I will be staying 3 nights in Florence and 4 nights in Rome. We'd like to visit Orvieto. Does it make sense to visit Orvieto on the way to Rome and if so, is it better to do this by train or by car since we will have luggage in tow. The other option is a day trip from Rome to Orvieto as we could do this by train. Also, would anyone recommend taking one night away from Rome to stay in Orvieto overnight or keep it as a day trip.
Posted by
Los Angeles
425 posts
You don't need as car, because Orvieto is on the traditional rail line between Florence and Rome (Intercity and Regionale trains but NOT NOT AV Frecciarossa trains which use the new high-speed line which bypasses Orvieto). Orvieto can easily be seen as a daytrip out of Rome. You don't need to overnight in Orvieto if you're pressed for time. You could also stop in Orvieto while moving from Florence to Rome (or the reverse). There is a funicular from the Orvieto train station up the hill to the main town. www.ferroviedellostato.it HINT: Take the unreserved Regionale train instead of the Intercity train and save lots of money.
Posted by
Ballwin
833 posts
According to TrenItalia there is not luggage storage at the Orvieto station, so that's something to consider if you are visiting between Florence and Rome with all your luggage. (http://www.trenitalia.com/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=aef8943d919da110VgnVCM1000003f16f90aRCRD) So luggage-wise it may be easier to visit Orvieto as a day trip. However, apparently according to some of the ticket agents at the station, there are two hotels near the station that will hold onto your luggage for you. One is Hotel Picchio.
Posted by
Saint Helens, OR, USA
304 posts
Orvieto is best experienced in the evening. If possible stay the night, have dinner, and stroll the streets in the evening. If not possible, definitely make time for a daytrip. The Orvieto duomo's facade is breathtaking. In my opinion Orvieto is second only to Siena.
Posted by
Poulsbo, WA, US
223 posts
I stayed in Orvieto a couple days and it sure is different (much more quiet and peaceful) at night and in the early mornings. We were able to have the church nearly to ourselves for an hour at opening time which was absolutely spectacular. If it works with your schedule, being at the church as it opens was one of the most amazing parts of our last trip.
Posted by
NLR, Ar USA
92 posts
When I stopped in Orvieto, I took a train from Florence and spent the day, then returned to Florence. I enjoyed seeing the Cathedral and had an ice cream around the corner from the church. Also toured and walked in some ruins close to the Church (Roman Cisterne I think.) But it was enough for me. However, if you are using a car, you can stop on the way to Rome, or go to the hotel you are using, and then take a day trip from Rome when you want to. Have fun and enjoy.
Posted by
OP
Toronto, ON, Canada
201 posts
From the responses, it does sound like visiting Orvieto on the way from Florence to Rome for a few hours would be the most sensible, time efficient way to visit. I've just discovered there are companies that offer transfer tours. Although it is expensive, it might be a wonderful way to have a guide to learn about the area, and be able to relax and enjoy without the hassle of waiting for trains, finding a place for our suitcases and afterwards trying to find our hotel in Rome. Has anyone ever done this or have advice about this?
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32244 posts
Kathy, Either stopping on the way from Florence, or taking a day trip from Rome are good options. Preferably you would be able to spend at least one night in Orvieto. As others have said, the character becomes much more tranquil at night, and it's a great place to have a fine hot meal and then enjoy a Passeggiatta after dinner! Happy travels!