Where to stay in Viterbo: best areas, accommodation and practical tips

Why stay in Viterbo

Viterbo is one of Italy's best-preserved medieval cities, with an intact 13th-century quarter, the Papal Palace, free natural hot springs and a strategic position in the heart of Tuscia. An hour from Rome but worlds away from the chaos, it is the perfect base for exploring Lake Bolsena, Civita di Bagnoregio, Bomarzo and the Etruscan necropolises.

Best areas to stay

San Pellegrino quarter

The most complete medieval quarter in Europe: tower-houses, profferli (external peperino staircases), fountains and alleys where time stopped in the 13th century. B&Bs housed in medieval towers and small palazzi, with peperino walls and rooftop terraces.

Ideal for: couples, history lovers, photographers
Average price: €60-130 per night

Historic centre (Piazza del Plebiscito)

The administrative and commercial centre, with the Palazzo dei Priori, the Cathedral and Via Cavour as the main axis. Historic hotels, elegant B&Bs and the convenience of restaurants, cafes and shops on your doorstep.

Ideal for: practical travellers, families, those arriving by train
Average price: €55-110 per night

Thermal area (Bullicame and Bagnaccio)

3-5 km from the centre, the thermal zone offers properties with direct access to natural hot springs (free at Bagnaccio, paid at Terme dei Papi). Farm stays and hotel-spas surrounded by the thermal countryside.

Ideal for: wellness, couples, those seeking total relaxation
Average price: €70-160 per night (often with spa access included)

Tuscia countryside

Between Viterbo and Lake Bolsena, restored stone farmhouses and farm stays producing oil, hazelnuts and Est! Est!! Est!!! wine. Views over the volcanic hills and silence.

Ideal for: families with cars, rural stays, Tuscia explorers
Average price: €50-100 per night

Types of accommodation

B&Bs in medieval towers

Viterbo's most characteristic experience: sleeping in a 13th-century tower with metre-thick walls, mullioned windows and views over the quarter's rooftops. Modern comforts inside medieval shells.

Papal residences and historic palazzi

Viterbo was the papal seat for 24 years: some palazzi linked to that history are now charming hotels and B&Bs, with frescoed halls and hidden gardens.

Farm stays and farmhouses

Tuscia is a land of tufa and peperino farmhouses surrounded by hazelnut groves and olive trees. Breakfasts with own products, pools and often natural hot springs within walking distance.

Thermal spa hotels

Terme dei Papi and private facilities offer stays with access to thermal pools, treatments and local cuisine. Ideal in winter when outdoor springs create steam in the cold.

Tips to save money

Viterbo is very affordable compared to Rome: B&Bs in the centre at €50-70 are common
The Bagnaccio hot springs are completely free: bring your own towel
The Rome-Viterbo train costs €5 and takes 1h40: a low-cost alternative to staying in Rome
San Pellegrino in Fiore (May) and Macchina di Santa Rosa (3 September) fill the city: book early
Many farm stays offer dinner at €20-25 with own products: a bargain