Castiglione del Lago, Perugia

Town near Perugia

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hagai Agmon-Snir

Castiglione del Lago sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Trasimeno, its medieval core perched where a fourth island once rose above the water. Over centuries, the gap between the former island and the shoreline was gradually filled with piazzas, churches and houses, but the centro storico still feels like a compact hilltop fortress overlooking the lake and the surrounding borderlands between Umbria and Tuscany. With Perugia, Cortona, Chiusi and Arezzo all within easy reach, it is a natural base or day trip for exploring this corner of central Italy.

Inside the walls, Castiglione del Lago has a pleasing sense of order thanks to its “law of threes”: three gates, three piazzas and three churches structuring the medieval grid. Add in the pentagonal Fortress of the Lion, the frescoed Palazzo della Corgna and the elegant church of Santa Maria Maddalena and you have one of the top sights in Castiglione del Lago for travellers who love lake views wrapped in history. The old town is a highlight of any walking tour of Castiglione del Lago, especially if you time your stroll for late afternoon when the light over Lake Trasimeno is at its softest.

History and Significance of the Castiglione del Lago
Things to See and Do in the Castiglione del Lago
How to Get to the Castiglione del Lago
Practical Tips on Visiting the Castiglione del Lago
Where to Stay close to the Castiglione del Lago
Is the Castiglione del Lago Worth Visiting
FAQs for Visiting Castiglione del Lago
Nearby Attractions to the Castiglione del Lago

History and Significance of the Castiglione del Lago

Castiglione del Lago grew up in a contested landscape, on the historic road linking Orvieto to the south, Chiusi to the west and Arezzo to the north. Its position on what was once the lake's fourth island made it easy to defend and strategically important, so the town's story is punctuated by sieges, rebuildings and shifts in allegiance. From early Etruscan and Roman conflicts, through medieval clashes between Tuscan and Perugian interests, this exposed corner of Lake Trasimeno has rarely been entirely quiet.

Evidence of a long, prosperous Roman phase comes from the Gioiella-Vaiano villa complex just outside town, excavated between 2016 and 2019. Dating from the 2nd century BC to the early 4th century AD, the villa combined leisure and production: a luxurious bath suite and monumental nymphaeum for display and relaxation, alongside agricultural and craft activities. It underlines how this lakeside zone functioned both as a retreat and as a working landscape, feeding larger urban centres.

The town's fortifications were repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt until the reign of Emperor Frederick II brought a measure of stability in the early 13th century. Later, Castiglione del Lago fell under Perugian influence within the Papal States, becoming a fief of the Baglioni family. In 1550, Pope Julius III granted it to his sister; her son Ascanio della Corgna was made Marquis in 1563 and then elevated to Duke, presiding over a brief but flourishing Duchy that lasted until 1647, when the last Duke died without heirs and the town reverted fully to papal control. The fortress, palazzo and regular street plan that you see today are direct products of this layered, often turbulent history.

Things to See and Do in the Castiglione del Lago

The Fortress of the Lion dominates the tip of the promontory and is the obvious starting point. Begun under Frederick II and completed in 1247 by the monk-architect Elia from Cortona, it is a pentagonal castle with square towers at four corners and a distinctive triangular bastion (the Mastio) at the fifth. From its ramparts you can appreciate why this position mattered so much: the fort commands wide sweeps of Lake Trasimeno and the routes that skirt its shores, and its design allowed it to withstand repeated sieges over the centuries.

Just below, the Renaissance Palazzo della Corgna, now the Town Hall, adds a more refined note to the town’s skyline. Built for Ascanio della Corgna and designed by Vignola, it is connected to the fortress by a long covered corridor, a practical and symbolic link between residence and stronghold. Inside, the main floor is richly decorated with late Renaissance frescoes by Giovanni Antonio Pandolfi and Salvio Savini, while in 1574 Niccolò Circignani (Il Pomarancio) added dramatic scenes in the Room of the Exploits of Ascanio della Corgna, where battles and allegories celebrate the family’s power and ambitions. The palazzo now serves as a civic museum and gallery, so you can wander through these painted rooms at your own pace.

