*Please note this pilgrimage involves a certain amount of walking and physical activity, such as stairs, standing for extended periods and walking on uneven surfaces; especially when visiting historical and religious sites. We kindly ask that you assess your comfort level with these activities before booking and travel with a companion that can provide assistance if required. If you have any mobility concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our team to discuss.
Assisi, Lucca and San Giovanni Rotondo (with Loreto) Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival in Rome
Today we will have an early departure from Dublin Airport to Rome. Our flight will take off at approximately at 06:20hrs and scheduled to arrive at 10:30hrs. Upon arrival, our Joe Walsh Tours representative will be there to welcome us and assist with the group arrangements. After collecting our luggage from the carousel, we will board our private coach and transfer to the beautiful hill town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, in the central part of Italy. Comfort stop on the way from Rome to Assisi for snacks (own expenses).
Our first visit of the day will be the basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, the birthplace of the Franciscan Order. The Basilica houses the Porziuncola, the small chapel at the heart of St. Francis’ first community, and the Chapel of the Transito, where St. Francis died. Time permitting, we will have a guided tour form one of the local seminars.
After a full first day, we will be transferred to our accommodation, Casa Papa Giovanni, with breakfast and dinner each day. Set within the walls of Upper Assisi, it is only a short walk from the major city attractions, such as Saint Francis & St Clare Basilica. A rooftop garden is a highlight for guests looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The accommodation is a religious house run by the Diocese of Assisi with very simple and basic rooms.
Please note: Reaching Casa Papa Giovanni in Assisi from the main coach parking area involves a steep uphill walk, as the guesthouse sits inside the historic hilltop walls. This is a 5-10 minutes walk. As the accommodation does not offer porterage service, whoever requires it, or cannot manage, can call a local taxi to bring the bags and go to the accommodation, to be paid locally.
DAY 2: The Spiritual Treasures of Upper Assisi & Walking tour
Today after breakfast, will be dedicated to discovering the spiritual treasures of Upper Assisi. We will visit the Basilica of St Francis, with its remarkable frescoes and the tomb of the saint, and explore the places associated with his life and mission.
We will also visit the Basilica of St Clare, dedicated to the founder of the Poor Clares, and spend time at the Sanctuary of the Renunciation, associated with Blessed Carlo Acutis. The day will offer opportunities for prayer, reflection and personal devotion in the heart of this remarkable Franciscan town.
Back to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 3: Full Day Excursion to Lucca
After brreakfast, we will enjoy a full-day excursion to the historic Tuscan city of Lucca. Renowned for its impressive Renaissance walls, charming streets and beautiful churches, Lucca offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the region’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
We will spend the day exploring the city and its principal sights, including the Sanctuary of Gemma Galgani. The sanctuary of St. Gemma is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to Gemma Galgani, canonised by Pope Pius XII and venerated as the patron saint of students, pharmacists and those suffering from lung illnesses.
Return to Assisi for dinner and overnight accommodation.
DAY 4: Free time in Assisi
After a nice breakfast today, we will have a free day in Assisi. Time to walk through the medieval streets of this charming town, revisit some of the Basilicas, time for personal prayers and shopping.
We recommend visiting the Hermitage of San Daminao & Le Carceri. The visit of this place is done or on foot or on Taxi to be paid locally (not included). Built in the 12th century, S. Damian is the Church where S. Francis received the Mission from Christ. The Hermitage or ‘Le Carceri’ is a place up in Monte Subasio where S. Francis used to go with his friends. We recommend doing both.
Meet back at the hotel for hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 5: Assisi to San Giovanni Rotondo via Loreto
After an early breakfast and check out, we will depart Assisi and travel towards San Giovanni Rotondo, stopping en route in Loreto. Here, we will visit the Holy House of Nazareth, one of the most important Marian shrines in Italy, and celebrate Holy Mass.
There will be time to explore the sanctuary and spend time in prayer before continuing our journey to San Giovanni Rotondo. On arrival, we will check in to our accommodation the 4-star Hotel Parco delle Rose, where we will be staying for the next 4 nights on a Full Board basis. The hotel has a swimming pool for their guests.
DAY 6: San Giovanni Rotondo
After breakfast, today will be dedicated to the principal pilgrimage sites of San Giovanni Rotondo and the life of St Pio of Pietrelcina. We will visit the places associated with the saint, including the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the modern church dedicated to St Pio, where his remains are venerated.
There will also be an opportunity to visit the English office (guided tour) and spend time in prayer and personal reflection at the shrine. It will be a full and meaningful day.
Back to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Please note: Today the group will be using the local shuttle bus, approx. €1.50 ticket to be paid locally.
DAY 7: St Michael’s Cave
Today after breakfast, we will visit Monte Sant’Angelo, home to the famous Sanctuary of St Michael the Archangel, an important place of pilgrimage for centuries. We will explore the sanctuary and the sacred cave associated with the apparitions of St Michael. Back to the hotel for lunch.
In the afternoon, free rest of the day in San Giovanni Rotondo, allowing pilgrims to revisit the shrine of St Pio, attend religious services, spend additional time in prayer or enjoy some personal time at leisure. Take the chance of visiting Mary Pyle’s house, the Station of the cross with its sculptures and the Hospital (Home for the Relief of Suffering).
Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at our hotel.
DAY 8: Departure via Naples
After breakfast, we will check out and transfer to Naples Airport for our return flight.
Depending on the flight schedule and available time, we may make a stop in Pietrelcina, the birthplace of St Pio, offering a final opportunity to discover the early life of the saint before continuing to Naples Airport for our journey home.
