Saturnia Hot Springs Guide: How to Visit the Free Thermal Baths in Tuscany
What to expect at Cascate del Mulino's famous natural pools, including how to get there and our best tips | Hi! We're Alex & Victoria - a digital nomad couple from Copenhagen escaping 9-5 to chase adventures in our beautiful world. Learn more about us here. |
Italy’s most famous thermal baths
When we first came across photos of the light blue water at the Saturnia Hot Springs, we knew it was a place we had to see for ourselves.
Known locally as Terme di Saturnia, these natural thermal springs in southern Tuscany have been attracting visitors for centuries – and in recent years, they’ve become especially popular thanks to Instagram.
The heat comes from underground volcanic activity, keeping the water at a steady 37.5°C (99.5°F) year-round. Perfect for a warm soak in the open air.
We arrived early in the morning in October, and the mist rising from the warm water into the cool air made the whole place feel almost surreal.
It’s one of our best memories from Tuscany!
In this guide to the Saturnia Hot Springs in Tuscany, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including why you should visit, how to get there, what to expect, where to stay nearby and our best tips for making the most of your visit.
Where to stay near the Saturnia Hot Springs:
- Luxury: Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort – Five-star luxury with full spa facilities, thermal baths, a golf course and elegant rooms. Perfect for a high-end wellness escape.
- Value for money: Bio Agriturismo Le Cascatelle – Affordable countryside retreat with rustic farmhouse charm, homemade breakfast and only 10 minutes from the hot springs on foot.
- Budget: Agriturismo La Vecchia Quercia – Simple, cosy farmhouse with traditional decor and a beautiful garden 10 minutes by car from Cascate del Mulino.
Search for the cheapest and best hotels near the Saturnia Hot Springs here.
Table of contents
- What are the Saturnia Hot Springs?
- Where are the Saturnia Hot Springs?
- Why visit the Saturnia Hot Springs
- Practical information about the Saturnia Hot Springs
- Our experience at the Saturnia Hot Springs
- How to get to the Saturnia Hot Springs
- How long to spend at the Saturnia Hot Springs
- Best time to visit the Saturnia Hot Springs
- Where to stay near the Saturnia Hot Springs
- Our best tips for visiting the Saturnia Hot Springs
What are the Saturnia Hot Springs?
The Saturnia Hot Springs are natural, open-air thermal springs located near the small village of Saturnia in southern Tuscany, Italy.
The hot springs are well known for their sulphur-rich waters, which stay at a steady 37.5°C (99.5°F) all year round – warm enough to feel relaxing, but not too hot to enjoy for a long soak.
The water flows across a series of limestone terraces, forming shallow pools and gentle cascades that have become one of the most photographed natural sites in Italy.
The pools aren’t deep – more like natural bathtubs – but they’re perfect for sitting back and soaking in the warm water.
The names surrounding this place can be a bit confusing, as several are used interchangeably. Here’s a quick breakdown to help keep things straight:
- Saturnia – A small village near the springs.
- Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort (adlink) – This is a luxury hotel and wellness complex with private pools, a golf course and spa treatments. It’s a separate experience from the free springs, with its own entrance and facilities. Day visitors can pay for entry to use the pools, thermal waterfalls and wellness treatments.
- Cascate del Mulino – These are the free, public hot springs that most people think of when they imagine the hot springs of Saturnia. Sometimes, they’re also called Cascate del Gorello.
So, if you’re looking for the free natural thermal waterfalls you’ve seen all over Instagram, you’ll want to visit Cascate del Mulino. These are the springs we’re focusing on in this Saturnia Hot Springs guide.
If you’re after a spa day with more amenities, the Terme di Saturnia resort (adlink) offers that experience (but at a cost).
You can buy a day ticket here (adlink).
Where are the Saturnia Hot Springs?
The Saturnia Hot Springs are located in southern Tuscany, just outside the small town of Saturnia in the province of Grosseto.
They sit roughly halfway between Rome and Florence, and slightly south of Siena, making them a convenient stop if you’re travelling through central Italy and the beautiful region of Tuscany.
The springs are tucked into the countryside, surrounded by rolling hills and quiet roads.
Map of Saturnia Hot Springs
On Google Maps, the natural hot springs are listed as Cascate del Mulino – that’s the spot you’ll want to navigate to. This is the exact location and here’s the parking lot.
