from 2 reviews
up to 9 hrs
Daily Tour
30 people
English
The clifftop town of Orvieto is home to one of Italy’s most striking cathedrals, famous for its shimmering mosaics on the facade. The surrounding area is known for its beauty and excellent wines, so sit back and let us do the driving! In Orvieto, you’ll have free time to explore the amazing historic center both above and below ground before heading to a local winery to sample up a selection of wines paired with local delicacies.
This full day in the Etruscan countryside is sure to be one of the highlights of your cruise! Perfect for those who wish to take in the genuine flavors and history of the land of the Etruscans.
Perched on a plateau of volcanic rock, Orvieto was once an island in the sea that covered the Paglia valley below. After the waters receded, Orvieto attracted ancient civilizations such as the Etruscans, who liked to build their cities on top of high, rocky places.
As an urban centre, Orvieto is an ancient place, even compared to other ancient places in Italy. Its history goes back many centuries before Roman times. Today Orvieto is a fascinating hilltop city that attracts visitors from all over the world, who come to admire one of the finest duomos (cathedrals) in Italy, a gem of Gothic architecture, as well as the underground city and St. Patrick's well.
Experience 3000 years of history as you follow the ancient passageways, tunnels, stairs, hidden rooms, and Etruscan artifacts in the underground city. You also won't want to miss St. Patrick's Well. Commissioned by Pope Clement VII, who sought refuge here during the sack of Rome, the well is over 200 feet deep well boasts an ingenious, double-helix spiraled staircase. You will have approximately 2 hours to explore Orvieto on your own.
After leaving Orvieto, we will visit a local winery where you will have a full-sensory immersion in Etruscan-Umbrian wine and oil. In this part of Italy, ancient tradition comes together with volcanic soil and a unique micro-climate to create distinctive wines and olive oil of excellent quality. Enjoy a taste of the region's extra-virgin olive oil on homemade bread and local food specialties paired with wines.
Mike D.
Fantastic experience at winery and Orvieto