The Church of Santa Maria Maddalena offers a different kind of calm. Designed on a Greek cross plan and fronted by a neoclassical pronaos, it sits quietly within the grid of the historic centre and is finely stuccoed inside. Its key artwork is a panel from 1580 by Eusebio da San Giorgio, a reminder that even relatively small parish churches in Umbria can house significant Renaissance painting. Between these sights, enjoy the rhythm of the “law of threes,” passing through the town's three gates, pausing in the three main squares and stepping into its three churches as you loop back towards the lakefront.

How to Get to the Castiglione del Lago

Castiglione del Lago is easily reached from several directions, thanks to its location on the southwestern shore of Lake Trasimeno between Umbria and Tuscany. The nearest airports are Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi, Florence and, a little further away, Rome's airports, all of which offer routes that connect conveniently with trains or car hire for onward travel to the lake. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Perugia on Booking.com.

By train, Castiglione del Lago has its own station on the regional line linking Florence, Arezzo, Cortona, Chiusi and Perugia, making it a straightforward journey from any of these towns without needing a car.Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy. Regular regional trains stop here, and from the station it is a manageable walk or short taxi ride up to the old town on the hill. Buses also connect Castiglione del Lago with other communities around Lake Trasimeno and inland towns.

If you are travelling by car, the town is well signposted from the main roads running between Perugia, Chiusi and the Tuscan border, with parking areas at the base of the historic centre and near the lakefront.If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. From the car parks, it is an easy uphill walk into the walled town, and having a car makes it simple to combine Castiglione del Lago with other villages and viewpoints around the lake.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Castiglione del Lago

Suggested tips: Plan a circular route: walk the lakeside, climb into the centro storico through one of the gates, visit the fortress and palazzo, then loop back via the main piazzas and Santa Maria Maddalena.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures and clear views; in summer, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest heat on the exposed walls and fortress ramparts.
Entrance fee: Access to the historic centre is free; combined tickets are typically available for the Fortress of the Lion and Palazzo della Corgna.
Opening hours: The town is always open; museum and fortress hours vary by season, with a lunchtime closure common outside peak months.
How long to spend: A relaxed half day is enough for the fortress, palazzo and church plus a stroll through the old town; a full day lets you add the lakeside paths and perhaps a boat trip on Lake Trasimeno.
Accessibility: The historic centre is compact but set on a rise, with cobbled streets and some slopes; visitors with limited mobility may prefer to focus on the main piazza and accessible viewpoints rather than the steepest stretches.
Facilities: You will find cafés, restaurants, small shops and public facilities in and around the historic centre and near the lakefront, making it easy to break your visit into manageable stages.
Photography tip: Climb the fortress walls for wide lake panoramas, then drop into the palazzo to capture fresco details; in town, look for compositions that show the narrow streets framed by gates with glimpses of blue water beyond.
Guided tours: Local guides offer walks combining the fortress, palazzo and medieval centre with stories about the Baglioni and della Corgna families; these can be especially rewarding if you enjoy detailed historical context.
Nearby food options: The streets of the centro storico and the waterfront below are dotted with trattorias and wine bars where you can sample lake fish, Umbrian cured meats and simple regional dishes with a view.

Where to Stay close to the Castiglione del Lago

If you want to soak up the atmosphere of Castiglione del Lago after day trippers leave, stay in or just below the historic centre. Small hotels and guesthouses in the old town give you the pleasure of stepping straight out into medieval streets in the morning and strolling the walls in the evening. Lakeside properties slightly below the hill offer easier parking and direct access to the water, with only a short walk or drive up to the centro storico. For a broader base, some travellers choose agriturismi in the surrounding countryside, using Castiglione del Lago as their nearest town for dinners, strolls and sightseeing.

