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Overview: car trip from Rome to Orvieto
Italy is the perfect country for a road trip. Its quaint villages, wineries, and beautiful landscapes have enticed travelers and locals for eons. Today, Italy's hill towns, such as Orvieto, are visited for their great views and preserved history. However, at the time of their founding, these towns were born out of necessity due to war and a desire to secure a defensive high ground.
Once you’ve seen central Italy, you’ll understand why this region has been fought over for so long. Follow the ancient route that many have taken before as you travel from Rome to Orvieto (but this time much faster than a donkey or on foot!).
Orvieto is right in the middle of Florence and Rome along the A1 highway, making it a popular day trip from either city. Schedule a couple of stops to other towns for the most enriching experience. The drive takes about 90 minutes and will take you past other Central Italian wonders like the dying town of Civita di Bagnoregio!
Let Daytrip handle the details and the driving so you can relax and enjoy your Italian road trip. Buon viaggio!
About Orvieto
Orvieto is perched majestically on a volcanic cliff made of tuff stone in Umbria, Italy. The tuff stone sits atop a layer of clay and is responsible for the many caves found underneath the city. Despite its name, tuff is quite porous and soft, so it is easier to excavate than other materials. Etruscans were able to build wells and dig their society down instead of out, contributing to Orvieto’s unique layout.
Much like an Italian lasagna, Orvieto’s underground shows its layers of history. Over 2,500 years ago, Etruscans dug thousands of caves that were used to access water, store wine and food, and even breed pigeons. It was a significant Etruscan urban center, but the Romans conquered it in 264 BC.
### Orvieto and Catholicism
Throughout the medieval period, Orvieto flourished as a significant religious center for Catholicism, becoming a prominent episcopal see or seat of the Bishop. In times of conflict with Rome, it was a refuge for several Popes. It was also here that Pope Urban IV established the Feast of Corpus Christi in 1264.
This hill town’s defensive advantage made it a vital stronghold during various conflicts and transfers of power after the fall of Rome. The construction of the Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo di Orvieto) in the 13th century underscored its significance to the Catholic community.
### Why we can’t get enough of Orvieto
Today, visitors are drawn to Orvieto for the Duomo di Orvieto, known for its striking facade and the awe-inspiring frescoes. The city's unique underground network, Orvieto Sotterranea, is a labyrinth of caves and tunnels used since Etruscan times for food and wine storage.
Additionally, St. Patrick’s Well (Pozzo di San Patrizio) is an engineering marvel for its time with its double-helix staircase and incredibly deep well. Its short distance from Florence and Rome makes it a great day trip from either city.
From Rome to Orvieto: travel tips
Having the best possible time in Orvieto requires some planning ahead. These travel tips will help you get the most out of your day trip from Rome to Orvieto!
Dress appropriately for your scheduled activities
If you do any of the underground tours of the Well of St. Patrick or the caves, wear comfortable shoes with a strap behind the heel for walking on ancient stone stairways in dimly lit areas.
When you tour churches, your shoulders, chest, and knees should be covered.
### Do the math before purchasing the Carta Unica
The Carta Unica is $27 (€25) per person and includes entry into the 9 main attractions in Orvieto at no extra cost. It seems like an easy way to save money, but do the math first to see if you will have enough time to see enough attractions to offset the price.
It may be cheaper to pay the individual entry fees to places like St. Patrick’s Well, priced at $5.40 (€5), or the National Archaeological Museum for $4.30 (€4), especially if you are only doing a day trip from Rome to Orvieto. The card includes discounts on some restaurants and hotels, so it is geared more towards overnight visitors.
How to get from Rome to Orvieto
You only have two options for your Rome to Orvieto transfer: by car or by train. Compare the pros and cons below to make the best decision for your trip.
### Rome to Orvieto with a private driver
Traveling from Rome to Orvieto with a private driver is the most convenient and customizable way to travel. Your driver will pick you up from your address in Rome and even help with any of your luggage.
