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ISSIMO’s Travel Guide to Orvieto

June 11, 2025

ISSIMO’s Travel Guide to Orvieto

Discover this little Umbrian gem

Perched atop a plateau of volcanic tuff, Orvieto rises dramatically from the Umbrian countryside. It’s a jewel of art, history, and sweeping views between majestic cities like Rome and Florence – the perfect destination for a day trip or an extended, enchanted stay.

That’ll be all the truer in the near future, when La Badia, the brand new property by Pellicano Hotels will open its doors nearby the medieval town.

So, whether you’re visiting now or waiting to be our guest, here’s all you need to know to make the most of it.

SEE

Your first stop in Orvieto should of course be the Duomo. A masterpiece of Italian Gothic, its facade sparkles with gold mosaics and sculptures, while inside, the San Brizio Chapel houses Luca Signorelli’s unforgettable frescoes. It’s both a feast for the eyes and a moment of stillness and, in a country full of jaw-dropping cathedrals, a true standout. 

The Pozzo di San Patrizio (St. Patrick’s Well), commissioned in the 16th century to ensure a water supply during siege, should also be on your list. A marvel of Renaissance engineering, it features a double helix of spiral ramps winding around one another, made up of 248 steps and 70 windows. It’s beautiful, brilliant, and slightly surreal.

Next up, venture below. Beneath the city lies a labyrinth of tunnels, wells and cellars carved out by the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago (we’re talking 1,000 chambers, tunnels, and cisterns cut through volcanic rock). Take a guided tour and step into history – quite literally.

Wrap up your visit the opposite way, up up to the Torre del Moro, a 13th-century clock tower that offers some of the best views in town. Soak in the terracotta rooftops, vine-laced hills and the drama of Umbria in every direction, and make a note to come back once La Badia is open.

EAT

Umbria, like the rest of Italy, has some pretty delicious cuisine. Orvieto is no exception. Trattoria del Moro Aronne is a rustic go-to with classics like umbrichelli al tartufo and wild boar ragù that’ll have you come back for seconds, while Enoteca La Loggia, right near the Duomo, is a smart place to sample Orvieto Classico and local varietals. Order a tagliere, linger, repeat.

Mezza Luna is another great spot, a small, family-run spot with just a few tables. Try the pigeon (piccione ripieno) – a traditional Umbrian delicacy – or the seasonal vegetable tarts.

Lastly, head to Caffè Montanucci for gelato, espresso or a light lunch. You’ll find locals here every time of day, and that’s always a good sign.

DO

Wander the streets, getting lost (on purpose) in ivy-covered alleyways, and peek into tucked-away churches that seem to appear out of nowhere.

But also, shop slow: Orvieto is known for its artisanal heritage, so look for ceramic ateliers (we love Rosarja) , textile boutiques and olive oil shops.

Last but not least, visit the museums. The Museo Claudio Faina and Museo Archeologico Nazionale offer compact, elegant collections of Etruscan and Roman artefacts – perfect for culture with a view.

How to get there

Orvieto is 90 minutes by train from both Rome and Florence. From the train station, a quick funicular whisks you up to the old town.

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