Assisi One Day Trip Private Excursion from Rome

Exploring Assisi on a private day trip from Rome offers an intimate look into Italy’s spiritual and artistic heritage. Priced at $429.50 per person, this 9-hour journey combines comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance, making it ideal for those who want a personalized experience of Umbria’s most iconic town. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private air-conditioned vehicle, and a driver-guide who provides insightful commentary throughout the day. With a stellar 5.0/5 rating based on 39 reviews, it’s clear that travelers frequently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and efficient logistics.

While the tour is highly praised, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, and the driver is not a licensed guide inside sites, limiting detailed explanations during the visits. This trip suits those eager to explore Assisi at their own pace with a focus on historical sites and religious landmarks in a relaxed, private setting.

Key Points

• Private full-day trip from Rome with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Visit Assisi’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, including San Francesco Basilica and Santa Chiara
• Travel in comfort via air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide
• Flexible itinerary allows for personalized sightseeing and free time for lunch
• Highly rated for guides and driver expertise, ensuring an enriching experience
• Not included: food, drinks, and site guides inside attractions

Assisi Private Excursion from Rome: Overview of the Experience

This private excursion from Rome covers approximately 9 hours, starting early with hotel pickup at 7:30 am. The journey takes you through the scenic Italian countryside of Umbria, passing villages like Deruta, Todi, and Perugia before reaching Assisi, a town famous for its connection to St. Francis of Assisi and its UNESCO World Heritage status. The private vehicle ensures a smooth ride, with your driver-guide providing commentary about the landscape and local towns along the way.

Once in Assisi, the experience centers on walking through narrow medieval streets, visiting key sites connected to St. Francis. The tour provides a personalized approach, with flexibility to explore at your own pace and enjoy the tranquility away from the crowds. The highlight is the visit to the Basilica of San Francesco, renowned for its frescoes by Cimabue, Giotto, and other masters.

From the Old Town to Saint Francis’ Birthplace

The tour begins with a walk in Assisi’s historic center, where the Church of Santa Chiara holds the remains of Saint Clare, a follower of Saint Francis. Visitors also see the house where St. Francis was born and spent his early childhood, offering a chance to connect with his humble origins. The narrow streets and medieval architecture create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for absorbing Assisi’s spiritual ambiance.

The Piazza del Comune stands out as the town square, dominated by Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo — a 13th-century building that adds to the town’s medieval charm. Nearby, the Temple of Minerva, a Roman temple, provides a glimpse into Assisi’s ancient past. All these sites are visited with explanations from the driver-guide, who aims to make each stop meaningful.

Exploring the Basilica of San Francesco: Art and Faith

The Basilica di San Francesco is the centerpiece of the tour, a grand religious monument decorated with frescoes by Cimabue, Pietro Lorenzetti, and Giotto. This basilica beautifully combines religion and art, with interior frescoes illustrating the life of Saint Francis and scenes from the Bible. The interior is free to explore, and the exterior offers stunning views over the Umbrian landscape.

The Porziuncola Chapel, located within the Basilica complex, is another significant site. This small chapel is where St. Francis founded the Franciscan movement and is known for being the place where he restored the chapel himself. Visitors can view the chapel and learn about its importance to Franciscan spirituality. The detailed frescoes and historic significance make this stop a highlight of the day.

Lunch Break and Free Time in Assisi

After visiting key religious sites, the tour includes a one-hour window for lunch at a local restaurant. While lunch is not included, travelers have the freedom to choose from traditional Umbrian dishes, enjoying authentic flavors away from tourist spots. This break allows for a relaxed pace and a chance to absorb the town’s atmosphere.

Post-lunch, there’s optional free time to wander the streets, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the peaceful environment of Assisi. The driver-guide remains available for additional suggestions or questions, helping tailor the visit to your interests.

Visiting the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli

The last stop is the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, located outside the city walls. This pilgrimage site is famous for the Porziuncola chapel, the birthplace of the Franciscan movement, which St. Francis restored himself. The basilica also marks the place where he died in 1226.

The interior of the basilica is impressive, with artworks and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can view the chapel up close, appreciating its significance to Franciscan spirituality. The drive back to Rome concludes the tour, with drop-off at your hotel.

Logistics and Comfort of the Private Transportation

This tour offers the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Rome, saving time and effort. The private vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the roughly 2-hour drive each way. The driver-guide provides commentary from within the vehicle, making it easy to learn about the surroundings without needing a separate guide inside the sites.

The group size is limited to your party, which guarantees an intimate experience. The timing is designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing for a relaxed pace with some free time for lunch and wandering.

Guides and Driver Expertise: Praised for Knowledge and Friendliness

While the driver is not licensed as a site guide**, reviews consistently praise the driver’s driving skills and knowledge of the region. The guides who lead the walking portions are often highlighted for their friendly demeanor and ability to explain the sites clearly.

Many reviews mention guides like Aless, Marco, and Matteo for their enthusiasm, depth of knowledge, and helpfulness. The driver’s commentary enhances the overall experience, providing context between stops.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour requires moderate physical fitness because it involves walking through town streets and visiting churches and basilicas. The walking is on cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The driver-guide is available to assist with logistics, but accessibility options are not specified.

Who Should Book This Assisi Day Trip?

This private tour suits travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day exploring Assisi’s religious and artistic treasures. It’s perfect for those who prefer private transportation and flexible schedules over group tours. The high-quality guides and careful itinerary make it ideal for anyone interested in history, art, and spirituality, especially at sites related to St. Francis.

However, those looking for comprehensive guided tours inside sites should note that site entry explanations are limited to the driver’s commentary from within the vehicle.

Assisi’s Unique Appeal in a Private Setting

This private Assisi day trip offers an authentic, comfortable, and informative way to experience Umbria’s jewel. The carefully curated stops highlight Assisi’s historical and spiritual significance, with a personalized touch that most group tours cannot match.

The scenic drive through medieval villages and the art-filled basilicas make this journey a rewarding escape from the bustle of Rome. The flexible itinerary and positive reviews for guides’ knowledge and friendliness** underscore its value for those seeking an immersive day in Italy’s spiritual heartland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking and standing for periods. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in history, art, and spirituality.

How early does the tour start?
It departs at 7:30 am with hotel pickup.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and beverages are not included but there is time for lunch at a local restaurant.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is flexible, allowing some adjustments based on your preferences and free time.

Are entrance fees included?
No, site entrances are free; the tour does not include guiding inside the landmarks.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour for your group only, providing a personalized experience.

What language is the driver-guide available in?
The driver provides commentary in English.

How long is the drive from Rome to Assisi?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours each way.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on cobblestones and uneven streets.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This private Assisi day trip from Rome offers a blend of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty, all wrapped in a comfortable, flexible package with excellent guides and driver service. It’s an enriching choice for those wishing to delve deeper into Italy’s religious and artistic heritage at their own pace.