Citerna
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Latest page update: 21 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Citerna
Accommodation in Citerna is limited, with most options consisting of small agriturismi and countryside guesthouses. For established hotels, the best-reviewed choices are found nearby in Città di Castello and Anghiari.
In Città di Castello, Hotel Tiferno offers elegant rooms within a 17th-century building, featuring a restaurant and excellent guest feedback for both comfort and service (€€€). Also in Città di Castello, Hotel Le Mura provides comfortable accommodation with on-site dining and consistently positive reviews for hospitality and value (€€). Across the border in Anghiari, Hotel La Meridiana offers classic rooms, a restaurant and strong ratings for its location, cleanliness and friendly service (€€).
In Città di Castello, Hotel Tiferno offers elegant rooms within a 17th-century building, featuring a restaurant and excellent guest feedback for both comfort and service (€€€). Also in Città di Castello, Hotel Le Mura provides comfortable accommodation with on-site dining and consistently positive reviews for hospitality and value (€€). Across the border in Anghiari, Hotel La Meridiana offers classic rooms, a restaurant and strong ratings for its location, cleanliness and friendly service (€€).
Where is
Where is Citerna?
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The town of Citerna is situated within the Province of Perugia and has a population of around 3,500 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 480 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Città di Castello, Montone, Umbertide, Gubbio and Perugia. |
Comune di Citerna
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Province: Perugia
Region: Umbria Population: 3,372 (in 2024 - source) Size: 24 km² Elevation: 480 metres Close by: Città di Castello, Montone, Umbertide, Gubbio, Perugia Recommended accommodation: Borgo di Celle (10 km) |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Porta dell'Umbria (The Gateway to Umbria)
Listing headline: La Porta dell'Umbria (The Gateway to Umbria)
What People Ask About Citerna, Umbria
Is Citerna worth visiting?
Yes, Citerna is worth visiting for its medieval streets, panoramic views over the Upper Tiber Valley, and quiet hilltop atmosphere. It is also part of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy).
How do I get to Citerna?
Citerna is in northern Umbria, close to the Tuscany border, and is best reached by car from the E45 motorway. The nearest train stations are in Sansepolcro and Città di Castello, both within a short drive of the town.
What are the main attractions in Citerna?
Attractions include the medieval town walls, the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, and the 13th-century Civic Tower. The town also preserves narrow alleys, vaulted passages, and small squares with views across Umbria and Tuscany.
What is Citerna known for?
Citerna is known for its elevated setting overlooking the Upper Tiber Valley, as well as its well-preserved medieval layout. The town is also associated with Renaissance art, including works attributed to Donatello.
What food is typical of Citerna?
Typical food includes truffle-based pasta, grilled meats, and hearty soups made with local beans and lentils. Olive oil from the surrounding hills is also a key part of the local cuisine.
Related links
Discover
Discover Citerna
Perched on a hill near the border with Tuscany, Citerna is one of the most scenic towns in northern Umbria, overlooking the upper Tiber Valley. The settlement is enclosed by ancient walls, with stone archways, steep alleys, and panoramic terraces that reveal wide views over the surrounding countryside. Its position between Sansepolcro and Città di Castello gives it a distinctive blend of Umbrian and Tuscan character, with soft rolling hills and fertile plains below.
Citerna’s historic core retains much of its medieval structure, centred around the Church of San Francesco and the Piazza Scipione Scipioni. The Walkway of the Fortress, an elevated passage along the old ramparts, offers views across the valley to Mount Subasio and the Apennines. Traces of Etruscan and Roman settlement can still be found in the area, while Renaissance influences are visible in local architecture and art. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and artisan traditions, Citerna forms part of a network of historic towns that define the cultural landscape of northern Umbria.
