Tuscany thermal baths: Grotta Giusti
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The Grotta Giusti in Monsummano Terme is one of Tuscany's most unusual thermal baths: a 200-meter-long stalactite cave with warm steam and an underground thermal lake . It is now part of the Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort, but is also accessible to day visitors via day spa packages. Nothing here is free.
Grotta Giusti at a glance
- Location: Via della Grotta Giusti 1411, 51015 Monsummano Terme, Province Pistoia
- Water and temperature: In the grotto: 28–34 °C, underground lake: approx. 36 °C, outdoor thermal pool: approx. 34 °C
- Chargeable: e.g. Day Spa “Thermarium” with thermal pool, sauna area and 50 minutes steam bath in the grotto for €120 including bathrobe and towel (as of 2026)
- Öffnungszeiten Day Spa: täglich 10–19 Uhr, Reservierung empfohlen (Stand 2026)
- Website: terme.grottagiustispa.com, phone +39 0572 90771
The thermal grotto
The cave was discovered in 1849 during quarrying operations on the Giusti family's property. Giuseppe Verdi is said to have called it the "eighth wonder of the world." The grotto is divided into three sections: Paradise, Purgatory, and Hell. At the very bottom lies the thermal lake "Limbo," with a temperature of around 36°C. The warm, humid steam creates a natural steam bath effect.
Thermal pools and day spa
In addition to the grotto, there is a large outdoor thermal pool with water heated to approximately 34°C, as well as a wellness area with a bio-aqua pool, steam room, sauna, and ice fountain. Day spa packages vary in scope – from the thermal baths with a relaxation area to a full program including the grotto and treatments. Prices and packages can be found on the official website.
Location and arrival
Monsummano Terme is located in the Valdinievole valley between Florence and Lucca, just a few kilometers from Montecatini Terme. You can reach the Grotta Giusti by car via the A11 Florence-Sea motorway (Montecatini Terme exit). The nearest train station is Montecatini Terme; from there, you can take a taxi.
Visiting tips and surroundings
- Book your day spa in advance if possible, especially on weekends.
- You should be healthy to use the steam bath in the grotto – if you have cardiovascular problems, consult a doctor beforehand.
- Easily combined with a stroll through Montecatini Terme and a ride on the funicular railway to Montecatini Alto.
Information about the historic spa buildings in the neighboring town can be found on our page about the Montecatini thermal baths . All thermal baths in the region, including the free ones, can be found in the overview of thermal baths in Tuscany.
Find accommodation
Hotels in Monsummano Terme and the surrounding area can be found at Booking.com (Monsummano Terme) ; a wider selection is available in the neighboring town of Montecatini Terme.
Find accommodation in Monsummano Terme
Frequently asked questions about Grotta Giusti
Is it possible to visit the Grotta Giusti without staying overnight?
Yes. Day guests can book a day spa package. Reservations are recommended.
How much does a day at the Grotta Giusti cost?
The Thermarium day spa package, including thermal pool, sauna area and 50 minutes in the grotto, costs €2026 in 120 according to the website. Other packages cost more or less, depending on the scope.
How warm is it in the Grotta Giusti?
Depending on the area, the temperature in the grotto ranges from 28 to 34 °C, the underground thermal lake is around 36 °C, and the outdoor pool is about 34 °C.
Where is the Grotta Giusti located?
In Monsummano Terme in the province of Pistoia, just a few kilometers from Montecatini Terme, near the A11 motorway.
