$377 Rent in a Historic Italian Town

Viterbo
In Viterbo, ancient streets buzz with student life and Tuscan-style energy.|©iStock/Photo Beto

Whether your preference is for deep history, youthful energy, hearty food, or a slower lifestyle just outside the city—Viterbo offers it all.

Set in the Lazio region of Italy and just 90 minutes from both Rieti and Rome, this capital of its province blends ancient roots with modern charm. With a population of more than 67,000, Viterbo may surprise you—it's vibrant, walkable, and alive with students, history, and a strong sense of place.

Ancient City, Youthful Pulse

Viterbo's roots go deep—originally founded by the Etruscans between the 8th and 3rd centuries BC. Much of that early culture was absorbed by the Romans, but the architectural influence lingers. In fact, the famed Roman Arch has its origins in Etruscan design.

Despite its age, Viterbo feels young. The city hosts the Tuscia University, with nearly 10,000 students enrolled in agricultural, pharmaceutical, and renewable energy programs. Founded in 1979, the university lends the city a lively and progressive air.

This unusual mix—a youthful population walking through streets framed by Roman and medieval walls—makes Viterbo both unique and endearing.

Living in and Around Viterbo

Living in and Around Viterbo
©iStock/Photo Beto

Rental prices in Viterbo's historic center vary widely. A small apartment can go for as little as $377 per month, while a spacious, 2,000 sq. ft. flat might run as high as $1,562. One luxury option, for $3,235, includes three baths, two bedrooms, a billiard room, a study, a library, and an open kitchen with a fireplace—ideal for those who love to entertain.

But you don't need to live in the heart of the city to enjoy the region. Surrounding towns offer peaceful alternatives at even lower costs. Fifteen minutes south in San Martino al Cimino, you can rent a furnished 1,291 sq. ft. apartment for just $600 a month. Or consider Monterazzano, where you'll find a semi-furnished two-bedroom farmhouse with a garden and panoramic views for $808 per month.

There's even a rental agency in town, something not found elsewhere outside larger cities.

And English is surprisingly common here—a welcome detail for many newcomers.

Prefer to buy? Options abound. You can find a fixer-upper near Lake Bolsena for $192,000: 1,700 sq. ft., four bedrooms, lake views, a large garage, balconies, and a garden. Or downsize to a rustic 650 sq. ft. farmhouse—furnished, with a fireplace, garden, and lake view—for just $72,200.

A Cuisine Worth Traveling For

Local cuisine in Viterbo Province starts with Acquacotta, a rustic stew of bread, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, chicory, wild mint, and olive oil. Near Lake Bolsena, the dish—called Sbroscia—adds lake fish. The area's go-to white wine is Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone, often paired with appetizers and fish.

For a full meal, visit Il Labirinto in Viterbo's old city. The menu includes bruschetta, grilled vegetables, sausage and polenta, arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), seafood fettuccine, and salads—all paired with a deep red Primitivo. At $40 per person, the food and atmosphere are well worth it.

A City of Layers

Viterbo's architectural story is rare: an Etruscan wall beside a Roman one, surrounded by medieval fortifications. It was even home to five Popes between 1257 and 1281, who moved here during unrest in Rome.

History, food, university life, and access to peaceful nearby towns make Viterbo an ideal place to visit—or stay. Whether you're after lively city living or the quiet countryside with just a short drive to town, Viterbo has a place for you.

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