Along Saint Francis’s Footsteps: A Private Day from Tuscan Hills to La Verna’s Sanctuary

ASSISI GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Along Saint Francis’s Footsteps: A Private Day from Tuscan Hills to La Verna’s Sanctuary

A full-day private tour that threads Assisi’s medieval streets, Giotto’s frescoes and the sacred hermitage of La Verna into a single, 8–9 hour experience — this guide orients you to the route, what to expect and practicalities.

Along Saint Francis’s Footsteps: A Private Day from Tuscan Hills to La Verna’s Sanctuary.

Duration
8 a 9 horas
Location
Assisi
Operator
Passeios Na Toscana
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

This private guided day links the quiet valleys and vine-draped hills of Umbria with the contemplative heights of La Verna in Tuscany. In Assisi you move through winding medieval lanes to the Basilica of Saint Francis — home to Giotto’s life-of-Saint frescoes and the saint’s tomb — then continue to the sanctuary at La Verna where Francis and his companions long retreated for prayer and meditation.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ART

Giotto and the Basilica of Saint Francis

The tour brings you inside the Basilica of San Francesco to view the cycle of frescoes that illustrate Saint Francis’s life — works attributed to Giotto and other medieval masters — and to the saint’s tomb, a core artistic and spiritual focus of Assisi.

THE TOWN

Medieval streets and sacred birthplaces

Walk Assisi’s main thoroughfare and narrow alleys past medieval façades to the Roman Temple of Minerva, the house associated with Saint Francis, and the chapel built on the site of his birth.

THE SANCTUARY

La Verna: Franciscan retreat and the stigmata story

A guided visit to the Santuário de La Verna explores the hermitage transformed over centuries into Francis’s favored place for extended meditation — the site linked to his last retreat and the vision during which he received the stigmata.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

Expect a steady, contemplative day that moves from urban heritage to rural sanctuary: a morning of close-up art and architecture in Assisi followed by a scenic transfer and a reflective visit at La Verna, all conducted as a private service with an English/Portuguese–speaking operator available through Passeios Na Toscana.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this private tour is best for — and the practical limits.

1
Pilgrims and contemplative travelersWell suited for those seeking the religious and spiritual landmarks tied to Saint Francis and for visitors who want time at La Verna’s sanctuary; offered as a private service to focus the visit.
2
Art and history enthusiastsIdeal for travelers who prioritize close encounters with medieval art and architecture, including the Giotto frescoes and the Roman temple in Assisi.
3
Solo travelers or couplesThe tour accepts single participants and operates as a private service starting from one person, making it appropriate for solo travelers or pairs seeking a tailored experience.
4
Flexible plannersAvailable every day of the year as a private service (confirm local schedules and openings), so it accommodates flexible travel dates.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration

Full-day private excursion lasting approximately 8–9 hours.

Meeting & Start

The tour can begin from the guest’s hotel in various Tuscan towns (subject to confirmation); consult the operator for precise pickup locations and times.

What to Bring

Confirm specifics with Passeios Na Toscana, but plan for comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing for variable weather when visiting both town and sanctuary grounds.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long does the Tour Assis e Santuário de La Verna – Privativo last?

The private tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours.

Can the tour start from my hotel in Tuscany?

Yes — the tour can begin from the client’s hotel in various Tuscan towns (consult the operator to confirm availability and pickup points).

Is this a private service and can a single traveler book it?

Yes. The tour is offered as a private service and is available from one person onward.

What are the main sites visited during the day?

Key visits include the Basilica of Saint Francis with its frescoes and tomb, Assisi’s medieval streets, the Roman Temple of Minerva, the house and chapel linked to Saint Francis, and a guided visit to the Santuário de La Verna.

When is the tour available?

The tour operates every day of the year as a private service, subject to local opening times and seasonal conditions.