Orvieto
⭐ Ranked #79 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 23 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Orvieto
Orvieto offers a well-reviewed selection of established hotels, supported by its clifftop setting, cathedral, underground sites and funicular links from the station. The best options focus on comfort, character and convenient access to the historic centre, viewpoints and main monuments.
Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini, in the medieval quarter, is one of the most prestigious choices, appreciated for its elegant interiors, welcoming service and excellent position within walking distance of the Duomo and central streets (€€€). Grand Hotel Italia, close to Piazza della Repubblica, provides a practical alternative with spacious rooms and strong guest feedback for comfort and location (€€€). For those seeking a stay with countryside views just outside the walls, La Badia di Orvieto offers historic charm, panoramic grounds and a peaceful setting while remaining close to the town (€€€€).
Hotel Palazzo Piccolomini, in the medieval quarter, is one of the most prestigious choices, appreciated for its elegant interiors, welcoming service and excellent position within walking distance of the Duomo and central streets (€€€). Grand Hotel Italia, close to Piazza della Repubblica, provides a practical alternative with spacious rooms and strong guest feedback for comfort and location (€€€). For those seeking a stay with countryside views just outside the walls, La Badia di Orvieto offers historic charm, panoramic grounds and a peaceful setting while remaining close to the town (€€€€).
Where is
Where is Orvieto?
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Situated in the Province of Terni, the hill town of Orvieto has a population of 20,148 inhabitants. One of the Umbria region's most popular visitor attractions, the town stands at an elevation of 325 metres above sea level and lies 76 kilometres south west of Perugia, the regional capital of Umbria.
Highlights for visitors to Orvieto include the Cathedral, the Pozzo di San Patrizio well and the underground tunnelling system. The town is also famous for its wines which can be sampled at any of the town's various enotecas. |
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Comune di Orvieto
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Province: Terni
Region: Umbria Population: 19,6367 (in 2024 - source) Size: 281 km² Elevation: 325 metres Highlights: Cathedral, Papal Residence, Pozzo di San Patrizio Close by: Lake Corbara, Allerona, Civitella del Lago |
What People Ask About Orvieto
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Discover
Discover Orvieto
History of Orvieto: Etruscan Origins and Plentiful Pontiffs
Orvieto is one of the most beautiful hill towns in Italy and it's worth taking a step back to admire it from a distance first. It sits atop a steep tufa rock; the kind of strategic defensive position that would have appealed to its Etruscan founders.
Sadly that defensive position wasn't enough to save the town from Roman invaders in the third century BC but it recovered well in the intervening years to become one of the most prosperous cities of the medieval age. The Black Death in 1348 almost sounded the death knell for the town but it gained lustre in later years by the presence of popes with more than 30 different pontiffs calling it home at one time or another.
Orvieto is one of the most beautiful hill towns in Italy and it's worth taking a step back to admire it from a distance first. It sits atop a steep tufa rock; the kind of strategic defensive position that would have appealed to its Etruscan founders.
Sadly that defensive position wasn't enough to save the town from Roman invaders in the third century BC but it recovered well in the intervening years to become one of the most prosperous cities of the medieval age. The Black Death in 1348 almost sounded the death knell for the town but it gained lustre in later years by the presence of popes with more than 30 different pontiffs calling it home at one time or another.
Pozzo di San Patrizio (Saint Patrick's Well) and Around
One of those popes was Clement VII, the Medici pope who denied Henry VIII the chance to marry Ann Boleyn and presided over the sack of Rome in 1527 which saw him flee to Orvieto. Afraid of attack and the possibility of a siege mounted by the Holy Roman Emperor, he insisted that a well be created in order to guarantee fresh water supplies. The well was designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and whilst the siege never came to pass, his Pozzo di San Patrizio (the well) was one of the most remarkable engineering feats of its time.
Located at the eastern edge of the town it consists of an ingenious double stairwell around a central cylinder that allowed donkeys to bring the water up separate staircases without impeding each other. I've never said this about a well before but this one really is a thing of beauty, given extra sparkle by the 70 windows that line its 248 steps.
The Pozzo di San Patrizio is situated at the eastern end of the town next to the Rocca Albornoz fortress which was built in the 14th century which is not to be confused with the similarly-named castle: the Rocca Albornoziana in nearby Spoleto. At this same eastern area of the town is an archeological park of Etruscan ruins that also provides some breathtaking views across the Umbrian hills.
