The spectacular dying city Civita di Bagnoregio&the Monster Park

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, surreal landscapes, and a touch of whimsy, this tour to Civita di Bagnoregio and the Sacro Bosco (Monster Park) could very well fit the bill. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this journey, and it sounds like a fascinating way to spend a day exploring some of Lazio’s most unusual attractions.

What really appeals to us about this experience? First, the chance to walk through Civita di Bagnoregio, often called the “dying city,” with its dramatic landscape of crumbling buildings perched on the edge of a valley—an almost cinematic scene. Second, the Monster Park offers a completely different vibe, with large, otherworldly sculptures that turn a Renaissance garden into a fairy tale land. The fact that tickets and lunch are included makes it feel like good value, especially given the intimate group size and personalized pickup service.

A potential consideration is the tour’s duration—around 8.5 hours—meaning it’s a full day, which might be tiring for some. Also, the terrain and narrow streets might not be suitable for anyone with mobility issues. That said, this tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, landscape, and quirky art, and who appreciate expert guides who add context and stories to the visit.

Key Points

• Unique Destinations: Civita di Bagnoregio’s crumbling charm and the surreal sculptures of the Monster Park make this a standout trip.
• Inclusive Pricing: Tickets, lunch, and pickup are included, offering a straightforward experience.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour promises a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Support: The driver speaks English, and guides provide helpful commentary, enhancing the visit.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup from the port area simplifies transportation, especially for cruise travelers.
• Considerations: The tour is fairly long, so comfortable shoes and good stamina will make the day more enjoyable.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

The adventure begins early at Largo della Pace in Civitavecchia, where the tour provider, MyloveItaly Travel & Experiences, waits with a clear sign bearing your name. This pickup service is especially handy if you’re arriving by cruise ship, as it takes the hassle out of arranging transport. The transfer to Civita di Bagnoregio takes just about five minutes, setting the tone for a smooth day ahead.

Civita di Bagnoregio: The “Dying City”

Once you arrive, you’ll step into Civita di Bagnoregio, located on the border between Tuscany and Lazio. This town is truly one-of-a-kind. Known as the “dying city” because the land on which it stands is slowly eroding, it offers a rare chance to witness a place that feels both ancient and fragile. The land beneath is continuously crumbling into the Valle dei Calanchi below, creating a landscape that’s almost like a living sculpture.

Connected by a 300-meter bridge, Civita is a sight to behold. The narrow streets, medieval architecture, and panoramic views offer endless photo ops. Visitors often remark on its timeless feel, and some reviews highlight how special it is to visit before the city might disappear entirely. As one traveler summarized, “nothing can be done to prevent it makes your visit all the more special, eternal and timeless.” Expect to spend around two hours exploring, soaking in the atmosphere, and perhaps popping into a local cafe or two.

The Monster Park: An Artistic Wonderland

Next, the journey continues to the Sacro Bosco, or the Monster Park. This Renaissance-era garden is famous for its larger-than-life sculptures, which seem to come from a fantasy world. The park is a mixture of natural beauty and creative genius, where stone sculptures of monsters, animals, and mythic figures dominate the landscape.

This part of the tour lasts about two hours. Visitors have described it as “beautiful with ancient charm” and “suggestive,” emphasizing how the sculptures transform the space into a whimsical, almost surreal environment. The inclusion of tickets means you don’t have to worry about entrance fees, and the experience is very much about soaking in the unusual artistry that turns an ordinary garden into something extraordinary.

Ending the Day

After the Monster Park, the group is transferred back to Civitavecchia, arriving at the port’s shuttle terminal. The tour wraps up with a relaxed return, allowing you to reflect on a day packed with visual treats and cultural insights.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The Personal Touch
One of the highlights is the small-group size—just up to eight travelers—meaning you’re not lost in a crowd. The driver and guides, who speak English, help make the experience smooth and engaging, sharing stories and answering questions along the way. Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge and friendly approach, like one reviewer who called Andrea “amazing and knowledgeable, with a good balance of guiding and giving space to explore.”

The Views and Atmosphere
Both locations are visually stunning. Civita di Bagnoregio’s crumbling facades and panoramic vistas make it feel like walking through a living postcard. Meanwhile, the Monster Park’s sculptures add a playful, creative dimension that appeals to visitors of all ages. The combination of historic charm and artistic fantasy makes this tour quite unique.

Good Value for Money
Considering the price—around $330 per person—you get admission tickets, a guided experience, lunch, and transportation. The reviews suggest that the cost is justified by the quality and uniqueness of the sights, especially for those who want a hassle-free, well-organized day trip.

Possible Drawbacks and Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers a lot, it’s not perfect for everyone. The full length of the day means you’ll need to have good stamina and comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on uneven, cobbled streets. The terrain and narrow pathways at Civita might be tricky for those with mobility issues.

On top of that, the crumbling nature of Civita means that some areas are fragile; while the site is well-maintained, it’s essential to stay cautious and respect the signage. The cost of crossing the bridge is included in the ticket, but one review noted that it’s a bit expensive at €5 per person, which some might find a tad high for the simple act of crossing.

Lastly, since the tour doesn’t include a licensed guide—only a driver speaking English—those wanting deep historical or artistic insights might consider supplementing with a guide or further reading.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, art, and landscape—especially those who enjoy quirky, offbeat attractions. The small-group format makes it ideal for couples, solo travelers, or small families who prefer a more relaxed, personalized experience. If you’re arriving in Civitavecchia via cruise and want a hassle-free way to explore some of Lazio’s most fascinating sights, this trip is a solid choice.

If you’re someone who values well-organized logistics, stunning vistas, and a chance to see a city on the brink of disappearance, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, slow-paced day or have mobility challenges, this might be a bit demanding.

Final Thoughts

For those intrigued by Civita di Bagnoregio’s unique status as a “dying city,” combined with the creative spectacle of the Monster Park, this day trip offers a memorable way to see two very different sides of Lazio’s landscape. The fact that tickets, lunch, and transportation are included simplifies planning and adds value to the experience.

The knowledgeable guides and intimate group size help create a friendly, engaging environment, making it easier to learn about the sites without feeling rushed. While it’s a full day and involves some walking on uneven terrain, the sights are worth it, especially if you’re eager for something a little different from the usual Italian tourist fare.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who love discovering unusual sites, don’t mind a bit of walking or uneven ground, and want a hassle-free way to see two of Lazio’s most distinctive attractions.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from the port area are included. The transfer to Civita di Bagnoregio takes about five minutes, making the logistics very straightforward.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, visits, and transitions between locations.

Are tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Civita di Bagnoregio and the Monster Park are covered, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs at the sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children are allowed and must be accompanied by an adult, the terrain and length may be tiring. It’s best suited for older kids or those comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are highly recommended given the cobbled streets and uneven pathways. Bring water, sun protection, and maybe a hat, especially in warmer months.

Is a guide included?
No, the tour doesn’t include a licensed guide, but the driver speaks English and provides helpful commentary along the way.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Who is the tour operator?
The experience is provided by MyloveItaly Travel & Experiences, known for their well-organized, small-group tours in Italy.

If you’re craving a day filled with visual wonder, historical mystery, and artistic fantasy, this trip to Civita di Bagnoregio and the Monster Park is well worth considering. It’s a chance to see Italy’s quieter, more fantastical side—an experience that stays with you long after you leave.