Acqui Terme
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Latest page update: 3 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Acqui Terme
Acqui Terme offers a reliable choice of established hotels, supported by its spa tradition, walkable historic centre and thermal sites such as the Bollente. The best options focus on comfort, wellness facilities and convenient access to both the old town and the surrounding hills of southern Piedmont.
Grand Hotel Nuove Terme is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its central location, historic setting, spa facilities and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Roma Imperiale, just outside the centre, provides a more refined alternative with elegant interiors, a pool and a peaceful garden atmosphere for relaxed wellness-focused stays (€€€€). For a practical base close to the historic lanes, Hotel Valentino offers comfortable rooms, friendly service and convenient access to the town and its thermal attractions (€€).
Grand Hotel Nuove Terme is one of the most established choices, appreciated for its central location, historic setting, spa facilities and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Roma Imperiale, just outside the centre, provides a more refined alternative with elegant interiors, a pool and a peaceful garden atmosphere for relaxed wellness-focused stays (€€€€). For a practical base close to the historic lanes, Hotel Valentino offers comfortable rooms, friendly service and convenient access to the town and its thermal attractions (€€).
Where is
Where is Acqui Terme?
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The historic town of Acqui Terme is situated within the Province of Alessandria and has a population of around 20,000 residents.
Standing at an elevation of 156 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 121 kilometres east of Turin, the regional capital of Piedmont. Places of interest nearby include Nizza Monferrato, Mombaldone, Canelli and Alessandria. |
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Comune di Acqui Terme
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Province: Alessandria
Region: Piedmont Population: 18,955 (in 2024 - source) Size: 33 km² Elevation: 156 metres Highlights: Fontana della Bollente, Acquedotto Romano Close by: Nizza Monferrato, Mombaldone, Canelli, Alessandria |
What People Ask About Acqui Terme
Where is Acqui Terme located?
What is Acqui Terme known for?
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Discover
Discover Acqui Terme
Acqui Terme is a historic spa town in the Province of Alessandria, set in the rolling hills of southern Piedmont where vineyards, wooded ridges, and the upper Bormida Valley converge. The historic centre spreads around elegant piazzas, stone streets, and shaded promenades, with the surrounding countryside forming a natural link to the wider Monferrato landscape. Its position at a traditional crossroads between Liguria and the Po Valley has shaped the town’s character as both a market centre and a place of wellbeing.
The town is renowned for its thermal springs, celebrated since Roman times, and the Bollente, a hot sulphurous spring that rises in the heart of the old centre, remains its defining symbol. Roman archaeological remains, historic churches, and civic buildings reflect layers of development from antiquity through the Middle Ages. Positioned between Nizza Monferrato and the routes leading towards Alessandria and Savona, Acqui Terme serves as a gateway to the vineyard landscapes of southern Piedmont, combining spa heritage with easy access to the surrounding hills.
The town is renowned for its thermal springs, celebrated since Roman times, and the Bollente, a hot sulphurous spring that rises in the heart of the old centre, remains its defining symbol. Roman archaeological remains, historic churches, and civic buildings reflect layers of development from antiquity through the Middle Ages. Positioned between Nizza Monferrato and the routes leading towards Alessandria and Savona, Acqui Terme serves as a gateway to the vineyard landscapes of southern Piedmont, combining spa heritage with easy access to the surrounding hills.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Acqui Terme
- La Bollente: Acqui Terme is renowned for its thermal waters, and La Bollente is one of its most famous features. This historic sulphurous spring, located in the town centre, flows at around 74.5°C and is believed to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can bathe in the warm waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this historic site.
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta: The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is a significant historical and architectural landmark in Acqui Terme. This Romanesque cathedral, built in the 11th century, has undergone various renovations over the centuries. The interior is known for its beautiful frescoes and the stunning Baroque altar, making it a must-visit for those interested in the town’s religious heritage.
- Castello dei Paleologi: The Castello dei Paleologi, dating back to the 11th century, offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s past. The castle is home to an archaeological museum, showcasing artefacts from Roman and medieval times. The castle also offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding area, making it a great spot for sightseeing.
- Piazza Italia: The Piazza Italia is the main square in Acqui Terme, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, including the Grand Hotel Nuove Terme. The square features the Fontana delle Ninfee, a charming fountain with water lily motifs, providing a tranquil place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
- Chiesa di San Pietro: The Chiesa di San Pietro is a Romanesque church dating back to the 7th century. It has a beautifully restored interior with important religious artworks. This church, also known as the Church of the Addolorata, offers visitors a peaceful space to reflect on the town’s spiritual and historical significance.
