Assisi , Italy

Assisi - Historic walking tour

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About this experience

You will be visiting the birthplace of Saint Francis, the patron saint of Assisi. Experience the charm of this historic town, a very picturesque place to visit which is sure to delight you.

Available options

Full day tour

Duration: 5 hours

Assisi - Historic walking tour

What's included

English Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Start your tour at the doorway to Assisi, which is of ancient origins yet is well preserved till date. Located just below the Basilica, this medieval gate makes a good stop for you to take some pictures before you start to explore the town further.

Visit a Roman catholic church where St. Francis was born and died. Some of Italy's finest artworks in the Gothic combined with Romanesque style can be found here. It has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 2000. The Basilica is made up of two Churches which are “Basilica superiore”, the upper Church and the “Basilica inferiore”, the lower church.

Visit the St. Peter's Church which dates back to 970 A.D. having a Romanesque facade which is designed in a rectangular shape and consists of three entries, the central one has two Lion sculptures crafted on each side. You will admire the interior which is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.

Walk through the main square of Assisi which starts at the Corso Mazzini, the street which connects Piazza Santa Cliara to Piazza del Comune. Here, you will also get to see the fountain of the 3 lions dating back to the 16th Century. Some of the oldest buildings as well as shops and hotels are housed here.

Get to see the Temple of Minerva which was built by the will of Gnaeus Caesius and Titus Caesius Priscus in the 1st Century BC. Dedicated to goddess Minerva, it is one of the well preserved examples of Roman architecture. The renowned German poet Goethe is said to have described it during his visit to Assisi in 1786.

You will visit the Assisi Cathedral dedicated to San Rufino, the first Bishop and patron Saint of Assisi who takes credit for converting Assisi towards Christianity and is said to have been martyred. The remains of the Saint were put to rest in a Roman sarcophagus now located under the main altar of the Cathedral of San Rufino. The feast day is celebrated on 11th August each year.

Stop 7

You will visit the Basilica of Saint Claire which is built containing the existing structure of the Church of San Giorgio. The construction of the Basilica began in 1257 under the famous architect Filippo Campello. It is dedicated to St. Clare of Assisi, one of the first followers of St. Francis of Assisi. The remains of St. Claire are kept in the Basilica after being transferred from the chapel of San Giorgio.

You will finish your tour at the south-eastern part of Assisi at the Porta Nuova which is one of the eight gates of Assisi and of historical significance.

What's not included

Entrance Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

at parking A (Piazza Giovanni Paolo II)

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