Citerna’s historic core retains much of its medieval structure, centred around the Church of San Francesco and the Piazza Scipione Scipioni. The Walkway of the Fortress, an elevated passage along the old ramparts, offers views across the valley to Mount Subasio and the Apennines. Traces of Etruscan and Roman settlement can still be found in the area, while Renaissance influences are visible in local architecture and art. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and artisan traditions, Citerna forms part of a network of historic towns that define the cultural landscape of northern Umbria.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Citerna
- Centro Storico di Citerna crowns a gentle hill on the northern edge of Umbria, its narrow lanes winding among stone houses, arched passageways, and ancient walls. The village retains a refined medieval atmosphere, with terracotta rooftops, graceful loggias, and panoramic terraces overlooking the Upper Tiber Valley. Small piazzas open onto sweeping vistas of rolling hills and distant mountains. Walking through Citerna offers a peaceful journey into a world of history, art, and timeless charm.
- Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo stands prominently within the village, its brick façade simple yet elegant, crowned by a slender bell tower. Inside, visitors find baroque altars, sacred paintings, and precious sculptures, including works attributed to Donatello. The church has long been central to religious life and village festivals. It remains a treasured symbol of Citerna’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
- Loggiata di Citerna stretches along the village’s edge, a beautiful covered walkway supported by graceful arches. From here, visitors enjoy spectacular views over the Tiber Valley and the Apennine foothills. The loggia serves as both a scenic promenade and a gathering place for locals. It embodies the quiet elegance and refined spirit of Citerna’s historic centre.
- Piazza Scipione Scipioni lies at the heart of village life, surrounded by historic buildings, small cafés, and inviting benches where locals meet. The square hosts markets, art exhibitions, and traditional festivals that bring gentle activity to the village centre. Cobblestones underfoot and glimpses of green hills add rustic charm. It’s the perfect spot to pause and savour the tranquil rhythm of Citerna’s daily life.
- Guided artistic and historical tours in Citerna lead visitors through medieval streets, sacred sites, and panoramic viewpoints. Local guides share stories of noble families, Renaissance art, and the village’s strategic role between Umbria and Tuscany. Tours often include tastings of regional specialities such as olive oil, cured meats, and traditional pastries. Exploring with a guide reveals Citerna’s unique blend of artistic treasures, history, and serene beauty.
Tours and Activities
Citerna Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Citerna Photo Gallery
Umbria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Citerna
By Rail: The nearest train station to Citerna is in Sansepolcro, approximately 10 kilometres away. The station is served by regional trains on the Sansepolcro–Arezzo line operated by Trenitalia Tper, with connections to Arezzo in about 50 minutes and Perugia in roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes via intermediate transfers. From Sansepolcro, local buses and taxis provide regular access to Citerna.
By Road: Citerna is located in the province of Perugia, Umbria, near the border with Tuscany. From Arezzo, the drive is around 35 kilometres and takes about 40 minutes via the SS73 and SP221. From Perugia, it is approximately 70 kilometres and takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes by car. Parking is available outside the historic centre and along the access roads leading up to the town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Citerna is located in the province of Perugia, Umbria, near the border with Tuscany. From Arezzo, the drive is around 35 kilometres and takes about 40 minutes via the SS73 and SP221. From Perugia, it is approximately 70 kilometres and takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes by car. Parking is available outside the historic centre and along the access roads leading up to the town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Approximately 70 kilometres from Citerna, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the E45. It is the closest airport, offering domestic and short-haul European flights.
- Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport: Located about 120 kilometres northwest, taking roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes by car via the A1 motorway. A good option for travellers arriving from northern or central Europe.
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport: Around 190 kilometres north, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A14 and E45. Suitable for visitors arriving on international routes.
Private Transfers
Citerna Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a comfortable and convenient way to reach Citerna or continue your journey from the village to other destinations in Umbria and nearby regions. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey without the need for car hire or public transport.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, providing the most direct connection for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Citerna usually takes around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Città di Castello, Monterchi, and Sansepolcro, or to nearby destinations such as Arezzo, Gubbio, and Assisi.
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.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, providing the most direct connection for both arrivals and departures. The journey from the airport to Citerna usually takes around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Città di Castello, Monterchi, and Sansepolcro, or to nearby destinations such as Arezzo, Gubbio, and Assisi.
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.

