Best Thermal Baths Around Rome

As the winter chill descends upon Rome, there's no better way to ward off the cold than by immersing yourself in the ancient tradition of thermal spas. Rome, with its rich history and geological blessings, boasts several rejuvenating thermal baths that offer a perfect respite from the winter blues.

Thermal Baths: Natural Springs and Healing Waters

Thermal baths have been an integral part of Italy's cultural heritage for centuries. These baths, often nestled within historic structures, have witnessed the rise and fall of empires while providing a timeless retreat for Romans and visitors alike. The allure of a thermal soak during the winter months becomes even more enticing when you consider the centuries-old tradition that continues to draw people seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

The thermal spas around Rome not only provide a warm respite from the chilly winters. The waters from the natural hot springs are also mineral-rich, and are believed to have healing properties that are good for your overall well-being.

Although there are no natural springs in the city itself, there are numerous thermal baths around Rome - most of them easily accessible and within a 1.5 hour drive.

Best Thermal Baths Around Rome

1. Therma Oasi

Therma Oasi is a thermal bath complex located near the historic center of Viterbo, and is about a 1.5 hour drive away from the city center of Rome.

Although the thermal pools and decorative features are man-made, the water that feeds the thermal pools here are natural spring waters at a temperature of 65°C. The waters also have a sulphur smell - which are going to stay on you for a while even after you are done with your bath!

One of the main draw factors of the Therma Oasi is that it is a relatively new thermal bath complex, which only recently opened its doors. The facilities are new, clean, and well-maintained. Overall, you can expect a very comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. It is also an adult-only thermal bath (children under the age of 12 are not allowed), which contributes to a quieter ambience generally.

However, the fees here are on the higher side, with a weekday entrance fee of 25EUR (or at a promotional price of 18EUR) and weekend/holiday entrance fee of 30EUR. You can also rent towels, bath robes, and sun beds at a separate charge.

Note that children under the age of 12 are not allowed here.

🌐 https://en.thermaoasi.com/

2. Terme di Papi

Located just outside Viterbo, these vast baths provide thermal waters directly from the spring of Bullicame, the most popular hot spring in Viterbo.

At Terme di Papi, you can enjoy the thermal waters in the monumental thermal pool. There are also additional features and services that you can expect here, including beauty treatments at spa. You can also try out the thermal grotto, a cave-like steam room heated to 48°C by thermal waters.

There are various types of admissions that you can choose from. If you would like to try multiple facilities, consider purchasing a day-pass. Otherwise, you can purchase individual admissions to specific facilities instead.

Terme di Papi is one of the most popular thermal baths near Rome, and it attracts both locals and tourists. It can get very crowded on weekends though, which might break the experience for you - we recommend that you plan a weekday visit if your itinerary permits.

If you are heading to Terme di Papi from Rome, there is also a shuttle bus service from Viale George Washington near the Falminio metro station. The shuttle bus service is only available on weekends and holidays.

🌐 https://termedeipapi.it/en/

3. Ficoncella Thermal Baths

The baths at the Roman town of Ficoncella, about an hour's drive from Rome, are located on the summit of a hill 4km North-east of Civitavecchia.

The facilities here are rather basic, and the environment is generally not as luxurious as you would find in other thermal baths. You can also expect the crowds here to be a little louder and more rowdy.

But, the baths here remain a very popular option for many visitors, especially due to the low prices — you can get a half-day admission at just 3EUR, and a full day admission at 5EUR! Like most baths, it can get crowded in the evening or on weekends, so we would advise visiting on a weekday morning for the best experience.

Remember to bring along your own towels and slippers!

🌐 https://civitavecchia.portmobility.it/en/ficoncella-thermal-baths

4. Acque Albume

Located near Tivoli, just a half an hour drive away from Rome, the Acque Albume, or Terme di Roma, is one of Italy's most renowned thermal spas. Due to its close proximity, it is a great choice for those looking for a relaxing weekend getaway from Rome. Acque Albume offers many beauty treatments and features a spa hotel with direct access to thermal baths.

The water temperatures here are maintained at 23°C. Rather than it being a thermal bath meant for the winter, the Acque Albume is more of an option for the warmer summer months. In fact, the outdoor pools are not open all year round — there is a bath season which is typically in the summer. If you are planning to visit during the winter, you can still enjoy the other thermal and spa treatments that are offered.

Not to worry if you don't drive - its close proximity to Rome and Tivoli also means that it is very easy to get there via public transport. You can take a Cotral bus from Ponte Mammolo Metro Station towards Tivoli, or simply take a train to Bagni di Tivoli - the train station is just a short walk away from the pools!

🌐 https://www.termediroma.org/en/albule-waters.php

Tips for visiting thermal baths in Rome

1. Make sure to observe the rules and etiquettes for visiting the thermal baths in Rome. Remember to shower before entering the pool.
2. The difference in temperature between the pool and your surroundings could be huge. Enter the pools slowly to let your body adjust to the difference in temperature.
3. Remember to drink lots of water and keep yourself hydrated after you get out of the pool.