Things To Do
in Civita Castellana
Civita Castellana is a hilltop town in Lazio, about 50 kilometers north of Rome, overlooking the Tiber valley. Its history spans from ancient Etruscan roots through Roman times to a well-preserved medieval center. The imposing Orsini fortress and narrow cobbled streets give the town a timeless, characterful ambiance.
Surrounded by Sabina countryside, Civita Castellana offers a compact, walkable core with charming views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
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 | $1.5-3 |
| 🚌Public transit ride | $1-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $70-150 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming medieval town with deep history
- Close proximity to nature and scenic countryside
- Delicious Lazio cuisine and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and faint tourist infrastructure
- Public transportation can be less frequent outside peak season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è…?" - Where is…?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Civita Castellana
Visit one of these nice places.
An imposing medieval fortress with towers and stone ramparts offering dramatic skyline views over the valley and a strong sense of history.
Historic church and narrow streets with Romanesque and medieval architecture, ideal for street photography and quiet morning light.
Central piazza framed by historic buildings and fountains, perfect for candid shots of locals and evening gatherings.
Various terraces and viewpoints around the old town offer sunset silhouettes of the town walls and countryside.
Food in Civita Castellana
Civita Castellana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Roman-style tomato, guanciale, and pecorino pasta dish widely enjoyed in Lazio towns, often served with rigatoni or bucatini.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted, herb-infused pork served in slices or on sandwiches, a staple at markets and eateries across Lazio.
Creamy semolina gnocchi baked with cheese and butter, a comforting Lazio specialty.
A rich, braised oxtail stew with vegetables and tomatoes, reflecting Roman-influenced family fare.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the historic center offering produce, cheeses, olives, bread, and seasonal specialties; great for tasting local ingredients and chatting with vendors.
Snack-friendly options like supplì (rice croquettes), porchetta sandwiches, and hot pizza al taglio can be found near piazzas and during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' in shops and restaurants. Use formal address 'Lei' in formal situations.
When visiting churches, dress modestly and speak softly; photography may be restricted inside some sacred spaces.
Lunchtime and late dinners are common; plan visits around local mealtimes and be respectful of quiet hours in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Civita Castellana
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a service charge is often included ('servizio') in many restaurants. If not included, rounding up the bill or leaving a 5–10% tip for good service is common in tourist areas.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; card payments are common in restaurants and shops. Keep some cash for small markets and rural places that may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make this a great time for walking tours and outdoor dining; expect light rain on occasion.
Hot days and warm evenings; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons; stay hydrated and seek shade or air-conditioned venues during peak heat.
Pleasant weather with cooler evenings; harvest festivals and markets resume; excellent for countryside walks and photography in autumn light.
Cool to mild with occasional cold snaps; certain attractions may have shorter hours; good time for cozy meals and indoor cultural sites.
Civita Castellana at Night
Hiking in Civita Castellana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby limestone ridge offering scenic hiking, wildlife viewing, and panoramic vistas over the Lazio landscape.
Gentle to moderate loops around the lake and through surrounding foothills, ideal for relaxed day hikes with water views.
Airports
How to reach Civita Castellana by plane.
Major international hub near Rome; about 60-70 km from Civita Castellana. Frequent connections, rail and road links to Rome and beyond.
Smaller airport with domestic and some European flights; typically closer to central Rome and convenient for short trips from Lazio.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are local families and long-term visitors who appreciate the town’s safety and community feel.
A mix of people from Lazio and nearby regions with strong ties to agriculture, crafts, and cuisine.
Visitors drawn by the medieval core, nearby nature, and regional food and wine experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread participation and local matches, with community clubs in the Lazio region.
Coastal and inland routes in Lazio provide popular riding for locals and visitors, including countryside tours around Civita Castellana.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Civita Castellana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lazio dishes can be adapted; look for pasta with tomato and olive oil, grilled vegetables, and legume-based dishes. If dining out, ask for vegetarian options or dishes without meat-based broths.