Best Hot Springs in Italy

Discover Italy's Best Thermal Baths and Spa Resorts for Relaxation and Wellness: Abano, Saturnia, Ischia and more

Due to its unique geological formation, Italy has a wealth of natural hot springs and, in turn, thermal bath resorts. All offer beautiful views of stunning landscapes, plenty of health benefits, and a wonderful opportunity to relax and unwind between city walking tours and museum visits. While Tuscany is the most common region to find natural hot springs, they can be found all over the country, making it easier to squeeze into your itinerary wherever you are. Below are some Italian hot springs that are definitely worth a visit (listed North to South).

Bagni di Bormio (Lombardy)

These hot springs are perfect for a winter vacation to the Alps in the north of Italy. After a day sent alpine skiing or hiking in the Dolomites, take a break from the cold and relax at this picturesque, medieval hillside resort, three hours away from Milan. The resort has three different hot springs, one of which, the Bagni Vecchi, sits in a 1000-year old tunnel from the ancient Roman times. Accessible with an entrance fee, all of the baths provide spectacular views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites, and a day of pure relaxation.

Abano Terme – Montegrotto (Veneto)

Less than an hour away from Venice are the thermal baths at Abano Terme in Montegrotto. These springs are part of one of Europe’s largest spa resorts, and provide a wide range of treatments from mud baths to thermal therapy. This wellness center is an excellent way to unwind after the hustle and bustle of a day spent touring Venice.

Cola/Villa Cedri Thermal Park (Lake Garda, Northern Regions)

Halfway between Venice and Milan, these hot springs are hidden in a forest of old cypress and cedar trees near Italy’s largest lake and best-kept secret, the breathtakingly beautiful Lake Garda. The Cola natural hot springs are within the Villa Cedri Thermal Park, which requires an entrance fee of 18 euros for adults and 15 euros for children. Kids will have fun swimming in the warm, clear waters while parents will appreciate the chance to relax and enjoy the spectacular alpine views.

Saturnia (Tuscany)

Tucked away in the hills of Maremma, two hours from Siena, Saturnia is Italy’s most famous collection of thermal baths. Everyone from the ancient Romans to modern tourists have fallen in love with the Saturnia springs. With steaming, sulfurous teal waters bubbling over glacial white rocks, Saturnia is worth visiting for both the striking scenery and its healing, blood pressure-reducing powers. These hot springs are free, but additional spa services are available for extra cost at a nearby resort.

Montecatini Terme (Tuscany)

Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, Montecatini Terme has been a premier wellness destination since the 19th century. Known for its elegant Belle Époque architecture, this charming town boasts thermal waters revered for their healing properties. Visitors can indulge in relaxing spa treatments, soothing mineral baths, and elegant promenades in the historic center. The town also serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby Florence and Pisa, making it ideal for those seeking both relaxation and cultural adventure.

Bagni San Filippo (Tuscany)

These free, natural hot springs can be found in the middle of the woods in the postcard-perfect Val d’Orcia, just two hours away from Florence. These hot springs are not as famous as their neighbor Saturnia, but with opalescent blue waters and waterfalls cascading from icy rocks, guests can enjoy all of Saturnia’s natural beauty without the crowds at Bagni San Filippo.

Bagno Vignoni (Tuscany)

Also in the heart of the Val d’Orcia two hours from Florence, these free thermal baths were a stopping point for Christian pilgrims on their way to Rome in the Middle Ages. Guests can take in the sweeping views of vineyards, cypresses, and the beautiful countryside of Tuscany as they ease their minds and sore muscles in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Bagno Vignoni is a quaint, little town and the main square is a termal pool itself, making a very unique feature.

Petriolo (Tuscany)

Only half an hour away from Florence, these hot springs used to be a health spa for both the Etruscans and Romans. Off the beaten path near the River Farma, Petriolo is secluded by woodlands and ancient stone walls, adding to the baths’ peaceful ambience. Petriolo is also free of charge, just be prepared for the lack of facilities.

Terme di Papi (Lazio)

Located in scenic Viterbo, an hour and a half away from Rome, these hot springs make a wonderful side trip from the Eternal City. Enjoyed by both ancient Romans and past popes for its plethora of therapeutic treatments, the Terme di Papi include both natural springs and 2,000 square meters of pools with stunning vistas of rolling, cypress-lined hills. The Terme di Papi hot springs are part of a wellness resort that offer more health and beauty treatments to guests.

Sorgeto, Negombo, Poseidon and more (Ischia, Campania)

Ischia, the beautiful island in the Bay of Naples, is famous for its volcanic hot springs and therapeutic waters. The most famous is Sorgeto, a hidden cove accessible via a scenic climb, where natural volcanic springs create warm, soothing pools right by the sea. Open year-round and free of charge, Sorgeto offers a unique outdoor spa experience with stunning Mediterranean views. Besides Sorgeto, the island is home to renowned thermal parks such as Poseidon Gardens and Negombo Spa, which feature lush gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of wellness treatments. These thermal baths combine volcanic mineral waters with breathtaking coastal scenery, making Ischia a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature’s volcanic wonders. Beyond the great hot springs, Ischia is absolutely worth visiting, read here why.

Laghetto di Fanghi (Aeolian Islands, Sicily)

These hot springs are tucked away on Vulcano, one of the Aeolian Islands, less than three hours away from the city of Messina in Sicily. Though Vulcano is only accessible by boat, Laghetto di Fanghi is only a short walk away from the harbor, and it’s well worth the travel. As the name of the island suggests, these volcanic hot springs offer a multitude of health benefits, such as natural mud baths that can help ease sore joints or alleviate skin diseases. Besides, the gorgeous black sand beaches, striking volcanic views, and clear azure waters combine to create an outdoor spa experience unlike any other. The thermal baths are free, and are part of national-owned land.

Rise and Fall of Hot Springs Destinations

While many amazing places are still thriving, other charming hot springs towns and resorts in Italy, once filled with visitors, have fallen into decline. This is mainly due to economic challenges, the high costs of maintenance and renovation, environmental concerns, and shifts in tourism trends. When these factors combine, some beautiful thermal spots lose their vibrancy, leaving behind abandoned buildings and quiet, forgotten sites.

Towns like Bagni di Lucca (Tuscany) still hold onto their history but struggle with abandoned thermal baths. San Pellegrino’s historic spa facilities are partly deserted (Lombardy), even though the main areas remain active. Chianciano Terme (Tuscany) faces decline in some older sections, while areas like the Phlegraean Fields and Agnano (Campania), known for their geothermal activity near Naples, have places that are abandoned or in disrepair. Luckily, there are ongoing plans to revive these sites and bring back their thermal charm. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest status before planning a visit, as many of these places are still in transition or restoration.

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