Visit Villa Borghese Gardens: Organize Your Day to Avoid Getting Lost

Planning to visit Villa Borghese Gardens? Great! You're at the right place.

The Rome Villa Borghese Gardens is more than just a public park. It’s filled with attractions dotted over 80 hectares on Rome’s Pincian Hill.

The most-visited attraction is the Borghese Gallery, but there are many more museums and even cinemas and a zoo within the park’s borders.

With many different paths and even streets crisscrossing the park, it’s easy to get lost when you visit Borghese Gardens. That’s why it’s important to be armed with either a physical or digital map.

Studying your Borghese Gardens map before setting out will also help a great deal to orientate yourself.

How to Visit the Villa Borghese Gardens: Our Top Tips

Book Borghese Gallery Tickets in Advance

The Borghese Gallery is one of the most impressive attractions in the park, but you’ll need to book tickets in advance.

There’s a limit of 360 people allowed in the gallery, and you need to choose an entrance time in advance. So booking beforehand will mean you’ll skip the line and avoid disappointment.

Consider a Guided Tour of the Gardens

The gardens can take a long time to walk around, so if you want to make the most of your day, it’s worth joining a guided tour.

A tour guide will be able to take you to all the best attractions, and fill you in on the history of the gardens too.

Most guided tours of the Villa Borghese will include skip the line entrance to the Borghese Gallery. Book your tour here!

Consider Bike Rental Villa Borghese Rome

Visiting Villa Borghese by bike is an excellent way to cover more ground and enjoy the park. Several bike rental options are available within and near the gardens.

Ascol Bike and Bici Pincio, for example, offer bike rentals inside the Villa Borghese park. You’ll have the choice between different bike types: classic bikes, tandems, electric bikes… If you prefer a guided bike tour, I can only recommend the Rome Bike Tour with its e-bike tours of the gardens.

It’s true, Rome isn’t that easy to visit by bike because of its traffic, but Villa Borghese's paths really are ideal for cycling. Also, some rental services may have mixed reviews, so I’d recommend you to thoroughly inspect the bike before renting.

Top Bike Tours You Can Book Today

Ready to pedal through the Villa Borghese? I found several exciting bike tours!

• For families: the Villa Borghese Family Tour offers a 3-hour e-bike adventure and was specifically designed for adults and kids.
• If you're looking to cover more ground, try the e-bike tour of Villa Borghese, Villa Ada and the Coppedè district. It’s a great way to combine nature and architecture.
• Want a more intimate experience? Then book a private e-bike tour of Villa Borghese with an optional picnic. The perfect option if you want to customize your journey through the area.

Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes

There’s going to be a lot of walking when you visit the Borghese Gardens, so make sure you dress sensibly. Avoid high heels and uncomfortable shoes, as there’s some uneven pathways.

Bring a Picnic

The Villa Borghese is one of the best picnic destinations in Rome.

If it’s a nice day, bring a picnic, and you can have lunch in the gardens, with buskers playing music in the background. You could also choose to have lunch in one of the cafes around the park.

Villa Borghese Gardens Hours

The Villa Borghese Gardens are open every day of the week, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore this stunning park. The Villa Borghese park typically open at sunrise and close at sunset, making it an ideal location for a morning stroll or an evening walk.

While the park itself is open to the public at all hours, some attractions within the gardens, such as the Borghese Gallery, have specific opening hours. Be sure to check in advance for the exact hours of the galleries, museums, and other facilities you may want to visit.

For a full experience, we recommend visiting Villa Borghese Gardens Rome during daylight hours to enjoy the beauty of the park's sculptures, lakes, and expansive greenery.

Borghese Gardens Map

How to Get to the Parc Borghese?

If you’re traveling from within the city centre, you can take bus 910 from Termini station. Then you’ll just need to get off at the fifth stop: Pinciana/Museo Borghese.

You can view the bus route here.

If you’re worried about finding the right bus and getting off at the right stop, don’t hesitate to ask the driver or other tourists. Rome’s a friendly city, and anyone will gladly help you find out how to visit the Rome Villa Borghese Gardens.

Getting to the Villa Borghese by Metro

There’s no metro station near the gardens, but if you want to mix and match public transport methods, you can take both the bus and metro.

The closest metro station to the Villa Borghese is Barberini station. From there you can take bus 61 and get off at S. Paulo del Brasile.

Traveling by Bus

This is very good news if you want to make the most of your trip: Rome has an extensive bus network so it’s super easy to reach Villa Borghese from various parts of the city.

If you're coming from the Colosseum, take bus 85 or 87 to Termini station, then switch to bus 910 and get off at Pinciana/Museo Borghese.

From the city center, buses 490, 495, 89, 160, and 61 stop at “Fiorello/La Guardia” and “San Paolo del Brasile,” both close to the park.

