Free walking tours in Viterbo and what to see

Must-sees

Viterbo is the capital of Tuscia, in northern Lazio, and was a papal seat in the 13th century. Its great monument is the Palace of the Popes, with its Gothic loggia, next to the cathedral of San Lorenzo on the square of the same name. Nearby is the San Pellegrino quarter, a medieval ensemble of stone houses, outdoor staircases, arches and towers. Piazza del Plebiscito, with the Palazzo dei Priori, is the centre of civic life.

The city is full of stone fountains, such as the Fontana Grande. It is famous for the Macchina di Santa Rosa, an illuminated tower carried on shoulders through the streets, recognised by UNESCO. Viterbo also has thermal springs, with bathing areas on the outskirts. In the surrounding area, Villa Lante in Bagnaia and the Park of the Monsters in Bomarzo are well worth a visit.

Free tours and guided visits

Viterbo has no regular free walking tours. What you can book is the Viterbo Pass, a card giving entry to the city's museums and monuments with an audio guide. Day trips through Tuscia leave from Rome, combining Viterbo with nearby gardens and villages.

How long to spend

A day is enough for the Palace of the Popes, the cathedral and the San Pellegrino quarter. With two days you can spend an afternoon at the hot springs and visit Villa Lante. If you have three, add Bomarzo, the Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola or Lake Vico, all a short drive away.

Where to stay

The most practical choice is to stay inside the walls, near San Pellegrino or Piazza del Plebiscito, where there are hotels and apartments in old buildings. On the outskirts, in the spa area, there are hotels with hot-water pools. The Tuscia countryside is full of agriturismi, convenient if you are travelling by car.