One of those popes was Clement VII, the Medici pope who denied Henry VIII the chance to marry Ann Boleyn and presided over the sack of Rome in 1527 which saw him flee to Orvieto. Afraid of attack and the possibility of a siege mounted by the Holy Roman Emperor, he insisted that a well be created in order to guarantee fresh water supplies. The well was designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and whilst the siege never came to pass, his Pozzo di San Patrizio (the well) was one of the most remarkable engineering feats of its time.
Located at the eastern edge of the town it consists of an ingenious double stairwell around a central cylinder that allowed donkeys to bring the water up separate staircases without impeding each other. I've never said this about a well before but this one really is a thing of beauty, given extra sparkle by the 70 windows that line its 248 steps.
The Pozzo di San Patrizio is situated at the eastern end of the town next to the Rocca Albornoz fortress which was built in the 14th century which is not to be confused with the similarly-named castle: the Rocca Albornoziana in nearby Spoleto. At this same eastern area of the town is an archeological park of Etruscan ruins that also provides some breathtaking views across the Umbrian hills.
Piazza del Duomo and Orvieto Cathedral
Most people that come to Orvieto do so in order to visit the magnificent cathedral. Originally started in 1290, it was finally finished in 1591 while its facade is one of the most recognisable examples of the Italian Gothic architectural style. Orvieto Cathedral stands imperious, rising to a height of 52 metres above Piazza del Duomo.
The beautiful square is also home to the complex of buildings that once housed the popes, a complex that now includes the Cathedral's museum (Museo dell'Opera del Duomo), an archeological museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Orvieto) and the Museo Emilio Greco.
Piazza del Duomo also provides the entrance to the fascinating Orvieto Underground experience where you can explore the incredible system of more than a thousand caves and tunnels that have been dug out of the town's rocky underworld since its foundation some two and a half to three thousand years ago.
Most people that come to Orvieto do so in order to visit the magnificent cathedral. Originally started in 1290, it was finally finished in 1591 while its facade is one of the most recognisable examples of the Italian Gothic architectural style. Orvieto Cathedral stands imperious, rising to a height of 52 metres above Piazza del Duomo.
The beautiful square is also home to the complex of buildings that once housed the popes, a complex that now includes the Cathedral's museum (Museo dell'Opera del Duomo), an archeological museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Orvieto) and the Museo Emilio Greco.
Piazza del Duomo also provides the entrance to the fascinating Orvieto Underground experience where you can explore the incredible system of more than a thousand caves and tunnels that have been dug out of the town's rocky underworld since its foundation some two and a half to three thousand years ago.
Beyond Piazza del Duomo
Heading away from the Cathedral Square, north-west along Via del Duomo you'll pass a number of shops selling ceramics as well as the local wines, before reaching an intersection with Corso Cavour. At this point you can enjoy the opposite type of view from those enjoyed underground by making your way to the top of the Torre del Moro clock tower which provides some of the best panoramas of the local landscapes and of the city itself.
Directly north of the Torre del Moro is one of the most attractive squares in Orvieto: Piazza del Popolo where bars and restaurants look across to the historic Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. Another of the best squares is Piazza della Repubblica which lies at the end of the busy Como Cavour, west of the Torre del Moro. If it weren't for the incredible cathedral and the unique well, perhaps this square would provide the most iconic sight in Orvieto with the beautiful bell tower next to the Collegiata dei Santi Andrea e Bartolomeo church.
Heading away from the Cathedral Square, north-west along Via del Duomo you'll pass a number of shops selling ceramics as well as the local wines, before reaching an intersection with Corso Cavour. At this point you can enjoy the opposite type of view from those enjoyed underground by making your way to the top of the Torre del Moro clock tower which provides some of the best panoramas of the local landscapes and of the city itself.
Directly north of the Torre del Moro is one of the most attractive squares in Orvieto: Piazza del Popolo where bars and restaurants look across to the historic Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. Another of the best squares is Piazza della Repubblica which lies at the end of the busy Como Cavour, west of the Torre del Moro. If it weren't for the incredible cathedral and the unique well, perhaps this square would provide the most iconic sight in Orvieto with the beautiful bell tower next to the Collegiata dei Santi Andrea e Bartolomeo church.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Orvieto
- Duomo di Orvieto is a Gothic cathedral renowned for its intricate façade of mosaics, sculptures and rose windows. Construction began in the late 13th century to house the Corporal of Bolsena, a relic linked to a Eucharistic miracle. Inside, the Chapel of San Brizio features frescoes by Luca Signorelli depicting the Last Judgement. The cathedral also contains works by Fra Angelico and a richly decorated organ.
