Basilica of St. Francis (Basilica di San Francesco)

Overview

The Basilica of St. Francis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of early Gothic architecture in Italy. It is one of the most important religious sites in Italy, built in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.

The basilica is a significant religious and historical site, as it is the burial place of St. Francis and houses many important frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue.

Basilica Historic Site Cultural Monument

Location

Address

Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, Assisi, Umbria

Neighborhood: Old Town

Coordinates

42.891200, 12.619200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

tuesday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

wednesday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

thursday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

friday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

saturday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

sunday 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Nov-Feb), 9:00 AM - 7:40 PM (Mar-Oct)

Admission

Adults

€7-12 (depending on the season and included sections)

Children

Free (under 11 years)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April to June, September to October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Blooming gardens
• Frescoes in natural light

summer

Hot and sunny

• Extended visiting hours

autumn

Cool and crisp

• Fall colors in the surrounding hills

winter

Cold and rainy

• Festive decorations during Christmas

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees)
Check for any religious ceremonies that may affect visiting hours

What to Bring

essential

Valid ID Comfortable shoes Water bottle Tickets

seasonal

Jacket (winter) Umbrella (spring/autumn) Hat and sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Food and drinks Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (many stairs and uneven surfaces)

• Climb the stairs carefully
• Stay hydrated in summer

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (Euros), Credit/Debit cards

Currency

Euros (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry €7-12

parking €2-5

food €10-20

souvenirs €5-30

Dress Code

Modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees), Comfortable walking shoes, Closed-toe shoes recommended for climbing stairs, Revealing clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance for peak season
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for purchase online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Assisi Guide

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cloister garden, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Umbra International Airport (Perugia)

Distance: 20 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes by car

taxi

€40-50 30 min

public_transport

€5-10 50 min

From City Center

Distance: 1 km

walking

15-20 min

bus

€1.50 10 min

taxi

€10-15 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The basilica is a symbol of Assisi's history and the spiritual legacy of St. Francis

Historical Significance: Built in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, a major religious figure and the founder of the Franciscan Order

Insider Tips

Visit early morning for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds
The best local food can be found at trattorias near the piazza
Check the schedule for special events and concerts in the piazza

Local Recommendations

• Try local Umbrian cuisine at nearby trattorias
• Visit the nearby Rocca Maggiore for panoramic views
• Attend a local festival or event for an authentic experience

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Ciao

thank_you Grazie

where_is Dov'è

how_much Quanto costa

beautiful Bello

ticket Biglietto

Guide Languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance of the Lower Basilica

Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)

Tips: Capture the facade with the surrounding hills in the background

Result: Stunning architectural photography

#Assisi #BasilicaDiSanFrancesco #ItalyTravel #ArchitectureLovers

Photography Rules

allowed areas Exterior of the basilica, Interior with natural light

prohibited areas Restricted sections during religious services

flash photography Not allowed inside the basilica

commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots

drone policy Drones not allowed without special permission

tripod policy Tripods allowed outside, restricted inside

selfie sticks Allowed but use discretion to avoid disturbing others

Nearby Attractions

Rocca Maggiore

Distance: 500m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Castle

Temple of Minerva

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Ancient Temple

Santa Chiara Basilica

Distance: 400m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Basilica

Assisi Cathedral

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Cathedral

Reviews

4.8

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit early to avoid crowds"
"Book tickets online in advance"
"Don't miss the frescoes by Giotto"
"Wear comfortable shoes for the stairs"

Contact Information

+39 075 813 214

info@basilicasanfrancesco.it

www.basilicasanfrancesco.it

Social Media

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