Celleno
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Latest page update: 3 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Celleno
Celleno has very limited hotel availability, as most accommodation in and around the village consists of B&Bs, rural houses and small residences. Travellers looking for established hotels with fuller facilities and a consistent level of guest feedback will find the best options in nearby towns.
In Viterbo, Hotel Salus Terme is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its thermal facilities, spa areas and comfortable rooms, making it a popular base for exploring the Tuscia countryside (€€€€). Also in Viterbo, Palazzo Catalani offers a historic alternative with characterful interiors, welcoming service and a peaceful setting in the medieval quarter (€€€). For a stay closer to Lake Bolsena, Ludwig Boutique Hotel in Bolsena provides elegant rooms, lake views and convenient access to the waterfront and historic centre (€€€€).
In Viterbo, Hotel Salus Terme is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its thermal facilities, spa areas and comfortable rooms, making it a popular base for exploring the Tuscia countryside (€€€€). Also in Viterbo, Palazzo Catalani offers a historic alternative with characterful interiors, welcoming service and a peaceful setting in the medieval quarter (€€€). For a stay closer to Lake Bolsena, Ludwig Boutique Hotel in Bolsena provides elegant rooms, lake views and convenient access to the waterfront and historic centre (€€€€).
Where is
Where is Celleno?
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The ghost town of Celleno is located within the Province of Viterbo and stands at an elevation of 407 metres above sea level.
Although it carries the "ghost town" tag, it has a population of 1,308. It belongs to the historical area of Tuscia, the Roman name for Etruria, the land of the Etruscans. Places of interest nearby include Civitella d'Agliano, Cività di Bagnoregio and Lubriano. |
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Comune di Celleno
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Province: Viterbo
Region: Lazio Population: 1,307 (in 2024 - source) Size: 25 km² Elevation: 407 metres Highlights: ghost village, Porta Vecchia Fly to: Rome Fiumicino Airport - 1 hour 31 minutes by car (144 km) Close by: Civitella d'Agliano, Cività di Bagnoregio, Lubriano Recommended accommodation: Hotel Urbano V (13 km) |
What People Ask About Celleno
Where is Celleno located?
Why is Celleno a ghost town?
Can you visit Celleno?
What is there to see in Celleno?
How do you get to Celleno?
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Discover
Discover Celleno
Celleno is a hill town in the Province of Viterbo, set in the countryside of northern Lazio among rolling farmland, orchards, and volcanic hills. The modern settlement lies on a gentle rise overlooking the Tiber Valley, with a compact centre and quiet rural surroundings. Its landscape of tufa cliffs, wooded slopes, and cultivated fields connects Celleno to the wider heritage of the Tuscia region.
A short distance away stands Celleno Vecchio, the abandoned medieval village perched on a crumbling tufa ridge and often called the “ghost town.” Its ruined houses, narrow alleys, and old castle recall Celleno’s medieval past and form the area’s most distinctive landmark. Positioned between Bagnoregio and Viterbo, the town sits on historic routes through the Tuscia countryside, linking rural traditions, archaeological layers, and the volcanic landscapes of northern Lazio.
A short distance away stands Celleno Vecchio, the abandoned medieval village perched on a crumbling tufa ridge and often called the “ghost town.” Its ruined houses, narrow alleys, and old castle recall Celleno’s medieval past and form the area’s most distinctive landmark. Positioned between Bagnoregio and Viterbo, the town sits on historic routes through the Tuscia countryside, linking rural traditions, archaeological layers, and the volcanic landscapes of northern Lazio.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Celleno
- Centro Storico di Celleno Vecchia: The historic centre of Celleno is often referred to as the "Ghost Village." The village, once a thriving medieval settlement, is now mostly abandoned, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore its narrow streets and ancient stone houses. The quiet, almost eerie atmosphere provides a fascinating look at the town's past and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
- Castello Orsini: Castello Orsini is a medieval castle located in Celleno, dating back to the 12th century. The castle is one of the town's most important landmarks and offers a glimpse into the history of the Orsini family, who once ruled over the area. Visitors can explore the castle's ruins and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley below.
- Chiesa di San Rocco: This 16th-century church, dedicated to St. Roch, is a significant religious site in Celleno. The church features beautiful frescoes and a serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful place to visit. It was originally built as a chapel for the local population to seek protection from plagues, and it still holds cultural and spiritual importance today.
