Orvieto the Etruscan City Private Tour from Rome

Rome , Italy

Orvieto the Etruscan City Private Tour from Rome

Active

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover this medieval umbrian city, its world famous "wonders": the tufa outcrop, the Duomo and the Saint Patrick's Well and the whole ancient town center filled with narrow streets, beautiful churches, historic palace and the suggestive underground life: a maze of tunnels and caves. And beside the historic center it is no less interesting the surroundings of Orvieto, a large area lying between the borders of Lazio and Tuscany italian regions alternating green hills cultivated with olive trees and vineyards, unspoiled with many typical villages, boroughs and unusual places to visit.Want to visit Italy, but looking to see more than just the tourist cities? Orvieto is your answer and is perfect for a day trip from Rome. The historic, and beautiful section of this city is situated at the top of a steep hill. You can easily wander the city for hours without running out of beautiful architecture, historic buildings, or interesting spots to people-watch.

Available options

Orvieto the Etruscan City Private Tour from Rome

Pickup included

What's included

Small Wine Tasting

St. Patrick Well entrance tickets

Private English-speaking tour escort at your disposal

Pick-up and drop off with luxury transportation and private chauffeur

Entrance tickets in the Cathedral (Duomo)

Private licensed tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Situated in less than two hours drive, Orvieto was an important Etruscan City-State. Orvieto has a unique history that dates back to over several million years ago. The origin of the Orvieto rock is most likely due to an ancient volcanic eruption. It is believed that today’s rock, where the city of Orvieto stands today, is one of these great masses of tufa rock flung from the large crater that is now the Bolsena Lake. The Etruscans inhabited Orvieto until the III Century BC, and consequently the Romans invaded it. It took the Romans two years to conquer Orvieto, which is a natural fortress, surrounded by cliffs. The Etruscans had dug an intricate web of caves and numerous wells, in order to defend Orvieto for a long time. In addition, to being known for its high quality cuisine (ie truffles), the city boasts an incredible Gothic Cathedral with a frescoed " Last Judgment ”to rival Michelangelo's one, a labyrinth of ancient underground and St. Patrick's Well.

Stop 2

In 1527 during the “Sack of Rome” the then Pope Clement VII took refuge in Orvieto. He commissioned Antonio da Sangallo the Younger in the construction of the well to serve as the water supply in case of siege The design of Sangallo, who already worked on the fortification of the city, was inspired by the spiral of the Belvedere in the Vatican . He created an ingenious system of two spiral staircases that never meet. They create a way to get in and out of the well (about 53 meters deep) without any traffic problems. Today it is a real pleasure to descend to its depths along the more than two hundred steps.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when shared with 2 paying adults

Dress code required for churches: knees and shoulders must be covered

Orvieto Undergroud Tour can be booked in advance upon request (cost not included in the price)

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots