Caprarola
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Latest page update: 22 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Caprarola
Caprarola offers a small selection of accommodation, mostly consisting of agriturismi and guesthouses that reflect its hillside location and proximity to the Palazzo Farnese and Lake Vico. For travellers seeking established hotels with fuller facilities and consistently strong guest reviews, the best-rated options are found nearby in Ronciglione and Viterbo.
In Ronciglione, Relais Villa Lina provides elegant rooms within a historic estate surrounded by parkland, offering a pool, restaurant and excellent service, all praised for comfort and atmosphere (€€€). In Viterbo, Hotel Salus Terme is a top choice, featuring refined rooms, an extensive spa complex and landscaped gardens, earning high ratings for relaxation and professionalism (€€€). Also in Viterbo, Mini Palace Hotel offers modern accommodation near the historic centre, appreciated for its cleanliness, convenience and friendly staff (€€).
In Ronciglione, Relais Villa Lina provides elegant rooms within a historic estate surrounded by parkland, offering a pool, restaurant and excellent service, all praised for comfort and atmosphere (€€€). In Viterbo, Hotel Salus Terme is a top choice, featuring refined rooms, an extensive spa complex and landscaped gardens, earning high ratings for relaxation and professionalism (€€€). Also in Viterbo, Mini Palace Hotel offers modern accommodation near the historic centre, appreciated for its cleanliness, convenience and friendly staff (€€).
Where is
Where is Caprarola?
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The town of Caprarola is situated within the Province of Viterbo and has a population of around 5,300 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 520 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Villa Farnese, Lake Vico, Carbognano and Ronciglione. |
Comune di Caprarola
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Province: Viterbo
Region: Lazio Population: 5,153 (in 2024 - source) Size: 58 km² Elevation: 520 metres Highlight: Villa Farnese Close by: Lake Vico, Carbognano, Ronciglione, Fabrica di Roma |
What People Ask About Caprarola
Is Caprarola worth visiting?
Yes, Caprarola is worth visiting for its Renaissance architecture, historic town centre, and scenic setting near the Cimini Hills. It is best known for the impressive Palazzo Farnese and its gardens.
What are the main attractions in Caprarola?
The main attractions include the Palazzo Farnese, with its remarkable frescoes and spiral staircase, and the gardens that extend into the hills. The historic centre with its narrow streets and churches is also worth exploring.
How do I get to Caprarola?
Caprarola does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Capranica-Sutri, about 14 kilometres away, with services to Rome and Viterbo. By car, Caprarola is roughly 60 kilometres north of Rome, accessible via the A1 motorway and local roads.
When is the best time to visit Caprarola?
The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the Palazzo Farnese and the surrounding landscapes. Summer brings festivals and events but can be hotter and busier.
What food is Caprarola known for?
Caprarola is known for chestnuts from the Cimini Hills, hazelnut-based sweets, and traditional Lazio dishes such as fettuccine with porcini mushrooms or wild boar. Local olive oil and wines also form an important part of the cuisine.
Related links
Discover
Discover Caprarola
Caprarola is a Renaissance town in northern Lazio, positioned on the southern slopes of the Cimini Mountains within the province of Viterbo. Built on volcanic terrain, it is arranged along a single main street that climbs towards the upper terraces, lined with elegant palaces and historic residences. The town overlooks wooded hills and farmland, with views stretching across the Tuscia landscape towards Lake Vico and the plains beyond.
Its most prominent landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Italy. Designed by Vignola for the powerful Farnese family, the palace is noted for its pentagonal plan, frescoed halls, and terraced gardens that extend down the hillside. Other points of interest include the Church of San Michele Arcangelo and several noble houses dating from the same period.
Located near Vallerano and Canepina, Caprarola lies on the route linking Viterbo with the valleys leading towards Rome, combining artistic heritage with a striking natural setting.
Its most prominent landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Italy. Designed by Vignola for the powerful Farnese family, the palace is noted for its pentagonal plan, frescoed halls, and terraced gardens that extend down the hillside. Other points of interest include the Church of San Michele Arcangelo and several noble houses dating from the same period.
