A total of three days in Orvieto is all it took to make me want to come back. This ancient town has several aspects that make it a unique find among small towns in Italy.
Here is why Orvieto is a hidden gem in Italy, you will want to add to your Italy itinerary.
Medieval style architecture
The original city of Orvieto was built in 1290. The buildings in Orvieto’s design is a mosaic facade.
Walking through the city feels like I am walking back in time. Every building crafted with ornate design and architectural purpose.
Grand Hotel ItaliaÂ
Local bars and restaurants
I am blown away by some of the fantastic food Italy has to offer, and Orvieto does not disappoint.
 From rich pasta to sweet desserts each dish is as mouthwatering as the last. Additionally, Orvieto is where I first tasted risotto, a classic Italian dinner choice.
Trattoria del Moro Anne is right around the corner from the Granda Italia Hotel. Serving tasty dishes like creamy risotto and flan it gives foodies a delicious taste of Italian fanfare.
Underground Caves
Underground caves and secret tunnels are all I need to hear about Orvieto, and I am interested. Manmade caves and underground tunnels are directly beneath the city.
These manmade caves are where the Etruscan’s worked. At least before they were driven out by the Romans.
These 2500 year old caves are now admired by visitors, and used by the local community. If you purchase a home in Orvieto, it is likely that the home will come with a personal cave, much like basements in America.
Battlefront infrastructure
Who doesn’t like to see a fort built on top of a massive hill? The view from the top looking down on the city below is quite extravagant. While the fort was originally designed to keep intruders out, now it welcomes visitors in.
Shopping and markets
In my humble opinion, Italians have great style and their clothing shops are on-trend. While walking around trying on shoes, plaid pants, and snacking on dried fruit I enjoy the many places to purchase unique items.
The Wednesday Market
It is common for a local Italian city to hold a market in the middle of the week. Orvieto is no different. On Wednesday morning there is a market in the square that has an amazing selection of local products.
The Duomo CathedralÂ
The Orvieto’s gothic style Duomo Cathedral will make you want to stare up towards the sky. I couldn’t help but marvel at the colors surrounding the entrance of the cathedral.
Make no mistake, this building is no facade. The inside is just as dramatic and impressive on the inside. You will want to take your time walking through Orvieto’s largest cathedrals. With high ceilings and paintings that tell the stories in the bible, you will be why this cathedral is a direct representation of Italian beauty and art.
The Duomo simply means the largest cathedral in the city.
A glimpse of local cultureÂ
Orvieto is an ideal glimpse of local culture. Although the city is busy and bustling during the day, at night the streets are quiet and calm. When I went into a grocery store for some snacks, I meet some locals who chatted more about their gorgeous city of Orvieto.
Bottom line, while plenty of people visit the city each year, the small town is a hub for authentic Italian culture.
Other articles about small medieval villages:
Quick Things To Do On A Day Trip~ Montepulciano, Italy
The Village Of Civita De Banoregio, Italy
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