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Italy is known for its food, wine, architecture, crystal-clear beaches, and breathtaking scenery. But, besides all of that, did you know it also has plenty of rejuvenating and free-entry hot springs?
People have long been aware of the benefits and healing properties of warm water enriched with minerals; thus, the hot springs in Italy are a huge reason to visit this country, especially in winter.
Whether you’re searching for hot springs for therapeutic relief or simply want to relax, Italy has plenty of them.
Hot Springs in Italy
Italy abounds with hot springs whose temperature reaches 107°F and high-temperature hot springs whose water temperature reaches up to 136°F and even 194°F.
They’re rich in sulfur and scattered across Italy, but most of them are located in three regions.
The Regions of Italy with the Hottest Springs
Italy is divided into 20 regions, each of them unique and remarkable. But three have the best hot springs: Tuscany, Lazio, and Campania.
Tuscany
Tuscany is the central region of Italy, most famous for its vineyards and wine-tasting tours. But, this region also has the highest number of hot springs that are great for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Cascate del Mulino, Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo, Terme San Filippo, Terme di Sassetta, and Bagni di Petriolo are the most famous and worth visiting.
Lazio
Lazio is a region next to Tuscany; thus, it’ll be easy for you to visit both places. In this region, you can visit the Terme del Bullicame, Piscine Carletti, Masse di San Sisto, and Terme Dei Papi, as some of the most beautiful high-temperature hot springs.
Campania
Vesuvius and Pompeii aren’t the only places worth visiting while spending time in Campania. This southern region is the home of Ischia, an island known for its long beaches but also its beautiful hot springs, such as Baia di Sorgeto and Terme di Cavascura.
6 of The Best Hot Springs in Italy
Cascate del Mulino, Saturnia
Cascate del Mulino is considered one of the most beautiful hot springs in the world. Located in Saturnia, Southern Tuscany, the temperature of the sulphuric water that rises from the ground stays at 98.6°F, regardless of the season.
The sight around the Cascate del Mulino is remarkable. The falling waterfalls form small pools of water, and the bubbling water makes this hot spring a natural jacuzzi.
The hot spring is free all year round, so you can visit it whenever you have the chance.
Additional Info
- Location: Cascate del Mulino
- Water Temperature: 98.6°F
- Region: Tuscany
- Entrance: Free
Bagni di Petriolo, Siena
Petriolo is another Tuscan hot spring that will immediately win you over with its beauty. The naturally formed pool along the banks of the Farma river is great for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding nature.
The hot water temperature is around 98.6°F, and this hot spring is mostly known for its therapeutic properties because it’s rich in hydrogen sulfide and mineral salt. Due to the sulfur in the water, this spring has a strong smell, but you’ll quickly get used to it.
What’s more important are the benefits this water brings. However, the water isn’t the only thing you can use from Bagni di Petriolo. People use the mud from the spring, which should reinvigorate the skin and might be very helpful for those with various skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
Additional Info
- Location: Bagni di Petriolo
- Water Temperature: 109.4°F
- Region: Tuscany
- Entrance: Free
Terme San Filippo, Siena
A small hike stands between you and the breathtaking Terme San Filippo in the middle of the beautiful Tuscanian forest.
When you arrive at the springs, you’ll forget the season just for a moment, as everything is white and seems like it’s covered in snow. The whiteness comes from the calcite rocks that hide under the hot waterfalls.
The white sediment in the water is the reason why the rocks and the entire area appear covered in snow. This natural hot spring is free, and the water temperature is 118°F.
Additional Info
- Location: Terme San Filippo
- Water Temperature: 118°F
- Region: Tuscany
- Entrance: Free
Piscine Carletti, Viterbo
If you’re looking for more intimate hot springs that aren’t overcrowded by tourists and have scenic surroundings, the Piscine Carletti is just what you’re looking for.
This spring consists of various natural pools with different water temperatures, so you can find one that suits you best.
There is no admission fee to access the Piscine Carletti, and the spring is also free of sulfur, making it an ideal place for those who are dissuaded by the strong smell of sulfur-rich springs.
Additional Info
- Location: Piscine Carletti
- Water Temperature: 96.8°F – 104°F
- Region: Lazio
- Entrance: Free
Terme del Bullicame, Viterbo
Located in a volcanic area, Viterbo is a place with many hot springs that were once frequented by the ancient Romans.
As soon as the water reaches the surface, its temperature is very high, reaching 136°F. Because of this, Dante Alighieri mentioned the hot springs of Viterbo in his “Divine Comedy”. Here, you can find the translation of the exact part in “Inferno”, where the Bullicame springs are mentioned.
But don’t worry. There’s nothing devilish about this hot spring. The hot temperature varies, depending on how close to the source you are.
The thermal waters of this hot spring are known for their many properties and many people visit them for natural treatment of their problems with the respiratory and circulatory systems.
Entry to the Terme del Bullicame is free. Due to the water’s high temperature, winter is the best time to visit this spring.
Additional info
- Location: Thermal spring of Bulicame
- Water Temperature: 136.4°F
- Region: Lazio
- Entrance: Free
Baia di Sorgeto, Ischia
Ischia is an island on Naples bay, particularly known for its thermal springs. Baia di Sorgeto is a hot spring inside of the sea that you can enjoy for free.
The water of the Sorgeto hot spring comes from the seabed, and its temperature is high because of the underground volcano activity.
Because of this, you can even go swimming there in winter. Still, the high temperature is something you must remember if you’re planning to visit this hot spring.
Additional Info
- Location: Baia di Sorgeto Ischia
- Water Temperature: 194°F
- Region: Campania
- Entrance: Free
Final Thoughts
Italy has many things to offer, and the variety of hot springs will make your trip even richer. The recommendations above cover the most beautiful hot springs in Italy.
You’ll definitely enjoy the picturesque views and relax your mind and body. Don’t forget to take your water shoes and a towel!
