Civita di Bagnoregio, often referred to as “the dying town,” offers a unique blend of history, stunning landscapes, and charming architecture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the best things to do in Civita di Bagnoregio.
During our one-week road trip in Umbria, we were captivated by this enchanting village, located atop a hill and accessible only by a pedestrian bridge. The breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the stone buildings transported us back in time. From wandering through its narrow streets to savoring local delicacies, Civita di Bagnoregio was undoubtedly a highlight of our journey through the picturesque landscapes of Umbria.
From the North:
From the South:
These routes suggest beautiful Italian landscapes along the way. Getting there doesn’t have to be rushed, take your time and embrace each step of the journey toward this unique part of history.
The two railway stations that can provide access to Bagnoregio are Viterbo and Orvieto and getting to the town from both of these stations is by COTRAL line buses.
If you intend to travel to Civita di Bagnoregio by air, the closest airport, where you may get to is, Rome Fiumicino. Orvieto is accessible by train while Bagnoregio is by bus, both from the airports. Get to Orvieto by train or even to Bagnoregio by bus from the airport. Civita di Bagnoregio is one of the very few destinations in Italy that must be accessed by foot only from the nearby town of Bagnoregio via a walking bridge.
The best way to experience Umbria is to rent your own car! We recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like rental cars if traveling in the peak summer season.
When visiting Civita di Bagnoregio, parking options are available at the base of the town, as vehicles are not allowed within the historic area. Here are some recommended parking locations:
This outdoor parking area is located at Piazzale Battaglini and is the main spot for catching the shuttle to Civita. It is well-marked and has pay-and-display machines. The cost is approximately €1 per hour, and the shuttle to the bridge costs €1 per person, with free rides for children.
Situated at Piazza Alberto Ricci, this parking facility is open 24 hours and has a rating of 4.3. It offers convenient access to the pedestrian bridge leading into Civita di Bagnoregio.
Another option is Parcheggio “Piensi,” which is also open 24 hours and has a rating of 3. It provides easy access to the town.
Located on Viale Alfonso e Giovanni Agosti, this parking area is reserved for specific activities but is another option for visitors.
This parking lot has a high rating of 5 and is another nearby option for visitors exploring the area.
Founded somewhere in 500 BC according to historians, the city of Civita di Bagnoregio emerged as an important Etruscan civil center on a strategic trade route commercial link. Subsequently acquiring the Roman domination, it became the Lombards’ territory after the decline of the Western Empire.
More specifically, it was originally called Balneum Regis meaning ‘the bath of the king’, because, Lombard King Desiderious was once treated in the hot springs of the city for his wounds. Later it was seized by the Franks, and later on became part of the Papal states In Civita di Bagnoregio, was born a saint named Bonaventura.
Deterioration in the population of Civita di Bagnoregio began after an earthquake in 1695 which led to the majority of its inhabitants moving out mainly because of damages. In the following decades and centuries, the Civila di Bagnoregio as the city was called was slowly destroyed by more seismic activities, landslides, and erosion and the inhabitants gradually moved further away across the river.
The Civita di Bagnoregio Belvedere viewpoint is perhaps the most well-known viewpoint in the area where you can look out over the stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside. This place is especially famous in the evening, when the red glow of the sunset polarizes the stones of ancient buildings and it can seem that the world belongs to fairy tales. People often stay long here, appreciate the quiet surroundings, and take photos to contain lovely moments to remember.
The only way to reach Civita di Bagnoregio is a 589-meter-long (walking) bridge that links Civita di Bagnoregio to the mainland. It is indeed thrilling to cross this bridge from one end to the other. The first thing that one gets to see in the town is quite remarkable since the medieval buildings seem to come out of the rolling valleys. The views down onto the town and up at the soaring cliff faces that the town is famous for are quite exceptional from the bridge. That is why it is recommended to relax for a while and enjoy the walk as well as the specific location’s features and Geological distribution.
Porta Santa Maria is widely considered to be the main entry point to Civita di Bagnoregio, and the door is not the only thing that has a historical past. It is a freely standing arch that is carved and has designs and motifs such as a lion with a human head, which symbolizes the papalstatesentio9n of the town. All in all, when going through this gate, there is a feeling of taking a trip back in time. Landing: This area essentially introduces the guests to the medieval setting of the town and is therefore important in creating a good first impression that will set a tone for the rest of the visit.
Piazza Colesanti is a beautiful small piazza that is located right in the middle of the city of Civita di Bagnoregio. It is an ideal place where locals congregate, and it is great to take a break, finding oneself surrounded by the energy of this place. The sides of the piazza are surrounded by earthy-looking houses, outside dining areas, and little shops that sell various souvenirs and crafts that are made in the region. This square is sometimes filled with a lot of action, mostly during festivals and other cultural events.
Standing proudly on Piazza San Donato, the Church of San Donato boasts historic features that you cannot afford to miss. Saint Michael’s is a Romanesque church built in the 7th century, enlarged in the 12-16 centuries, with a relatively plain facade decorated with blind arches; the interior contains valuable artistic works. The initiative collection includes such masterpieces as the wooden crucifix, the school of Donatello, and the 15th-century wonderful fresco The Last Judgment is also captured. The church has played a significant role in the religious and community lives and activities in the town for many decades.
The Etruscan caves named ‘Antica Civitas’ are an opportunity to trace the roots of Civita di Bagnoregio back to ancient times. These artificial caves were dug from the softer form of tufa Rock and these were used for Burial chambers by the Etruscans and later for every other purpose like storing wine and other edibles, etc. Visiting such caves gives an understanding of the architectural solutions of the Etruscans and people’s presence in the region for thousands of years. Tours can be arranged to help you comprehend the importance and the uses of these special constructions.
