Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi travel guide

The Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, one of Italy's most significant places of pilgrimage, was built to honor Saint Francis, who was canonized in 1228. Construction began just two years after his canonization, under the direction of Brother Elias, a companion of Saint Francis.

The Basilica comprises two churches: the Upper Church and the Lower Church, each with their unique architectural styles. The Upper Church is notable for its bright, Gothic style, while the Lower Church showcases a more austere, Romanesque approach. Over the centuries, the Basilica has been adorned with remarkable works of art, including frescoes by renowned artists such as Giotto and Cimabue.

In 1997, the Basilica was severely damaged by an earthquake, but after extensive restoration works, it was reopened to the public in 1999. Today, the Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi continues to draw pilgrims and art lovers from around the world, standing as a testament to Saint Francis's enduring legacy.

The Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is a remarkable blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. Its distinctive two-level structure, with the Upper Church boasting Gothic elements and the Lower Church reflecting Romanesque influences, is a unique feature. The Upper Church is adorned with celebrated 13th-century frescoes by Giotto that depict the life of St. Francis, making it a treasure trove of medieval art. The Lower Church, on the other hand, is more austere and intimate, with its crypt housing the tomb of St. Francis. Another distinctive feature is the Basilica's location, on the slopes of Mount Subasio, providing breathtaking views of the Umbrian countryside. Its forest-green roof, complemented by the rose-pink facade, beautifully blends with the surrounding landscape. Moreover, the Basilica is surrounded by a sacred grove known as 'Bosco di San Francesco,' a restored medieval woodland, adding to its unique charm.

Located in the dynamic Assisi, the popular Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Assisi or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Assisi is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Assisi offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Assisi and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Basilica di Santa Chiara, San Damiano, Eremo delle Carceri, Cathedral of San Rufino, and Rocca Maggiore.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Assisi has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Assisi, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Assisi, Italy. If you're flying in, San Francesco d Assisi Airport is approximately 5 miles (8.1 km) away from Assisi. From there, you can easily reach Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Assisi, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, which is located 0.5 miles (0.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza Inferiore di S. Francesco, 2, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi!

The best time to explore Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. These periods offer the perfect conditions for enjoying the complex's stunning architecture and serene ambiance. In particular, the fall season often coincides with the Feast of St. Francis, a special event held on October 4th, which offers unique religious and cultural experiences. However, visitation during summer (July and August) can also be rewarding as the basilica stays relatively cool, offering a respite from the heat. While the basilica is open year-round, it's advisable to check the official website for any changes in opening hours or special events. Regardless the time of year, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist times and to appreciate the basilica in a quieter, more contemplative setting.

To truly enjoy your visit to Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, joining a tour that features this popular papal basilica in Assisi is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi starting at just 40 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi and other top attractions in Assisi than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Assisi include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind papal basilica in Italy.

Conveniently explore Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi and plenty more captivating attractions in Assisi by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Assisi has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi below.

Aside from Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi, Assisi is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Assisi, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Basilica di Santa Chiara, San Damiano, and Eremo delle Carceri.

Basilica di Santa Chiara is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Assisi, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,600 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Basilica di Santa Chiara is Piazza Santa Chiara, 1, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Assisi is San Damiano. Like Basilica di Santa Chiara, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 4,900 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this church is Via San Damiano, 85, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Eremo delle Carceri is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Assisi. This church and top attraction in Assisi has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Via Eremo delle Carceri, 38, 06081 Assisi PG, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Assisi below.