Avventure Bellissime
Exploring Assisi's Treasures: A Guided Walking Tour through St. Francis's Birthplace
Birthplace of Saint Francis (one of saint patrons of Italy), the medieval town of Assisi is home to the papal Basilica of St. Francis and to Basilica of Santa Chiara — dedicated to the founder of the Order of Poor Ladies. With an expert licensed guide, learn all about the childhood of St. Francis, the foundation of Franciscan Order and how the medieval art of Assisi impacted and influenced the development of Italian and European culture.
What You’ll See during the Private Assisi Tours
Our Private Assisi Tour will start with the Basilica of Santa Chiara, home to the tomb with the relics of Saint Claire and the famous crucifix that spoke to St Francis. Saint Clare was St. Francis' friend and protégé. She took the veil of the religious life from Francis gathering a large female following and becoming the abbess of the new order. Admire the early Gothic and Romanesque style of the 13th century Basilica and its tallest bell tower in Assisi.
The Assisi Tours continue with a stroll in Piazza del Comune and Temple of Minerva
Your Assisi guided tour will continue with a stroll on the medieval streets of the Old Town. You will stop at Piazza del Comune, where all the most important town buildings are located — a perfect representation of the classic Umbrian architecture. This is also where the Temple of Minerva is located. German poet Goethe described it during his travels in Italy, admiring this ancient Roman building and its facade, still perfectly preserved.
Discovering St. Francis Basilica: A Highlight of Your Assisi Walking Tour
With your expert licensed guide, you will reach St. Francis Basilica, consisting of two large churches situated on two different levels: Lower Basilica and Upper Basilica. This unusual solution was implemented because of St Francis relics: instead of just a crypt, the whole Lower Basilica is dedicated to them. Set on massive pillars it also supports the Upper Basilica — a perfect example of Gothic style (interior) and Romanesque facade. Conclude your Assisi walking tour in the Basilica as you admire the magnificent frescoes and masterpieces of Giotto, Cimabue and many more. Your guide will be at disposal to provide additional information on other places to visit (Rocca Maggiore fort for example) or to recommend best places where you can taste local specialties.
Customize your Private Assisi Guided Tour!
These Umbria walking tours can be customized to suit your requirements. If you would like to add extra hours or schedule a personalized itinerary, contact our Sales Team to discuss options. Upon request and subject to guide availability these tours can also operate in other languages including French, German, Italian, Russian, Polish and Portuguese.
Where you’ll meet your Guide for your Assisi Private Tour
Your Private Assisi Walking Tour can start at the car park of Porta Nuova or directly at your hotel if located near the main attractions
Additional Information for the Private Tours in Assisi and Accessibility
This tour is not fully accessible for wheelchair users or people with walking disabilities. However, please contact us directly and we will be able to take you on alternative routes suitable for you.
There is a dress code for visiting places of worship in Italy. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed and knees and arms must be covered.
At times the Basilica can be closed unexpectedly for religious ceremonies without prior notice — in the event of that happening the guide will provide explanation from outside.
This tour is available in other languages on request.
Duration: 3 hours