Things To Do
in Civita Castellana
Civita Castellana is a hilltop town in Lazio, northwest of Rome, perched above the Tiber valley. Its medieval center preserves winding streets, a formidable fortress, and well-preserved gates. The town’s roots trace back to the Etruscan era, with Roman and medieval layers visible in its architecture.
Visitors are drawn to panoramic viewpoints, tranquil squares, and easy access to the surrounding Lazio countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Civita Castellana and check into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets and appreciate the medieval architecture and stunning views. Stop by a local café for your first taste of authentic Italian coffee and pastries.
Visit the remarkable Fortress of Civita Castellana, where you can explore its historical significance and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. After the fortress, wander through the local markets to discover artisanal crafts and taste local produce. Make sure to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trattoria, savoring traditional Roman dishes.
As the sun sets, head to a scenic viewpoint to capture the breathtaking sunset over the hills. Dine at a traditional restaurant where you can indulge in regional specialties paired with fine Italian wine. Conclude the evening with a leisurely stroll around the town, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Start your day with a guided tour of the Museo Archeologico, where you’ll discover ancient relics and learn about the city's history. Take your time browsing the exhibits that showcase the rich culture of the region. After the museum, enjoy breakfast at a local bakery sampling fresh pastries.
Visit the nearby Etruscan ruins, where you can immerse yourself in the ancient world and explore the impressive archaeological sites. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic backdrop of ruins, followed by a hike through the beautiful surrounding landscape. Be sure to capture photos of the stunning vistas along the trail.
Head back to Civita Castellana for an evening of local music and festivities if available. Savor a seat at an outdoor pizzeria, enjoying the lively atmosphere while tasting artisanal pizzas. Conclude your night with a gelato from a renowned gelateria.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🧀Grocery staples (daily budget) | $6-15 |
| 🎟️Museum or site entry | $5-12 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | $1.8-2.4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and architectural heritage
- Quiet, authentic Lazio town with scenic views
- Easy access to Rome and Viterbo
- Pleasant base for countryside hikes
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some facilities may be seasonal or small-scale
- Public transport can be limited; best with a car
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dove si trovano i bagni?" - Where are the bathrooms?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Consiglia un buon ristorante?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Mi può consigliare un menù vegetariano?" - Can you suggest a vegetarian menu?
Places to Visit in Civita Castellana
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic hilltop fortress with towers and ramparts offering dramatic sunset photos and sweeping valley views.
Medieval cathedral featuring Romanesque elements and interior details suited for architectural photography.
Winding walls and historic gates provide textured backdrops for moody street photography.
An elevated viewpoint capturing the Tiber valley and the Lazio countryside.
Food in Civita Castellana
Civita Castellana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Herb-roasted pork often served as a main or in sandwiches, showcasing regional meat preparation.
Must-Try!
Tomato, guanciale, and pecorino, a Lazio staple widely available in local trattorie.
Simple cheese and pepper pasta, a quintessential Lazio dish.
Lamb with garlic and rosemary, reflecting Roman-Lazio culinary influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with seasonal produce, cheeses, bread, olives, and local specialties; great for street-food snacks and fresh ingredients.
Piadine and panini with porchetta and local toppings; snack-friendly bites near the main squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; a handshake is common; use polite forms of address.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred sites.
Keep voices low on narrow streets; respectful behavior in residential areas, especially in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Civita Castellana
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated if service is good and not included in the bill.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some small shops may prefer cash; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming gardens, and ideal conditions for walking tours and outdoor photographs.
Hot and dry; plan early morning or late afternoon activities, stay hydrated, and enjoy outdoor dining with shade.
Mild days with colorful landscapes; perfect for hikes, markets, and leisurely city strolls.
Cool to mild with occasional rain; fewer crowds, cozy trattorie, and seasonal decor in town squares.
Civita Castellana at Night
Hiking in Civita Castellana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent limestone hill with several trails and panoramic views within a short drive.
Rugged hill range north of Viterbo with scenic passes and forested trails.
Picturesque valley north of Civita Castellana with hiking trails, waterfalls, and ancient ruins.
Airports
How to reach Civita Castellana by plane.
Main international gateway; about 60-90 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Smaller airport servicing low-cost and short-haul flights; often closer to central Rome.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Italian families and long-term residents, with a growing mix of visitors and some retirees.
Day visitors and weekend travelers attracted by history and countryside.
A small number of foreign residents and seasonal visitors in the summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the dominant sport in the region with local amateur clubs and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Civita Castellana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most trattorie can accommodate vegetarians with tomato-based pastas, grilled vegetables, and cheeses; request no meat-based broths and sauces, and consider asking for olive oil-based dishes.