The other notable learning center is the Museo Geologico delle Frane or The Geological Museum of Landslides which aims to provide explicit awareness about the geological and environmental problems of Civita di Bagnoregio. With the help of displayed exhibits, some of which are reconstructed based on archeological findings, the museum explains the processes that contributed to the town’s gradual degradation and the work in progress being done to protect it.
They include treaties, models, tables, and crystal specimens which, in combination with videos, animated films, and other aids, explain scientific phenomena easily and simply. Of course, it is fascinating to geology enthusiasts or anyone in Klamath Falls curious about the natural history of the area.
Piazza Sant’Agostino is another lovely piazza but this one is usually very quiet and offers a very good view. This one is rather small compared to other piazzas and could be used to relax if you are tired of walking around the tainted town. This name was derived from the Church of Sant’Agostino which is currently in ruins but lends an air of pre-medieval importance to the street. This became evident when walking around the place, and especially inside the square where you can take time, just stay and watch the calmness and serenity of the town of Civita di Bagnoregio.
The center also has a palazzo which has been named Palazzo Alemanni and they currently contain the Civic Museum. The palazzo is a piece of architectural artwork per se and brings out the socioeconomic status of the families that lived in the edifice. Finally, within the museum, you find a wide range of pieces that are important to the society of Civita di Bagnoregio. These include paintings of the Medieval and Renaissance periods, manuscripts, and artifacts of items used in day-to-day life throughout the ages, all depicting the mora incidunt heritage of the town.
Maria’s Garden is a charming place to visit within Civita di Bagnoregio with stunning views of the surrounding areas. This is a private and appealing garden that is located in the city center and is also open for visitors for a small sum of money, you can admire a beautiful collection of tropical and subtropical plants as well as flowers and sculptures. There are elaborate opportunities to capture the spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and it is an uncommon environment for a leisurely walk or moments of tranquility. Maria, the owner of the garden, is usually around to welcome guests and tell potential visitors about the garden and its past, which gives guests a sense of history.
There are two main ways to get to Civita di Bagnoregio: By car and by bus operated by a company or an agency. Cars cannot get into Civita and they can only go up to Bagnoregions from where a 300mt pedestrian bridge to Civita begins.
Civita di Bagnoregio is toddler unfriendly and challenging for people with disabilities, wheelchairs, buggies, walking difficulties, and physical challenges in any way due to the movable long uphill bridge and the narrow alleys in town. Services are in place to help to cross the bridge: there are certain rules for moving in and out of Civita if you have any problems with mobility – you can turn to local authorities and they will help you to get into the city for free.
La Cantina di Arianna on Via Roma is a local favorite for its homey atmosphere and delicious food. The restaurant attracts guests seeking to taste Point Blank with local delights and handmade pasta and pizzas.
The patio view and high-quality meals make Ristorante Alma Civita a distinctive restaurant. It serves delicious, contemporary, and seasonal meals for a romantic evening or other celebration.
Orvieto, a town that is 30km northwest of Civita di Bagnoregio, is popular for its grand cathedral and also known as the city of the hundred towers The cathedral, or Duomo, is a Gothic structure, with well-decorated mosaic and frescoes. Take time to tour the large subterranean complex of caves and tunnels that have been in work since even before the Etruscans for wine cellars, and which the people also used during wars. It is also worthwhile to come to St. Patrick’s Well – no less an engineering feat, With a two-tiered spiral staircase on top, it has a vista of the surrounding area.
Narni is a town in Italy with excellent historical precedents that can be traced back to the Romans and is located approximately 50 kilometers to the southeast of Civita di Bagnoregio. Stroll through the narrow medieval streets and marvel at high above the town the massive and imposing Rocca Alborn Oziana. Visit the Narni Underground – a series of ancient caves and tunnels –, and explore the interior of the Romanesque-style cathedral of San Giovenale with its impressive frescoes.
Taking children to visit Civita di Bagnoregio can be a fun and exciting way to make the children have fun while they are touring the facility. It is fun to walk across the pedestrian bridge to get to the town in which the public will feel like they are in a fairytale. Their destinations include the old narrow streets, visiting the ancient caves, and being informed on the historical aspects of the town. The hills and the house roofs, views of other houses, and the squares give my children many reasons to run around and feel the biology.
As long as you dress properly for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for walking you’ll be fine and although the amount of hills could intimidate those people who are not a fan of walking uphill, you practically can’t avoid it.
The best time to visit Civita di Bagnoregio is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.
Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season, characterized by hot weather and larger crowds.
Winter (November to March) offers a serene atmosphere with fewer visitors, but it can be quite chilly and foggy.
Civita di Bagnoregio is worth seeing. It provides stunning views, ancient landmarks like the Church of San Donato, and a quiet ambiance that takes tourists back in time on a tufa hill accessible only by a pedestrian bridge.
A half-day to a full day may be spent exploring Civita di Bagnoregio’s principal attractions. This gives you time to cross the pedestrian bridge, stroll through the charming neighborhoods, see the cathedral and museums, dine at a local restaurant, and take in the views. Longer stays are better for relaxing or seeing neighboring sights like Orvieto or Narni.
Several causes make Civita di Bagnoregio distinctive. On a tufa hill surrounded by valleys, it’s dramatic and beautiful. The town’s medieval architecture, especially the beautiful Church of San Donato and old caverns, shows its Etruscan roots. Due to erosion, the town is famous as “The Dying City” and offers a unique and fascinating experience of Italian history and culture.
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