Car Hire Viterbo - Mini guide to Viterbo

Viterbo, the capital of Latium province and the most important city in northern Lazio, is situated just 80kms away from Rome, in the middle of the Italian peninsula.

The city is well known for the historical wealth of its monuments and the ancient buildings of its old town, Quartiere San Pellegrino.

The historical district is a good place to begin a walking exploration of Viterbo. Here you can wander through hilly, tangled streets lined with medieval buildings, or linger in the art and antique shops which are dotted along the alleys. Moving on to the Piazza del Plebiscito, you can see the impressive 15th and 16th century buildings that make up the town’s council offices.

Nearby, in the Piazza San Lorenzo, are two of Viterbo’s most notable attractions. The Duomo is an interesting conglomeration of architectural styles, with pagan foundations dating back to 1192, a Renaissance façade and a Gothic bell tower. The Palazzo Papale, built in the 13th century, has a fantastically scenic position looking out over a green gorge.

Viterbo has two particularly worthwhile museums: the Museo Nazionale Rocca Albornoz, with an interesting exhibit of locally discovered Roman and Etruscan implements; and the Museo Civico, which combines art and archaeology in its multi-floored display area.

Corsa Italia is Viterbo’s main street, and the best place for shopping, eating and nightlife. Enoteca la Torre, on this main drag, is the city’s gastronomical highlight and, although pricey, is worth visiting if you feel like splashing out. Viterbo is renowned for hot springs, and soaking in one of these thermal pools is the perfect way to de-stress.

Lake Bolsena, the largest lake in Italy, lies only 30kms from Viterbo. Its crystal clear waters and charming landscape provide an enticing option for a daytrip from the city. Rome, in all its historical splendour, is also easily accessible.

To reach Viterbo by car from the north, follow the via Aurelia, and then get off at the Montalto di Castro exit. From the south, leave motorway A1 at the Orte exit, and take the S204. Alternatively, there are frequent buses and trains to and from Rome. International and local flights are received at the capital’s airport; from here, visitors can complete their journey to Viterbo by road or rail.