A private day trip from Rome that pairs Orvieto’s cathedral and the dizzying Pozzo di San Patrizio with Civita di Bagnoregio’s fragile hilltop streets. Expect steep steps, dramatic tuff geology, and a full 9–10 hour excursion with time for lunch and guided exploration.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You pull away from Rome's morning traffic and, as the highway thins, the Umbrian hills rise: ochre cliffs, folded vineyards, and a town that seems to have been hewn from the rock itself. Arriving in Orvieto, the city greets you with a plaza of stone and the Gothic façade of its cathedral cutting the sky. Later, a narrow 200‑metre bridge delivers you to Civita di Bagnoregio, a fragile island of tuff where alleys slope and wind as if time has slowed.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness who can handle repeated short climbs, cobbled streets, and stairs.
Wildlife
History
Orvieto’s hilltop site was fortified by Etruscans and later became an important medieval and papal center; Civita developed on volcanic tuff and has been eroding for centuries.
Conservation
Civita di Bagnoregio faces significant erosion; local measures limit vehicle access and manage visitor flow to reduce wear, so follow marked paths and avoid fragile edges.
Reserve your spot on the Day trip from Rome: Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio - private tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy shoes
Cobblestones and steep steps in both towns demand sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes to keep traction on uneven surfaces.
Bring a refillable bottle
Water fountains are available in Orvieto; carrying a refillable bottle saves money and reduces plastic waste on the walk to Civita.
Plan for steps
Visiting the Pozzo di San Patrizio involves 258 steps; avoid if you have mobility issues and factor time for descent and ascent.
Carry local currency for small fees
Some local museums, café terraces, and minor admissions accept only cash or prefer it for small purchases.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction and support on cobbles, uneven steps, and narrow alleys.
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Spring showers and hilltop winds can be sudden; a packable shell keeps you comfortable.
spring
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during long walks and is refillable at public fountains in Orvieto.
summer
Compact camera or smartphone with extra battery
Captures panoramic views from the civita bridge and detailed frescoes inside the cathedral.