Orvieto is a stunning medieval mountainous town in Umbria, perched dramatically on a tuff ridge. It is known for its beautiful 14th century cathedral with a mosaic façade. Orvieto is about 60 miles north of Rome. Frequent trains run between them and take a little over an hour, making Orvieto a day trip from Rome.
Taking the train to Orvieto
Regional trains between Rome and Orvieto takes only about 10 minutes longer than the IC trains or frecce, but the fastest trains cost about twice as much . Trains depart from Rome Termini station (main railway station), but regional trains also depart from Rome Tiburtina. Currently, the first train from Rome to Orvieto leaves at 06:03 and the last is at 23:00.
You can check current Rome to Orvieto timetables and ticket prices on the Trenitalia website or at the train station. If you want to pay in US dollars, you can buy train tickets online at Select Italy . It is not necessary to buy regional train tickets in advance, but if you buy them at the station, you will need to validate your ticket.
How to get from Orvieto train station to the historic center
Orvieto’s old town is up the hill from the train station. A funicular near the station connects the lower town with the upper town, just outside the medieval center of Orvieto. A minibus goes around the city, but the best way to see the sights of the city is on foot.
Take a guided day trip to Orvieto from Rome
Book this Orvieto and Assisi guided tour that includes pickup from Rome, transportation, a stop for lunch in the countryside near Lake Trasimeno between your visits to Orvieto and Assisi, and a local guide.
How to get from Rome to Orvieto by car
The best way to explore Umbria is by car, especially if you want to visit any unusual town. To drive to Orvieto from Rome, take the Autostrada A1 (toll road). Take the Orvieto exit and follow the signs to Orvieto, then to Campo della Fiera where there is a large covered parking lot. Elevators and escalators connect the parking lot and the lower city with the historic center above (you cannot drive downtown without a permit). You can also take the train to Orvieto and pick up your rental car there.
Please note that we do not recommend driving in Rome.
Where to stay in Orvieto
- Hotel Corso is a well-rated 3-star hotel in the historic center, close to the funicular.
- Sant’Angelo Bed and Breakfast has 3 bedrooms and a shared living room, right next to the cathedral
Orvieto Visitor Information
Orvieto is a good base for exploring the nearby towns of the Umbrian hills and northern Lazio, either by car or by public transport. Orvieto also makes a convenient stop if you’re traveling between Rome and Florence or Northern Italy.
