About this experience
Located north of Rome, amidst picturesque mountains and hills, lies the medieval town of Viterbo. I will introduce you to its history, starting from the distant Etruscan period. You will soak up the atmosphere of the city and understand how past events have influenced its modern traditions. You will admire fountains, squares, palaces, noble houses, and learn why Viterbo is called the 'city of popes'. And, of course, you will relax and unwind in the thermal complex of the Papal Baths.
What to expect
Viterbo in myths and legends
We will meet at the Roman gates and walk along the procession route dedicated to the city's patron saint, Saint Rose. We will stop at the Square of the Chosen, where I will tell you who and how it was built, why the symbol of Viterbo is considered to be a lion, and how the legend of the beautiful Galiana influenced this place. Through the famous San Pellegrino district, following the path of medieval pilgrims, you will reach the Cathedral Square. It was here in the 12th century that the popes settled, turning it into the center of religious, political, and cultural life. I will explain why Viterbo is called the 'city of popes' and reveal stories from the biographies of famous church servants.
Thermal waters - swim in legendary springs
You will visit the Papal Baths thermal complex, where you will relax, swim, and rest in the warm water pool; in spring, summer, and autumn - sunbathe. Before heading to the thermal complex, you will have lunch at a local tavern, restaurant, or Italian 'Tavola calda'. After visiting the Papal Baths, I will pick you up and take you to the Viterbo 'Roman Gates' railway station, from where you can return to Rome.
Organizational details
- The tour involves independent arrival in Viterbo.
- This tour to Viterbo and the Papal Baths is available on Wednesdays.
- Train departure from Rome at 08:52 from Ostiense station (Pyramide metro station).
- From other Roman railway stations: Trastevere, San Pietro, Valle Aurelia (same-name metro station), the train from Rome departs at 08:56, 09:03, 09:07 respectively.
- Train arrival at Viterbo 'Roman Gates' railway station from Rome at 10:44.
- Train departure from Viterbo to Rome at 18:10 and 20:16.
- Railway ticket cost from 5.10 to 5.60 euros/person one way.
- Lunch break from 13:00-13:15 to 14:30.
- Lunch in a restaurant - from 18 euros/person (appetizer, two main courses, side dish, wine, water). Please inform in advance if you wish to have lunch.
- Entrance tickets to the baths - 12 euros/person (non-holiday days), plus 2 or 5 euros - for an electronic key card or bracelet for a personal locker and access through turnstiles in the thermal complex area. After returning the electronic key at the reception, 2 or 5 euros will be refunded to you.
- For the pool visit, bring: swimsuit, rubber slippers, towel, bathrobe (not mandatory in warm weather), shower essentials, sunscreen in sunny weather, sunglasses.
- The tour may be rescheduled to another day if the thermal complex pool 'Papal Baths' is unexpectedly closed. Alternatively, you can visit another thermal complex. Its cost is from 45 euros/person, including the use of several pools, sauna, contrast path, relaxation room with hot drinks, towel, and bathrobe. For the alternative thermal complex, booking is mandatory, a document confirming identity is required, only for +18 years.
- During the city tour, there will be no opportunity to leave belongings (swimming accessories) in the car.
- I can offer rubber slippers from my home reserve for one-day use in the thermal complex, sizes from 37 to 45. Please notify in advance if needed.
Alevtina
January 18, 2024
We really enjoyed the tour. Svetlana is a wonderful storyteller, has a wide range of knowledge, and is happy to share it! Everything is thought out to the smallest detail!
Anastasia
May 14, 2019
Svetlana picked me up from the train station and drove me to the Baths, and then she conducted a wonderful tour. Very punctual and knowledgeable person, I recommend
