Bagno di Romagna
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By: Dion Protani
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Charming Bagno di Romagna is a town located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, nestled in the Apennine Mountains.
With a population of 5,573 people, it is renowned for its ancient thermal baths, which have been in use since Roman times. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Casentino Forests, and is close to the cities of Arezzo and Florence. |
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Bagno di Romagna Overview
Bagno di Romagna, located in the Apennine Mountains of Emilia-Romagna, has a rich history dating back to Roman times, renowned for its natural thermal springs. The town's thermal baths, still in use today, have been attracting visitors for centuries, offering a relaxing and healing experience.
Bagno di Romagna is part of the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, a vast natural reserve perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the stunning landscapes.
The town is also home to several historic sites, such as the 11th-century Abbey of San Pietro in Vallombrosa and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. A visit to the local Museum of the Thermal Baths offers a deeper insight into the area’s healing history.
To get there, travelers can take a train to the nearby town of Forlí, then a bus to Bagno di Romagna. The town is easily accessible from Florence and Rimini by car or public transport.
Bagno di Romagna is part of the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, a vast natural reserve perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the stunning landscapes.
The town is also home to several historic sites, such as the 11th-century Abbey of San Pietro in Vallombrosa and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. A visit to the local Museum of the Thermal Baths offers a deeper insight into the area’s healing history.
To get there, travelers can take a train to the nearby town of Forlí, then a bus to Bagno di Romagna. The town is easily accessible from Florence and Rimini by car or public transport.
Top Things to Do in Bagno di Romagna
- Historic Thermal Baths: Bagno di Romagna has been known for its natural hot springs since Roman times. Several spa establishments in the town use these thermal waters for wellness treatments, pools, and relaxation, making it one of the region’s leading destinations for thermal tourism.
- Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta: This Romanesque-Gothic church dates back to the 9th century and features a stone façade, rose window, and bell tower. The interior contains frescoes, wooden statues, and works of sacred art, reflecting the town’s long-standing religious heritage.
- Piazza Ricasoli and Old Town: The central square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and small shops, with stone-paved streets leading to quiet corners and traditional inns. The atmosphere is shaped by a blend of medieval and Renaissance influences, with a strong connection to local traditions.
- Nature Trails and Forest Walks: Located within the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi, Bagno di Romagna is surrounded by dense woodland and well-marked hiking paths. Trails lead to mountain ridges, waterfalls, and wildlife observation areas, attracting walkers and cyclists throughout the year.
- Day Trip to San Piero in Bagno: Just a few minutes away, San Piero in Bagno offers artisan food shops, local markets, and river walks along the Savio. It’s a natural complement to Bagno di Romagna and adds further options for dining and exploring in the upper Savio Valley.
Comune di Bagno di Romagna
Province: Forlì-Cesena
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 5,573 (in 2024 - source) Size: 233 km² Elevation: 491 metres Fly to: Bologna Airport - 1 hour 35 minutes by car (141 km) Close by: Poppi, Ortignano Raggiolo, Montenovo, Longiano |
Where to Stay in Bagno di Romagna - My Recommended Accommodation
- Ròseo Euroterme Wellness Resort Located in the heart of Bagno di Romagna, this large hotel features a thermal spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a wellness centre offering a full range of treatments. Guests appreciate the comfort of the rooms, the extensive breakfast, and direct access to thermal waters. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Tosco Romagnolo Situated in the town centre near the thermal baths, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Visitors enjoy the blend of tradition and luxury, excellent food, and walking access to cafés, shops, and local hiking routes. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel delle Terme Santa Agnese Housed in a 15th-century building, this hotel provides access to natural thermal waters, a wellness centre, and a variety of spa services. Guests value the character of the historic structure, the professional treatments, and central location. €€€ (high-end)
- Albergo Roma Located along the river, a short stroll from the centre, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms and a traditional restaurant. Visitors appreciate the friendly service, peaceful setting, and convenient access to the town’s thermal baths and walking trails. €€ (mid-range)
- Balneum Boutique Hotel & B&B Positioned near the town centre, this boutique hotel features modern rooms with mountain views, a small spa, and a rooftop terrace. Guests enjoy the personalised service, stylish design, and easy access to nature and local eateries. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat in Bagno di Romagna - My Recommended Restaurants