On the way, you can make sightseeing stops at important central Italian sites like Tivoli and Caprarola. Get more out of your trip and learn about other hill towns in the area!
Once you arrive in Orvieto, you will be able to start exploring right away without worrying about parallel parking, securing your car, or being on time to refill the parking meter. It’s travel made easy! Secure a seat for just $82 (€76).
### Rome to Orvieto by train
To get to Orvieto by train, start at the Roma Termini station. From here, Trenitalia has more than 10 direct trains per day to Orvieto. The trip takes about 90 minutes and costs $10.75 (€10). Due to the frequency of the trains, you do not need to buy a ticket ahead of time.
Even though the trains leave almost hourly, check the timetable before heading to the station so you are not rushing for a train or having to wait a needless amount of time.
### Rome to Orvieto by bus
Although Orvieto is not far from Rome, there are currently no convenient or direct buses operating this route. The timetables for Flixbus only include one evening bus, even during the busy season. For this trip, you will need to take a car or ride the train.
Things to do when you get to Orvieto
Orvieto is just the right size and distance for a day trip! Set out early in the day for your Rome to Orvieto transfer so you have plenty of time to see all the sites on your itinerary at this historical hill town.
### Pozzo di San Patrizio (St. Patrick’s Well)
Well, well, well, you can’t leave Orvieto without seeing this feat of engineering! Descend the double-helix staircase of this remarkable 16th-century well. During the fall of Rome, Pope Clement VII ordered this well to be dug 177 ft (54 m) into the volcanic rock so Orvieto would have water during sieges- all without modern equipment.
The staircases were designed so a continuous train of donkeys could descend to get water and ascend with full buckets without causing a traffic jam on the steps. This well has even made it into the Italian language: when something is neverending, they say, “It is like the well of St. Patrick.”
### Duomo di Orvieto (Orvieto Cathedral)
The Orvieto Cathedral is so grandiose and ornate that it seems almost out of place amidst the narrow, winding alleys of Orvieto. Construction began in the 1200s and took 300 years to complete, but it was worth the wait! The cathedral’s intricate facade is a marvel of medieval craftsmanship, adorned with elaborate sculptures and mosaics that tell biblical stories.
The Chapel of San Brizio within the cathedral is particularly noteworthy for its dramatic Renaissance frescoes by Luca Signorelli. These frescoes are celebrated for their vivid detail and emotional depth. They depict apocalyptic scenes and the Last Judgment with a realism and intensity that leave a lasting impression on visitors. The longer you admire them, the more details emerge from the paintings.
If your trip is on a Sunday, be aware that the Duomo is open to visitors only in the afternoon due to the morning Mass.
### Torre del Moro (Moro Tower)
Orvieto isn’t just known for its depths! Ascend to new heights at the Torre del Moro. This 155-foot-tall (47-m) clock tower was built in the 1200s to monitor the area for invasions, but today, you can use it for that perfect panorama pic!
When is the best time to visit Orvieto
Although summer is the most popular time to make your trip from Rome to Orvieto, it can be incredibly hot. If you are sensitive to the heat and sun, visit Orvieto in the spring or fall. Both seasons provide a comfortable climate (around 75°F/24°C) for walking tours and outdoor activities.
You will also avoid the peak summer crowds and have a more tranquil, authentic experience of this enchanting Italian town.
If you are visiting in the summer, wear sunscreen and drink lots of water to stay healthy and comfortable. The sun is most intense from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so schedule indoor activities during this period. Maybe even the Orvieto Underground tour?
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Verified reviews from 500 travelers who booked this route
Jun 3, 2024
"We cannot say enough nuce things about the journey to and from Orvieto and especially about our wonderful, professional and kind driver Alessandro M. He was the tops and could not do enough for us. I will definitely recommend Daytrip to friends! Please send our thanks to Alessandro!
"
Mary-Lou L.
United States
Sep 20, 2023
"Roberto was fantastic!
He met us on time!
Wes courteous and friendly.