If you just enter “Saturnia” into your GPS, it will take you to the small town of the same name, which is about a 7-minute drive from the springs.
And if you search for “Terme di Saturnia”, you’ll get to the paid spa and thermal bath complex located nearby (not the free public springs).
Again: “Cascate del Mulino” is the correct one.
Why visit the Saturnia Hot Springs
There’s a reason the Saturnia Hot Springs show up in so many photos – the milky blue water flowing over natural terraces looks incredible.
It’s not just a pretty spot, though.
The water is rich in minerals like sulphur, calcium and magnesium, and locals have long believed it’s good for the skin, circulation and aching joints.
What makes this place special is how natural it feels. Unlike most spa resorts, the springs here run freely in the open, surrounded by countryside.
And the best part? It’s completely free to visit. Just show up, find a spot and soak.
You can sit in the warm, soothing pools while listening to the water rush past with views of the Tuscan hills all around. Does it get any better?
Why you shouldn’t visit
It’s easy to see why the Saturnia Hot Springs have become such a popular stop for travellers, but the popularity does come at a cost.
This is no longer a hidden gem.
In peak season (especially during summer and on weekends), the springs can get really crowded.
That peaceful, untouched vibe disappears quickly when you’re sharing the pools with dozens of other people. Going there early in the morning can help, but it doesn’t guarantee solitude.
If you’re after a more low-key experience, the forest-set Bagni San Filippo Hot Springs is a smaller and quieter alternative with a different kind of charm.
The pools themselves can be slippery, so if you’re a bit unsteady on your feet this is something to keep in mind.
And then there’s the smell. The sulphur in the water gives off a faint scent of rotten eggs.
It’s not overwhelming, and you do get used to it… But it’s definitely not the first thing that comes to mind when you see those beautiful blue pools in photos, right?
Still, if you go with the right expectations, it can be a memorable experience. Just maybe not quite as picture-perfect as Instagram can make it look.
Practical information about the Saturnia Hot Springs
Opening times
The Saturnia Hot Springs (Cascate del Mulino) are open year-round. There are no gates or official opening hours. You can visit any time, day or night.
That means sunrise soaks and late-night dips are totally possible.
Just be cautious if it’s dark, as the area isn’t well-lit and the rocks can be slippery.
Price
Cascate del Mulino – the famous spot you’ve probably seen all over Instagram – is completely free to visit.
No tickets, no entrance fee. Just show up and hop in.
Parking is paid, though. More on that further down.
If you’re planning to visit the Terme di Saturnia Resort (adlink), which is the paid spa and thermal bath complex across the road, you’ll need to buy a day pass to access the pools there.
You can buy a day ticket here (adlink).
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Facilities
Since it’s difficult to watch your belongings while swimming at the Saturnia Hot Springs, bring only essentials and leave valuables at home.
For items you must bring, you’ll need to choose between leaving them in your locked car or using the paid lockers at the café near the entrance.
This small self-service café offers changing rooms, showers, toilets, and lockers, though most services require payment. While we didn’t use it ourselves, it appears to be open daily.
Check their website for current details and pricing.
Red worms in the pools
You might see some tiny red worms in the natural pools at Saturnia.
They’re harmless and nothing to worry about – just part of the ecosystem in the warm, mineral-rich water.
Some people find them a bit off-putting, especially if you’re not expecting them, but they’re really small and easy to ignore once you’re in.
Just give your swimwear a quick check before leaving so you don’t accidentally bring any red worms home with you.
Sulphur in the water
The water at Saturnia has a noticeable sulphur smell, kind of like rotten eggs.
It’s mild, and you’ll probably stop noticing it after a few minutes, but it does linger.
Our swimwear held onto the smell for quite a while, so maybe don’t wear your favourite pieces.
If you’d rather not have your hair smelling like sulphur for days, it’s a good idea to keep it dry.
It’s also smart to take off any jewellery before getting in. The minerals in the water, especially the sulphur, can tarnish metal and damage certain materials over time.
Drones
Drones are allowed at the Saturnia Hot Springs – or at least they were when we visited.
If you go during a busy time, don’t be surprised if a few are buzzing around.
Remember to follow the general drone rules and be respectful if you’re flying your own.
Don’t have a drone? This is a great viewpoint nearby where you can still get a nice elevated view of the springs.
