The Life of Saint Francis Tour by Tuk Tuk: English & Spanish

Tackling Assisi with a tuk-tuk might seem like a playful choice, but it’s actually a smart way to discover this steep, cobbled town intimately connected with Saint Francis. This 3.5-hour private tour from ASISIUM TRAVEL offers an engaging blend of spirituality, history, and local color, all delivered by knowledgeable guides in English and Spanish. It’s a small-group experience, capped at four participants, which means personalized attention and plenty of room to ask questions.

What really caught my eye about this tour are two standout features: the luxury private tuk-tuk ride along narrow, winding streets that cars just can’t access, and the deep insight provided by guides who truly know the area. I also appreciate that the tour includes entrance fees to key churches and monuments, saving you time and extra planning. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point, which is conveniently located next to the Porta Nuova Medieval Gate. Still, that’s a small detail compared to the immersive experience you’ll enjoy.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized Exploration: The small group size ensures a relaxed, intimate experience with plenty of interaction.
• Authentic Transportation: The tuk-tuk navigates the narrow streets, giving you access to spots that might be tricky on foot or by car.
• Rich Content: Guides are bilingual and highly knowledgeable, often sharing fascinating stories and details that bring Assisi’s spiritual and cultural history to life.
• Convenience & Value: Entrance fees are included, and you get a typical Umbrian stuffed bread and water, adding local flavor to your experience.
• Flexibility & Accessibility: Starts from a central location, with options to book and pay later, making planning simpler.
• Ideal for: Visitors who want a compact, insightful tour with a personal touch, especially if walking long distances or climbing hills isn’t ideal.

Discovering Assisi on a Tuk-Tuk: A Practical and Authentic Approach

If you’ve ever tried to explore a compact hilltop town like Assisi on foot, you know how quickly your feet can tire while trying to take in the sights. This tuk-tuk tour offers a refreshing alternative, especially if you want to see many sites in a short time without feeling rushed or exhausted. The tour is designed for small groups — just four participants maximum — which means you’ll receive tailored attention from your bilingual guide, whether that’s Daniel, Marco, or another local expert.

I love how this experience combines luxury, intimacy, and local insight. Instead of bouncing from one crowded bus stop to another, you quietly cruise through Assisi’s narrow streets, getting close to landmarks that are often hidden from larger tour groups. Plus, the tuk-tuk’s open sides mean you’re not just looking at the scenery — you’re part of it.

A notable highlight is the inclusion of entrance fees to key sites like St. Francis’s Basilica, the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels, and the Sacro Tugurio in Rivotorto. This makes the whole experience smoother and more streamlined. The tour’s price of approximately $136 per person seems fair considering the private nature, the comprehensive access, and the depth of information.

A Possible Drawback?

If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely, independent exploration, this guided tour might feel a little structured. Also, if hotel pickup is essential, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which is conveniently near Porta Nuova.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step of the Assisi Journey

The tour kicks off either from the ASISIUM TRAVEL agency or your hotel in Assisi, with a friendly, bilingual guide ready to share stories and answer questions. The first stop is Chiesa Nuova, known as St. Francis’s home and a place brimming with spiritual significance. From there, you’ll visit the Parents Statue and then move to Piazza del Comune, the heart of Assisi, where the Minerva’s Temple stands.

One of the most appreciated aspects from past travelers is being able to explore the narrow streets and hidden corners that are difficult to access by car. You’ll cruise past the Piazza Matteotti, home to the Roman Amphitheater, and visit San Rufino Cathedral, where St. Francis himself was baptized. Guides often add interesting stories here, and many reviews praise guides like Daniel for their wealth of knowledge.

The journey continues to Piazza Vescovado and the Sanctuary of the Stripping, sites connected to Saint Francis’s life and death. You’ll see the crucifix of San Damiano, and the Sacred Shrine of Rivotorto, where Francis found refuge. The tour culminates at the Porziuncola, where St. Francis passed away, and then ends at the Basilica of St. Francis, his birthplace and final resting place.

Throughout, your guide will highlight art, architecture, and stories that connect these sites to the saint’s life and spiritual legacy. Based on reviews, guides like Daniel or Marco do an excellent job of making history lively, often sharing personal insights and local anecdotes that bring the past into the present.

Navigating the Assisi Landscape on a Tuk-Tuk

One of the standout features of this experience is the tuk-tuk ride itself. Assisi’s steep streets and twisting alleys are a challenge for pedestrians, but this small vehicle glides effortlessly over the hills, giving you a unique perspective. You’ll love the views from these vantage points, especially around historic sites like the Roman Amphitheater and the Basilica of Saint Clare, where the panoramic vistas are worth the ride.

The tuk-tuk also offers a quiet, eco-friendly way to explore that feels more personal than a bus or large group tour. Many reviewers note how the tuk-tuk makes the experience less rushed, allowing more time to absorb the atmosphere and ask questions. Plus, it’s a fun way to break the usual sightseeing routine, especially when you’re buzzing through the city’s narrow streets.

Authenticity and Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Readers consistently praise guides like Daniel for their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling. Past reviews mention how guides often share personal stories and local insights, such as the significance of the thornless Rose bush – something you wouldn’t typically see on a standard tour.

The tour’s focus on Saint Francis’s life and legacy is well-balanced with visits to the surrounding churches and sites. Guides do a good job of weaving spiritual, artistic, and historical details, making the visit more meaningful. The small group size ensures a more relaxed, conversational atmosphere, encouraging questions and deeper understanding.

You’ll also appreciate the inclusion of local Umbrian bread and water, which offers a taste of regional hospitality—simple, authentic, and a nice touch to break up the sightseeing.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At about $136 per person, this tour offers good value for those wanting an in-depth, personalized experience in Assisi. The inclusion of entrance fees, the private tuk-tuk ride, and the guidance of a well-informed local make it a compelling package. For travelers eager to learn about St. Francis and see Assisi’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own, the price is justified.

Of course, if you’re traveling solo or with a group of friends, costs can add up, but for a private, guided experience, it’s competitive. The flexible booking with ‘reserve now, pay later’ adds peace of mind, and the cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—means you can plan without worry.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who value personalized, in-depth stories over generic sightseeing. It’s ideal for those who want to combine spiritual exploration with cultural insights, especially fans of Saint Francis. The tuk-tuk’s ability to access tight, historic streets makes it perfect for visitors who prefer a more comfortable, less physically demanding way to see the city.

People interested in art, history, and local traditions will find this tour particularly engaging. And if you’re traveling with someone who might find walking hills challenging, the tuk-tuk provides a practical alternative. It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples who want a more intimate, relaxed experience.

Practical Tips for Your Assisi Tour

• Arrive early or on time at the starting point near Porta Nuova, since there’s no hotel pickup included.
• Bring comfortable clothes and a credit card for any additional expenses.
• Consider booking in advance, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
• Use the ‘reserve & pay later’ option to keep your plans flexible.
• If traveling as a group of three or more, contact the agency directly to confirm the booking.
• Don’t forget to ask your guide for local tips and hidden gems — past travelers note guides like Daniel go beyond the script.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour begins at the travel agency near Porta Nuova. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, Spanish, and French, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, giving you enough time to see key sites without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to churches and monuments are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing and a credit card for any extra expenses. Water and typical Umbrian stuffed bread are provided as part of the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

This tuk-tuk tour of Assisi offers a rare combination of intimacy, insight, and accessibility. It’s well-suited for those who want a relaxed, authentic glimpse into the life of Saint Francis and the town he called home. With knowledgeable guides, charming views, and a personal touch, it’s a memorable way to experience Assisi beyond the usual tourist pathways.