- Ecomuseo della Tuscia: Located near Celleno, the Ecomuseo della Tuscia offers a deeper understanding of the region’s agricultural and cultural traditions. The museum showcases local crafts, traditions, and the history of the Tuscia area, giving visitors a rich insight into the life of the people who have lived here for centuries.
Tours and Activities
Celleno Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Celleno
Eating out in Celleno is limited to a few small trattorie and casual spots where the cooking reflects the rustic traditions of northern Lazio. Typical dishes include handmade pasta with meat or mushroom sauces, pork and lamb specialities, and cheeses from the surrounding countryside. A couple of cafés and bars in the village offer lighter meals and drinks.
For more variety, Bagnoregio nearby provides additional trattorie and pizzerias, while the city of Viterbo has a much wider dining scene. There visitors can find everything from traditional kitchens serving local classics to restaurants with broader and more modern menus.
For more variety, Bagnoregio nearby provides additional trattorie and pizzerias, while the city of Viterbo has a much wider dining scene. There visitors can find everything from traditional kitchens serving local classics to restaurants with broader and more modern menus.
Photo Gallery
Celleno Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Celleno
- Bagnoregio (approx. 10 km northeast of Celleno): Famous for Civita di Bagnoregio, known as the “dying town,” this hilltop settlement is reached by a pedestrian bridge and offers dramatic views over the surrounding valleys. The old town has cobbled lanes, churches, and stone houses.
- Civitella d’Agliano (approx. 12 km southeast of Celleno): A medieval village surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, Civitella d’Agliano is known for its castle and narrow streets. The area is also recognised for its white wines and rural landscapes.
- Vitorchiano (approx. 15 km southwest of Celleno): Perched on a cliff of peperino stone, Vitorchiano has an atmospheric medieval centre with towers, arches, and churches. Its position gives wide views of the Viterbo countryside.
- Lubriano (approx. 12 km northeast of Celleno): Overlooking the Calanchi Valley, Lubriano is a small town with a historic centre of stone houses and churches. A panoramic walkway provides striking views towards Civita di Bagnoregio.
- Viterbo (approx. 20 km west of Celleno): The provincial capital, Viterbo is renowned for its medieval quarter of San Pellegrino, the Papal Palace, and several historic churches. The city is also known for its thermal springs and cultural traditions.
Lazio Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Celleno
By Rail: Celleno does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Viterbo, approximately 20 kilometres away, on the Roma–Civita Castellana–Viterbo regional line. Trenitalia services connect Viterbo to Rome in about 2 hours. From Viterbo, Celleno can be reached by car in around 25 minutes, with limited bus services available.
By Road: Celleno is located in northern Lazio, about 20 kilometres north of Viterbo. From Viterbo, the drive takes around 25 minutes via the SP5 and SP10. From Rome, the journey is approximately 110 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car via the A1 and local roads. Parking is available near the historic village.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Celleno is located in northern Lazio, about 20 kilometres north of Viterbo. From Viterbo, the drive takes around 25 minutes via the SP5 and SP10. From Rome, the journey is approximately 110 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car via the A1 and local roads. Parking is available near the historic village.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rome Fiumicino Airport: Located around 130 kilometres from Celleno, with a driving time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes via the A1 and the Viterbo–Orte junction.
- Rome Ciampino Airport: About 115 kilometres away, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes depending on traffic.
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Approximately 100 kilometres to the north, reachable in about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Private Transfers
Celleno Private Transfers
A private transfer is the simplest way to reach the village of Celleno, particularly for visitors arriving without a car. You’ll be collected at your chosen location and taken directly to your destination by a local driver—without needing to navigate rural roads or rely on limited public transport.
The closest major airport is Rome Fiumicino Airport, with a drive time of around 1 hour 40 minutes (approx. 130 kilometres). Ciampino Airport is slightly closer in distance but takes a similar amount of time. If travelling from Viterbo, which is the nearest city, the journey to Celleno takes about 30 minutes (around 25 kilometres).
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
The closest major airport is Rome Fiumicino Airport, with a drive time of around 1 hour 40 minutes (approx. 130 kilometres). Ciampino Airport is slightly closer in distance but takes a similar amount of time. If travelling from Viterbo, which is the nearest city, the journey to Celleno takes about 30 minutes (around 25 kilometres).
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
