About 90 minutes north of Rome by car or train is the hilltop town of Orvieto. Orvieto is one of Italy’s most beautiful hilltop towns. Located in Umbria, it’s proximity to Rome has made it a favorite destination of tourists. Orvieto has a rich history that includes the Etruscans, the Romans, and middle ages. Influences of each can be seen as you explore by foot the narrow streets and alleys of the town.
This visit I took a relaxing train ride from Rome to Orvieto arriving mid morning. Just a few steps from the train station are options to complete the trek to the top of the rock faced mountain to reach the city. Buses and taxis are available but I chose to take the Orvieto funicular. The funicular is a type of cable car system that travels up and down the slopes every 15 minutes or so and cost just 1 euro to make the 3 minute journey. It’s fun, scenic, and I recommend it.
Once to the top of the hill you reach the gates of Orvieto. Before entering take time to look over the walls to the rolling green hills of Umbria. The views are quite spectacular.
Entering Orvieto you are instantly transported to another world. Peaceful, quiet, and with so much to see. Restaurants, shops, bars, and other businesses occupy the stone buildings as well as many apartments and houses. The setting is serene. You can stroll along the main streets or venture into the less traveled areas of the town. No matter where you look you will certainly find those picture postcard photo moments you had only read about.
The main attraction is the Cathedral di Orvieto and it seems all roads lead to it. This rather large cathedral is impressive in it’s own right and made even more so with it’s prominent location at the top of this hilltop in the Piazza del Duomo. The Cathedral of Orvieto is one of the most beautiful in Italy and is definitely the star attraction in the city.
Although Orvieto is in Umbria it gives you a real taste for what the towns in Tuscany are like. Beautiful sites, great food, and excellent Italian wines from the region abound. So if your time in Italy is limited a day trip from Rome to Orvieto is highly recommended.
Below are some of my photos from my day in Orvieto along with a couple of short videos from my YouTube channel. Enjoy!
Travels With Dan 