Rome's Hidden Gems: Calcata, Bomarzo & Thermal Baths

From€789

8 hours

Province of Rome, Italy

About this activity

Discover Italy's hidden treasures on a private tour to Calcata, Bomarzo's Monster Park, and the Thermal Baths of the Popes, blending art, history, and relaxation in one unforgettable day.

Highlights

Explore the artistic village of Calcata
Discover the surreal Monster Park in Bomarzo
Relax in the historic Thermal Baths of the Popes
Enjoy a personalized experience with a private guide
Experience Italy's rich history and culture off the beaten path

Full description

Unveil the secrets of Italy's lesser-known wonders on this exclusive day trip from Rome. Begin in Calcata, a charming medieval village perched atop a cliff, renowned for its artistic community and breathtaking views. Wander through its narrow streets, lined with galleries and artisan shops, capturing the essence of Italian bohemian life. Next, journey to Bomarzo to explore the enigmatic Monster Park, a surreal garden filled with mysterious sculptures and mythical creatures that have intrigued visitors for centuries. Conclude your adventure at the Thermal Baths of the Popes, where you can unwind in the same waters once frequented by royalty. This personalized tour offers a unique blend of art, history, and relaxation, providing an authentic Italian experience away from the usual tourist paths.

Included / Excluded

Private guided tour of Calcata and Bomarzo
Entrance tickets to the Monster Park
Access to the Thermal Baths of the Popes

Meals and beverages

Itinerary

Pass by: Rome is the capital city of Italy. It is also the capital of the Lazio region, the center of the City of Rome, Rome is the country's most populated comune and the third most populous city in the European Union by population within city limits. The Metropolitan City of Rome, with 4,355,725 residents, is the most populous metropolitan city in Italy.[2] Its metropolitan area is the third-most populous in Italy.[3] Rome is located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, within Lazio (Latium), along the shores of the Tiber. Vatican City is an independent country inside the city boundaries of Rome, the only existing example of a country within a city. Rome is often referred to as the City of Seven Hills due to its geographic location and the "Eternal City".Rome is generally considered the "cradle of Western Christian culture and civilization" and the center of the Catholic Church.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Calcata, in north Lazio, is a bohemian haven whose residents hark back to a more beautiful era. Less than an hour north of Rome lies Calcata, a mediaeval village clinging to a volcanic cliff surging out of the mists of the densely-wooded Treja valley. With its rugged tufa walls and steep pathways, entering this mystical, car-free hamlet is like stepping back in time or falling into a dream where Woodstock meets Hansel and Gretel. Stuff of fairytales Calcata’s story is indeed the stuff of fairytales. Its history dates back almost 3,000 years, and the presence of humans in the area can be traced to prehistoric times. However, in the 1930s, Calcata’s story nearly came to a shuddering halt. Those arriving by car will have to leave their vehicles outside the fortified gates of the 13thcentury Palazzo Baronale, the village’s only access to the outside world. Once inside, it is impossible to withdraw cash from a bank machine or even send a postcard and forget about relying on mobile phones.

Duration: 1h 15mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

The Sacro Bosco ("Sacred Grove"), colloquially called Park of the Monsters (Parco dei Mostri in Italian), also named Garden of Bomarzo, is a Mannerist monumental complex located in Bomarzo, in the province of Viterbo, in northern Lazio. The garden was created during the 16th century. The design is attributed to Pirro Ligorio, and the sculptures to Simone Moschino. Situated in a wooded valley bottom beneath the castle of Orsini, it is populated by grotesque sculptures and small buildings located among the natural vegetation. The park's name stems from the many larger-than-life sculptures, some sculpted in the bedrock, which populate this predominantly barren landscape. It was commissioned by Pier Francesco Orsini, called Vicino, a 16th-century condottiere and patron of the arts, incredibly devoted to his wife Giulia Farnese When Orsini's wife died, he created the gardens to cope with his grief.

Duration: 1h 30mAdmission: YES

A few kilometers from Viterbo, in the small delightful village of Tuscia, via Teverina in the heart of the historic center of Bomarzo, you will have the opportunity to taste gourmet foods with typical products of the area. A perfect combination of good wine and good food, with particular attention to Tuscia products. Modern atmosphere but with a look to the past, wooden tables, minimal furniture, ceiling with exposed pipes, soft lights, windows overlooking the Tiber valley and then a delightful garden that a breathtaking view, create a fascinating and intoxicating atmosphere together, where you can take a break from the hectic daily life and finally pamper yourself a little. In the team, Chef Francesco Valeri 30 years, has worked with great starred chefs including Paolo Olivieri, Vito Mollica, Lorenzo Iozzia also a Michelin star.

Duration: 1h 10mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Terme Dei Papi establishment is ideal for relaxing in these natural warm waters. It is one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious spa facilities: its name alludes to the predilection reserved for these baths by numerous popes, starting with Gregory IX, which gave rise to the papal splendor of these baths in 1235. For this special attention reserved by the popes, the baths of Viterbo are commonly known as “Bagno del Papa” or “Terme Dei Papi.” We can not even mention these famous baths, Dante and Michelangelo, at the historical level. A monumental pool of generous proportions, covering an area of two thousand square meters and filled with hyperthermal waters with extraordinary properties. The water emerges directly from the Bullicame spring at 58 ° C and steams in the pool, jetting towards the spectacular and picturesque stone spouts. Slipping into the water is a unique sensation in the summer and winter when the surrounding park is enshrouded in the steam of its thermal waters.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES

Important information

Know before you book

This is a private tour; the price is per group, not per person.
The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
Please inform the operator of any dietary restrictions or special requirements in advance.

Know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Bring a swimsuit and towel for the thermal baths.
Carry a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes and unique sculptures.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

Easy Public Transport
Infant Seats Available

Good to know

Dress code is smart casual | Confortable shoes suggested
Bring a swimsuit, slippers and a bathrobe. Otherwise they can be purchased at the “TdP Selection” shop
At the terme dei Papi Leave all bags, trolleys, sports bags, and valuables in the changing rooms
At the terme dei Papi Use the changing rooms, showers and hair dryers placed at your disposal

Additional information

Dress code is smart casual | Confortable shoes suggested Bring a swimsuit, slippers and a bathrobe. Otherwise they can be purchased at the “TdP Selection” shop At the terme dei Papi Leave all bags, trolleys, sports bags, and valuables in the changing rooms At the terme dei Papi Use the changing rooms, showers and hair dryers placed at your disposal