We had no problems or delays. "
CATHERINE B.
United States
Sep 10, 2023
"The service was excellent. The driver was polite and drove well and arrived promptly. The vehicle was very comfortable. Price was significantly better than a taxi service or other transport. Overall it was a very good experience
"
Bruce K.
United States
Aug 29, 2023
"Everything went great! We got picked up exactly where we expected and the timing to our destination was great!"
Macky R.
United States
Jun 12, 2023
"Christopher the driver was early to pick us up and got us to our destination in plenty of time to meet our group (we were attending a wedding celebration) but he was also very friendly and helpful in talking to us about Italy and its culture"
Scott P.
United States
Apr 19, 2023
"Our driver was awesome. Our experience with DayTrip was so good we are booking you again for our next trip in 2 days.
"
Thomas W.
United States
Oct 17, 2022
"Our trip from Rome to Orvieto with Giuseppe was the best private drive we have ever experienced in our 6 trips to Italy. Giuseppe was tremendously helpful, picking up and delivering our luggage right to our doors. He was a wonderful driver, easy to chat with and we enjoyed his sense of humour and knowledge of the countryside through which we were travelling. Somehow he sensed when we just wished to look at the countryside and when we felt like chatting.
We would highly recommend his services and those of my daytrip.com"
Daphne L.
Canada
Sep 22, 2022
"Excellent driver. We felt very safe and comfortable.
Professional service from the airport to our stay.
We will highly recommend your company. "
Jennifer H.
Canada
Sep 20, 2022
"It was awesome. we were caught out by a train strike but we were able to book a transfer via daytrip seamlessly in under 24 hours.
"
Kate o.
United States
Jun 3, 2022
"the trip to Orvieto was great. The driver arrived at our Airbnb ahead of the departure time which was a good start to the day. The car was spacious and very clean. Gianluca was friendly and helpful (and skillfully drove us through Rome's morning traffic!). He kept us informed of the expected time of arrival at our two destinations.
We had a scheduled stop at Civitas Bagnoregio, which was the main reason we booked Team Daytrip. (we usually take the train when taking day trips). Gianluca took us close to the walking bridge and we had 90 minutes to explore the site. This was perfect timing.
We then continued to Orvieto and arrived at the requested location right on time.
I would use Team Daytrip again and recommend it to others.
"
Elizabeth W.
Canada
May 1, 2022
"Christian was OUTSTANDING! His driving was excellent and his knowledge of the area very deep and interesting. His English is very good!
"
Clare B.
United States
Mar 6, 2022
"Our driver was terrific. He was on time, easy to locate, helpful and efficient. I am a frequent traveler to Italy and will use your services again.
"
Christian H.
United States
Nov 6, 2021
"Everything worked extremely smoothly! The driver was waiting for us with my name written clearly & we connected easily at Ciampino airport. The ride to Orvieto was longer than usual, but that was because of holiday traffic. The driver was excellent. Thank you!"
Lawrence R.
United States
Nov 6, 2021
"I hope you are well. We are back home in Rhode Island, USA and getting back to usual things. Here is my review of Daytrip and Gianluca L.
The overall experience was wonderful. Gianluca was right there at the airport to pick us up in Rome, considerate and kind, professional. He took us on our first stop, a winery, before going on to Orvieto. This was our first time in the area and we really appreciated his knowledge and his willingness to learn something new as well!
For the trip on the way back to the airport, I was so happy when the driver was changed and ultimately we were assigned Gianluca L. again!
It felt comfortable and right. Our ride was efficient and timely.
But the best thing is that he answered the call when, after drop off at the airport in Rome, I left my passport and vaccine card pouch in the car!! I took it out in preparation for our check-in. I have to say, I was in something of a panic, but Gianluca turned around and came back with the documents right away. I am still so grateful.
Daytrip is a wonderful service, prompt service from the digital booking end of things, updates on drivers and cars, a fair price, and if all the drivers are as terrific as Gianluca L. , then you are doing something right.
