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

If you’re looking to step into the world of one of Italy’s most revered saints, this Assisi private tour offers an intimate glimpse into the town that shaped St. Francis’s life. It’s a compact, two-hour experience that combines spiritual significance, medieval charm, and stunning artwork. Perfect for those who want a guided, authentic experience without the crowds or rush of a large group.

We love that this tour covers major religious sites like the Basilica of St. Francis and Santa Chiara, giving you uninterrupted access to their breathtaking frescoes and relics. The guide’s insights make the history come alive, making it more than just a walk through old streets. We also appreciate the personalized nature of a private group, which allows for questions and a more relaxed pace.

However, a possible consideration is the two-hour duration, which means some travelers might want more time to soak in the details or explore on their own afterward. This tour is ideal for those interested in religious architecture, art lovers eager to see Giotto’s frescoes, or travelers craving a meaningful glimpse of Assisi’s spiritual roots.

This experience suits visitors who prefer a curated, insightful journey with a knowledgeable guide, and those who want to avoid the hassle of wandering alone. It’s perfect if you value depth over breadth, and if you’re eager to learn about St. Francis’s legacy in a beautifully preserved medieval setting.

Good To Know

• Personalized private group experience ensures a relaxed, tailored visit.
• Expert guide brings history, art, and local stories vividly to life.
• Highlights include the Basilica of St. Francis, Santa Chiara, and San Rufino—all rich in art and relics.
• 2-hour duration offers a focused, manageable exploration.
• Stunning frescoes by Giotto are a central feature, showcasing masterful storytelling through art.
• Ideal for art, history, and spiritual enthusiasts seeking an authentic Assisi experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Assisi Private Tour

When you sign up for this Assisi private tour, you’re getting a well-rounded introduction to one of Italy’s most beloved pilgrimage towns. From the moment you meet your guide at Piazza Santa Chiara, just outside the city’s medieval walls, you are set for a journey through history, faith, and art.

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour begins at Piazza Santa Chiara, right next to the fountain, a lively spot that offers a snapshot of everyday Assisi life. Your guide, who carries a visible license badge, will greet you and set the tone for an engaging walk. The setting immediately transports you into the medieval world, with stone buildings, narrow streets, and the scent of local cuisine wafting from nearby cafes.

The Basilica of St. Francis

The star of the tour is unquestionably the Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies medieval religious architecture at its finest. Inside, you’ll find the Upper Church in Gothic style, renowned for Giotto’s frescoes—an artistic cycle illustrating scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, along with the life of St. Francis himself. Reviewers like Andrea praise the “magnificent frescoes” and the guide’s ability to explain their significance in a way that’s accessible and engaging.

The Lower Church, in contrast, is Romanesque, covered with frescoes and stuccos in gold, and houses the Crypt of St. Francis carved into the rock, along with his tomb and relics. Visiting this sacred space offers a sense of spiritual intimacy, and many find the combination of art and relics deeply moving.

Discovering the Medieval Streets and Squares

Leaving the basilica behind, the tour wanders into the historic town center, where every corner reveals medieval towers, temples, and fountains. The Town Square, once a Roman forum, features the Palace of the Capitano del Popolo, built in the 14th century, and the Captain’s Tower, with the clock that still keeps time.

Notable is the Temple of Minerva, with its Corinthian columns, which was transformed into the baroque-style Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. This site, along with the Palace of the Priors and the Fountain of the Three Lions, offers a glimpse into Assisi’s layered history—ancient, medieval, and baroque.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Religious Sites of Santa Chiara and San Rufino

Next, your guide takes you to the Cathedral of San Rufino, the oldest church in Assisi. It’s special because it’s where St. Francis and St. Clare were baptized and where St. Francis made his first preachings. The church’s baptismal font and sections of the Roman pavement seen through glass floors add layers of historical intrigue—something reviewers love, as it adds a tangible sense of continuity with the past.

Finally, a visit to the Church of Santa Chiara reveals another facet of Assisi’s spiritual fabric. The pink and white stone facade invites admiration, and inside, the Crucifix that spoke to St. Francis at San Damiano is a highlight. The tomb and relics of St. Clare are also accessible, offering a profound connection to the town’s key figures.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $385.17 per group (up to 20 people), which makes it a good deal considering the personal, guided nature of the experience. Your guide, who is experienced and knowledgeable, will help you appreciate the art, history, and spiritual significance of each site, making the visit more meaningful than a self-guided walk.

It’s important to note that museum and attraction tickets are not included, so you might want to budget for those if you wish to visit certain sites in depth. The tour lasts about two hours, so it’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want an authentic, enriching experience.

Reviews and Real Experiences

One reviewer, Andrea, shared: “La nostra guida Miriam ci ha illustrato e spiegato le bellezze di Assisi in modo semplice e professionale.” This highlights the value of a skilled guide who can make the complex stories behind the frescoes and sites accessible and engaging. Another participant appreciated how the tour made the history and art feel alive, with vivid explanations that brought the scenes to life.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private guided tour offers a balanced blend of art, history, and spirituality, making it ideal for visitors who want more than just a cursory glance at Assisi. The focus on St. Francis’s legacy combined with access to stunning frescoes and medieval streets creates a compelling, memorable experience.

Travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, art appreciation, and authentic local atmospheres will find this tour satisfying. The private setting also allows for flexibility and personal questions, enriching your understanding of Assisi’s treasures.

The Sum Up

If you’re seeking a thoughtful, well-organized way to explore Assisi’s most important religious and historic sites, this private tour is a strong choice. The opportunity to see Giotto’s frescoes, visit sacred relics, and walk through medieval streets with an expert guide offers incredible value for those who want a meaningful connection to St. Francis’s hometown.

It’s especially suited for art lovers, history buffs, and spiritual travelers who crave an intimate, personalized experience. While it’s a relatively brief tour, the depth of insight and the quality of the sights make it worth every euro.

For anyone eager to understand Assisi beyond the postcards and photos, this experience provides a compelling and authentic glimpse into a city that continues to inspire peace and devotion.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Yes, it’s accessible for most age groups, particularly those interested in art, history, or religious sites. The pace is relaxed, and the guide can adjust explanations based on your interests.

Are tickets to the basilica or other sites included? No, the tour price covers the guide but not entrance fees for museums or attractions. You should budget separately if you wish to enter specific sites.

How long does the tour last? The guided experience is approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable snapshot of Assisi’s highlights.

Can I customize the tour? Since it’s a private group, you can ask your guide to focus more on certain sites or themes—just coordinate with them beforehand.

Is it possible to meet the guide easily? Yes, the meeting point is Piazza Santa Chiara, a central and easy-to-find location, where your guide will display a visible badge.

What languages are available? The tour is conducted in Italian and English, catering to a broad range of visitors.

Would this tour be good for someone with limited mobility? While most sites are accessible, some medieval streets and churches have uneven surfaces, so it’s best to inquire beforehand if mobility is a concern.

In summary, this Assisi private tour combines the beauty of medieval architecture, awe-inspiring frescoes, and the quiet spirituality of St. Francis’s hometown—all with the comfort of a personalized guide. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your connection with Assisi’s sacred and artistic heritage without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check if your dates are available here: