Why Visit Rapolano Terme? The ultimate guide to Tuscany’s hidden wellness gem.
Nestled in the heart of the Crete Senesi, just a short drive from Siena, Rapolano Terme is more than just a spa town—it’s where the raw beauty of the Tuscan landscape meets centuries of wellness tradition. If You’re looking to escape the tourist traps and find the "authentic Italy," here is why Rapolano is calling Your name.
Two world-class thermal resorts
Unlike many destinations that offer just one bathing spot, Rapolano gives You two distinct experiences, Terme di San Giovanni and Terme Antica Querciolaia.
The "moonlight" landscape of Crete Senesi
Rapolano sits in a unique geological zone. Forget the lush green forests; here You’ll find the Crete Senesi—a stunning, lunar-like landscape of gray clay mounds and lonely cypress trees.
The "Site Transitoire," a monumental stone sculpture located nearby, offers one of the most silent and spiritual views in all of Tuscany.
Photo credits: Marco Gambelli
The city of travertine
The very ground You walk on is part of the story. Rapolano is famous for its travertine quarries. This white, porous stone was used to build the monuments of Rome and the churches of Siena.
Walking through the historical center, You’ll see the golden-white stone glowing in the sunlight.
A gateway to Tuscan gastronomy
Rapolano is a "strategic" village for foodies. You are perfectly positioned between the Val di Chiana and the Val d'Orcia.
The food: indulge in Pici all’aglione (hand-rolled pasta) and Chianina beef.
The wine: You are a 30-minute scenic drive from the vineyards of Montepulciano and Montalcino.
Slow travel at its best
Rapolano moves at a different pace. It’s a place where You can spend the morning exploring a local market, the afternoon floating in 38°C (100°F) mineral waters, and the evening enjoying a quiet aperitivo in the piazza.
SerreMaggio Festival -Serre di Rapolano
The Festival "Serremaggio" takes place every May turning the town into a medieval centre with a costumed parade, colourful flag-throwing competition, open-air market, music, typical foods. The local cellars are open to visitors who can try the local traditional products, medieval style food and buy some handicraft products. Groups of dancers show ancient dances while musicians and jesters around the village entertain the visitors.