Assisi and St. Francis (Driver Only/Self Touring)

Explore Assisi in Comfort with Private Transport from Rome

This Assisi and St. Francis tour offers the perfect way to take in the highlights of the hilltop town without the hassle of public transport. Priced at $811.03 per group (up to 3 people), the tour lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full yet manageable day trip. The experience is centered around private round-trip transport in a deluxe Mercedes Benz vehicle, driven by an English-speaking professional driver.

One of the key advantages of this tour is the flexibility to explore Assisi at your own pace, without a guide leading every step. You receive pickup from your Rome hotel and enjoy scenic views of the Umbria countryside along the way. This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a self-guided experience but want the comfort and convenience of private transportation. Keep in mind, admission fees and meals are not included, so you can choose where to dine and what to visit.

Key Points

• Private round-trip transport from your Rome hotel in a luxury Mercedes Benz
• Self-guided exploration of Assisi’s most important sites
• Visits include Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli and Basilica di San Francesco
• Enjoy scenic views of the Umbria countryside during the drive
• Flexible timing at each stop, with a total duration of around 9 hours
• Free bottled water provided on board for comfort

Convenient Private Transport with a Friendly Driver

This tour departs from your hotel in Rome, with a private driver who offers pickup and drop-off service. The air-conditioned Mercedes Benz ensures a comfortable ride, especially on warm days, while the English-speaking driver provides helpful commentary on the journey and the sites you’ll visit.

Since this is a driver-only/self-touring experience, there’s no fixed guide or group to keep pace with. Instead, you get the freedom to decide how long to spend at each location, making it a flexible way to see Assisi’s highlights. The parking fees and fuel surcharge are included, removing any worries about additional costs.

Scenic Drive from Rome to Assisi with Umbrian Views

As the private vehicle makes its way from Rome to Assisi, travelers enjoy panoramic views of the Umbria countryside. The route takes you through rolling hills and charming landscapes, setting a peaceful tone for the day. The drive typically lasts around 2 hours, depending on traffic, giving ample time to relax and soak in the scenery.

This journey provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate Italy’s rural beauty before arriving at Assisi, famous for its medieval architecture and spiritual ambiance. The private transport makes the trip quick and stress-free, especially compared to navigating public trains or buses.

Visiting the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli

Your first stop is the Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli, located just before reaching Assisi. This basilica is revered as the place of St. Francis’ death in 1226. Inside, you’ll find the Capella del Transito where the saint died, and around it, the Porziuncola, a tiny chapel that holds great significance.

Since admission is free, you can spend about 30 minutes exploring this grand Baroque basilica. It’s an important site for understanding the life of St. Francis and his connection to Assisi. The rope belt of Saint Francis is kept in a glass case above the altar, adding to the spiritual atmosphere.

Discovering the Basilica of St. Francis with Its Frescoes

The Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco is the centerpiece of the visit. It features both upper and lower basilicas, with frescoes by medieval masters such as Giotto di Bondone, Cimabue, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti.

Construction began immediately after St. Francis’ canonization in 1228, highlighting its importance. Visitors can admire the artistry and the medieval frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of St. Francis. The basilica is free to enter, and the visit generally lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Strolling Through Piazza del Comune

Next, a visit to Piazza del Comune offers a glimpse into Assisi’s Roman past. Built on what was once the Roman forum, this lively square is perfect for a quick walk and some photo opportunities. The church of St. Mary Above Minerva adds historical interest, dating back to the 1st century BC.

In 1539, the original temple was transformed into the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, which features Baroque modifications. You’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes here to enjoy the atmosphere, do some shopping, or have a snack, with free entry.

Visiting the Basilica di Santa Chiara

The Basilica di Santa Chiara is notable for housing the preserved body of Saint Clare. The basilica, built between 1257 and 1260 in Gothic style, also displays garments worn by Saint Francis and Saint Clare, along with some locks of her hair.

You can expect to spend around 30 minutes exploring this site, which provides insight into the Poor Clares order and Clare’s vital role in Franciscan history. Entry is free, and the basilica’s architecture adds a striking backdrop to her story.

The Historic San Damiano Convent and Church

Outside of Assisi, the San Damiano convent holds deep significance. It’s where Saint Francis received his calling in 1205 and began rebuilding God’s church with his own hands. The site also marks the death of Saint Clare in 1253, who founded the Poor Clares here in 1212.

Visitors typically spend about 30 minutes at San Damiano, appreciating its simple architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Like other stops, it is free to visit, though it offers profound insight into the origins of the Franciscan movement.

Flexibility and Personal Pace During the Self-Guided Tour

Because this tour is self-guided, it offers the chance to control your schedule at each site. The private driver remains available for the duration, but there’s no obligation to follow a strict timetable. This flexibility allows travelers to spend more time in favorite spots or skip others if preferred.

The total duration of approximately 9 hours includes travel, stops, and free time, making it suitable for those who want a full but unhurried day in Assisi. Since admission fees are not included, you can choose to visit additional sites or enjoy local cafes at your own expense.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This driver-only, self-touring experience is particularly suited for travelers who prefer independent exploration but want the convenience of private transportation. It’s ideal for those who enjoy flexible schedules and wish to avoid large groups or guided tours.

Because the tour covers major Franciscan sites and offers scenic views, it appeals to visitors interested in religious history and medieval architecture. It’s less suited for those seeking detailed guided commentary, but the driver’s local knowledge can offer helpful insights if asked.

Final Thoughts on the Assisi and St. Francis Private Tour

This tour from Rome delivers a personalized, relaxed day in Assisi with the comfort of private transport and freedom to explore. The scenic drive, combined with visits to key religious and historical sites, provides a meaningful experience for those interested in Franciscan history and medieval Italy.

While it doesn’t include guided tours or entrance fees, the flexibility and convenience make it an attractive option for independent-minded travelers. The high ratings and positive review highlight the punctuality and helpfulness of the driver, adding to the overall value.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, self-paced day trip that allows for personal discovery without the constraints of a guided group, this Assisi and St. Francis private tour offers a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz vehicle, with parking fees and fuel surcharge covered.

Can I customize the time spent at each site?
Since this is a self-guided experience, you have the freedom to spend as much or as little time at each location as you wish.

Are admission tickets included?
No, admission fees and entry tickets are not included, but most sites, such as the basilicas and San Damiano, are free to enter.

What is the typical duration of the drive from Rome to Assisi?
The drive usually takes about 2 hours, allowing you to enjoy scenic views of Umbria’s countryside.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private nature makes it flexible for families or small groups.

What languages does the driver speak?
The driver is English-speaking, making communication straightforward.

Can I join the tour on short notice?
Yes, confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Is food included in this tour?
No, lunch or other meals are not included, giving you the opportunity to choose dining options in Assisi.

What should I bring for the visit?
Comfortable shoes and cash or cards for optional purchases or meals are recommended.

Is there any assistance available during the tour?
While it’s self-guided, the driver can provide local insights if asked, but no formal guide is included.