Valentano
|
Latest page update: 22 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
 Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Valentano
Accommodation in Valentano is limited, with most stays consisting of small guesthouses and agriturismi that reflect its peaceful, rural setting near Lake Bolsena. For travellers seeking established hotels with full facilities and consistently high guest ratings, the best options are found nearby in Bolsena within the Province of Viterbo.
In Bolsena, Hotel Holiday is a leading choice, located near the lakefront and offering comfortable rooms, a pool and a restaurant serving regional cuisine, well reviewed for its service and value (€€). Hotel Columbus provides a more central position along the lakeside promenade, featuring modern interiors, a restaurant and reliable standards of cleanliness and comfort (€€). For an elegant option, Ludwig Boutique Hotel offers refined rooms, a lake-view pool and excellent service, earning consistently strong feedback for its quality and attention to detail (€€€).
In Bolsena, Hotel Holiday is a leading choice, located near the lakefront and offering comfortable rooms, a pool and a restaurant serving regional cuisine, well reviewed for its service and value (€€). Hotel Columbus provides a more central position along the lakeside promenade, featuring modern interiors, a restaurant and reliable standards of cleanliness and comfort (€€). For an elegant option, Ludwig Boutique Hotel offers refined rooms, a lake-view pool and excellent service, earning consistently strong feedback for its quality and attention to detail (€€€).
Where is
Where is Valentano?
|
The town of Valentano belongs to the historical area known as Tuscia, the Roman name for Etruria, the land of the Etruscans.
Valentano is situated within the Province of Viterbo and stands at an elevation of 538 metres above sea level. The town has a population of around 2,800 while places of interest nearby include Capodimonte, Marta, Lake Bolsena, Gradoli and Bolsena. |
Comune di Valentano
|
Province: Viterbo
Region: Lazio Population: 2,783 (in 2024 - source) Size: 43 km² Elevation: 538 metres Close by: Capodimonte, Marta, Lake Bolsena, Gradoli, Bolsena Recommended hotel: Locanda Da Otello (11 km) |
What People Ask About Valentano
Is Valentano worth visiting?
Yes, Valentano is worth visiting for its historic centre, scenic setting near Lake Bolsena, and cultural landmarks. The town also reflects the traditions of the Tuscia region with festivals and local crafts.
What are the main attractions in Valentano?
Main attractions include the Rocca Farnese fortress, which houses the Museum of the Prehistory of Tuscia and of the Rock, and the panoramic views from the town centre. Its proximity to Lake Bolsena makes it popular for excursions.
How do I get to Valentano?
Valentano does not have its own train station. The nearest is in Montefiascone, about 20 kilometres away, with onward road connections. By car, it is around 30 kilometres from Viterbo and about 120 kilometres from Rome.
When is the best time to visit Valentano?
The best time to visit Valentano is late spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer is also lively, with local festivals and events linked to the harvest season.
What food is Valentano known for?
Valentano is known for lake fish dishes from nearby Lake Bolsena, local olive oil, and traditional cured meats. Chestnuts, mushrooms, and handmade pasta are also part of its regional cuisine.
Related links
Discover
Discover Valentano
Set on a ridge overlooking the western shores of Lake Bolsena, Valentano is a hill town in northern Lazio surrounded by rolling farmland and volcanic hills. Its elevated position provides extensive views across the Tuscia countryside, while the old centre retains a medieval layout of stone houses, narrow streets, and small squares that reflect its long history. The town’s setting, between lake and highland, gives it a landscape of both agricultural and scenic value.
At the heart of the settlement stands the Rocca Farnese, a 15th-century fortress later transformed into a noble residence, which now houses the Museum of the Prehistory of Tuscia and of the Rocca Farnese. Other points of interest include the Collegiata di San Giovanni Evangelista, with its Baroque interior, and the Church of Santa Maria, located on the edge of the town. Known for its agricultural traditions and summer festivals, Valentano lies between Gradoli and Canino, forming part of the network of hill towns surrounding Lake Bolsena.
