Assisi offers a variety of private guided tours, including in-depth explorations of the Basilica of Saint Francis and the city’s history and landmarks.
- Basilica of Saint Francis tours provide access to the tomb of Saint Francis and stunning frescoes, ideal for art and architecture enthusiasts.
- Walking and city tours, such as the Private Guided City Tour and Old Town Guided Walking Tour, offer immersive experiences and insights into Assisi’s heritage.
- Unique experiences like the Truffle Hunting Experience and Guided Quad Tour with Aperitif provide opportunities to explore the Umbrian countryside.
- Flexible cancellation policies and a focus on small group sizes ensure personalized and stress-free tour experiences in Assisi.
Assisi Best Highlights a Private Tour With Licensed Tour Guide
While exploring Assisi’s rich history and religious significance, travelers can embark on a guided tour that highlights the city’s best landmarks.
This private tour provides a rundown of the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, where visitors can witness the cultural revolution initiated by the renowned saint. Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Basilica of St. Clare, a significant Christian landmark.
Throughout the experience, travelers will have the opportunity to capture panoramic views of Assisi, seeing the city’s picturesque atmosphere.
The tour is led by a licensed guide, ensuring a well-informed and engaging exploration of the area. For those needing to cancel, a full refund is available if the request is made 24 hours in advance.
Interested travelers can find more information, including the product code (270542P1), by visiting the Viator Help Centre or the tour’s dedicated FAQs section. Customer support is available to address any further inquiries.
Read our full review: Assisi Best Highlights a Private Tour With Licensed Tour Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Assisi Private Guided City Tour
A private guided city tour of Assisi offers travelers an in-depth exploration of the city’s rich history and religious significance. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars, this 3.5-hour tour by tuk-tuk provides an intimate and personalized experience, allowing visitors to explore the life of St. Francis and the city’s iconic landmarks.
The tour includes visits to the St. Francis Basilica, where guests can admire the stunning frescoes and architecture. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the Assisi Underground, uncovering the hidden layers of the city’s history.
Plus, the tour covers other key sites, such as the Piazza del Comune and the Rocca Maggiore, providing a comprehensive understanding of Assisi’s cultural and architectural heritage.
With a highly-rated guide and a comfortable mode of transportation, this private tour offers an exceptional way to experience the spiritual heart of Umbria. Priced at $88.48, it provides excellent value for those seeking an immersive and personalized exploration of Assisi.
Read our full review: Assisi Private Guided City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Basilica of Saint Francis Tour With Official Guide
Travelers eager to explore the rich history and spiritual significance of Assisi can embark on a guided tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Constructed in the 13th century and completed in 1253, the Basilica blends Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles and houses the tomb of Saint Francis, founder of the Franciscan Order.
Visitors can admire the stunning frescoes by renowned artists like Giotto, Cimabue, and Simone Martini in the Upper Basilica, while the somber Lower Basilica provides a crypt-like ambiance.
The 48-meter bell tower stands as a prominent landmark, offering panoramic views.
Guided tours provide in-depth historical context and insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
Daily masses and religious services are open to the public, and a gift shop offers religious artifacts and souvenirs.
With an overall rating of 4.6 from 18 reviews, the Basilica of Saint Francis tour promises a memorable experience that celebrates Assisi’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Read our full review: Basilica of Saint Francis Tour With Official Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Assisi: Private Guided Tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis
Visitors seeking an immersive experience can embark on a private guided tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi. This 1.5-hour tour offers an in-depth exploration of the iconic cathedral, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way in English or Italian.
Priced at $61.42 per person, the tour grants access to the Basilica’s highlights, including the Gothic-style Upper Church and the Lower Church adorned with Cimabue and Simone Martini’s frescoes. Guests will have the opportunity to admire Giotto’s masterful frescoes, which marked a significant transition in the evolution of modern realistic art.
The tour also delves into the life of Saint Francis, the renowned figure who dedicated his life to the poor after a mystical vision. While the tour includes entry tickets and earphones for an enhanced experience, it’s important to note that it isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves navigating stairs.
With a 5/5 rating based on 16 reviews, this private tour offers a compelling and informative exploration of the Basilica of Saint Francis.
Read our full review: Assisi: Private Guided Tour of the Basilica of Saint Francis Review
Book now: Check availability
Visit ASSISI on Foot With the Audio Guide App for Smartphone
Though travelers seeking a self-guided exploration of Assisi can opt for the audio guide app, it offers much more than just audios.
The app provides 22 audio contents totaling 70 minutes, covering the city’s major points of interest. Notably, there’s no expiration date, allowing users to access the content whenever they please. The audios are available both online and offline, and the app also includes the text of the audio contents for easy reference.
Beyond the audios, the app features an informative section on city services and a quiz section for interactive learning.
The audio guide focuses on providing a general introduction to Assisi and its local cuisine. The flexibility to start from any preferred point of interest and the lack of a set endpoint encourage independent exploration of the city.
With accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access, the audio-guided experience caters to most travelers. However, it’s important to note that the product is non-refundable, and no changes are allowed after booking.
Read our full review: Visit ASSISI on Foot With the Audio Guide App for Smartphone Review
Book now: Check availability
Assisi: Old Town Guided Walking Tour
The Assisi: Old Town Guided Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the historic city. Lasting 2.5 hours, this top-rated tour (4.8 rating from 168 reviews) provides an in-depth look at the charming streets and iconic landmarks of Assisi.
Guided by local experts, you will visit the St. Francis Basilica, one of the city’s crown jewels, and learn about the life and legacy of the revered saint. The tour also covers other must-see sights, such as the central Piazza del Comune, the medieval Rocca Maggiore fortress, and the Church of Santa Chiara.
