Viterbo
A medieval papal city with hot springs, Gothic palaces, and the best-preserved old quarter in Lazio.
About Viterbo
Viterbo is medieval Italy at its most atmospheric. For two decades in the 13th century, it served as the seat of the papacy, and the Papal Palace—where the word 'conclave' was literally invented—still stands above the rooftops. The San Pellegrino quarter is Lazio's best-preserved medieval neighbourhood: narrow stone streets, external staircases, tiny piazzas, and towers that look unchanged since the 1200s. Beyond the walls, Viterbo sits on a volcanic plateau dotted with hot springs—the ancient Terme dei Papi (Baths of the Pope) offer outdoor thermal pools in a countryside setting. The volcanic soil also produces excellent wines, particularly the Est! Est!! Est!!! of Montefiascone.
Best Time to Visit
April to October. The Macchina di Santa Rosa procession on September 3rd sees a 30-metre tower of light carried through the streets—one of Italy's most spectacular festivals. Spring and autumn are ideal for combining thermal baths with old town exploring.
Local Tips
- Wander the San Pellegrino quarter.
This medieval quarter has barely changed in 800 years. A local knows the unmarked courtyards, the profferlo staircases unique to Viterbo, and the tiny wine bar hidden in a 13th-century tower.
- Soak in papal hot springs.
The Terme dei Papi offers thermal pools at 40°C in a beautiful countryside setting. A local will also show you the free Bullicame spring—mentioned by Dante—where locals swim year-round.
- See the Macchina di Santa Rosa.
On September 3rd, 100 men carry a 30-metre illuminated tower through the narrow streets. A local will secure you a spot along the route for this heart-stopping UNESCO-listed spectacle.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Eleonora
Palermo, Syracuse +10
Hello, I’m Eleonora. I was born in Tuscany, just outside Florence, where growing up surrounded by history, shaped my curiosity and love for art. I studied Art History at the University of Florence, specializing in the Renaissance. I began guiding students early on, and it was there that I developed a passion for storytelling — because there is nothing more challenging than engaging teenagers and young adults. I later expanded my focus to the broader history of Italy, leading groups throughout the country, from Venice to Sicily. Eventually, I moved to Rome, where I now work as an expert tour guide, leading visits to the city’s most iconic sites, including the Vatican and the Colosseum, as well as off the beaten path, to some of its hidden gems. In my free time I love to drive around Italy to its myriad hilltop medieval towns, where each one is a new discovery, both architectural and natural and also, of course, culinary! Over the years, many travelers have asked me for advice and suggestions to help plan the rest of their itineraries. That is why I’m happy to connect with you even before your trip begins, sharing my insights and helping you make the most of your time in Italy.
Eleonora
Florence, Pisa +10
I’m Eleonora and I’m 26. I live in Rome, but as soon as I can I’ll escape and travel somewhere else. My purpose is to travel all around the world and make a step in every continent.
Valentina
Rieti, Viterbo +1
Experience Designer & Luxury Travel Consultant Born in Rome to an Italian father and a Polish mother, I grew up speaking six languages and moving between worlds — a foundation that shaped my understanding of culture, nuance, and the art of truly belonging somewhere. My career began in human rights, taking me from Portugal to Strasbourg and six formative years in England. But eventually, I was drawn back to Italy — not to the city, but to something quieter and more rare: Sabina, a breathtaking stretch of the Roman countryside just an hour from Rome, where medieval villages rise above olive groves and life moves at the rhythm of the seasons. I settled in Toffia, and it became the lens through which I design travel.