At the heart of the settlement stands the Rocca Farnese, a 15th-century fortress later transformed into a noble residence, which now houses the Museum of the Prehistory of Tuscia and of the Rocca Farnese. Other points of interest include the Collegiata di San Giovanni Evangelista, with its Baroque interior, and the Church of Santa Maria, located on the edge of the town. Known for its agricultural traditions and summer festivals, Valentano lies between Gradoli and Canino, forming part of the network of hill towns surrounding Lake Bolsena.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Valentano
- Centro Storico di Valentano is a picturesque hill town where narrow stone streets weave among medieval houses, noble towers, and terracotta rooftops. Stone façades, arched gateways, and quiet piazzas bring character and charm to the traditional architecture. The town sits high above Lake Bolsena in northern Lazio, surrounded by rolling hills and views stretching toward the volcanic basin. Its atmosphere blends peaceful village life with noble history and rustic beauty.
- Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista stands prominently in Valentano, with a graceful stone façade and a serene, luminous interior. Inside are marble altars, delicate frescoes, and refined decorative details reflecting centuries of devotion. The church remains central to religious life and village traditions. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to visit while exploring Valentano’s winding streets.
- Piazza Cavour serves as the social heart of Valentano, edged with noble buildings, small cafés, and inviting benches. Locals gather here for conversations, village festivals, and community events. Outdoor seating offers views of medieval façades and glimpses of Lake Bolsena in the distance. The square reflects the gentle, authentic rhythm of life in this Tuscia town.
- Rocca Farnese rises above the town, an imposing fortress associated with the powerful Farnese family. Its sturdy stone walls, noble halls, and panoramic tower preserve stories of Renaissance power and noble ambition. Touring the fortress reveals sweeping views over the lake and countryside. It’s a highlight for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
- Guided historical and cultural tours in Valentano explore medieval alleys, noble residences, and scenic trails overlooking Lake Bolsena and the volcanic hills. Local guides share stories about noble families, village legends, and traditional crafts. Tours often include tastings of local wines, olive oil, and Tuscia specialities. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the cultural richness and natural beauty of northern Lazio.
Tours and Activities
Valentano Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Valentano 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 Valentano
By Rail: The nearest train station to Valentano is in Montefiascone, approximately 25 kilometres away. The station lies on the regional line between Viterbo and Orvieto, operated by Trenitalia. From Montefiascone, trains reach Viterbo in about 25 minutes and Orvieto in roughly 40 minutes. Local taxis and bus services connect the station with Valentano.
By Road: Valentano is located in the province of Viterbo, northern Lazio, near the western shores of Lake Bolsena. From Rome, the drive is around 130 kilometres and takes roughly 2 hours via the A1 motorway, exiting at Orvieto. From Viterbo, it is about 40 kilometres and takes approximately 45 minutes. Parking areas are available near the town centre and along the main access roads.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Valentano is located in the province of Viterbo, northern Lazio, near the western shores of Lake Bolsena. From Rome, the drive is around 130 kilometres and takes roughly 2 hours via the A1 motorway, exiting at Orvieto. From Viterbo, it is about 40 kilometres and takes approximately 45 minutes. Parking areas are available near the town centre and along the main access roads.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rome Fiumicino Airport: Approximately 155 kilometres from Valentano, with a driving time of around 2 hours via the A1 motorway and GRA ring road. It is the principal airport for international and long-haul flights.
- Rome Ciampino Airport: Located about 145 kilometres away, taking roughly 2 hours by car via the A1 motorway. Convenient for travellers arriving on low-cost European airlines.
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Around 90 kilometres north, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The closest airport geographically, suitable for regional and European arrivals.
Private Transfers
Valentano Private Transfers
A private transfer is a convenient and comfortable way to reach Valentano or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in Lazio and central Italy. You’ll be collected directly from your preferred location and driven by a professional local driver, allowing you to travel easily without the need for car hire or public transport.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport, providing practical options for both arrivals and departures. The journey from Rome to Valentano usually takes around 1 hour 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Viterbo, Bolsena, and Civita di Bagnoregio, or to destinations in Umbria and southern Tuscany, such as Orvieto and Pitigliano.
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, providing practical options for both arrivals and departures. The journey from Rome to Valentano usually takes around 1 hour 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Viterbo, Bolsena, and Civita di Bagnoregio, or to destinations in Umbria and southern Tuscany, such as Orvieto and Pitigliano.
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.

