Assisi, City Highlights and Basilica of St. Francis tour

Assisi , Italy

Assisi, City Highlights and Basilica of St. Francis tour

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About this experience

See the highlights of Assisi on a walking tour with a official local guide. Visit the stunning UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica di San Francesco (Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi), the Duomo di San Rufino, the Basilica di Santa Chiara (St Claire) and the lovely main square, Piazza del Comune.
Enjoy clear views of the massive 14th-century fort, Rocca Maggiore, which sits on top of the hill. As you walk with your guide, hear about the history and cultural treasures of Assisi.

Available options

Assisi, City Highlights and Basilica of St. Francis tour

What's included

Official Assisi tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Assisi Cathedral, dedicated to San Rufino (Rufinus of Assisi) is a major church in Assisi.

Stop 2

The Basilica of St. Clare of Assisi, realized with the typical pink stone extracted from the quarry of the Subasio mountain, contains precious frescos dating back to the period from the XIIth to the XIVth century. In the chapel on the right, along the unique nave of St. Clare of Assisi, finishing in transept and polygonal apse, you can admire the Crucifix which, according to tradition, would have invited St. Francesco in the church of St. Damiano in order to "reset up the Church"

Stop 3

Chiesa Nuova. The Chiesa Nuova is a church in Assisi, Italy, built in 1615 on the site of the presumed birthplace of St. Francis, the house of Pietro di Bernardone. It was then called Chiesa Nuova because it was the last church to be built in Assisi at that time.

The Temple of Minerva is an ancient Roman building in Assisi, Umbria, central Italy. It currently houses a church, Santa Maria sopra Minerva, built in 1539 and renovated in Baroque style in the 17th century.

At the square you will see one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Italy – Minerva's temple – which is surrounded by imposing medieval government buildings.

Stop 6

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the basilica of St. Francis was built under the direction of Brother Elias, vicar general and architect of the order, starting in 1228, just two years after the saint's death, as a place designed to receive his remains.

Stop 7

If the solemn and dark lower basilica invites penance and silence, the upper church soars into the sky, airy and bright. In a Gothic style with French influences, the nave has four bays, cross vaulting, and a polygonal transept and apse.

What's not included

gratuities

Admission tickets to St. Francis Basilica

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

16 reviews

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Due to the exposition of the remains of St. Francis, guided tours of the basilica will be suspended from February 15, 2026, to April 6, 2026. The guide will provide an explanation from outside, and then visitors will be able to enter on their own.

Meeting point

The parking at the top of the city. Meeting point in fron of the tickets office

Important notes

Due to the exposition of the remains of St. Francis, guided tours of the basilica will be suspended from February 15, 2026, to April 6, 2026.
The guide will provide an explanation from outside, and then visitors will be able to enter on their own.

About Assisi

Assisi is a picturesque medieval town in the Umbria region of Italy, nestled in the hills of the Apennine Mountains. It is renowned as the birthplace of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, and is home to stunning religious architecture, including the iconic Basilica of San Francesco. The town's charm lies in its well-preserved medieval streets, vibrant art scene, and the serene atmosphere that permeates its historic center.

Top Attractions

Basilica of San Francesco

The Basilica of San Francesco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important religious sites in Italy. It consists of two churches, an upper and lower basilica, adorned with stunning frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Basilica of Santa Chiara

This basilica is dedicated to St. Clare, a contemporary of St. Francis. It features a beautiful rose window and a simple, elegant interior with a large crucifix attributed to St. Francis.

Religious/Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Rocca Maggiore

This medieval fortress offers panoramic views of Assisi and the surrounding countryside. The fortress was built by the Germans in the 12th century and later used by various rulers, including the Papal States.

Historical 1 hour €4

Temple of Minerva

This ancient Roman temple, built in the 1st century BC, is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in Italy. It was later converted into a church and now serves as a significant historical landmark.

Historical/Architectural 30 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Eremo delle Carceri

This hermitage is located in the woods above Assisi and is believed to be where St. Francis and his followers retreated for prayer and meditation. It offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

Religious/Nature 1-2 hours (including the hike) Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Truffle Pasta

A classic Umbrian dish made with fresh pasta and shaved black truffles, often served with a simple tomato or cream sauce

Main Course Contains gluten (pasta), can be made vegetarian

Wild Boar Stew (Cinghiale in Umido)

A rich and flavorful stew made with wild boar, tomatoes, onions, and herbs, often served with polenta or crusty bread

Main Course Contains meat, can be made gluten-free with appropriate sides

Olive All'Ascolana

Large green olives stuffed with a mixture of meat, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then fried until crispy

Appetizer Contains meat and gluten, not suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten allergies

Torta al Testo

A traditional Umbrian flatbread made with flour, water, and salt, often served with cured meats, cheeses, or vegetables

Main Course Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding mountains Rock climbing Mountain biking Wine tasting Spa treatments Strolling through the historic center Visiting museums and art galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit Assisi, with pleasant weather ideal for exploring the town and its surrounding countryside. The town is lively with tourists and cultural events.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in more remote locations

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Assisi is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or public transportation

Getting there

By air

Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi Airport • 15 km from Assisi
Rome Ciampino Airport • 200 km from Assisi

By train

Assisi Station

By bus

Assisi Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services connecting major points of interest. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for those staying in the town center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Borgo di San Pietro Piazza del Comune San Francesco

Day trips

Spoleto

30 km from Assisi • Half day to full day

Spoleto is a charming medieval town known for its well-preserved architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It hosts the annual Festival dei Due Mondi, a renowned arts festival featuring opera, theater, and music.

Montefalco

20 km from Assisi • Half day to full day

Montefalco is a picturesque hilltop town known for its stunning views, rich history, and excellent wine. It is the birthplace of the Sagrantino grape, and the town is home to several renowned wineries.

Gubbio

40 km from Assisi • Full day

Gubbio is a beautiful medieval town nestled in the Apennine Mountains, known for its well-preserved architecture, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings. It is also famous for its annual Palio della Balestra, a historic crossbow competition.

Festivals

Calendimaggio • Late April to early May Assisi International Festival • July to August Feast of St. Francis • October 4th

Pro tips

Visit the Basilica of San Francesco early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the town's medieval streets and hidden alleys to discover local shops, art galleries, and charming cafes
Try local specialties like truffle pasta, wild boar stew, and olive all'ascolana for a true taste of Umbrian cuisine
Take a day trip to nearby towns and cities like Spoleto, Montefalco, or Gubbio to explore the region's rich history and cultural heritage
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Calendimaggio or the Assisi International Festival, for a unique and unforgettable experience