Surrounding places of Interest
Conveniently located in Lazio, Central Italy, Civita di Bagnoregio provides an ideal place from which to explore many of Italy’s incredible treasures.
Orvieto. Perched on a rock cliff in neighbouring Umbria, and just 23 Kms from Civita, Orvieto has a magnificent Duomo dating from 1290 with an intricate mosaic façade. Visit the archaeological museum, tour the network of underground Etruscan caves or climb down and up the Pozzo di San Patrizio 16th century well shaft. There are also many good restaurants, bars and shops to explore. Two of our favourite places to eat are Il Malandrino Bistro and Tratoria Vinosus.
There is a bus from Bagnoregio to Orvieto, but it is better to drive on your own if possible. Don’t drive into the centre of Orvieto. The streets are narrow there is a complex one-way system and there is no parking. Park in the public parking below the town and take the escalators up.
Ferento is a remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheatre 22Kms from Civita, and well worth a visit. Ferento dates back to before Christ. Be sure not to miss the ancient roman road. There is no bus to Ferento, so you will need to drive.
Villa Tirrena Winery. Visit this beautifully appointed winery just 25 minutes by car from Civita. The winery is everything you would imagine. Taste the award winning organic wines amongst the huge barrels atmospherically lit by candles. View the private garden art collection from artists around the world, and take the opportunity to appreciate the view back across the Calanchi valley to Civita. Bookings are essential for Villa Tirrena. Access is only by car on narrow rural roads.
https://www.villatirrena.com Tel: +39 340 7725010 email: info@villatirrena.com
Viterbo is the regional capitol for the area where Civita lies and is a short 28Kms away. Viterbo was heavily bombed in the second world war, so unfortunately the surrounds are all 1960’s style apartments with very little appeal, however the historic centre of Viterbo was preserved and is one of the best examples of a medieval town centre.
Pitigliano is a small village 60 Kms west of Civita, built into the “Tufo” rock at the side of a gorge. Enjoy the magic and charm wandering through the historic alleyways and, make sure to visit the famous Jewish ghetto. This magnificent town has actually been known throughout history as “Little Jerusalem” for the active Jewish community that has been settled there since the 15th century. Travelling by car is the only practical option, however it is an easy drive, and you could make a full day trip and take in the small towns of Sovana and Sorano.
Marta is a small authentic fishing village on the shores of lake Bolsena and is a short 23Km drive from Civita. Walk along the lake shore or go even further and walk to the next town of Capodimonte.
Bolsena is a quick 11 Km drive from Civita and lies on the shores of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe. The historic centre is dominated by the magnificent Monaldseschi Fortress erected between the 13th and 14th centuries. There is a museum inside that has both Roman and Etruscan artifacts. Stroll along the shore and try one of the fantastic restaurants. Not surprisingly, lake caught fish is on the menus.
Bomarzo, known as the “Parc dei Mostri” or park of monsters is named for the many larger than life sculptures which occupy the gardens. Bomarzo is a 35 KM drive from Civita and is in the Tiber River valley. Consider combining Bomarzo with a trip to one of the regions finest examples of an Italian Renaissance garden in nearby Bagnaio.
Tarquinia. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Etruscans and view this well preserved example of Etruscan life. From painted tombs to a museum full of intricately preserved artifacts, this UNESCO world heritage site should, without doubt, be on your list of things to do. Just over an hour’s drive (64 KMs) from Civita, make it a day trip. You won’t regret it. Make sure you give yourself ample time to visit the necropolis. It takes a good few hours.
Montepulciano is a medieval hilltop town in neighbouring Tuscany, 87 Kms (1 hour and 20 minutes) from Civita. Famous for its vino nobile red wine, this beautiful town provides unparalleled views of the surrounding plains. Visit some of the cellars in the town, and wander the interesting streets. Visit Café Poliziano early evening for aperativi and you will be presented with an array of free snacks beautifully prepared. For lunch, try Osteria del Conte.
Arezzo. Take a day trip to this lovely Tuscan town know for its antiques, jewellers and frescos, and once a month the Fiera Antiquaria (antique fair)turns the piazza into a vast showroom. This market began in 1968 and still takes place on the first Sunday of the month and the preceding Saturday. It really is worth a visit.
Florence needs no introduction. A day trip to this beautiful city is entirely possible either by train or car. By car it is a 2 hour 15 minute journey (181 Kms). For central Florence, the best parking is at Porta Romana. By train it takes between 2 and 3 hours depending on the train. Trains are from Orvieto to Florence.
Rome. The Eternal City is within easy reach for a day trip. By car it is a 100Km trip which takes about 2 hours depending on traffic. The best option is a train from Orvieto which takes between 1 and 2 hours depending on the train. We are told, the best carbonara can be found at Luciano restaurant in Campo di Fiori.
Valdechiana. If it is a day of shopping you are looking for, Valdichiana is and easy 90Km 1 hour and 10 minute drive from Civita. Here, there is a sizeable mall with outlet stores featuring many brand names, both international and Italian.
