How to Plan Your Assisi Tour: The Three Major Basilicas

Assisi, also known as the City of Peace, is one of the most stunning destinations to visit in Italy. Tucked away in the province of Perugia, this small town is a major tourist attraction due to its religious heritage and history. The city boasts of ancient churches, breathtaking views, and an atmosphere of peace and tranquility that has attracted pilgrims from all over the world. One of the most popular activities to do in Assisi is visiting the three major basilicas – the Basilica of St. Francis, the Basilica of St. Clare, and the Porziuncola chapel. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour of the Three Major Basilicas in Assisi.

Overview of the Tour

The Three Major Basilicas Tour is a half-day guided tour which covers three of the most important historical and religious sites in Assisi. The tour is offered by a third-party company and starts with a meeting at the Basilica di Santa Chiara. From there, you will be taken to the next stop by a roundtrip transfer. The tour includes entry tickets and gratuities for the guide.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour includes the following:

• A tour with an official guide of Assisi
• Round trip transfer from Assisi center to Porziuncola
• Entry tickets
• Gratuities

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is the Basilica di Santa Chiara, located at P.za Santa Chiara 1, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy. The guide will be waiting in front of the Basilica of St. Clare near the fountain. The tour ends at the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, located at Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour takes you through the three major basilicas in Assisi: St. Francis, St. Clare, and Porziuncola chapel. You will be guided through the rich history of these sites and the religious and cultural significance they hold.

The first stop on the tour is the stunning Basilica of St. Francis. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a true marvel of medieval architecture and art. You will get a chance to see the beautiful frescoes painted by Giotto and other famous artists. Next, you will visit the Basilica of St. Clare, which is where the tomb of St. Clare is located. The basilica also has beautiful frescoes painted by Andrea di Bonaiuto and other famous artists.

The final stop on the tour is the Porziuncola chapel. This small chapel is located within the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and is where St. Francis founded his order. The chapel is a beautiful example of early Christian art and architecture and includes frescoes painted by famous artists.

Additional Information

Confirmation for the tour will be received at the time of booking. Note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed, and both men and women must have their knees and shoulders covered. You may risk being refused entry if you do not comply with these dress requirements.

It is also essential to note that on Sundays, big Catholic holidays and National holidays, guided tours inside the Basilica of St. Francis are forbidden. However, your guide will explain the church from outside, and you will enter alone on silent contemplation.

Book the Tour Here

Ready to explore the three major basilicas in Assisi? Book the Three Major Basilicas Tour by clicking on this link and get ready for an experience of a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to Assisi: Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Culture

Assisi is a small town in the Umbria region of Italy, famous for its religious history and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. However, there’s much more to Assisi than the obvious tourist attractions. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at some lesser-known but equally fascinating aspects of this charming city.

Hidden Gems: Exploring Assisi’s Best-Kept Secrets

Assisi’s attractions are not limited to the three major basilicas. If you want to get off the beaten path, check out the Eremo delle Carceri, a peaceful hermitage located in the woods above the town. It’s a great spot for a scenic hike and offers stunning views of the valley below.

Another hidden gem is the Oratorio dei Pellegrini, a small chapel tucked away in an alley near the Basilica di Santa Chiara. The chapel is decorated with beautiful frescoes, and the peaceful atmosphere will transport you back in time.

Finally, check out the Piazza del Comune after dark. The square is lit up beautifully, and the surrounding medieval buildings create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a pre-dinner stroll.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Assisi has an excellent local food scene, with many traditional dishes that you won’t find anywhere else. Make sure to try the umbricelli, a thick spaghetti-like pasta served with a tomato-based ragù. For something more decadent, the truffle pasta at Osteria Piazzetta dell’Erba is a must-try.

If you’re looking for something sweet, head to Pasticceria Sensi. This local pastry shop has been around since 1892 and is known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and gelato.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Assisi’s Traditions and Festivals

Assisi has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience it firsthand. If you’re visiting in May, don’t miss the Calendimaggio festival, where locals compete in traditional games and parades while dressed in medieval costume.

Assisi is also famous for its music scene. During the summer months, the city hosts several music festivals, including the Assisi Musica Festival and the Umbria Jazz Festival.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

Assisi has a long and storied history, and there are plenty of fascinating stories to discover. For example, did you know that St. Francis of Assisi once made peace between warring factions in the city by walking through the enemy army camp with the sign of peace?

Another interesting piece of history is the Basilica di San Francesco, which was built in honor of St. Francis and contains his tomb. The basilica is decorated with beautiful frescoes, including works by the famous painter Giotto.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences in Assisi

Finally, if you want to experience something truly unique during your trip to Assisi, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Umbrian countryside. Ballooning in Umbria offers fantastic views of the region’s rolling hills, vineyards, and even the city of Florence on clear days.

Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try caving? The Monte Cucco Park, just outside Assisi, has several caves that are open to visitors and offer a unique way to explore the region’s geology.

In conclusion, Assisi is a city with much more to offer than meets the eye. With its rich history, delicious food, and vibrant cultural scene, there’s truly something for everyone in this charming town.