Located near Vallerano and Canepina, Caprarola lies on the route linking Viterbo with the valleys leading towards Rome, combining artistic heritage with a striking natural setting.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Caprarola
- Centro Storico di Caprarola is a splendid hill town where narrow cobbled streets wind among Renaissance palaces, medieval houses, and terracotta rooftops. Stone façades, elegant stairways, and noble coats of arms bring grandeur and charm to the traditional architecture. The town stretches along the slopes of the Cimini mountains in northern Lazio, surrounded by chestnut woods and views over the Valle del Tevere. Its atmosphere blends lively village life with magnificent Renaissance heritage.
- Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo stands prominently in Caprarola, with a handsome stone façade and a serene, luminous interior. Inside are marble altars, frescoes, and refined architectural details reflecting centuries of devotion and artistic skill. The church remains central to religious life and community gatherings. It’s a peaceful place to visit while wandering Caprarola’s elegant streets.
- Piazza Roma serves as the social heart of Caprarola, edged with Renaissance buildings, small shops, and inviting cafés. Locals and visitors gather here for markets, village festivals, and lively conversation. Outdoor seating offers views of noble façades and glimpses of the grand palaces above. The square reflects the vibrant yet authentic rhythm of life in this Tuscia town.
- Palazzo Farnese is Caprarola’s crowning jewel, a grand Renaissance villa designed by Vignola for the powerful Farnese family. The palace features a striking pentagonal shape, magnificent frescoed halls, and a spectacular spiral staircase. Its gardens cascade down the hill in terraces filled with fountains and sculpted greenery. Touring the palace is a highlight for lovers of art, architecture, and history.
- Guided historical and artistic tours in Caprarola explore Renaissance streets, noble palaces, and scenic chestnut groves around the town. Local guides share stories about the Farnese family, architectural marvels, and Caprarola’s strategic past. Tours often include tastings of local wines, hazelnuts, and Tuscia specialities. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the cultural richness and refined beauty of northern Lazio.
Tours and Activities
Caprarola Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Caprarola Photo Gallery
Lazio Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Caprarola
By Rail: The nearest train station to Caprarola is in Viterbo Porta Fiorentina, approximately 20 kilometres away. The station is on the regional line between Rome and Viterbo, operated by Trenitalia. From Viterbo, trains reach Rome in about 1 hour and 45 minutes, with frequent daily services. Local buses and taxis provide direct connections from Viterbo to Caprarola.
By Road: Caprarola is situated in the province of Viterbo, northern Lazio, on the southern slopes of the Cimini Hills. From Rome, the drive is around 65 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes via the SS2 Cassia or A1 motorway. From Viterbo, the journey covers roughly 20 kilometres and takes around 25 minutes. Parking areas are located near the lower part of the town and close to Palazzo Farnese.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Caprarola is situated in the province of Viterbo, northern Lazio, on the southern slopes of the Cimini Hills. From Rome, the drive is around 65 kilometres and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes via the SS2 Cassia or A1 motorway. From Viterbo, the journey covers roughly 20 kilometres and takes around 25 minutes. Parking areas are located near the lower part of the town and close to Palazzo Farnese.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rome Fiumicino Airport: Approximately 95 kilometres from Caprarola, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A12 and SS1 Aurelia. It is the main airport serving central Italy, offering a wide range of international connections.
- Rome Ciampino Airport: Located about 90 kilometres away, taking roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes by car via the A1 motorway and GRA ring road. Convenient for travellers arriving on low-cost airlines.
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Around 140 kilometres north, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours by car. A suitable alternative for those arriving from central or northern Europe.
Private Transfers
Caprarola Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach Caprarola or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in Lazio and beyond. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional local driver, allowing you to travel without the need for car hire or train connections.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport, offering a convenient solution for both arrivals and departures. The journey from Rome to Caprarola usually takes around 1 hour 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Viterbo, Civita di Bagnoregio, and Civitavecchia Port, or to nearby destinations such as Orvieto and Todi in Umbria.
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.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport, offering a convenient solution for both arrivals and departures. The journey from Rome to Caprarola usually takes around 1 hour 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Viterbo, Civita di Bagnoregio, and Civitavecchia Port, or to nearby destinations such as Orvieto and Todi in Umbria.
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.