- Orvieto Underground offers guided tours through a network of tunnels, wells and chambers carved beneath the town over centuries. These passages were used for storage, defence and escape, with origins dating back to Etruscan times. Highlights include ancient olive presses, pigeon holes and cisterns. Tours begin near Piazza Duomo and reveal a lesser-known side of Orvieto’s history.
- Pozzo di San Patrizio is a 16th-century well built to secure water supply during sieges, commissioned by Pope Clement VII. It features a double-helix staircase with 248 steps, allowing donkeys to carry water up and down without obstruction. The well reaches a depth of 53 metres and is a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering. A viewing platform allows visitors to look directly down the shaft.
- Torre del Moro stands at the heart of the historic centre and offers 360-degree views over Orvieto and the surrounding countryside. Built in the 13th century, the tower rises to 47 metres and includes a working clock and bell mechanism. Visitors climb a series of steps and landings to reach the top. The tower provides orientation and perspective on the town’s layout.
- Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Orvieto is located in the 13th-century Papal Palace complex next to the cathedral. The museum houses artefacts from the Etruscan, Roman and medieval periods, including urns, jewellery and temple decorations. One section features finds from the nearby Crocifisso del Tufo necropolis. Displays are well-labelled, offering context to Orvieto’s ancient past.
Tours and Activities
Orvieto Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Orvieto
- Trattoria La Palomba: Located in the historic centre of Orvieto, Trattoria La Palomba offers a traditional Umbrian dining experience with a focus on local dishes. Known for its specialties like umbrichelli pasta with wild boar ragu, and roasted meats, the restaurant provides an authentic taste of the region. The rustic charm and welcoming service make it a popular spot for a comforting and satisfying meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Al Pozzo Etrusco da Giovanni: Situated near the city centre, Ristorante Al Pozzo Etrusco offers a refined approach to Umbrian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients, including dishes like risotto with truffle, grilled meats, and seafood. The elegant setting and exceptional service make it an excellent choice for a special dining experience in Orvieto. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria del Grillo: A family-run restaurant located just outside the main square, Osteria del Grillo offers traditional Umbrian fare in a charming, rustic setting. The menu includes local favourites such as cinghiale (wild boar), pappardelle with ragu, and local cheeses. The friendly atmosphere and attentive service create a warm environment for enjoying authentic, hearty dishes. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Il Giglio d’Oro: For a more upscale dining experience, Ristorante Il Giglio d’Oro offers a sophisticated menu that blends Umbrian and Italian flavours with modern techniques. Known for its creative presentations, the menu includes dishes like risotto with saffron and truffle, grilled meats, and inventive desserts. The elegant decor and impeccable service make it ideal for a special occasion. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
- La Tavernetta: Located in a charming part of Orvieto, La Tavernetta offers a traditional menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu features dishes such as fresh pasta, roasted meats, and local wines, all served in a cozy, intimate setting. The homey atmosphere and quality of the food make it a great choice for a relaxed and satisfying meal. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Orvieto Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Orvieto
- Cività di Bagnoregio (approx. 25 km southeast of Orvieto): Known as the "dying town," Civita di Bagnoregio is perched on a hilltop and can only be accessed via a pedestrian bridge. The town offers a unique atmosphere, with ancient stone buildings and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. It's an ideal spot for photography and offers a glimpse into the past with its medieval charm and peaceful setting.
- Todi (approx. 35 km southwest of Orvieto): A beautifully preserved medieval town, Todi features narrow streets, ancient buildings, and scenic views over the Umbrian countryside. Notable attractions include the Piazza del Popolo, the 12th-century Cathedral of Todi, and the Tempio di Santa Maria della Consolazione, a Renaissance-era church with remarkable architecture. Todi offers a relaxing environment for exploring historic landmarks and enjoying local cuisine.
- Bolsena (approx. 20 km northwest of Orvieto): Situated on the shores of Lake Bolsena, this town is known for its beautiful lakeside views, medieval castle, and charming old town. Bolsena is also significant for its religious history, as it was the site of the Miracle of Bolsena, which led to the establishment of the Feast of Corpus Christi in the Catholic Church. The town’s lakeside promenade is perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation.