Thank you for everything and pass on our regards to Gianluca L.
"
Suzanne B.
United States
Aug 24, 2021
"She and her group traveled with Marco from Rome to Orvieto. She told me they had a very positive experience with Marco. All went well. Our cars arrived within 5 minutes of each other. How’s that for perfect timing?"
Roberta M.
United States
Jan 9, 2020
"The journey was great. The driver was very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful, and made our trip smooth and comfortable."
Kirin Y.
Thailand
Jun 17, 2019
"Just wanted to let you know that Marco Was amazing! Such a professional, a real gentleman & very very informative!! A seamless trip to and from Orvieto,"
Erin S.
Australia
Feb 23, 2019
"We had a wonderful time! Marco met us right outside our apartment and was so nice and fun to visit with along the way. His van was very comfortable and we had an excellent experience. That was the best day of our trip and not having to drive yet still get to some of these remote places was spectacular!
Thanks for creating this great business model! I'm sure we will use it again in the future."
Richard R.
United States
Oct 20, 2018
"Hello. It was Marco that drove us and he was great. He arrived early for the pick up and was very considerate and pleasant throughout the trip. Highly recommend. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Janine"
Janine G.
New Zealand
May 17, 2018
"Hello,
It was the best thing we did! Cloudio was punctual,
Polite, and a pleasure to be with.
On the second leg of our trip, we were delighted to see
That it was Cloudio who was our driver again.
He supplied us with water. And his car
Was very comfortable. We were able to relax
And enjoy our vacation. He was also very informative
Along the way. We felt like we were friends.
I will definitely recommend your company to
My friends."
Ann M.
United States
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Rome to Orvieto
Yes, absolutely! Orvieto is located in the Umbria region, only 75 miles (120 km) north of Rome. This 90-minute drive is an ideal distance for a day trip. To get the most out of your trip, leave Rome early in the day.
Yes, Trenitalia has about 10 direct trains per day from Roma Termini station to Orvieto station. These trains run so frequently that you do not need to purchase a ticket ahead of time, but it is recommended to arrive at the station early to sit together with your whole party.
Orvieto is 90 minutes northwest of Rome. You can make this trip by train or with a private car. The A1 highway will take you directly to Orvieto by car. If you are traveling by train, leave from Roma Termini station to Orvieto station.
Italy does not use vignettes, but you will still have to pay for highways if you rent a car. Pick up a ticket at the toll booths located at the entrance to highways. When you exit, you’ll need to show the ticket and pay the fine based on the distance traveled.
During those warm Italian days, you should bring a bottle of water, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Orvieto is located high on a volcanic butte, and the sun is quite intense in the summer. Sturdy, comfortable shoes will keep you safe on the cobbled streets and many stairs.
The closest major airport is the Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi - Umbria International Airport (PEG). You can take international and domestic flights from PEG, and it is not far from Orvieto. The trip takes 1 hour and 10 minutes by car.
Absolutely! Visiting Orvieto is definitely worth the trip from Rome! Orvieto is a classic example of an Italian hill town. It has one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Italy and examples of great technological advancements made by the Etruscans. Did we mention the gorgeous views?
Visit these sights on the way
Tivoli
Scattered with stunning ruins and impressive waterfalls, Tivoli embodies the true meaning of picturesque. A Town Built on Waterfalls
Caprarola
This medieval village at the foot of Criminis is dominated by Pope Paul III’s intentionally incongruous villa. High Tension
Sacro Bosco
Created in the 16th century by a grieving widower, Sacro Bosco is unlike any garden you’ve ever seen, featuring magnificent sculptures in a tranquil setting. Little Park of Monsters
Civita di Bagnoregio
On a lush plateau, this ancient city is overflowing with lush greenery as it slowly returns to the earth. The Shrinking Garden of Eden
Decugnano dei Barbi
This winery is dedicated to their local heritage, and are happy to teach visitors about both local wine and cuisine. Delicious Dedication