- Ristorante Paolo Teverini: Located in the centre of Bagno di Romagna, this acclaimed restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with a refined menu based on seasonal ingredients and regional traditions. Dishes include game, truffle-based recipes, and creative interpretations of local specialities, all paired with an extensive wine list. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria del Teatro: Situated near the thermal baths, this cosy osteria focuses on Romagna cuisine with an emphasis on handmade pasta, slow-cooked meats, and hearty stews. The intimate dining room and attentive service create a warm and authentic atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Pace: A short walk from the town centre, La Pace is a family-run trattoria offering simple, satisfying dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. It’s a popular choice with locals looking for traditional flavours in a relaxed setting. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante del Lago: Located just outside the town, close to the lake, this restaurant is known for its tranquil setting and rustic menu. The food focuses on mountain cuisine, including mushroom dishes, polenta, and local cheeses, served in a scenic spot with indoor and outdoor seating. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria da Mimmo: Found near the main road into town, this informal pizzeria is appreciated for its generous toppings, crisp bases, and friendly service. It’s a good option for families or visitors looking for a quick and affordable meal. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Bagno di Romagna Gallery
Places close to Bagno di Romagna
- Cesena (approx. 35 km north of Bagno di Romagna): A town rich in history and culture, Cesena is known for the Biblioteca Malatestiana, a UNESCO-listed library housing ancient manuscripts, and the impressive Rocca Malatestiana, a medieval fortress offering stunning views over the town. The town’s historic centre is filled with charming streets, cafes, and squares to explore.
- Forlì (approx. 40 km west of Bagno di Romagna): Forlì offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Key sights include the Museo San Domenico, which houses important works of art, and the Rocca di Ravaldino, a historic fortress. The town’s central square, Piazza Aurelio Saffi, is a vibrant place for visitors to enjoy cafes, shopping, and local attractions.
- San Piero in Bagno (approx. 10 km southeast of Bagno di Romagna): Known for its thermal baths, San Piero in Bagno is a small town surrounded by the natural beauty of the Foreste Casentinesi. The town is a perfect spot for relaxation, with hot springs that have been used since Roman times, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
- Premilcuore (approx. 20 km south of Bagno di Romagna): A charming village nestled in the Apennine Mountains, Premilcuore is known for its traditional stone houses and scenic setting. The town offers great hiking opportunities, with routes leading to panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
- Poppi (approx. 30 km south of Bagno di Romagna): A beautiful medieval town located at the foot of the Casentino Mountains, Poppi is home to the impressive Castello dei Conti Guidi, a well-preserved fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town also features a charming historic centre, with narrow streets and small squares full of character.
How to get to Bagno di Romagna
By Rail: Bagno di Romagna does not have its own train station. The nearest stations are Cesena and Arezzo, both offering Trenitalia regional and intercity services. Cesena, located about 60 kilometres to the north-east, connects to Bologna and Rimini, while Arezzo, around 70 kilometres to the south-west, connects to Florence and Rome. From either station, Bagno di Romagna can be reached by bus or taxi, with travel times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the route and traffic.
By Road: Bagno di Romagna is situated in the Apennine hills near the border with Tuscany, within the province of Forlì-Cesena. It lies approximately 90 kilometres south of Bologna and 50 kilometres south of Cesena. The drive from Bologna takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes via the A14 motorway and E45 dual carriageway. From Cesena, the journey takes around 1 hour. Parking is available in the town, including near the thermal spa areas and the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Bagno di Romagna is situated in the Apennine hills near the border with Tuscany, within the province of Forlì-Cesena. It lies approximately 90 kilometres south of Bologna and 50 kilometres south of Cesena. The drive from Bologna takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes via the A14 motorway and E45 dual carriageway. From Cesena, the journey takes around 1 hour. Parking is available in the town, including near the thermal spa areas and the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Located approximately 105 kilometres north of Bagno di Romagna, the drive takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. Public transport options include train travel to Cesena followed by a bus or taxi.
- Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola): Situated about 115 kilometres south-west of Bagno di Romagna, the journey takes approximately 2 hours by car. Travellers can also take a train to Arezzo and continue by road.
- Rimini Airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini): Roughly 95 kilometres north-east of Bagno di Romagna, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Public transport includes train travel to Cesena with onward bus or taxi connections.