Assisi Full Day Tour Including St Francis Basilica and Porziuncola

The Assisi Full Day Tour promises to whisk visitors away to the enchanting hill-town of Assisi, immersing them in the rich history and spiritual significance that permeates this UNESCO World Heritage site. From the iconic Basilica of St. Francis to the medieval Rocca Maggiore castle, the tour provides an in-depth exploration, guiding travelers through the footsteps of the revered Saint Francis. With a professional guide at the helm and seamless transportation, this comprehensive experience offers a unique opportunity to uncover the secrets and stories that have made Assisi a beloved destination for centuries. What awaits beyond the walls of this remarkable town?

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Full-Day Tours In Assisi.

Key Points

• The tour offers a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Basilica of San Francesco, highlighting its medieval architecture and role as the final resting place of Saint Francis.
• Visitors will explore the medieval Rocca Maggiore castle and Saint Rufino’s Cathedral, gaining an in-depth look at Assisi’s rich history and spiritual significance.
• The tour includes visits to the Eremo Delle Carceri, the Sanctuary of Saint Damiano, and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, following in the footsteps of Saint Francis.
• The tour provides transportation by air-conditioned minivan for the afternoon portion, and includes lunch and entrance fees, but is not wheelchair accessible.
• On Sundays, Catholic holidays, and national holidays, guided tours inside the Basilica of St. Francis are forbidden.

Tour Overview

Assisi, a picturesque hill-top town in Umbria, is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Basilica of San Francesco, which visitors will explore during this comprehensive tour.

The day-long adventure includes a guided visit to the medieval Basilica, the impressive Rocca Maggiore castle, and the striking Saint Rufino’s Cathedral.

Travelers will follow in the footsteps of Saint Francis, visiting the Eremo Delle Carceri, the Sanctuary of Saint Damiano, and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels.

With a professional guide leading the way, this tour offers an in-depth look at Assisi‘s rich history and spiritual significance, providing a immersive experience for all who partake.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a professional guide for 3 hours in the morning and 3 hours in the afternoon, as well as transport by air-conditioned minivan for the afternoon tour.

Lunch and entrance fees (€2.50 per person) are also covered. Visitors won’t have to worry about any additional costs – the tour package takes care of it all.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and guests will need to cover their knees and shoulders when visiting the Basilica of St. Francis.

On Sundays, Catholic holidays, and national holidays, guided tours inside the basilica are forbidden, but the guide will still explain the church from the outside, allowing visitors to explore it independently in silence.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the tour is in front of the lower entrance of the Basilica of St. Francis, located at Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi, Italy.

The tour concludes at Piazza Santa Chiara, 06081 Assisi, Italy.

The tour starts at 10:00 am.

Participants will be transported by air-conditioned minivan for the afternoon portion of the tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and guests must adhere to a dress code – no shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed, and knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.

On Sundays, big Catholic holidays, and national holidays, guided tours inside the Basilica of St. Francis are forbidden, but the guide will explain the church from the outside, and visitors can enter alone in silence.

Basilica of St. Francis

Basilica of St. Francis stands as a UNESCO-listed wonder, renowned for its breathtaking medieval architecture and as the final resting place of the revered Saint Francis.

Visitors will be awestruck by the stunning frescoes, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate altars that adorn the interior. The lower basilica’s austere and somber atmosphere contrasts with the vibrant upper basilica, which glows with vibrant colors and intricate artworks.

Guided tours explore the basilica’s rich history, revealing how it served as a hub for the Franciscan order and a pilgrimage site for centuries. Whether admiring the architectural grandeur or learning about Saint Francis’ legacy, the Basilica of St. Francis offers an unforgettable glimpse into Assisi’s spiritual heart.

Rocca Maggiore Castle

Perched atop the hill, Rocca Maggiore Castle commands a magnificent view over the historic town of Assisi.

Visitors can explore this impressive medieval fortress, which dates back to the 12th century and has served as an important defensive structure for the region.

The castle’s strategic location and formidable architecture made it a pivotal part of Assisi’s history, playing a crucial role in protecting the town from invaders over the centuries.

Guided tours allow visitors to wander through the castle’s imposing walls, courtyards, and towers, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past.

With its striking silhouette against the Umbrian landscape, Rocca Maggiore Castle is a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the wonders of Assisi.

Saint Rufino’s Cathedral

Visiting the striking Saint Rufino’s Cathedral, a Romanesque-style structure dating back to the 11th century, offers visitors a glimpse into Assisi’s rich religious heritage. This impressive cathedral, dedicated to the town’s patron saint, features a majestic façade adorned with intricate carvings and a towering bell tower that dominates the local skyline.

Inside, the cathedral’s awe-inspiring interiors showcase a unique blend of architectural styles, from the Romanesque naves to the later Gothic additions, creating a harmonious and captivating space for religious worship and reflection.

Visitors can explore:

• The ornate main altar and intricate frescoes
• The crypt housing the remains of Saint Rufino
• The stunning stained-glass windows
• The ornate pulpit and choir stalls
• The tranquil side chapels for personal reflection

Eremo Delle Carceri

Just a short distance from the center of Assisi, visitors can discover the serene retreat of Eremo Delle Carceri, a secluded hermitage nestled in the wooded slopes of Mount Subasio.

This sacred site holds deep significance, as it was here that Saint Francis of Assisi sought solitude and spiritual renewal, often retreating to the cave dwellings and simple cells within the hermitage’s walls.

Today, the Eremo Delle Carceri offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of Assisi, allowing visitors to follow in the footsteps of the revered saint and experience the tranquility that so profoundly shaped his faith and worldview.

The hermitage’s serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Assisi’s rich spiritual heritage.

Sanctuary of Saint Damiano

The Sanctuary of Saint Damiano stands as a revered site that holds deep significance in the life and spiritual journey of Saint Francis of Assisi. Nestled in the rolling hills just outside the city of Assisi, this historic church is where the young Francis experienced a profound religious vision that would forever alter the course of his life.

Visitors to the sanctuary can explore:

• The humble 12th-century church structure that Francis once helped repair
• The crucifix that’s said to have spoken to Francis, inspiring him to dedicate his life to God

The sanctuary also features:

• The tranquil gardens and peaceful ambiance that fostered Francis’ spiritual growth
• The museum showcasing relics and artifacts from the saint’s life
• The opportunity to reflect on Francis’ transformative experience in this sacred place

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes free time for visitors to explore the town and shops at their own pace, providing an opportunity to find local crafts and mementos.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can explore Assisi further on their own after the scheduled tour. The tour provides a rundown of the key sites in a half-day itinerary.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is needed for this tour. Comfortable walking shoes and appropriate attire covering knees and shoulders are recommended. The tour provides transportation and entrance fees, so visitors can enjoy the sights without additional preparation.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Basilica?

Photography is generally allowed inside the basilica, but visitors should be mindful of any specific restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour guide or basilica staff for guidance on what is permitted.

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour does not mention any discounts for senior citizens or students. However, entrance fees to some attractions may offer reduced rates for certain groups, so visitors should inquire about any available discounts when purchasing tickets.

Recap

This full-day tour of Assisi provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s UNESCO-listed sites, including the iconic Basilica of St. Francis, the medieval Rocca Maggiore castle, and the historic Saint Rufino’s Cathedral.

Visitors will follow in the footsteps of Saint Francis, visiting the Eremo Delle Carceri and the Sanctuary of Saint Damiano, with a professional guide and air-conditioned transportation for a comprehensive understanding of Assisi’s rich history and spiritual significance.