Assisi by Driver and Guide. Panoramic and Historical Tour

Assisi, the enchanting medieval town in Italy’s Umbria region, has long captivated visitors with its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. The "Assisi by Driver and Guide: Panoramic and Historical Tour" offers an intimate exploration of this remarkable destination, guiding travelers through its iconic landmarks at a leisurely pace. With a knowledgeable local guide and comfortable transportation, participants can enjoy the town’s storied past, from the majestic Basilica of Saint Francis to the captivating Temple of Minerva. As they uncover the stories that imbue Assisi‘s every street and square, it becomes clear why this remarkable place has inspired generations of pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Private Car With Driver Services In Assisi.

Key Points

• A 2.5-hour guided tour of Assisi’s key religious and historical sites, including the Basilica of Saint Francis, Temple of Minerva, and Basilica of Saint Clare.
• Transportation via chauffeur-driven car and van, with entrance tickets to St. Francis Basilica included.
• Opportunities to explore architectural features, religious artwork, and panoramic views from landmarks like Rocca Maggiore and San Rufino Cathedral.
• Tour available in English and Italian, with a maximum of 7 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comprehensive introduction to Assisi’s cultural heritage, focusing on the spiritual significance of the sites and the life of Saint Francis.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Assisi by driver and guide: Panoramic and Historical Tour" offers a comprehensive 2.5-hour exploration of the historic city, with a maximum group size of 7 participants.

Priced from $201.32 per person, the tour is available in English and Italian and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include guided tours of the Upper and Lower Basilica of Saint Francis, the Temple of Minerva, the Basilica of Saint Clare, the Rocca Maggiore, and the San Rufino Cathedral.

Transportation between sites is provided via chauffeur-driven car and van. The tour includes entrance tickets to the St. Francis Basilica and is led by a private official guide, ensuring an informative and immersive experience.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the Piazza inferiore di San Francesco (Basilica of Saint Francis, Assisi), the tour kicks off with a 45-minute guided exploration of the Upper and Lower Basilica, culminating in a visit to the tomb of St. Francis. Next, guests embark on a 10-minute guided tour of the Temple of Minerva, showcasing Assisi’s Roman heritage. The tour then moves to the Basilica of Saint Clare, where a 20-minute guided visit highlights a stunning 13th-century crucifix. A 10-minute photo stop at the Rocca Maggiore offers breathtaking views, before concluding with a 10-minute guided tour of the 12th-century Romanesque San Rufino Cathedral.

Site	Duration
Basilica of Saint Francis	45 minutes
Temple of Minerva	10 minutes
Basilica of Saint Clare	20 minutes
Rocca Maggiore	10 minutes
San Rufino Cathedral	10 minutes

Starting Point

At the Piazza inferiore di San Francesco, home to the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, the tour begins with a 45-minute guided exploration of the Upper and Lower Basilica.

Visitors will learn about the architecture, artworks, and significance of this iconic religious site, which houses the tomb of Saint Francis himself.

The guide provides in-depth commentary, bringing the history and spiritual importance of the Basilica to life.

This introductory segment sets the stage for the remainder of the tour, immersing participants in the rich cultural and religious heritage of Assisi.

Temple of Minerva

Next, the group moves on to the Temple of Minerva, a well-preserved Roman temple dating back to the 1st century BC.

The guide leads the group on a 10-minute guided tour, showcasing the temple’s impressive architectural features. Visitors marvel at the temple’s sturdy columns, intricate carvings, and the stunning facade that remains intact after centuries.

The guide provides fascinating insights into the temple’s history, including its original purpose as a place of worship for the Roman goddess Minerva.

Guests are then invited to:

1. Admire the temple’s harmonious proportions and classical design.
2. Imagine the vibrant religious ceremonies that once took place within its walls.
3. Reflect on the enduring legacy of Assisi’s rich Roman heritage.
4. Snap memorable photos to immortalize this iconic landmark.

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Basilica of Saint Clare

From the Temple of Minerva, the group then moves on to the Basilica of Saint Clare.

This 13th-century Gothic structure is known for its stunning 13th-century crucifix. During the guided tour, which lasts approximately 20 minutes, visitors will learn about the basilica’s history and the significance of the religious artwork within.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, highlighting the architectural features and the role the basilica played in the life of Saint Clare, a close friend and follower of Saint Francis.

After the tour, the group boards the van once more, heading towards the next destination, the Rocca Maggiore.

Rocca Maggiore

With a short van ride, the group arrives at the Rocca Maggiore, one of Assisi’s most iconic landmarks. This impressive 14th-century fortress commands breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

After a 10-minute photo stop, visitors have the opportunity to:

1. Admire the striking medieval architecture and defensive walls of the Rocca Maggiore.
2. Capture panoramic vistas of Assisi’s picturesque rooftops, churches, and rolling hills.
3. Explore the fortress’s interior, where they can imagine the life of its former inhabitants.
4. Gain a deeper appreciation for Assisi’s rich history and strategic importance throughout the centuries.

The Rocca Maggiore offers a captivating glimpse into Assisi’s past and a chance to savor the city’s stunning natural beauty.

San Rufino Cathedral

After the photo stop at the Rocca Maggiore, the tour group makes its way to the stunning San Rufino Cathedral.

This 12th-century Romanesque gem features intricate stone carvings and a well-preserved façade. The guide leads the group on a 10-minute tour, highlighting the cathedral’s historical significance and unique architectural details.

Visitors admire the harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements that give the San Rufino Cathedral its timeless charm.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Piazza del Comune, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Assisi’s rich religious heritage and architectural marvels.

Transportation Details

The tour’s transportation details include chauffeur-driven car transfers between sites.

Van transfers are provided for the following journeys:

1. Between the Basilica and Temple of Minerva, a 10-minute ride.
2. Between the Temple of Minerva and Basilica of Saint Clare, a 5-minute ride.
3. Between the Basilica of Saint Clare and Rocca Maggiore, a 5-minute ride.
4. Between Rocca Maggiore and San Rufino Cathedral, a 5-minute ride.

This seamless transportation ensures a comfortable and efficient exploration of Assisi’s key landmarks throughout the 2.5-hour tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Different Starting or Ending Location?

Yes, customers can request a different starting or ending location for this tour. The tour provider is typically able to accommodate such requests, though it may incur an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about this option when booking the tour.

Is the Tour Guide Able to Provide Commentary in Other Languages?

The tour guide can provide commentary in both English and Italian. According to the tour overview, these are the two languages offered for the guided portions of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration beyond the standard 2.5 hours. The program and itinerary are fixed, though the tour guide can provide commentary in both English and Italian during the scheduled activities.

Do the Tour Guides Offer Personalized Recommendations for Assisi?

The tour guides are known to offer personalized recommendations for exploring Assisi. They provide insights into the city’s history, architecture, and hidden gems, tailoring the experience to the interests and needs of each group.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour operator offers both group tours and private tours, and you can select the option that best suits your preferences when booking the experience.

Recap

This guided tour of Assisi offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and rich history. With a knowledgeable guide, seamless transportation, and a small group size, it’s an ideal way to discover the enchanting charm of this medieval town. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a cultural adventure, this tour provides a flexible and enriching opportunity to explore Assisi’s remarkable heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: