Things To Do
in Orvieto
Orvieto is a picturesque hilltop town in central Italy known for its stunning landscapes and historic architecture. The town is famous for its impressive Orvieto Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with intricate mosaics and frescoes. Orvieto's charming streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants offering traditional Italian cuisine.
Visitors can also explore the underground tunnels and caves that run beneath the town, providing a unique glimpse into Orvieto's ancient past.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Duomo di Orvieto, admiring its intricately carved façade. After, stroll through the quaint streets and discover the local shops that offer unique artisanal products.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional trattoria, savoring regional dishes like wild boar ragu. Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the Orvieto underground to explore its fascinating history.
As the sun sets, relax in Piazza della Repubblica with a gelato. Conclude your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant boasting panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside.
Begin your morning with a visit to a local vineyard for a guided wine tasting experience. Learn about the Orvieto Classico wine and its unique characteristics from passionate winemakers.
Savor lunch at the vineyard, paired with their exquisite wines. Afterwards, take a scenic walk in the surrounding hills to appreciate the stunning landscapes.
Dine at a cozy pizzeria in the heart of Orvieto, indulging in authentic Italian pizza. Wrap up the night by enjoying a glass of local wine while overlooking the city at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning medieval architecture and beautiful skyline featuring the Orvieto Cathedral.
- Rich historical significance with archaeological sites and Etruscan heritage.
- Delicious local cuisine, including famous dishes like wild boar and local wine, particularly Orvieto Classico.
- Charming narrow streets and vibrant local markets that provide an authentic Italian experience.
- Breathtaking views from the cliff-top location overlooking the Umbrian countryside.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, which may detract from the experience.
- Limited public transportation options making it challenging to visit without a car.
- Some attractions may have entrance fees that could accumulate for visitors.
- Accommodation can be pricey compared to less touristy areas.
- May not have as many nightlife options or activities compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Orvieto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Mount Peglia, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities to encounter local flora and fauna.
Take a stroll around the picturesque cliffside of Orvieto, enjoying panoramic views of the Umbrian landscape and the iconic Torre del Moro.
Experience the rich flavors of the region with a wine tasting tour at nearby vineyards, learning about the local winemaking process and sampling exquisite wines.
Join a guided tour of the ancient underground caves of Orvieto, discovering the fascinating history and architecture hidden beneath the city.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature at Parco dei Sette Frati, a beautiful park with lush greenery and walking trails.
Rent a bike and explore the charming paths of the Umbrian countryside, taking in the stunning landscapes and visiting nearby villages.
Tours
Uncover the best of Orvieto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Orvieto
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the terrace at the top of the cathedral for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Descend the 248 steps to the bottom of this impressive well for unique photo opportunities.
Climb to the top of this medieval tower for breathtaking views of Orvieto and its surroundings.
Enjoy scenic views of the city and the surrounding landscape from this picturesque square.
Food in Orvieto
Orvieto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Succulent, slow-roasted pork seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and other herbs, available at numerous delis and street food stalls throughout Orvieto.
Must-Try!
A hearty and flavorsome stew made from locally hunted wild boar, often found on the menus of traditional trattorias in Orvieto's winding streets.
Thick, hand-rolled pasta served with a pungent garlic and tomato sauce, a speciality of Orvieto's rustic osterias.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Orvieto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Piazza della Repubblica, this bustling indoor market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and local delicacies. It's an excellent place to sample street food like supplì (rice croquettes) and porchetta panini.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting churches and religious sites in Orvieto, it is important to dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered to show respect for the local customs and sacred spaces.
It is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). Using polite greetings shows respect and appreciation for the local culture.
During meals, it is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Additionally, avoid discussing business at the dining table, as meals are considered a time for relaxation and socializing.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Orvieto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Orvieto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Orvieto, as in much of Italy, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. Typically, rounding up the bill or leaving small change in restaurants is common. In cafés and bars, it is customary to leave a small tip (around €0.50 or €1) when ordering, especially for table service.
Payments in Orvieto can be made through various methods. Most restaurants and shops accept credit and debit cards, although some smaller establishments may only accept cash. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in rural areas. The use of contactless payments and mobile payment apps is becoming more popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Orvieto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various festivals. Expect moderate crowds and higher hotel prices.
Peak tourist season with long sunny days, vibrant outdoor events, and lively atmosphere. Expect larger crowds and higher temperatures.
Great time to visit for milder weather, fall foliage, and wine festivals. Expect fewer tourists and moderate hotel prices.
Quiet season with fewer tourists, lower hotel prices, and the chance to experience the local holiday traditions. Expect cooler temperatures and some attractions may have limited hours.
Orvieto at Night
Hiking in Orvieto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park offering a variety of hiking trails with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
A picturesque town known as the 'dying town,' offering scenic hikes with views of ancient architecture and beautiful landscapes.
Located near Orvieto, this beautiful lake features hiking trails along its shores, with opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
An archaeological park with hiking trails that lead through ancient ruins and offer magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, ideal for hiking and exploring the Tuscan countryside.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Orvieto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Orvieto by plane.
Located in Rome, approximately 140 kilometers from Orvieto, it is the largest and busiest airport in Italy.
Also located in Rome, about 130 kilometers from Orvieto, it primarily handles low-cost airlines and charter flights.
Situated around 180 kilometers from Orvieto, this airport serves Bologna and surrounding areas with various international connections.
Located approximately 220 kilometers from Orvieto, this airport serves domestic and some European flights, providing access to Tuscany.
Located around 220 kilometers from Orvieto, it offers a range of international and domestic flights, serving the Tuscan region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Orvieto, primarily consisting of natives and those with long-standing residency.
Includes expatriates from various countries, often drawn to Orvieto for its historical and cultural significance.
A significant seasonal demographic, attracting visitors from around the world for its architecture, cuisine, and art.
A smaller group primarily composed of individuals studying at local institutions and language schools.
Includes retirees and older residents who may form a substantial part of the community.
The Soul of Orvieto
Discover the essence of Orvieto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Orvieto, with local clubs participating in regional leagues and community games.
Basketball enjoys a significant following, with youth programs and local teams engaging in competitive play.
Cycling is favored both as a sport and leisure activity, with picturesque routes attracting both amateurs and professionals.
Running events and marathons are popular in Orvieto, encouraging community participation and fitness.
Tennis clubs in Orvieto host tournaments and provide lessons, contributing to the sport's local popularity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Orvieto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Orvieto's culinary scene is generally accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes featuring the freshest local produce.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find numerous eateries in Orvieto that provide gluten-free pasta and bread, and are willing to modify dishes to accommodate dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Orvieto with these cultural adventures.