Live Your Best Lives
The ancient city of Civita di Bagnoregio is located about 120 kilometers north of Rome . It was built 2,500 years ago on the top of a mountain and is connected to the outside world by only a narrow bridge. From a distance, it looks like a castle in the sky . It is said to be the prototype of "Castle in the Sky" written by Hayao Miyazaki, so it is also known as the " Castle in the Sky " .
The ancient city was built during the Etruscan civilization period. It is about 300 meters long and 200 meters wide. Because it is located on top of volcanic tuff, it collapsed after several earthquakes. By the 19th century, it could only be connected to the outside world by a bridge about one kilometer long. From a distance, it looks like a castle in the sky.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Weekdays: 3 Euros per person
Holidays: 5 Euros per person
Civita di Bagnoregio is an ancient hilltop town, founded by the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago. Its nickname, "the dying city," refers to the gradual erosion of the surrounding cliffs that threaten its existence. The town's isolated position and historical buildings make it an iconic example of Italy’s ancient and enduring heritage.
Civita di Bagnoregio is located in the Lazio region of central Italy, near the town of Bagnoregio. It is accessible by a 15-minute walk across a footbridge from Bagnoregio, or you can take a taxi from nearby towns. There is no metro service to the town, and public buses are limited.
Civita di Bagnoregio is open year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is mild. Summer months can be crowded, and the town can be quite hot. The site is generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours may vary depending on the season.
The entrance fee for Civita di Bagnoregio is approximately 5-10 EUR for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online in advance for certain times of the year, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring, summer, and holidays) to avoid long lines. A few days ahead is typically sufficient, but it is advised to check closer to the date for availability.
A visit to Civita di Bagnoregio usually takes about 2-3 hours. This time allows for exploring the village, visiting the Church of San Donato, walking through the streets, and taking in the views from various viewpoints.
Guided tours are available in Italian and English. Audio guides can be rented on-site for a more self-paced tour. The tours typically cover the history of the village, its architecture, and the surrounding region.
Start by crossing the footbridge to the village. Once inside, explore the narrow streets, stopping to visit the Church of San Donato. Walk along the edge of the cliffs to enjoy panoramic views, and then relax in the central square before heading back across the bridge.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows. The village is best experienced during daylight hours when the views and atmosphere are most accessible.
Civita di Bagnoregio can get crowded, especially during summer and on weekends. The least crowded times are typically early mornings on weekdays during the off-season (fall and spring).
There are public toilets at the entrance to the town. Food, water, and rest areas are available in the village, with cafes and small shops selling local products. The village has limited shopping opportunities, but some souvenir shops are scattered around.
The village is built on a hill with many steep, narrow streets, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and most visitors in good health should have no issues navigating the village.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as credit cards, WeChat Pay, and Alipay) are accepted at many shops and cafes in Civita di Bagnoregio. However, it’s a good idea to have some cash for small purchases in smaller shops or food stalls.
There are a few cafes and restaurants within Civita di Bagnoregio serving traditional Italian food, including pasta, pizza, and local specialties. Nearby Bagnoregio also has a wider selection of dining options.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants and cafes. Vegan and halal options may be limited, so it’s recommended to check with the restaurant in advance for availability.
There are small guesthouses and boutique hotels in Bagnoregio, just a short drive from Civita di Bagnoregio. For more accommodations, the nearby towns of Orvieto and Viterbo offer a wider range of options.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in Civita di Bagnoregio selling items such as local ceramics, olive oil, and handmade crafts. Small, traditional Italian souvenirs like postcards and magnets are also available.