- Viterbo (approx. 50 km southwest of Orvieto): A historic town with a rich medieval heritage, Viterbo is famous for its well-preserved medieval centre and its thermal hot springs. Key sights include the Papal Palace, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and the charming Piazza San Lorenzo. The town also offers several beautiful gardens, such as the Villa Lante, with stunning Renaissance landscaping.
- Assisi (approx. 85 km northeast of Orvieto): Famous for its connection to St. Francis, Assisi is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historical and spiritual significance. The Basilica di San Francesco, with its stunning frescoes by Giotto, is one of the main attractions, along with the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Visitors can wander through the town’s medieval streets, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Umbrian hills, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred place.
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 Orvieto
There are some interesting travel options available in and around Orvieto. Despite its hill top perch, the town does have a train station which is down at ground level and accessed via a funicular railway system that brings you out on to Piazza Cahen, just a short walk from the Pozzi di San Patrizio and the Rocca Albornoz.
From Piazza Cahen to Piazza del Duomo is a ten minute walk of one kilometre. Trains run south to Rome with a journey time of an hour and 20 minutes, stopping along the way at the nearby hill town of Orte (44 minutes) which shares some topographical similarities with Orvieto. Heading in the opposite direction, the northbound trains go as far as Milan, stopping along the way at Arezzo and Florence among others.
Although driving in the town centre is only allowed for residents or permit holders, arriving by car is still a viable option. There are some innovative car parking options in Orvieto such as the one accessed along the western approach road up the hill. Although it's a long way up to the town centre, most of that distance can be travelled using a clever system of escalators.
A car opens up some interesting possibilities with the incredible hill town of Cività di Bagnoregio in Lazio a half an hour drive away (22 km), while south west of Orvieto is Lake Bolsena where there are a series of pretty lakeside towns such as Bolsena, Marta and Capodimonte. The most convenient airport for Orvieto is Perugia Airport which is 78 kilometres away, a drive of around an hour and a quarter.
From Piazza Cahen to Piazza del Duomo is a ten minute walk of one kilometre. Trains run south to Rome with a journey time of an hour and 20 minutes, stopping along the way at the nearby hill town of Orte (44 minutes) which shares some topographical similarities with Orvieto. Heading in the opposite direction, the northbound trains go as far as Milan, stopping along the way at Arezzo and Florence among others.
Although driving in the town centre is only allowed for residents or permit holders, arriving by car is still a viable option. There are some innovative car parking options in Orvieto such as the one accessed along the western approach road up the hill. Although it's a long way up to the town centre, most of that distance can be travelled using a clever system of escalators.
A car opens up some interesting possibilities with the incredible hill town of Cività di Bagnoregio in Lazio a half an hour drive away (22 km), while south west of Orvieto is Lake Bolsena where there are a series of pretty lakeside towns such as Bolsena, Marta and Capodimonte. The most convenient airport for Orvieto is Perugia Airport which is 78 kilometres away, a drive of around an hour and a quarter.
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By car: Lake Bolsena - 31 mins, Terni - 1 hour, Spoleto - 1 hr 23 min
Fly to: Perugia Airport - 1 hour 9 minutes by car (78 km) |
Private Transfers
Orvieto Private Transfers
A private transfer is a reliable and efficient way to travel to or from Orvieto, particularly useful if you’re connecting with an airport or exploring nearby towns. You’ll be picked up from your chosen location and driven directly by a local driver—no need for changes, delays, or car hire.
From Orvieto, the drive to Rome Fiumicino Airport takes about 1 hour 30 minutes (approx. 130 kilometres), while Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport is around 1 hour 20 minutes away (approx. 80 kilometres). Transfers to Todi, Civita di Bagnoregio, or Lake Bolsena generally take between 30 and 50 minutes.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply fill out the short form below.
From Orvieto, the drive to Rome Fiumicino Airport takes about 1 hour 30 minutes (approx. 130 kilometres), while Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport is around 1 hour 20 minutes away (approx. 80 kilometres). Transfers to Todi, Civita di Bagnoregio, or Lake Bolsena generally take between 30 and 50 minutes.
To check availability or request a personalised quote, simply fill out the short form below.