Our experience at the Saturnia Hot Springs
We stayed in the nearby town of Manciano (adlink) and set off early in the morning to reach the Saturnia Hot Springs just around sunrise.
To skip the hassle of changing once we arrived, we had our swimwear on under our clothes – a simple trick that made things a bit easier.
It was a Wednesday in early October, and although it wasn’t high season, it didn’t take long for people to arrive.
Still, compared to the summer crowds, it felt calm and peaceful. Being among the first to arrive meant we had our pick of the pools.
We also followed the path to the right from the main entrance and walked downstream to reach some of the less popular pools at the lower end of the waterfall.
The pools are shallow, so you won’t be able to swim – but they’re perfect for sitting or reclining as the warm water flows around you.
We really enjoyed the spa-like experience, especially with the mist rising from the water in the morning light.
Note: Most of the pictures in this Saturnia Hot Springs guide were taken very early that autumn morning. If you’re visiting in high season or later in the day, expect it to be a lot busier.
How to get to the Saturnia Hot Springs
Some visitors come for the day from cities like Rome (~ 150 kilometres / 93 miles), Florence (~ 190 kilometres / 118 miles) or Siena (~ 120 kilometres / 75 miles).
It’s doable as a day trip, but keep in mind that you’ll likely arrive during the busiest hours.
To enjoy the springs when they’re more peaceful, we recommend staying nearby and arriving early in the morning.
Getting there by public transport is possible, but not straightforward. There’s no train station in Saturnia, and buses can be infrequent and time-consuming.
Having a car makes things much easier, both for reaching the springs and for exploring the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
By car
Since the springs are in southern Tuscany’s countryside, having your own car really saves time and makes getting around much easier.
Saturnia is the nearest town, but for the best directions, make sure to drive to Cascate del Mulino or, even better, the parking lot close to the springs.
Parking
The parking situation at Saturnia Hot Springs has changed quite a bit over the years. Some older travel guides still mention free parking, but the previous parking area right next to the pools has been closed.
It’s now replaced by a big parking lot about 450 metres away from the springs. You can find it here.
Parking costs 2.50 euros per hour (~ 2.80 USD) in 2025 and can be paid with coins, credit cards or through the EasyPark app.
The parking area is only for cars and motorbikes. Campervans are not allowed.
Avoid parking along the road, even if you see others doing it. There are clear “no parking” and “do not enter” signs, and local police actively issue fines.
On a tour
It’s possible to visit the Saturnia Hot Springs as part of a guided tour, often combined with stops at nearby Tuscan towns or wineries.
Tours can be a convenient option if you don’t have a car or prefer not to drive.
You can see some options below.
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How long to spend at the Saturnia Hot Springs
Spending around 1 to 2 hours at the Saturnia Hot Springs is typically sufficient to enjoy the natural pools and surrounding scenery.
That allows for a relaxing soak, taking in the views and capturing some photos.
However, if you prefer a more leisurely experience (especially during quieter times), you might want to stay longer.
You can easily make a half or full day of it if you combine a visit to the free Cascate del Mulino hot springs with time at the nearby Terme di Saturnia Spa Resort.
You can buy a day ticket here (adlink).
Best time to visit the Saturnia Hot Springs
The Saturnia Hot Springs can be enjoyed year-round as the water stays at a constant pleasant 37.5°C (99.5°F).
That said, some times of year are better than others depending on what kind of experience you’re after.
June, July and August are probably not the most relaxing months to visit if you’re hoping for a quiet soak. The springs have become very popular, and in peak season, they’re full of people. The weather can also be quite hot during the day.
If summer is your only option, make sure to aim for very early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the crowds.
Spring and autumn are often considered the best times to go. The air is cooler, there are fewer people, and the mist rising from the warm water adds to the mystical atmosphere.
We visited in early October and found the temperature perfect – the water was lovely and the cooler air wasn’t uncomfortable.
Winter can be a good choice too, especially for a peaceful experience without many visitors.
The water stays warm, but do keep in mind it can feel quite chilly when you get out, so bring something cosy to wrap up in.
Regardless of the season, early mornings or just before sunset tend to be quieter.
Also, weekends are busier than weekdays, so if you have the option, plan your visit midweek for a more relaxed atmosphere.
To avoid lots of people in our shots, most of the photos in this guide were taken right after sunrise on a Wednesday in the beginning of October.
