Travel Guide to Orvieto

What to See, Do, and Experience

Best Time to Visit

April - June, September - October, December - January

Must-See

Duomo di Orvieto , Orvieto Underground & Pozzo di San Patrizio, Torre del Moro, Palazzo del Popolo, Museo Claudio Faina

Perfect For

History & Architecture, Food & Wine, Cultural Events, Day Trips, Romantic Getaways

Perched dramatically on a tufa cliff in southern Umbria, Orvieto is one of Italy’s most striking hill towns. Crowned by its magnificent Gothic cathedral and surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, it offers the authentic charm of Italy’s Green Heart, far from the crowds of more touristy destinations like Rome or Florence, while still being easily accessible from both. With roots stretching back to the Etruscans, Orvieto blends ancient history, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural life with a slower, more authentic pace of travel.

Renowned for its distinctive food and wine traditions, scenic countryside, and world-class events like Umbria Jazz Winter, Orvieto is a perfect stop for travelers seeking authentic experiences, gastronomy, and nature without overtourism. Easily reachable by train or car, it captures the essence of Umbria: history, beauty, and flavors enjoyed in a setting that feels timeless and uncrowded.

History & Culture

Orvieto’s story begins with the Etruscans, who established the city on its dramatic volcanic plateau around the 8th century BC. Remains of their tombs, artifacts, and the underground network of caves still testify to this ancient civilization.

During the Middle Ages, Orvieto grew into a powerful city-state, playing a strategic role between Rome and Florence. It even became a papal refuge, hosting popes during times of political unrest. This long, layered history has left its mark in the city’s architecture, traditions, and cultural identity, making Orvieto a living museum of central Italy’s past.

What to see

The centerpiece of Orvieto is its Cathedral (Duomo di Orvieto), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a dazzling façade of mosaics and bas-reliefs, and inside, frescoes by Luca Signorelli that inspired Michelangelo.

Beneath the town lies Orvieto Underground, a maze of tunnels, wells, and caves dug by the Etruscans and expanded in the Middle Ages - including the famous Pozzo di San Patrizio, a double-helix well built for water supply during sieges. Stroll through the historic center to admire Torre del Moro, the medieval clock tower, and visit smaller gems like the Church of San Giovenale, one of the oldest in the city. For art lovers, the Museo Claudio Faina displays Etruscan treasures, while the Palazzo del Popolo evokes the city’s medieval glory.

Nature & Surroundings

Surrounded by vineyards and green hills, Orvieto is a gateway to Umbria’s countryside. The surrounding area is famous for wine tours, particularly the crisp white Orvieto Classico DOC, best enjoyed at local wineries. Scenic walking and cycling routes wind through olive groves and rolling hills, offering views of the dramatic cliffside town.

Adventurous visitors can try paragliding over the Umbrian valley or explore the volcanic landscapes of the nearby Bolsena Lake. Thanks to its location, Orvieto is also a perfect base for day trips to Civita di Bagnoregio, known as “the dying town,” just 20 minutes away.

Typical Food

Orvieto’s gastronomy is as rich as its history. The town is renowned for umbrichelli pasta, often served with truffle or wild boar sauce, and for hearty meat dishes like cacciagione (game stews). Wild truffles, mushrooms, and seasonal produce are staples of the local kitchen, as is extra virgin olive oil from the surrounding hills.

The highlight, however, is wine: Orvieto Classico, a white wine prized since medieval times, pairs perfectly with traditional dishes. Visitors can join guided wine and olive oil tastings, or even participate in truffle hunting experiences to connect with the region’s culinary soul.

Events & Traditions

Orvieto celebrates its heritage with lively events throughout the year. In early January, the Umbria Jazz Winter Festival brings world-class music to the town’s churches and theaters.

The Corpus Domini Festival, established by Pope Urban IV in the 13th century, features a solemn procession through the streets with historic costumes. In the summer, local food festivals highlight seasonal specialties, while autumn brings harvest celebrations dedicated to grapes, olive oil, and chestnuts. Markets, concerts, and cultural events keep the town vibrant in every season.

Where to stay in Orvieto

From elegant hotels housed in medieval palaces to cozy B&Bs tucked into historic alleys, Orvieto offers a wide range of accommodations. Staying inside the walled city allows travelers to experience its charm after the day crowds leave, while countryside agriturismi and vineyard estates provide a more relaxing retreat with sweeping views.

Orvieto’s strategic position, just off the A1 highway and along the Rome - Florence rail line, also makes it an ideal base for exploring southern Umbria and northern Lazio.

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How to get there

Orvieto is one of the easiest Umbrian towns to reach. It lies directly on the Rome–Florence train line, with frequent connections to both cities (about 1 hour from Rome, 2 hours from Florence).

From the train station, a funicular carries visitors up to the historic center in just a few minutes. By car, Orvieto is conveniently located along the A1 highway, making it a perfect stop between central Italian destinations. The nearest airports are Rome Fiumicino/Ciampino and Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport.