Orvieto on foot: discovering the historic center
Built on an imposing tuff cliff rising above the Umbrian countryside, Orvieto is one of the most fascinating cities to explore on foot. Its history dates back to the Etruscan period, later becoming a Roman stronghold and a papal seat, leaving behind a historic center full of art, mystery, and charm.
Our Walking Tour of Orvieto is designed for those who want to discover the city alongside expert local guides. This 1 hour and 30 minute walking tour takes you through alleys, squares, and monuments to fully experience the history of this captivating town.
Piazza Duomo: Gothic splendor at the heart of Orvieto
The guided tour begins at Piazza Duomo, home to the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a renowned masterpiece of Umbrian Gothic architecture. Its alternating white and black marble, towering façade adorned with spires and bas-reliefs create a breathtaking visual impact, making this one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.
Palazzo del Popolo: the voice of medieval Orvieto
The Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo is a symbol of medieval political life. Built in the 14th century, it once housed the Capitano del Popolo, a key figure in the free city-states. Today, the square in front of the palace often hosts markets and cultural events, keeping alive the economic and social spirit of historic Orvieto.
Piazza della Repubblica: harmony of eras and styles
This central square beautifully blends medieval and Baroque architecture. Here you’ll find the Town Hall (Palazzo Comunale) and the Church of Sant’Andrea, with its striking twelve-sided bell tower. The square enchants visitors with its stylistic variety and the harmonious beauty shaped by centuries of history.
Medieval quarters: among ancient stones and local stories
Walking through the alleys of Orvieto’s medieval quarters feels like stepping back in time. Thanks to the guide’s stories and anecdotes, every corner becomes a piece of living history, rich with arches, towers, hidden courtyards, and unexpected glimpses.
Views from the cliff: Umbria at your feet
Perched on a majestic tuff cliff, Orvieto overlooks the surrounding landscape. Along the tour, there will be several panoramic viewpoints where you can admire the rolling Umbrian hills, colorful fields, and expansive countryside vistas that fill the eyes with beauty.
The Orvieto Cathedral: Santa Maria Assunta
On certain dates, 1-hour guided tours dedicated entirely to the Orvieto Cathedral are also available. These can be taken on their own or combined with the guided tour of the historic center. These visits offer a deeper insight into the history of this spectacular church, whose façade alone features an extraordinary blend of craftsmanship, geometric patterns, and unique symbolic meanings. Inside, you’ll find an airy, luminous, and majestic space. Light filtering through the alabaster windows adds a surreal touch to the richly decorated interior. Most captivating of all is the Chapel of San Brizio, whose cycle of frescoes stands as a stunning testament to Italian painting of the 15th century.
Book your guided walking tour of Orvieto
The Walking Tour of Orvieto is the perfect opportunity to explore what to see in Orvieto — a city suspended between sky and earth, where every corner tells a story stretching back thousands of years.
Check the available dates and book your tour: let yourself be surprised by one of Umbria’s most ancient and historically rich gems!