Is the Castiglione del Lago Worth Visiting

Castiglione del Lago is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are looking for somewhere that feels authentic yet is easy to explore. Its combination of lakeside setting, compact medieval grid, “law of threes” layout and strong landmarks in the Fortress of the Lion, Palazzo della Corgna and Santa Maria Maddalena makes it feel coherent and memorable. Add in the views over Lake Trasimeno, good connections to Perugia and Tuscan towns, and a relaxed small town rhythm, and it quickly becomes clear why many travellers consider it one of the best places to see in Castiglione del Lago and around the lake.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (258)

Castiglione del Lago, on the western shore of Lake Trasimeno in Umbria, is a beautiful, visitor-friendly town with a well‑preserved castle offering shops and cafés at the top, convenient parking, and scenic lake views; it's a great base for exploring nearby sights, sampling Umbrian cuisine and local fish, and makes a pleasant stop for lunch or gelato during a regional itinerary.

Ihsan Sakar

a year ago

"Castiglione del Lago is a town in the Umbria region of Italy, located in the province of Perugia. Situated on the western shore of Lake Trasimeno,this town is renowned for its historical and natural beauty. Here are some key details about Castiglione del Lago: 1. **History and Culture**: Castiglione del Lago has a rich history that dates back to the Etruscan and Roman periods. It is home to many historical structures and ruins from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Particularly, the Castello del Leone (Lion's Castle) and Palazzo della Corgna are worth visiting. 2. **Castello del Leone**: This castle, built in the 13th century, is excellently preserved. It offers stu ing views of Lake Trasimeno and attracts visitors with its historical ambiance. 3. **Palazzo della Corgna**: This Renaissance palace is adorned with frescoes and is a significant attraction for history and art lovers. The frescoes inside the palace were created by important artists such as Niccolò Circignani. 4. **Natural Beauty**: Lake Trasimeno, the fourth largest lake in Italy, offers many activities for nature enthusiasts. You can hike, bike, or engage in water sports around the lake. Additionally, boat tours to the small islands in the lake are available. 5. **Festivals and Events**: Castiglione del Lago hosts various cultural and artistic events throughout the year. Notable among these are the "Coloriamo i Cieli" (Let's Color the Skies) kite festival and various concerts and exhibitions held during the summer months. 6. **Gastronomy**: Castiglione del Lago offers the opportunity to taste the flavors of Umbrian cuisine, known for its local wines, olive oils, and fresh fish from Lake Trasimeno. Especially noteworthy are the dishes made with lake fish. Castiglione del Lago, with its historical, cultural, and natural riches, is one of Italy's beautiful corners waiting to be discovered. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful vacation as well as for those wishing to explore historical and cultural treasures...."

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Jorge J. Garcia

a year ago

"Very nice village; perfect stop for lunch and ice cream on our journey through Tuscany."

Brian Maynard

5 months ago

"Well preserved castle with boutique shops and cafes at the top. Good parking options."

FAQs for Visiting Castiglione del Lago

A half day is enough for the fortress, palazzo and a walk through the historic centre; stay a full day or overnight if you want to enjoy the lakefront, boat trips and a slower pace.

Yes, its position on Lake Trasimeno and rail and road links to Perugia, Cortona, Arezzo and Chiusi make it a convenient small town base for day trips in both regions.

You can reach the town comfortably by train, but a car is helpful if you plan to explore multiple villages and viewpoints around Lake Trasimeno and into the nearby countryside.

Nearby Attractions to the Castiglione del Lago

Isola Maggiore: A small inhabited island on Lake Trasimeno with quiet streets, lace making traditions and peaceful lakeside walks.
Passignano sul Trasimeno: A lively lakeside town with a castle, promenade and ferry connections, ideal for combining with Castiglione del Lago in a day.
Tuoro sul Trasimeno and the Battle of Trasimeno sites: The area where Hannibal defeated the Romans in 217 BC, now marked by trails and viewpoints.
Panicale: A charming hilltop village overlooking the lake, with pretty piazzas, churches and a relaxed, traditional feel.
Cortona: A Tuscan hill town a short drive to the north, known for its Etruscan museum, stone streets and sweeping views over the Val di Chiana.

The Castiglione del Lago appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Perugia!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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