Guided Tour of Assisi: Discover the Life of St. Francis and Medieval Umbrian Charm

The guided tour of Assisi allows you to explore not only the sacred sites connected to St. Francis and Santa Chiara, but also the beauty of a typical Umbrian medieval village with its charming streets and historic squares.

Porta San Francesco and Colle del Paradiso

The tour begins at Porta San Francesco, the main gateway to the town, nestled within the medieval walls. Just a few steps away is Colle del Paradiso, the square that houses the magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy.

Basilica of Saint Francis

Inside the basilica, visitors can explore two distinct churches:

• Upper Church: A Gothic masterpiece famous for Giotto’s fresco cycle depicting scenes from the Old and New Testament and the life of St. Francis.
• Lower Church: Built in Romanesque style, adorned with golden frescoes and stuccos, and containing the Crypt of St. Francis, the Tomb of the Saint, and the Chapel of the Relics carved into the rock.

Palace of the Capitano del Popolo and Town Squares

After visiting the basilica, stroll through the village’s characteristic streets to reach one of Assisi’s most beautiful squares. Here stands the Palace of the Capitano del Popolo, seat of the commander of the militia in the 14th century, featuring the evocative Captain’s Tower with its historic clock.

In Town Square, once a Roman forum, admire the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Minerva, transformed into the Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva with Baroque interiors. Nearby, the Palace of the Priors and the elegant Fountain of the Three Lions complete this historic urban ensemble.

Cathedral of San Rufino

The tour continues to the Cathedral of San Rufino, Assisi’s oldest church and a key site of Franciscan worship. This Umbrian-Gothic cathedral houses the baptismal font where both St. Francis and St. Chiara were baptized and where St. Francis delivered his first sermon.

Sections of the cathedral’s floor are made of glass, allowing visitors to view the Roman remains beneath the foundations.

Church of Santa Chiara

Conclude the guided tour with a visit to the Church of Santa Chiara, where the teachings of St. Francis inspired the founding of the Order of the Poor Clares. The façade features elegant pink and white stone, while the interior houses the Crucifix from the Hermitage of San Damiano, the tomb, and relics of Santa Chiara.

Along the way, enjoy the charming souvenir shops, panoramic views of the Umbrian valley, and typical local restaurants, completing a memorable journey through the spiritual and historical heart of Assisi.

Included:

• Walking tour with licensed tour guide

Not included:

• Food and drinks
• Museum tickets (optional)
• Transfer service

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point:

• Piazza Santa Chiara ( next the fountain )