Family Adventure in Orvieto, Italy

Echoes of the Etruscans

Today was a fascinating journey into Orvieto's rich history and vibrant culture. Eleanor, Kenji, and I immersed ourselves in Etruscan artifacts, savored the local cuisine, and explored the charming streets of this captivating city. It’s days like these that remind me why we love to travel as a family, discovering new things together and creating lasting memories.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Vis à Vis. It’s a charming spot known for its vegan options, which was a pleasant surprise. I opted for a traditional pastry and a strong espresso, while Eleanor and Kenji enjoyed some delicious vegan croissants. The atmosphere was relaxed, and it was the perfect way to start our day of exploration. I made a mental note to try their live music concerts on Sundays if we have a chance.


Discover exquisite Italian cuisine at Vis à Vis in Orvieto - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

After breakfast, we headed to Palazzo Coelli. This elegant building, now home to the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Orvieto, is a historical landmark in itself. While there wasn't a specific exhibition on, we admired the architecture and learned about the palace's history. Kenji was particularly fascinated by the stories of the noble families who once resided here. The building has been renovated and has modern technical equipment. I appreciated the blend of historical significance and modern facilities.


Explore the architectural beauty and cultural heritage of Palazzo Coelli in Orvieto, a historic gem of Italy that enchants every visitor.

Next on our itinerary was the Etruscan Museum Claudio Faina. This museum houses one of the largest archaeological collections in Italy, and it was an absolute treat for history buffs like myself. The museum is located in the Palazzo Faina, which is located in front of the Duomo.


Explore the rich heritage of the Etruscans at the Etruscan Museum Claudio Faina in Orvieto, a cultural gem showcasing ancient artifacts and history.

The past is never dead. It's not even past. – William Faulkner

We spent hours wandering through the exhibits, marveling at the Etruscan, Greek, and Roman finds. Kenji was captivated by the interactive path designed for children, which made learning about Etruscan history fun and engaging. Eleanor was particularly interested in the collection of Etruscan vases and the intricate details of the ancient goldsmithing. I was personally drawn to the statue known as the “Venus of Cannicella” and the warrior's head stone. The museum provided a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante Il Cocco, a place recommended for its authentic Orvieto cuisine. The restaurant is in the heart of Orvieto, near Piazza della Repubblica, inside Palazzo Scalza. We sat at an outdoor table and enjoyed the lively atmosphere of the city. I ordered the handmade pasta, which was delicious, while Eleanor savored the grilled meats. Kenji, as always, opted for a simple pasta dish, which he devoured in minutes. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients truly made the meal memorable.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Il Cocco in Orvieto - where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy's culinary heritage.

After lunch, we decided to explore the local shops. Our main destination was Il Mago di Oz. This enchanting craft store is a true gem, filled with handmade crafts and unique gifts. The shop is located near the Duomo, on Via degli Artigiani. Giuseppe Rosella, the owner, is a fascinating character. He showed us his amazing creations, and Kenji was absolutely mesmerized. We ended up buying a few small souvenirs, including a handcrafted wooden toy for Kenji and a beautiful ceramic piece for our home in Bristol.


Explore the magic of handmade crafts and unique gifts at Il Mago di Oz, Orvieto's enchanting craft store perfect for souvenirs.

As the afternoon waned, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Orvieto, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the beautiful architecture. August is a lovely time to be here, with the warm weather and the city buzzing with activity. I checked to see if the Orvieto Folk Festival was running, but it seems we just missed it. We stumbled upon a small gelateria and treated ourselves to some delicious gelato. Kenji, of course, chose his favorite chocolate flavor, while Eleanor and I tried some local fruit flavors.

For dinner, we had reservations at Trattoria Da Carlo. This charming trattoria is known for its classic Umbrian cuisine and lively atmosphere. The ever-changing menu features hand-rolled pasta and traditional dishes made with local ingredients. I opted for the pappardelle with wild boar ragu, while Eleanor chose the tagliatelle with meat sauce. Kenji enjoyed a simple pasta with tomato sauce. The food was excellent, and the service was warm and welcoming. It felt like dining in someone's home.


Discover Trattoria Da Carlo in Orvieto for authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and hospitality amidst historic charm.

One of the highlights of the evening was watching Carlo interact with his mother in the kitchen. Their playful banter added to the cozy and familial atmosphere of the trattoria. It was a truly authentic Italian dining experience. I also appreciated the democratic prices.

As we walked back to Palazzo Piccolomini, the city was quiet and peaceful. The warm August air was filled with the sounds of crickets, and the stars twinkled above us. I thought about how lucky we are to be able to experience these moments together as a family. Travel enriches our lives in so many ways, and I am grateful for every opportunity to explore new places and cultures with Eleanor and Kenji.


Discover the charm of Orvieto at Palazzo Piccolomini, a 4-star hotel offering comfort, local cuisine, and central access to historic landmarks.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Piazza del Popolo and Rocca Albornoziana. I’m looking forward to discovering more of Orvieto’s historical landmarks and enjoying the beautiful views from the fortress. For dinner, we’re booked at La Taverna dell'Etrusco, which I’ve heard has a fantastic ambiance.

Back at our room, Kenji is already fast asleep, dreaming of Etruscan warriors and magical shops. Eleanor and I are enjoying a glass of local wine, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Orvieto has truly captured our hearts, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note to buy an adapter, as I forgot ours. I also realised that Kenji's favourite toy is missing and that I forgot my sunglasses. I'll have to get these things tomorrow.

I’m excited about tomorrow's explorations, but for now, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure in beautiful Orvieto.

I am really enjoying this trip with my family, and I am grateful to be able to share these experiences with the readers of my blog.

Until tomorrow!