Holiday in Orvieto

What makes Orvieto special as a destination?

Orvieto is one of the most dramatic cities in Italy - a complete medieval town perched on a plateau of volcanic tuff stone that rises steeply up to 50 meters from the Umbrian plain. The city seems to float above the landscape, and the sight of the mighty cathedral on the cliff edge is one of the most unforgettable moments of a trip to Italy. Orvieto is located in the heart of Umbria, the green heart of Italy, between Rome and Florence, and combines Etruscan history, medieval splendor, and one of the best wine regions in the country. The Cathedral of Orvieto is the undisputed masterpiece of the city and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Italy. The facade is a monumental work of art made of colored mosaics, sculptures, and reliefs, completed over three centuries and glowing golden in the afternoon sun. Inside, the Cappella di San Brizio impresses with Luca Signorelli's epochal frescoes of the Last Judgment, which served as inspiration for Michelangelo for the Sistine Chapel. Beneath the city lies a fascinating labyrinth of over 1,200 caves and tunnels that have been carved into the soft tuff stone since Etruscan times. The underground network, Orvieto Underground, can be explored through guided tours and reveals oil presses, dovecotes, wells, and even medieval pottery workshops. The Pozzo di San Patrizio, a 62-meter deep Renaissance well with a double spiral staircase, is a masterpiece of engineering. Orvieto is also home to Orvieto Classico, one of Italy's most famous white wines, which thrives in the volcanic soils around the city. The surrounding wineries invite tastings and offer panoramic views of the tuff stone cliffs with the city atop. From Germany, Orvieto is ideally reached by train - the city is directly on the high-speed train route from Florence to Rome and can be reached from the station by funicular in just a few minutes. The nearest airport is Rome-Fiumicino, about 120 kilometers to the south. The best time to visit is from April to October, but winter also has its charm with the famous Umbria Jazz Winter Festival and little tourism.