Things To Do
in Viterbo
Viterbo is a well-preserved medieval town in Lazio, northwest of Rome, perched on a hill with expansive city walls and tight labyrinthine lanes. Its historic center feels like stepping back in time, dominated by palazzi, towers, and atmospheric courtyards. The city blends thermal spa heritage with art, frescoes, and lively markets that spill onto stone-paved streets.
Surrounded by the Tuscia countryside, Viterbo is a convenient base for exploring Bagnaia’s gardens and the volcanic landscapes around Lago di Vico.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Viterbo's Historic Center. Visit the impressive Palazzo dei Papi, where the popes resided in the 13th century, and marvel at its stunning architecture. Make sure to stop by a local café for a cappuccino and a cornetto, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch at a traditional trattoria, continue your exploration by visiting the San Pellegrino district, famous for its medieval buildings and charming alleys. Spend time at the beautiful Cathedral of San Lorenzo, admiring its intricate façade and serene interior. As the afternoon winds down, enjoy some gelato from a local shop while wandering through the picturesque streets.
As the sun sets, head to one of the many piazzas for an aperitivo, sipping on a spritz while people-watching. Dinner will be a culinary delight at a local osteria, where you can savor regional dishes like pasta all’amatriciana. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk, taking in the illuminated medieval architecture.
Begin your day with a visit to the famous thermal springs of Viterbo, such as the Terme dei Papi. After a hearty breakfast, immerse yourself in the soothing waters and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the springs. Spend some time relaxing poolside, indulging in the calming atmosphere.
After a rejuvenating morning, savor a light lunch at a nearby café, sampling local cheeses and cured meats. Post-lunch, you can opt for a spa treatment or continue soaking in the thermal waters, feeling the stress melt away. Don't forget to explore the lush gardens that surround the spa facilities.
As evening approaches, head back to the city and enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant known for its local wines. Try a glass of Est! Est!! Est!!!, a wine unique to the region. Wrap up the day with a stroll through the quiet streets, enjoying the tranquility of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚌One-way public transport ticket | $1.5-2.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact historic center that's highly walkable
- Rich thermal spa heritage and access to natural landscapes
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some sights require short drives or guided tours
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Viterbo
Visit one of these nice places.
A commanding fortress with robust towers and dramatic silhouettes against the sky; great at golden hour for wide-city views.
Iconic square with the Papal Palace rising behind, perfect for architectural symmetry and street photography.
Historic gates and ramparts offer moody lines and textures for urban heritage shots.
Formal Italian gardens with fountains, statues, and terraces – ideal for structured, landscaped compositions.
Food in Viterbo
Viterbo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crepes filled with ricotta and spinach, baked in a light tomato sauce, a traditional favorite in many Viterbo trattorie.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked wild boar stew with tomatoes, herbs, and red wine; a rustic specialty you’ll often find in countryside tavernas near Bagnaia.
Herb-stuffed roasted pork, a Lazio staple widely available in markets and family-run eateries.
Pasta with guanciale, tomato, and pecorino; a quintessential Lazio sauce that pairs well with local wines.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can taste fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and grab a porchetta sandwich to go.
Look for vendors offering supplì (fried rice balls), pizza al taglio, and rustic baked goods along the main squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno before noon and Buona sera after, and use Signor/Signora when addressing strangers. Handshakes are common for initial meetings.
Keep hands visible on the table; meals are relaxed but avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces or quiet corners.
Respect religious sites with modest dress; queuing and waiting your turn is expected in markets and popular sites.
Safety
Tipping in Viterbo
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in the bill in nicer restaurants, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Cash is widely accepted, though cards are common in most establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and lively markets make it an excellent time for walking tours and photography.
Warm to hot days; hours can be long in the sun. Seek shade, hydrate, and enjoy late-evening strolls when temperatures drop.
Pleasant days with colorful foliage; harvest festivals and wine events highlight the season.
Cool and damp with occasional chilly days; museums and thermal baths offer indoor options and fewer crowds.
Viterbo at Night
Hiking in Viterbo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Connecting forested slopes and viewpoints with panoramic vistas across Lazio; moderate-to-challenging sections.
A lakeside loop with gentle elevation, ideal for a half-day hike or family-friendly walk.
Moderate climb to overlook points with dramatic views of the ancient stone town perched above the valley.
Airports
How to reach Viterbo by plane.
Main international hub; about 70-110 miles (110-180 km) from Viterbo depending on route; train or highway connections to Rome and onward to Viterbo.
Smaller international and domestic airport; convenient for budget flights; travel to Rome and then take a rail or bus connection to Viterbo.
Smaller regional airport further afield but reachable for few travelers, usually via connections through Rome or Florence.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding local families alongside students from the nearby University of Tuscia influence daily life and seasonal markets.
A steady student presence from the university adds youthful energy to cultural events and cafes.
Visitors primarily interested in history, thermal baths, and nature get a relaxed, scenic experience away from larger cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime with local matches and casual games throughout the region.
Hilly routes and scenic country lanes make cycling popular for day trips and training rides.
Water sports are common on the lake, with rentals and guided outings available in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Viterbo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most trattorie offer pasta with tomato or mushroom sauces, grilled vegetables, and vegetarian pasta dishes. When ordering, ask for 'senza carne' (no meat) and 'senza pancetta' (no bacon); clarify if cheese contains animal rennet for strict vegetarians.