From Rome: Bagnoregio & Orvieto Day Trip with Wines & Lunch

Thinking about a day trip out of Rome that combines stunning scenery, authentic Italian towns, and a taste of local wines and cuisine? This From Rome: Bagnoregio & Orvieto Day Trip offers just that. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking to experience the beauty of Italy’s less-traveled spots without the hassle of planning all the logistics themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances guidance and free time—you get expert insights from guides who are both knowledgeable and engaging, plus enough flexibility to explore at your own pace. And the winery lunch, with its delicious food and excellent Brunello wines, really stands out as a highlight.

One thing to consider is that the day is quite packed, with a total duration of around 12 hours. Some visitors mention that the time in towns like Orvieto can feel a bit rushed—so if you’re someone who prefers to soak in every detail, you might find the schedule tight. Still, it’s a solid choice if you want an efficient overview of these beautiful regions.

This tour is suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, historical towns, and flavorful food and wine. It’s especially good if you’re after a well-organized day that hits key highlights without requiring too much planning on your part.

Key Points

• Well-organized itinerary with a mix of guided tours and free time
• Visiting Civita di Bagnoregio, one of Italy’s most photogenic villages
• Authentic Tuscan winery lunch with wine tasting included
• Richly detailed guides who provide engaging historical and cultural insights
• Comfortable transportation with a smooth bus ride through Italy’s countryside
• Ideal for those wanting a taste of Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio in one day

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Piazza del Popolo, right in the heart of Rome, next to an iconic fountain with lions and an obelisk. It’s a familiar spot, easy to find, with the Flaminio metro nearby. From there, you hop onto a comfortable bus for a journey that lasts about 2 hours. The ride itself is quite scenic, offering glimpses of Italy’s rolling hills and charming countryside, setting the perfect tone for the day.

Traveling in a group, you get to settle in and relax while the guide sets the scene for what’s to come. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a plus on warm days, and many reviews praise the professionalism of the driver, making the long drive smooth and safe.

Civita di Bagnoregio: The “Dying Town”

The first stop is Civita di Bagnoregio, often called the “dying town” because of its erosion issues. But don’t worry—what’s left is a marvel of medieval charm and breathtaking views. The town sits atop a hill, linked to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge, which is an experience in itself.

Visitors rave about the fairy tale atmosphere of Civita, with its narrow cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and panoramic vistas. You’ll have about two hours here, enough to walk around, take photos, and soak in the peaceful yet captivating vibe.

According to reviews, the steep climb can be challenging, especially for those with mobility issues. It’s about a 20-minute walk, some with inclines, but totally worth it for the views and the sense of stepping back in time. Several guests mention that the guides do a good job of providing historical context, making the experience more meaningful.

Scenic Drive Through Tuscany

After Civita, you’ll hop back on the bus for a 1.5-hour drive through the hills of Tuscany, heading towards the Montepulciano area. This is the part where the landscape transitions into classic rolling vineyards and quaint farmhouses—seriously, it’s postcard-perfect scenery.

This leg of the journey sets the scene for your lunch and wine tasting, so get ready to indulge. The bus ride itself is a chance to relax and enjoy the views, with many reviewers noting the comfort and professionalism of the transport.

Tuscan Winery Lunch and Wine Tasting

Arriving at a traditional farmhouse, you’re treated to a gourmet Tuscan lunch featuring local products: panzanella (bread and tomato salad), salami, capocollo, wild boar sausage, and Tuscan pecorino. The meal is described as delicious and authentic, giving a real taste of regional flavors.

The highlight is the Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting, where you get to sample some of Italy’s most renowned wines. Several reviews mention that the wines are top-notch, with one reviewer saying, “the wine tasting was great even though the winery was crowded,” which suggests a lively, genuine experience.

However, some note that the winery visit may not be as intimate as some might hope due to the group size. Still, the quality of the wines and the setting of the farm make this part of the tour memorable.

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Exploring Orvieto: History and Views

The final major stop is Orvieto, a hilltop town in Umbria known for its stunning cathedral and underground passages. You’ll have around two hours here, which is enough to visit the famous Duomo, admire the medieval architecture, and stroll the charming streets.

Many visitors appreciate the blend of history and scenery, with several reviews praising the captivating underground tours and the beautiful vistas. The town’s dramatic cliffs and medieval buildings make it a favorite for photography and casual wandering.

Reviewers mention that the free time in Orvieto can be brief, with some wishing for more time to explore or shop. If you’re a history buff or a lover of picturesque towns, you’ll find this stop rewarding, but be prepared for a packed schedule.

Return and Overall Comfort

After exploring Orvieto, you’ll board the bus for the approximately 1.5-hour ride back to Rome, arriving at Piazza del Popolo in the late afternoon or evening. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and drivers, making what could be a tiring day quite manageable.

This tour’s value lies in its combination of destinations, guided insights, and included lunch and wine—which many visitors agree is a great deal for a full day of sightseeing. The price reflects the convenience, transportation, and quality of experiences, especially considering the stunning scenery and authentic food.

Some critique the limited time in towns like Orvieto, but overall, guests seem to feel that the experience is well worth it for the highlights they see. It’s especially good for those wanting a rundown of central Italy without the hassle of organizing multiple trips.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Italy’s most charming towns, this trip offers a good balance of guided learning and free exploration. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, historical towns, good food, and wine.

However, if you or anyone in your group has mobility issues, keep in mind that the walk to Civita di Bagnoregio can be steep and strenuous. The tour can be quite full, so if you prefer more relaxed pacing, you might want to consider alternative options or prepare for a busy day.

The tour’s mix of sights, flavors, and scenery makes it particularly appealing for first-time visitors eager to see the countryside and experience local gastronomy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not explicitly designed for children, younger travelers who are comfortable with walking and long days could enjoy the towns and scenery. However, the walk to Civita di Bagnoregio may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How much free time will I have in each town?
You’ll get about 2 hours in Civita di Bagnoregio and another 2 hours in Orvieto, with some reviews suggesting that the time in Orvieto is a bit tight. The winery lunch lasts around an hour and a half, giving you a good break and tasting experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in a comfortable bus, guided commentary, the winery lunch with local products, and wine tastings. It does not include personal expenses or optional additional purchases.

Is the wine tasting at the winery worth it?
Many reviews praise the wine tasting as a top highlight, especially for lovers of Italian wines like Brunello di Montalcino. The setting and the quality of wines make it a worthwhile addition to the day.

How is the guide?
Guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Guests mention guides being engaging, funny, and helpful, which makes the long day easier and more enjoyable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later.

This From Rome: Bagnoregio & Orvieto Day Trip offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines Italy’s scenic landscapes with its charming towns and regional flavors. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting an overview of central Italy’s highlights with minimal fuss. The guided aspect, plus the inclusion of a delicious lunch and wine, makes it feel like a well-rounded day out.

While the schedule can be tight—especially if you’re eager to explore every corner—the overall experience is highly praised for its guides, stunning views, and quality food and wine. It’s particularly suited for those keen on history, photography, and tasting local wines, and who don’t mind a full day on the go.

If you’re after a comprehensive, enjoyable taste of Italy’s countryside with friendly guides and beautiful scenery, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: