Assisi Fullday from Rome with Papal Blessing on Parchment and Lunch Included

This Assisi Fullday tour from Rome offers a comprehensive journey into the life and sites associated with St. Francis and St. Clare. Priced at $930.85 per person, it lasts around 10 hours, including transportation, visits to three major basilicas, and a gourmet lunch with wine. The tour is ideal for those interested in religious history and architecture, providing a private vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off in Rome for convenience.

While the overall rating is a solid 4.0 out of 5, one notable review mentions that the tour can feel rushed, especially during the time spent at the basilicas. Nevertheless, the inclusion of a Papal Blessing on Parchment and the fine dining experience make this tour particularly appealing for visitors seeking both spiritual insight and cultural enjoyment.

Key Points

• Includes a Papal Blessing on Parchment in English, adding a special spiritual touch
• Visits three major basilicas: San Francesco, Santa Chiara, and Santa Maria degli Angeli
• Gourmet lunch with regional wines served in a scenic olive grove setting
• Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off in Rome
• Optional private guide available for a more personalized experience
• Roughly 10 hours from start to finish, suitable for most travelers interested in religious sites and local cuisine

Starting the Day: Pickup and Travel from Rome

This tour begins early at 7:30 am with hotel pickup, simplifying transportation logistics for visitors staying throughout Rome. The fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey as you head northeast towards Assisi, approximately a couple of hours away, depending on traffic. The private driver makes the trip smooth, with no need to navigate public transport or worry about schedules.

The group size is designed for a private experience, which means only your party participates unless you opt for an upgrade with a licensed local guide. This flexibility allows for potential customization, making the day more tailored to your interests.

Exploring the Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco

The first stop is the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, a key pilgrimage site. Here, the church rises where the saint himself chose to be buried, and entrance is included in the tour. The admission is free, and the guide leads you through the chapels and artwork, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the site.

This basilica is renowned for its frescoes, which depict scenes from St. Francis’s life and are considered masterpieces of medieval art. The guide’s commentary helps visitors appreciate the religious symbolism and history embedded in the architecture and artwork.

Visiting the Basilica di Santa Chiara

Next, the tour visits the Basilica of Santa Chiara, constructed with pink stone from the Subasio mountain. This site contains precious frescos dating from the 12th to 14th centuries, offering a visual history of St. Clare’s life and her contributions to the Franciscan movement.

A short 30-minute visit allows time to admire the frescoes and learn about the Poor Clare order’s origins. The admission is free, and the guide explains the significance of the art and architecture present at this site.

Exploring the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli and Porziuncola

The third basilica is Santa Maria degli Angeli, home to the Porziuncola, a small Catholic church that marks the starting point of the Franciscan movement. Located about 4 kilometers from Assisi’s center, this site is central to understanding St. Francis’s legacy.

Visitors can appreciate the simple tranquility of the Porziuncola and its role in religious history. The 30-minute stop includes free admission, and the guide highlights how this humble church became a symbol of Franciscan humility.

Indulging in a Gourmet Lunch & Wine in Campello sul Clitunno

After exploring the religious sites, the tour proceeds to Campello sul Clitunno, a charming town set amid olive groves and green hills. Here, an elegant restaurant welcomes guests for a 2-hour gourmet lunch featuring seasonal local products.

The meal includes traditional cuisine with truffle cured meats and the robust flavor of local extra virgin olive oils. Each dish is paired with a wines of excellence, showcasing regional varieties. This stop offers a delicious break from sightseeing and an authentic taste of Umbrian culinary craftsmanship.

The Significance of the Papal Blessing on Parchment

One of the unique features of this tour is the Papal Blessing on Parchment, issued in English, which adds a special spiritual dimension to the experience. The blessing is a notable keepsake, emphasizing the tour’s religious importance and providing a memorable memento.

This blessing is presented during the day, offering a tangible connection to the papal authority and the sacred sites visited. It’s a highlight for those seeking a meaningful religious souvenir.

Transport and Flexibility: Private Vehicle and Optional Guide

The tour’s private, fully insured vehicle ensures a relaxed pace and personalized service. The English-speaking driver handles the logistics, allowing visitors to focus on the sights and stories without concern for directions or traffic.

For a more customized experience, an optional private licensed local guide can be selected. This addition allows for deeper insights and a more engaging narrative, especially for those interested in art, architecture, or religious history.

Timing, Pacing, and Tour Duration

The 10-hour schedule balances sightseeing and leisure, starting early in the morning. The pace is generally comfortable, although one review notes that the visit to the basilicas can feel somewhat rushed, especially if the guide exceeds the scheduled time.

The 3 hours allocated for basilica visits are a core part of the day, with an additional 2 hours for lunch and travel. The transfer back to Rome concludes the experience, dropping guests at their accommodations.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is especially suitable for those interested in religious history, art lovers, and foodies. The gourmet lunch and wine pairing add a special culinary aspect, making it appealing for visitors who enjoy combining cultural exploration with regional flavors.

The private nature and the flexibility of optional guide services** make it a good choice for travelers seeking a more personalized or in-depth experience. However, those with limited mobility should note the walking involved at each basilica.

Potential Limitations and Considerations

One aspect to consider is the timing—the tour can feel rushed according to some reviews, especially during the visit to the basilicas. The scheduled time might limit the depth of exploration at each site unless an upgrade with a private guide is chosen.

The price point reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, including transportation, meals, and the blessing, but travelers should be aware of the cost if opting for additional guide services.

Assisi Fullday from Rome with Papal Blessing on Parchment and Lunch Included

This tour provides a well-rounded look at Assisi’s sacred sites, combined with a regional culinary experience. The inclusion of the Papal Blessing offers a memorable spiritual keepsake, while the sightseeing is straightforward and accessible with hotel pickup and private transportation.

While the pace may be brisk for some, the overall value lies in the convenience, cultural richness, and the chance to enjoy regional wines and cuisine. It suits travelers eager to deepen their understanding of St. Francis’s legacy within a comfortable, private setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rome, private transportation, a Papal Blessing on Parchment in English, gourmet lunch and regional wines, and admission to the basilicas.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the tour offers an optional private licensed local guide who can be selected at booking for a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:30 am and ending with drop-off back in Rome.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, the walking involved at each basilica might be challenging for those with mobility limitations.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The visit to three major basilicas—San Francesco, Santa Chiara, and Santa Maria degli Angeli—along with the gourmet lunch, regional wines, and the Papal Blessing stand out.

Is the lunch included in the price?
Yes, the gourmet lunch and wine are included in the tour price.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 20 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $930.85 per person, representing a comprehensive experience with all inclusions.

Is the tour suitable for those interested in art or architecture?
Absolutely. The basilicas are filled with frescoes and architectural details, and guides typically provide insightful commentary.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Rome and concludes with drop-off in your accommodation.