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Orvieto is one of the most dramatically-situated hill towns in Italy, perched on a plateau atop huge tufa cliffs. It boasts a beautiful duomo (cathedral), and its monuments and museums offer an extensive overview of history beginning with the Etruscans.

While many travelers visit Orvieto as a day trip from Rome, this enchanting hill town provides ample allure for a few days or more. It serves as a fantastic stopping-off point between Rome and Florence and is highly praised for its restaurants featuring traditional Umbrian cuisine, local wines, artisan shops, and its authentic, charming atmosphere.

Orvieto Highlights

• Medieval Duomo with a stunning mosaic facade
• Underground passages
• Views from the Torre del Moro
• Saint Patrick’s Well
• Etruscan sites
• Shopping for ceramics and handicrafts

Top Tourist Sights and Attractions in Orvieto

• Medieval Duomo: The cathedral showcases one of the most impressive examples of medieval architecture in Italy. Construction began in 1290 and took nearly four centuries to complete. Its stunning facade features mosaics that sparkle under the sun. Inside, visitors can admire frescoes by Fra Angelico and Signorelli, along with beautiful wooden choir stalls.
• Underground Caves and Passageways: These underground tunnels, used since Etruscan times, expanded during the Middle Ages for water cisterns, cold storage, and pigeon breeding. Daily tours of the Orvieto Underground are available at the tourist office across from the Duomo, and self-guided tours of the private PozzodellaCava are also recommended.
• Torre del Moro: Standing at 47 meters, this tower is the highest point in Orvieto. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, overlooking the Umbrian valley and hills.
• Saint Patrick’s Well: An architectural wonder from the early 16th century, this well features double spiral staircases running the 62-meter depth without intersecting. Each staircase contains 248 steps, designed for pack animals to carry water efficiently.
• Etruscan Sites: Located mainly outside the historic center, visitors can explore remnants of Etruscan walls, tombs, and a necropolis. Two excellent archaeological museums in Piazza del Duomo present captivating artifacts from local excavations.
• Albornoz Fortress: This Spanish castle, built at one end of the upper town on the site of an Etruscan temple, dates back to the mid-fifteenth century. It offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
• Lovely Via del Duomo: This street is filled with shops selling local Orvieto-style ceramics, wine, regional olive oil, meats, and cheeses. A leisurely stroll down Corso Cavour reveals informal trattorias, wine bars, clothing stores, and a vibrant taste of Italian life.

Orvieto Location

Orvieto is situated in the southwest of central Italy’s Umbria region, approximately 60 miles north of Rome. It is conveniently located just off the A1 toll road that connects Rome and Florence. Visitors often explore Orvieto as a day trip from Rome or as part of a guided tour that includes Assisi.

Where to Stay and Eat in Orvieto

• Orvieto offers a range of accommodation options, including quality hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals at various price points. Recommended stays include Hotel Virgilio and Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini.
• For an authentic taste of regional cuisine, visitors should try local restaurants such as Trattoria del Moro, La Palomba, or Grotte del Funaro, which is situated underground in a historic rope-maker’s workshop.

Orvieto Transportation

Orvieto is easily accessible from the Florence – Rome train line, with its train station located in the lower town. A funicular connects the train station to the upper town. Ample parking is available at Via Roma and Campo della Fiera, just outside the historic center. Elevators and escalators facilitate movement, as the historical area is restricted to non-resident traffic. A mini-bus service operates throughout the town, providing access to major tourist attractions.

Tourist Information

The tourist information office is conveniently located on Piazza del Duomo, the expansive square directly in front of the cathedral. Visitors can obtain the Carta Unica, a pass that covers entry to key sites and museums, as well as bus and funicular access. Alternatively, it can also be purchased at the railway station parking lot.

Shopping in Orvieto

Orvieto is a prominent center for majolica pottery, and numerous shops throughout the town feature this beautiful craftsmanship. Other local handicrafts include lace making, wrought iron works, and wood crafts. Additionally, the vineyards in the surrounding hills produce white wine, which can be sampled or purchased within the town.

Exploring Around Orvieto

Orvieto serves as an excellent base for exploring southern Umbria and nearby regions, including noteworthy hill towns and locations in Northern Lazio, featuring Etruscan sites, picturesque gardens, and charming small towns. Moreover, Rome is just over an hour away by train, making it easily accessible for additional exploration.