Private Walking Tour of Assisi: In the Footsteps of St. Francis

Highlights

  • Enjoy Assisi’s highlights and hidden gems on a private tour

  • Visit the Basilica of St. Francis and admire the frescoes

  • Admire the Temple of Minerva dating back to Ancient Rome

  • Learn about its Umbrian-Roman and medieval origins

  • Soak up the blissful atmosphere of this distinguished city

Summary

The birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi has long been closely linked with religion. Yet, this idyllic medieval city in the region of Umbria, is also home to outstanding architecture and splendid artwork. On this 2.5-hour private tour, follow your guide to discover the highlights and hidden gems in this coveted UNESCO World Heritage site

Tour info

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
25
Pricing (From)
Commentary
English, Italian
Meeting Point

Piazza Inferiore di San Francesco, Assisi, Umbria, IT

Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Assisi’s fame has always been closely linked to the birthplace of St. Francis, and as a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, it continues to draw pilgrims and travelers alike. This beautiful Umbrian town, perched on a hilltop, boasts stunning medieval architecture, remarkable works of art and timeless charm, making it one of the most popular destinations in Italy. 

Your tour begins at the most notable attraction in the city: the Basilica of St. Francis. Here, you’ll hear anecdotes of the life of St. Francis and learn more about the spectacular complex that is divided into two different yet complementary churches: the Basilica Inferiore - the Romanesque lower church - and the Basilica Superiore – the newer Gothic church. Both churches are enriched with a splendid collection of frescoes by celebrated artists, such as Cimabue, Giotto, Simone Martini and Pietro Lorenzetti.

Moving on, enjoy a stroll down via San Francesco as you head to Piazza del Comune, arguably one of the most beautiful piazzas in Italy. Framed by buildings that recall the city’s Umbrian-Roman and medieval origins, your guide will share intriguing stories of this lively square. As you walk by the Ancient Roman Temple of Minerva, on the north side of the piazza, take time to admire its well-preserved original facade as well as the majestic Corinthian columns. Then, follow your guide on a journey through the childhood of St. Francis: the Chiesa Nuova (New Church) built in the 17th century on the site of the house where the Saint grew up, and the Oratory of St. Francis Piccolino, where he was born.

Finally, follow your guide through Corso Mazzini and all the way to Piazza Santa Chiara to admire the elegant Basilica of St. Clare, built in memory of St. Clare, one of St. Francis’ most devoted followers. The Basilica, with its white facade trimmed with strips of pink stone, holds the relics of St. Clare in its crypt and the crucifix of San Damiano, where Francis was praying in front when he received his calling. Piazza Santa Chiara is the perfect place to end your tour as you take in the uninterrupted views over the Umbra Valley. 

Sites Visited
Basilica of St. Francis,
Via San Francesco,
Piazza del Comune,
Temple of Minerva,
New Church,
Oratory of St. Francis Piccolino,
Corso Mazzini,
Piazza S. Chiara,
Basilica of St. Clare


What’s included?

  • Local guide

  • Expertly guided walking tour

  • Entrance fee to Basilica of St. Francis

  • Gratuities

  • Entrance fee (should you wish to enter another site)

  • Hotel pick up and drop off

Things to know

Before you book

  • This is a walking tour. While there are stops along the way, guests should be able to walk at a light to moderate pace without difficulty. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

  • Please note, this tour does not include entrance to the main sites. If you’d like to visit any particular site, you will need to buy a ticket at the location.

  • Due to circumstances beyond our control, sites may occasionally close. We make every effort to stay as close to the advertised itinerary but substitutions/omissions may be necessary.

Before you go

  • This is a walking tour. While there are stops along the way, guests should be able to walk at a light to moderate pace without difficulty. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

  • Please arrive at the meeting point ready for your tour - prior to arrival use the bathroom and ensure you have eaten.

  • Tours run rain or shine. Please dress accordingly. In the event of exceptionally heavy rain, the tour may be canceled and you will be given a full refund.

  • Please note, this tour does not include entrance to the main sites. If you’d like to visit any particular site, you will need to buy a ticket at the location.

  • Due to circumstances beyond our control, sites may occasionally close. We make every effort to stay as close to the advertised itinerary but substitutions/omissions may be necessary.

  • No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure.

Covid Policy

  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Face masks provided for travelers
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms

Cancellation Policy

    Cancellations received greater than 24 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable. Cancellations received within 24 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable. Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes. Late arrivals and no shows are nonrefundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive or arrives after tour departure.

Redemption information

    Mobile tickets will be accepted


About operator:

Walks (takewalks.com, walksofitaly.com) began over a decade ago (2008, to be exact) in Rome, Italy. We quickly became the premier walking tour company in 7 countries - Italy, Spain, France, the UK, Greece, and Portugal. Our US cities include San Francisco, NYC, Boston, Chicago, and New Orleans.

In 2021, we joined The Hornblower Group (cityexperiences.com) expanding our reach and working alongside this powerhouse travel brand.

Our tour products vary but predominantly we #takewalks, exploring the world by foot - we believe, the best way to get into the heart of a city and its incredible people. From introductory strolls to food tours, day trips, cooking classes, and below the surface, in-depth tours, we have our hand in everything a traveler could want. Oh, and we also like to give our clients exclusive access to the biggest attractions in the world...

Despite the big changes in our brand over the years, our focus has remained simple - to relentlessly create tours with the client experience at the forefront and anchored upon the dedicated, intelligent, and above all, passionate local guides who want to share their cities with you.