Basilica of Saint Clare, Assisi

Explore Assisi on a walking tour with a guide who will tell you about the history, art, and local traditions of one of the most famous hill towns of Italy. Meet your guide and head to the ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater, which was later put to use in the Middle Ages as a quarry for stone to build local houses. See how the amphitheater later was turned into a private neighborhood. From this vantage point, the view of the Rocca Maggiore medieval castle is one of the best in the city. Continuing along narrow alleys and through medieval squares you’ll reach the Cathedral of Saint Rufino Cathedral, the Basilica of Saint Claire, and Piazza del Comune, the main city square. At the square you’ll see the Minerva temple, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Italy. It is surrounded by imposing medieval government buildings. The tour then continues on to the Saint Francis Basilica, which is well known for its 13th and 14th-century frescoes created by Italian masters of the time, including Giotto.

Discover the heart of Umbria and explore the medieval town of Orvieto and the city of Assisi on a guided day trip from Florence. Visit the major sights in each city with a guide before enjoying free time to explore and shop at your leisure. After a scenic bus ride from Florence, arrive at the city of Orvieto. See the Duomo and marvel at its Gothic architecture, complete with precious mosaics and sculptures. Step inside the cathedral to gaze at its colorful stained-glass windows and coveted artwork (ticket not included). Continue to Saint Patrick’s Well and access the depths of the well with the two helical ramps for a truly unique experience (ticket not included). Lose yourself in the narrow alleys, explore the local squares lined with artisan shops and cafes, and admire the medieval architecture all around you. After some free time, return to the fully-fitted GT Coach and head to Assisi, one of Umbria’s most fascinating borgos. Follow your guide through this holy city, navigating its steep, winding alleys. Explore the famous Basilica of Saint Francis, home to some of the best-preserved frescoes painted by Giotto, Pietro Lorenzetti, Simone Martini, and Cimabue. Next, make your way to the Basilica of Saint Clare, one of the first followers of Saint Francis and founder of the Order of Poor Ladies. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to go shopping in the local small stores or simply unwind in the main square, sipping on a good coffee and taking in the ambiance. Before returning to Florence, stop by the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels, a majestic church built on top of the Porziuncola, where the Franciscan movement originally started. Finally, relax during your return transfer to Florence.

Our tour begins at the Basilica of St. Clare, a majestic Gothic church dedicated to St. Clare, the founder of the Poor Clares and a close companion of St. Francis. Admire its striking pink and white stone façade, sourced from Mount Subasio, and step inside to marvel at the simplicity of its interior. Here, you'll find the Crucifix of San Damiano, which is said to have spoken to St. Francis, inspiring his spiritual journey. Don't miss the peaceful crypt housing St. Clare's relics. Next, we’ll walk to the Piazza del Comune, the vibrant main square of Assisi. This bustling hub is lined with charming medieval buildings and lively cafes. At its heart stands the Temple of Minerva, a remarkable Roman temple built in the 1st century BCE. Its well-preserved Corinthian columns are a stunning contrast to the medieval structures surrounding it. Today, the temple houses the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, blending ancient Roman and Christian influences seamlessly. Finally, we arrive at the Basilica of St. Francis, the crown jewel of Assisi and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural masterpiece is divided into the Upper and Lower Basilicas, each offering unique treasures. The Upper Basilica boasts stunning frescoes by Giotto, depicting the life of St. Francis with vivid detail and emotional depth. Descend to the Lower Basilica, where dimly lit chapels create an atmosphere of reverence, and visit the crypt containing the tomb of St. Francis himself. As you stroll through Assisi’s cobbled streets, you'll feel the enduring legacy of its saints and artists. This tour not only showcases the town’s spiritual significance but also its role as a cradle of art and culture. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of peace.

Amazing Tour with our Local Expert and tuk tuk departs from Asisium Travel Agency or from your hotel in Assisi. First stop: Chiesa Nuova (St. Francis's Home) and Parents Statue and Main Square Piazza del Comune with Minerva's temple. Visit to Piazza Matteotti (Roman Amphitheater) and Cathedral of San Rufino (Saint Rufinus), where St. Francis was baptized. Piazza del Vescovado (Bishop’s Palace) Sanctuary of the Stripping. St. Damian and the crucifix. Rivotorto Sacro Tugurio (Sacred Shrine of Rivotorto), Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels – the Porziuncola, where St. Francis died. End of tour at the Basilica of St. Francis, his birth place.

