Civita di Bagnoregio
A breathtaking medieval village perched on a crumbling tuff hill, accessible only by a dramatic pedestrian bridge. Known as 'the dying town,' it offer...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Civita di Bagnoregio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking medieval village perched on a crumbling tuff hill, accessible only by a dramatic pedestrian bridge. Known as 'the dying town,' it offers surreal beauty and a step back in time.
"Civita di Bagnoregio is a fairytale come to life, with cobblestone streets, stunning valley views, and timeless charm."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk across the bridge and through the village requires good footwear.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect to pay a small fee to enter the village, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Pedestrian Bridge
Entrance to Civita di Bagnoregio
A dramatic, steep bridge offering breathtaking views of the valley and the village perched on the cliff.
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Valle dei Calanchi Views
Throughout Civita di Bagnoregio
Marvel at the surreal, eroded clay hills of the 'Valley of the Badlands' surrounding the village.
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Wandering Ancient Streets
Inside Civita di Bagnoregio
Get lost in the charming, narrow cobblestone alleys of this medieval 'dying town.'
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The 'Dying Town' Fee
+1Accessing the Village
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk across the bridge and through the village requires good footwear.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect to pay a small fee to enter the village, especially on weekends.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots from the bridge and within the village.
🚗 Parking Options
Park in Bagnoregio town and walk to the bridge; some parking is available for campers too.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk across the bridge and through the village requires good footwear.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect to pay a small fee to enter the village, especially on weekends.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots from the bridge and within the village.
🚗 Parking Options
Park in Bagnoregio town and walk to the bridge; some parking is available for campers too.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Civita di Bagnoregio's unique beauty and surreal atmosphere, often describing it as a fairytale or a step back in time. The dramatic approach via the pedestrian bridge and the stunning valley views are consistently praised. However, some find the entrance fee and the steep walk challenging, and the limited amenities within the village can be a drawback for longer stays.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to drive, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, take a train from Rome to Orvieto and then a bus or taxi to Bagnoregio.
Yes, there is parking available in the town of Bagnoregio, near the start of the pedestrian bridge. Some spots are designated for campers.
It's challenging but possible. Take a train to Orvieto, then a bus to Bagnoregio. From Bagnoregio, you'll need to walk to the bridge.
From Orvieto, you can take a bus to Bagnoregio, which is the closest town to Civita. From there, it's a walk to the pedestrian bridge.
The pedestrian bridge is long and steep, making it difficult for those with significant mobility issues. Some services are available to assist visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Civita di Bagnoregio. It's typically €5 on weekends and holidays, and €3 on weekdays.
Civita di Bagnoregio is generally accessible during daylight hours. The pedestrian bridge is open, but specific village access might vary. It's best to check locally for any specific timings.
Booking in advance is usually not required for general entry, but it's advisable to check for any special events or peak season requirements.
The fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the village, including services like assistance for disabled visitors.
Discounts may be available for certain groups, but the standard fees are generally low. It's worth checking the official local tourism information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Explore the ancient cobblestone streets, admire the unique architecture, enjoy the stunning valley views, and soak in the timeless atmosphere.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the village and enjoying the views. You can easily spend longer if you enjoy leisurely strolls and photography.
It can get crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season. Weekday mornings are generally less busy.
The pedestrian bridge offers iconic views, as do various viewpoints within the village looking out over the Valle dei Calanchi.
Yes, there are a few charming restaurants and cafes within the village where you can enjoy local food and drinks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find traditional Italian cuisine, often featuring local ingredients from the Lazio region. Expect pasta dishes, local meats, and regional specialties. +1
Yes, several restaurants offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley, making for a memorable dining experience.
Look for local pasta dishes, cured meats, and regional specialties. The cuisine is often described as 'cucina povera' but rich in flavor.
Prices can vary, but you can find options that offer good value for money, especially considering the unique location.
While many dishes focus on meat and pasta, most Italian restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. It's always best to ask.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and beautiful golden hour hues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and narrow streets. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic and protected areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The pedestrian bridge, the main piazza, the ancient doorways, and any viewpoint overlooking the Valle dei Calanchi are highly photogenic.
Always be respectful and ask for permission before photographing individuals. The village has a small, permanent population.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Once inside, the car-free village offers a safe space for children to explore the narrow cobblestone streets. The unique setting and the 'dying town' mystique can spark their imagination. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options within the village are limited and can be pricier.
+1🚗 Day-Trippers from Rome
+1If you don't have a car, you can take a train from Rome to Orvieto and then a bus or taxi to Bagnoregio. Be mindful of bus schedules to ensure you have enough time to explore and return. The entrance fee and the walk across the bridge are key considerations for a day trip.
📸 Photographers
+1Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The Valle dei Calanchi offers surreal textures and colors. Inside the village, focus on the narrow alleys, ancient doorways, and panoramic viewpoints. Remember to be respectful of the few residents and their privacy.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Dying Town' Phenomenon
+2 Despite this, the village has seen a resurgence in visitors, with over 800,000 people visiting in 2017 alone. This erosion means the village is literally crumbling away, making it a unique and somewhat poignant destination. The constant threat of collapse adds a layer of urgency to visiting, as its future is uncertain. However, the influx of tourism has also helped fund preservation efforts, ensuring its survival for now.
Visiting Civita di Bagnoregio offers a chance to step back in time and experience a place that is both beautiful and fragile. The dramatic landscape and the village's resilience make it a truly unforgettable experience.
+1Access and The Iconic Bridge
+1Be prepared for a significant walk, especially if you have mobility issues. The bridge is approximately 300 meters long and has a considerable incline. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding badlands and the village perched majestically on the cliff.
+1Once you cross the bridge, you enter a world frozen in time. The lack of cars within the village adds to its tranquil and ancient atmosphere. The walk across the bridge, while challenging for some, is a defining feature that sets Civita di Bagnoregio apart from other Italian villages.
+1History and Preservation
However, the geological instability of the tuff rock has always been a threat. Earthquakes and erosion have gradually chipped away at the plateau, leading to the nickname 'the dying town.' This has caused a steady decline in population, with the village now having very few permanent residents.
+1Despite its precarious state, Civita di Bagnoregio has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is part of the 'Borghi più belli d'Italia' (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) association. The entrance fee and tourism revenue play a crucial role in funding ongoing preservation efforts and ensuring the village can be enjoyed by future generations.
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