It also helps to head further down the stream where it’s easier to find a more secluded spot.
Where to stay near the Saturnia Hot Springs
We stayed in Manciano (adlink), which is about a 20-minute drive from the thermal springs – though there are plenty of options much closer if you prefer.
Below, you’ll find three of the best places to stay near the hot springs, or you can explore all the top hotels and B&Bs nearby here (adlink).
Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort
Next time, we’d love to stay at the five-star Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort, which is just a short distance from the natural hot springs.
If you’re after a luxurious getaway that mixes wellness, nature and a bit of Italian indulgence, this place looks like a solid choice (with excellent reviews).
The rooms look beautiful, and it would be great to have direct access to the resort’s own thermal springs.
Plus, it’s so close to Cascate del Mulino that you could easily head over first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.
And if you’re into golf, the resort even has its own 18-hole championship course.
Check prices and availability at Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa & Golf Resort (adlink).
Bio Agriturismo Le Cascatelle
Bio Agriturismo Le Cascatelle is a charming countryside retreat offering a more affordable alternative to the nearby spa, yet it’s still just a short walk from both the free Cascate del Mulino hot springs and the paid thermal baths at the resort.
The property includes cosy standalone apartments and several rooms in the main house, which are all decorated in a classic rustic Tuscan farmhouse style with warm wood-beamed ceilings.
It’s well-loved by guests, who often praise the friendly atmosphere and the homemade breakfast.
Check prices and availability at Bio Agriturismo Le Cascatelle (adlink).
Agriturismo La Vecchia Quercia
Just a 10-minute drive from the famous Cascate del Mulino hot springs, you’ll find the lovely farmhouse Agriturismo La Vecchia Quercia.
It offers an authentic Italian agriturismo experience, complete with a well-kept garden where you can relax after a day soaking in the thermal waters.
The rooms are simple yet comfortable and have traditional rustic decor with exposed wooden beams and terracotta floors.
Affordable and welcoming, this spot stands out for its warm hospitality and peaceful countryside setting. It looks like a great choice for travellers who want a genuine taste of Tuscan rural life while still staying close to the springs.
Check prices and availability at Agriturismo La Vecchia Quercia (adlink).
Our best tips for visiting the Saturnia Hot Springs
- Manage your expectations. There will probably be a lot of people, especially from May to October.
- Go early or late to avoid crowds. The hot springs can get busy during the day. Early morning or late evening visits offer a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Check the local weather forecast. As the springs are outdoors, the weather can greatly affect your experience. Rain or cold weather might make the visit less comfortable.
- Bring swimwear and a towel. Wear it under your clothes when you arrive if you want to avoid using the paid changing facilities.
- Consider wearing water shoes or sandals. The bottom of the pools can be slippery and uneven. We did fine without, though.
- Don’t use soaps or shampoos. The hot springs are natural and protected, so keep them pristine by avoiding any soaps or oils.
- Use sun protection in summer, but avoid sunscreen before entering the natural springs – instead, wear a t-shirt or hat.
- Bring a good camera to capture the stunning surroundings. Here’s a guide to the gear we use.
- Carry a plastic bag for your wet, sulphur-smelling swimwear after your visit.
- Pack water and snacks. The warm water can be dehydrating, so bring drinking water with you.
- Be considerate to other visitors. Keep the noise down and take all litter with you.
- Remember travel insurance. Never travel without it!
- There are nearby thermal spa resorts with more facilities if you prefer a pampered experience.
Sustainable travel tips
To minimise your impact, follow these guidelines:
- Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
- Avoid single-use plastics.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Respect the natural environment. Avoid using soaps or shampoos in the pools.
- Check your sunscreen (or even better, avoid it altogether in the water). Many brands contain oxybenzone and other chemicals that are harmful to the environment.
- Take only photos, leave only footprints.
Thanks for reading
Thanks for reading our travel guide to the Saturnia Hot Springs. We hope it has been helpful!
What do you think about the free Cascate del Mulino hot springs in Tuscany?
If you’ve been to the thermal baths in Saturnia, it would be awesome to hear your best tips and tricks.
If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments. We’re glad to help.
Our favourite travel resources:
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Our camera gear:
- Panasonic GH5. Used for all of our photos and videos.
- DJI Mavic 2 Pro. Best drone out there!
- Sirui Tripod. Lightweight and strong.
- See all of our camera gear here.
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