La Soffitta e La Torre Affittacamere

The place is charming, clean, and well cared for, and the owners respond promptly. But it’s on the top floor of a building with no elevator, so you’ll need to climb a winding staircase. I was disappointed to learn there’s no breakfast: I hadn’t understood that “affittacamere” means rooms only. It shouldn’t be advertised online as a B&B.

Maria and Beatrice made me feel welcome, and Maria even helped me with my Italian. My room had a modern bathroom with a skylight and plenty of hot water, and there’s a cute breakfast room with an espresso machine. The place is a little outside the center, on a large square with restaurants and a nice small bar I visited most evenings. Orvieto is compact, so everything is still about a 10-minute walk away. Be prepared for stairs. It felt like a real taste of Italian hospitality.

La Soffitta is right in the historic center, with sights all around and the cathedral, main shopping street, bars, and restaurants an easy walk away. I’ve stayed several times and recommended it to friends and colleagues. We’ve all appreciated how welcoming Maria and her daughter Beatrice are, along with how comfortable the place is.

I haven’t even left yet, and I’m already thinking about returning. The owner seemed genuinely sad that the breakfast room was closed, but Covid rules meant a proper breakfast wasn’t allowed. There were snacks, crisp bread, jam, a kettle with green tea in the room, and a coffee machine outside. The room exceeded my expectations: comfortable bed, unusually good hot water, and fast, reliable internet for work. I also liked the small TV since I’m not a fan of televisions. I picked a place with lots of stairs to get some exercise. I check out tomorrow, and I may well come back. Booking directly with the owners can save the high fees charged by booking sites.