Tuscan Hilltowns from Rome

Orvieto is an easy train ride. I believe that Siena works out better by bus.

Orvieto is in Umbria, but it's a true hill town and an easy 1 hour train trip from Rome. Equivalent hill towns in Tuscany would be less convenient - about 3 hours by train and/or bus. I think Orvieto is your best bet.

I too suggest Orvieto as it is so easy to get to from Rome. You will get some great views of Umbria from up in the old town, and as it is basically on the Tuscan border you will get the Tuscany feel as well. Great town for wandering, and the wines are wonderful.

Thank you very much for all your quick responses. I am convinced, Orvieto it is. Thanks again.

Thank you very much for all your quick responses. I am convinced, Orvieto it is. Thanks again.

David,

I agree, Orvieto is a good choice (especially as it's such an easy trip from Rome). Although in Umbria, the scenery is very much similar to Toscana.

When you arrive at the station, buy a ticket at the Tabachi for the short Funicular ride up to the town (the Funicular is right across the street from the rail station). When you exit the Funicular, look to your right side and you'll see St. Patrick's Well. It's got an interesting history, so you might consider a visit while you're there. There's also the Underground Tour, which meets at the T.I. across from the Duomo.

Happy travels!

I will do that. Thanks again.

Looking for anything particular in this hilltown you're trying to pick? Yes, I agree with the majority that Orvieto is your best bet. If you go there, also possibly look into taking a quick sidetrip by bus to Civita di Bagnoregio. It's a unique spot.

But aside from Orvieto, I would also consider Cortona which is also easily accessible via train from Rome. It doesn't have a grand cathedral with an ornate facade like Orvieto, but in terms of Tuscan hilltown, Italian ambience it's a great find with excellent views across the Tuscan valley.

Since we will be in Rome the majority of the time, i figured a couple of days in the hill towns would be a good break from the city. I'm not looking for anything in particular, good wine, relaxing romantic atmosphere. I've been thinking of spending two nights in Orvieto and seeing a few different towns, definitely Civita. Do you know what time the latest bus leaves from Civita back to Orvieto. I will check out Cortona. Thanks again.

Don't forget about Assisi.

The last bus times listed coming back from Bagnoregio (Civita) to Orvieto (at least as of last year) are 14:25 and 17:25.