Tuscany thermal baths: Terme San Filippo
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Bagni San Filippo in the Val d'Orcia is one of Tuscany's most beautiful free thermal springs . In the forest below the small village, hot, sulfurous water flows over white travertine terraces – the most famous feature being the "Balena Bianca," the white whale. Bathing is free and without an entrance fee; however, the thermal hotel in the village is currently closed.
Bagni San Filippo at a glance
- Location: District of Castiglione d'Orcia, province of Siena, on the edge of the Val d'Orcia
- Water: Containing sulfur and calcium, up to approx. 48 °C at the source, significantly cooler in the basins depending on location.
- Free: Fosso Bianco with Balena Bianca – freely accessible all year round, without changing rooms or toilets
- Chargeable: The Hotel Terme San Filippo with thermal pools is closed for renovation; a reopening date is not known (as of 2026).
- Parking: Paid parking spaces on Via Fosso Bianco
Fosso Bianco and Balena Bianca
From the village, a short forest path (about a 10-minute walk) leads down to the Fosso Bianco. Here, the calcium-rich water has created white sinter formations and small pools over centuries. The closer to the springs, the hotter the water; further downstream, it mixes with the stream and becomes pleasantly lukewarm. So everyone can find their preferred temperature.
Local rules
- Do not climb the Balena Bianca – the limestone formation is fragile.
- Do not use soap or shampoo, do not leave any trash behind, do not light any fires.
- Keep dogs on a leash.
- Access is not permitted at night.
Visitor tips
- In summer and on weekends the pools are already full by mid-morning – come early or use autumn and winter when the water is steaming.
- Bathing shoes, towel and Drinking water Bring along; the path can be wet and slippery.
- Wear old swimwear: Sulfur water smells and can discolor fabric and silver jewelry.
- Leave valuables in the car – there are no lockers.
Arrival and surroundings
Bagni San Filippo is located on the Via Cassia (SR2) in the south of the province of Siena, near the border with the province of Grosseto . It is about a 20-minute drive from Bagno Vignoni and about half an hour from Pienza . The town is practically impossible to reach without a car.
A visit can easily be combined with a trip to the thermal village of Bagno Vignoni, Pienza, or a hike on Monte Amiata . Our overview of thermal baths in Tuscany presents other free springs such as Saturnia (Cascate del Mulino) and Petriolo , as well as thermal baths that charge admission.
Tours & Accommodation
Excursions to the Val d'Orcia, including wine tastings, can be found at GetYourGuide (Val d'Orcia) . Accommodation in the town and surrounding area is available at Booking.com (Bagni San Filippo).
Find accommodation in Bagni San Filippo
Frequently asked questions about Bagni San Filippo
Is Bagni San Filippo free?
Yes. The thermal pools at Fosso Bianco are free and accessible without a reservation. Only parking is subject to a fee.
How warm is the water in Bagni San Filippo?
At the source, the temperature reaches about 48 °C. In the pools, it is significantly cooler depending on the distance from the source, and further down it is only lukewarm.
How far is it from the parking lot to Balena Bianca?
From the village or the parking lots on Via Fosso Bianco it is about a 10-minute walk along a forest path.
Is the thermal hotel in Bagni San Filippo open?
No, the Hotel Terme San Filippo is closed for extensive renovations. A reopening date is not yet known (as of 2026).
Is it allowed to climb the Balena Bianca?
No. The limestone formation is fragile and should not be walked on. Please also refrain from using soap and leaving no trash behind.