Tours and Activities
Acqui Terme Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Acqui Terme
- Ristorante Il Moncalvo: Located in the historic centre of Acqui Terme, Il Moncalvo offers refined takes on Piedmontese classics such as vitello tonnato, agnolotti, and brasato. The elegant dining room provides a formal yet welcoming atmosphere. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria Moderna: Set along a quiet street near the river, Osteria Moderna combines traditional flavours with modern presentation. The menu features local meats, cheeses, and seasonal vegetables, served in a stylish but informal setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Mette e Suma: A family-run trattoria in the centre of town, known for its generous portions and homemade dishes. Highlights include pasta with ragù, slow-cooked meats, and traditional desserts such as bunet. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- La Teca: Situated just outside the central area, La Teca is popular for its relaxed atmosphere and creative dishes based on local ingredients. The wine list includes many options from nearby Monferrato vineyards. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Agriturismo Cascina Aurora: Located in Melazzo (approx. 6 km south of Acqui Terme), this agriturismo serves fixed menus with traditional Piedmontese food, much of it sourced from their own farm. Meals are served in a rustic dining room overlooking the countryside. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Acqui Terme Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Acqui Terme
- Nizza Monferrato (approx. 20 km northwest of Acqui Terme): A lively town in the Monferrato wine area, Nizza Monferrato is known for its production of Barbera d’Asti. The town centre features elegant squares, historic palaces, and regular markets showcasing local food and wine.
- Strevi (approx. 5 km northeast of Acqui Terme): Surrounded by vineyards, Strevi is an important centre for Moscato wine production. Its old town is perched on a hill with narrow lanes and churches, while the lower part of the town is more modern.
- Ovada (approx. 20 km southeast of Acqui Terme): A town at the confluence of two rivers, Ovada is characterised by its medieval core with narrow streets and colourful houses. The area is also recognised for Dolcetto d’Ovada wine.
- Visone (approx. 6 km west of Acqui Terme): A small town with medieval roots, Visone has remains of a castle, old churches, and a compact historic centre. The surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards and rolling hills.
- Canelli (approx. 25 km northwest of Acqui Terme): Famous for its underground wine cellars known as “cathedrals,” Canelli is a key centre of Asti Spumante production. The town also has a castle and historic streets reflecting its long winemaking heritage.
Piedmont Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Piedmont
1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. Barolo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont
1. Orta San Giulio
2. Lake Maggiore
3. Langhe
4. Turin
5. Borromean Islands
6. Monferrato
7. Reggia di Venaria Reale
8. Asti
9. Val di Susa
10. Barolo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Piedmont
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Acqui Terme
By Rail: Acqui Terme has its own train station on the Alessandria–San Giuseppe di Cairo line, served by Trenitalia. Regional trains run frequently to Alessandria in around 40 minutes and to Savona in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The station is located close to the centre, within walking distance of the thermal spas and main attractions.
By Road: The town is located in southern Piedmont, approximately 35 kilometres south of Alessandria. The drive from Alessandria takes about 40 minutes via the SP30. From Genoa, the journey is around 75 kilometres and takes roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several public car parks are available near the centre and spa areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: The town is located in southern Piedmont, approximately 35 kilometres south of Alessandria. The drive from Alessandria takes about 40 minutes via the SP30. From Genoa, the journey is around 75 kilometres and takes roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several public car parks are available near the centre and spa areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport: Located about 70 kilometres away, with a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A26 and SS30.
- Turin Caselle Airport: Around 120 kilometres from Acqui Terme, reachable in about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car.
- Milan Malpensa Airport: Approximately 150 kilometres to the north, with a driving time of just over 2 hours.
Private Transfers
Acqui Terme Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to reach Acqui Terme or travel onwards from the town to other destinations in Piedmont and Liguria. You’ll be collected directly from your accommodation or arrival point and driven in comfort by a local, professional driver—no delays, no train changes, and no need to rent a car.
The journey from Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport to Acqui Terme takes around 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 65 kilometres), making it the most convenient airport for arrivals. From Turin Airport, journey times are closer to 1 hour 45 minutes (around 120 kilometres), while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 2 hours (approximately 145 kilometres). Private transfers are also available to nearby locations such as Alba, Asti, and Savona, all within a 1-hour radius.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
The journey from Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport to Acqui Terme takes around 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 65 kilometres), making it the most convenient airport for arrivals. From Turin Airport, journey times are closer to 1 hour 45 minutes (around 120 kilometres), while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 2 hours (approximately 145 kilometres). Private transfers are also available to nearby locations such as Alba, Asti, and Savona, all within a 1-hour radius.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