Priced at $52.05, this guided walking tour is an excellent way to explore Assisi’s rich cultural and religious heritage. With a 4.8 rating, it’s clear this experience offers tremendous value and an engaging introduction to the remarkable historic town.
Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or the life of St. Francis, this tour is a fantastic option to consider during your time in Assisi.
Read our full review: Assisi: Old Town Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Tour of Assisi
Guided tours of Assisi provide visitors with an immersive exploration of the historic town’s renowned landmarks and cultural heritage.
For inquiries, travelers can visit the Viator Help Centre, referencing the product code 235470P1. Booking assistance is available, and FAQs and support resources can be accessed online.
Reviews of the guided tour average 3.0 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, and one traveler, Maria_M, praised the experience in October 2021.
The starting price for the guided tour is $201.54, subject to availability and potential additional fees. Discounts or promotions may be offered. Payment methods include credit cards and PayPal.
The tour features guided exploration of Assisi’s historical landmarks, with insightful commentary from experienced guides. Small group sizes enhance the personal experience, and the tour typically lasts several hours.
Viator’s terms and conditions, including cancellation policies and liability limitations, apply.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of Assisi Review
Book now: Check availability
Truffle Hunting Experience With a Guide
One of the best ways to learn about Assisi’s culinary heritage is through a guided truffle hunting experience. This 2-hour activity takes you into the countryside with a knowledgeable guide and trained dogs to search for the elusive white and black truffles that thrive in the region.
The group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized encounter where you’ll learn about different truffle varieties, their growth environments, and proper storage and cooking methods.
As the dogs sniff out the precious fungi underground, you’ll have the chance to follow their lead and witness the exciting truffle discovery process firsthand. Refreshments like water, beverages, and snacks are provided during the experience.
Costing from €60.00 per person, this activity can be booked in advance with the option to cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the unique opportunity to connect with Assisi’s gastronomic traditions.
Read our full review: Truffle Hunting Experience With a Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Assisi: Saint Francis Basilica Guided Tour
Although Assisi is renowned for its rich history and religious significance, the highlight for many visitors is undoubtedly the awe-inspiring Saint Francis Basilica.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of this iconic landmark, the Assisi: St. Francis Basilica Guided Tour is a popular choice. This 2-hour tour allows visitors to explore the basilica’s intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and the crypt where Saint Francis himself is buried.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into the life and legacy of the beloved saint, as well as the basilica’s role in Assisi’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars by previous participants, the tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience. Priced at $114.51 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Whether you’re a religious pilgrim or simply a lover of art and architecture, the Assisi: St. Francis Basilica Guided Tour is a must-do activity for any visit to this enchanting Italian town.
Read our full review: Assisi: Saint Francis Basilica Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Quad Tour With Aperitif in the Woods
For those seeking a more adventurous way to explore Assisi’s scenic surroundings, the Guided Quad Tour with Aperitif in the Woods offers an exhilarating alternative to the spiritual focus of the St. Francis Basilica.
The 2-hour guided tour takes small groups of up to 10 participants through the Umbrian countryside on quad bikes, led by an expert instructor. No special driving skills are required, as long as you have a valid driver’s license. Those without a license can join as passengers.
The tour includes a refreshing aperitif and the CONI registration fee. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or children under 5, but sports shoes are recommended.
You can book your spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Check availability for starting times.
This nature trail adventure in the S. Francesco wood promises an adrenaline-fueled experience amidst Assisi’s picturesque landscapes.
Read our full review: Guided Quad Tour With Aperitif in the Woods Review
Book now: Check availability
Assisi by Driver and Guide. Panoramic and Historical Tour
Discover the rich history and stunning panoramas of Assisi on this comprehensive 2.5-hour guided tour. Priced from $192.58 per person, this small-group experience (limited to 7 participants) offers a deep dive into the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Basilica of St. Francis to the ancient Roman Temple of Minerva.
Led by a private, official tour guide, you’ll enjoy guided tours of key sites, including the serene Lower Basilica, the architecturally beautiful Basilica of St. Clare, and the peaceful San Rufino Cathedral.
Between stops, relax in a chauffeur-driven van as you’re whisked away to the next destination, including a photo opportunity atop the Rocca Maggiore fortress.
With included entrance tickets and commentary available in both English and Italian, this tour provides an immersive and informative look at Assisi’s rich heritage.
And with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book with confidence.
Read our full review: Assisi by Driver and Guide. Panoramic and Historical Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Accessible Are the Tours for Individuals With Disabilities?
Most guided tours in Assisi offer accessibility for individuals with disabilities, though the level of accessibility may vary. Visitors should inquire about specific accommodations and plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Rates for Children or Seniors?
Many guided tour providers offer discounted rates for children and seniors. Prices may be reduced by 10-20% for these groups, making the tours more accessible. Travelers should inquire about specific policies when booking to take advantage of any available discounts.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Guided Tours?
The average group size for the guided tours varies, but typically ranges from 10 to 15 people. This allows for a more personalized experience while maintaining a manageable group size for navigating the historic sites.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Participants can typically bring their own food and drinks on the guided tours. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommendations regarding outside refreshments. Consuming food and beverages during the tour is generally permitted.
Are the Tours Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The tours are available in multiple languages, including Italian, French, Spanish, and German. Visitors can typically request a language preference when booking their tour to ensure they receive a guided experience in their desired language.
The Sum Up
Assisi offers a variety of engaging guided tours to suit different preferences. From private city tours to basilica visits with official guides, there’s something for all. Visitors can also explore the area on foot with an audio guide, go truffle hunting, or take a guided quad tour. No matter your interests, Assisi provides an opportunity to discover its rich history and beautiful sights with the help of knowledgeable guides.