What You Need to Know: Useful Information
Lake Bolsena is located in the province of Viterbo. Located about 305 meters above sea level, it is the largest volcanic lake in Europe and a captivating natural destination in the Lazio region. One of the most interesting aspects of Lake Bolsena are its two islands: Isola Bisentina and Isola Martana, which emerge from the waters as true natural and historical gems. Isola Bisentina, the largest island, features lush nature, small ancient villages, and historic buildings, including a charming church and an ancient convent. The smaller Martana Island has an even more intimate and wild atmosphere, ideal for those who love unspoiled nature and moments of tranquility away from the crowds. A boat trip on Lake Bolsena is an experience much appreciated by visitors, letting you enjoy stunning views and discover hidden spots. These boat trips offer easy access to the islands of Bisentina and Martana, where you can stroll along paths surrounded by nature, visit historical sites, and enjoy the peace of the lake.
Getting There
By train
While Lake Bolsena does not have its own train station, you can take a regional Trenitalia train directly to Viterbo Porta Fiorentina railway station or Orvieto railway station. From either of these stations, you can catch direct local COTRAL connection buses that run straight to the lakeside towns of Bolsena or Marta.
By car
Driving is highly recommended to explore the entire perimeter of the lake at your own pace. From Rome or Florence, take the A1 highway (Autostrada del Sole), exit at Orvieto, and follow the scenic SR2 Via Cassia or the SP12 directly down to the lake.
By bus
For regional transit travelers, COTRAL regional buses operate regular daily routes linking the city center of Viterbo and the train station at Orvieto directly to the main lakeside ports of Bolsena, Marta, and Capodimonte.
Below you'll find the location marked on Google Maps. Click on it to open the location directly on your device's maps.
Useful Contacts
- Ufficio Informazioni Turistiche Bolsena (Bolsena Tourist Hub): +39 0761 799923 | [email protected]
What to Bring & Pro Tips:
- Because a boat trip on Lake Bolsena is the absolute best way to experience the area, head to the docks in Bolsena or Capodimonte early in the morning to check seasonal navigation schedules and secure your excursion tickets.
- Since your trip will give you easy access to the islands of Bisentina and Martana, make sure to wear sturdy, flat walking shoes so you can comfortably stroll along paths surrounded by nature and explore the rocky terrain.
- The open water can get surprisingly breezy even on warm summer days, so packing a light windbreaker or sweater is highly recommended for the boat ride.
- Bring your swimsuit, water shoes for the volcanic black-pebble shores, and a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the historic buildings and lush island landscapes.
The “Hidden Gem”
Once you have finished sailing around the twin islands and stepped back onto the mainland, leave the beach cafes behind to explore the majestic Rocca Monaldeschi della Cervara in the historic center of Bolsena.
Instead of looking at standard modern waterfronts, head up into the medieval quarter to find this towering 13th-century stone fortress built by the lords of Orvieto. The castle features massive defensive towers and walking along its high ramparts rewards you with an incredible, elevated view looking out across the entire volcanic basin. Inside, the fortress houses the fascinating Territorial Museum of Lake Bolsena, which features massive walk-in aquariums showcasing the lake's native biology, alongside ancient Etruscan and Roman artifacts pulled directly from the underwater depths. Walking through this quiet stone fortress offers a wonderfully panoramic and educational break from the shoreline, revealing the deep geological and human history of the water below.