Our first stop is the Basilica of St. Clare, a stunning Gothic church dedicated to St. Clare, the devoted follower of St. Francis and founder of the Order of Poor Clares. This sacred site houses the San Damiano Cross, which famously spoke to St. Francis, inspiring him to "rebuild the Church." As we explore the basilica, we'll also visit the crypt where the remains of St. Clare rest, a serene and powerful place of reflection. The Birthplace of St. Francis Next, we’ll stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets to the Birthplace of St. Francis. This humble dwelling, now a revered pilgrimage site, offers a glimpse into the early life of the man who would become one of Christianity’s most beloved saints. Within these walls, we can imagine the young Francis, whose deep compassion and love for all creation would later inspire a global movement. The Main Square with the Temple of Minerva From there, we’ll make our way to Assisi's main square, Piazza del Comune, the lively center of town life both past and present. Dominating the square is the impressive Temple of Minerva, an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom. Converted into a Christian church in the Middle Ages, the temple’s well-preserved facade stands as a testament to Assisi’s rich and layered history, blending its pagan past with its Christian present. The Basilica of St. Francis Our final and most iconic destination is the Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors from all over the world. This magnificent basilica, split into two levels—the Upper and Lower Basilica—is adorned with breathtaking frescoes by Giotto and other masters, depicting the life of St. Francis and the mysteries of faith. As we walk through the sacred spaces, we’ll visit the tomb of St. Francis, a deeply spiritual experience that resonates with the saint's enduring message of peace and humility. As we conclude our tour, we hope that the beauty and spirituality of Assisi have touched your heart, just as they have inspired countless pilgrims throughout the centuries. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the timeless town of Assisi.

Enjoy a private day trip from Rome to Assisi, a UNESCO-listed town in the hills of Italy’s Umbria region. Visit the Basilica di San Francesco, a World Heritage site and one of the world’s biggest pilgrimage destinations, and enjoy an authentic Italian meal at a local restaurant. Be picked up from your hotel in Rome in a private air-conditioned vehicle and make the 2-hour drive to Assisi. Assisi has historical significance and is most famous as the birthplace of Italy’s patron saint, St Francis of Assisi. When you arrive, visit the 13th-century Basilica di San Francesco, a World Heritage site and one of the world’s biggest pilgrimage destinations, where Catholics come to see St Francis’ tomb. Then head to a local restaurant for an authentic Italian meal. After lunch, continue your Assisi tour at the Basilica of St Clare (Basilica di Santa Chiara), named for St Clare, who was a pupil of St Francis’, followed by the Basilica of St Mary of the Angels (Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli), located at the bottom of the hill where Assisi sits. Your driver will transfer you back to your accommodation in Rome.

Experience a unique emotion on board our brand new electric vehicle to admire the city's major monuments and its magnificent Sanctuaries: Basilica di Santa Chiara, Chiesa Nuova (birthplace of Saint Francis), Piazza del Comune and Tempio della Minerva. And then: Roman amphitheatre, Rocca maggiore (medieval castle on the top of the hill), Duomo di San Rufino, Piazza del Vescovado, Basilica of Saint Francis. Think green! Pick up & drop off on request fo a fee Tasting oil/wine on request for a fee

Our tour begins at St. Rufino Cathedral. The church is one of the most important churches in Assisi and was the most important before St. Francis was built. As we meander through the medieval streets, you'll be captivated by the charming ambiance and narrow alleyways that lead to hidden gems around every corner. The tour continues to the Basilica of Santa Chiara, dedicated to Saint Clare. Admire the simplicity and elegance of the basilica's façade before entering to discover its ethereal interior. Stroll through the charming Piazza del Comune, the bustling heart of Assisi. This lively square is home to the Roman Temple of Minerva, an ancient marvel that stands as a testament to Assisi's rich Roman history. The walk continues to the church of Santa Maria Maggiore where you can visit the place where the body of Blessed Carlo Acutis is preserved. To conclude the tour, the heart of the town, the Basilica of Saint Francis, a Unesco World Heritage site and one of Italy's most revered religious landmarks. This magnificent basilica houses the tomb of Saint Francis, the beloved patron saint of animals and the environment. Marvel at the awe-inspiring frescoes by renowned artists such as Giotto, Cimabue, and Simone Martini, which adorn the walls of the basilica. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guides will provide historical insights and captivating anecdotes, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich heritage of Assisi. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere, revel in the natural beauty, and experience the cultural tapestry that makes Assisi a truly remarkable destination.

Start your tour at the doorway to Assisi, the Porta San Francesco 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. Next, you will Visit the Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, 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 Piazza del Comune, 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. Next, 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. 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. 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.

Admire the rich art and tradition of Assisi on a guided walking tour. Start your tour at the main square, the Piazza del Comune. See one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Italy: The Temple of Minerva, built in the Late Republic period of the 1st century BC. Walk among medieval government buildings and the remains of an ancient forum. Visit the medieval castle of Rocca Maggiore and then continue to the famous Basilica of San Francesco. Learn about the famous Saint Francis and his fascinating life from your guide. Go to the Basilica of Santa Chiara, another important place of worship in the city of Assisi, and see its 12th-century crucifix.