For direct access to the Borghese Gallery, look for buses 223, 910, 53, 63, 83, 92, or 360, which stop at “Via Pinciana / Borghese Gallery.”

If you’re scared to get lost, I also have another great option for you: the Borghese Gallery + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour ticket from Tiqets (check the price here) or the Borghese Gallery Tickets + Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour from Headout. The combo will save you 10%! One last option is the Panoramic Hop-on Hop-off bus tour by GetYourGuide that also passes by Villa Borghese.

What to Expect When You Visit Borghese Gardens?

Villa Borghese is the 3rd largest public park in Rome. There are 9 entrances and hundreds of paths leading to over 90 attractions, big and small. You’ll also find other must-visit places, like the Piazza del Popolo and Spanish Steps close to the border of the Borghese Gardens.

Most people head straight for the Borghese Gallery which is very well signposted. But getting to other Borghese attractions can be confusing. For example, how will you get from the gallery to the Bioparco zoological gardens or the National Gallery of Modern Art? And where are the beautiful garden features such as the Temple of Asclepius and the Piazza di Siena?

The Importance of Planning Your Borghese Gardens Visit

You don’t want to walk from one point of the Borghese Gardens to the other just to realise you missed something close to where you started. You’ll also want to know where you can stop for refreshments or a bathroom break. And what the Villa Borghese Gardens Hours are to make sure you have enough time to fit everything in.

The Villa Borghese Garden paths are well maintained and easy to walk on. There are also maps and signs at strategic points in the park to confirm you’re heading in the right direction. Sometimes they’ll also inspire you to deviate from your pre-planned route.

Quick Tips to Walk Around Borghese Gardens Without Getting Lost

1. Do your research before leaving home by studying a Borghese Gardens map online and deciding what you would like to do and see in Borghese Gallery and Gardens.
2. Print the map to take along. If you prefer a digital map, make sure you can access one on your mobile phone by either downloading or bookmarking one.
3. If you prefer a physical Borghese Gardens map and don’t have time to print one at home, there maps for sale outside most of the entrances.
4. Decide where you want to enter and exit the Villa Borghese Gardens on the day of your visit.
5. Check the Villa Borghese Gardens hours when planning your visit. Generally, the gates open at dawn and close at dusk.
6. Find a landmark which you can return to when you get lost.

Top Attractions & Points of Interest to See in Villa Borghese Gardens

There’s so much to see in the Borghese Gardens, so it’s worth taking a look at the points of interest before you go.

Work out what you want to see so you can plan how long to spend exploring.

Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery is a top attraction not just in the Borghese Gardens, but in the whole of Rome.

It’s one of the most impressive art galleries in the world, with artworks dating back to Ancient Roman times.

It also holds the world’s largest collection of Bernini works.

You can visit this amazing place from 9am to 7pm, any day apart from Mondays. The gallery doesn’t open on Mondays.

You’ll need to book tickets in advance if you want to go inside the gallery, as you’ll need to book a certain slot for entrance.

Villa Borghese Zoo / Bioparco di Roma

The Bioparco di Roma is a zoo that houses many different species, from big cats, to meerkats, to reptiles, to hippos. It’s a great attraction for the whole family, no matter what age you are!

You can visit the zoo anytime between 9:30 am and 5 pm, but last admission is at 4 pm. You should allow around 2-3 hours if you want to see it all.

Pincio’s Water Clock

This water clock dates back to 1867, but it really is a timeless attraction.

The clock still works, powered by water from the fountain, and stands tall in a corner of the gardens. It’s a peaceful spot, and it can make for some good pictures.

The Globe Theatre

Italy’s version of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre resembles the London theatre almost exactly. You can take a stroll by the theatre and admire it from the outside, or you can throw yourself back in time and watch a Shakespeare play.

Most of the plays will be in Italian, but they occasionally have English showings. You can check what’s on at the Globe Theatre here.

Temple of Asclepius

The original ancient temple of Asclepius was destroyed a long time ago, but this replica was built in 1786. It sits on the middle of an island on the gardens’ artificial lake.

It’s a picturesque spot to admire and take photos of from afar, or you can rent a row boat and paddle out to the temple.

Terrazza Viale del Belvedere

The Terrazza Viale del Belvedere displays one of Rome's most breathtaking panoramic views.

Located at the edge of Villa Borghese, the terrace overlooks Piazza del Popolo and provides a stunning view on the city's skyline: St. Peter's Basilica, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument and countless Roman rooftops. It's my favorite spot to take photos.

Temple of Diana

The Temple of Diana is an 18th-century neoclassical structure.

Dedicated to the Roman goddess of the hunt, this small temple features several columns and a domed roof. It’s also surrounded by lush greenery and it’s the perfect spot to escape the city’s animation for a while.

Fountain of the Seahorses

Also called the Fontana dei Cavalli Marini, this beautiful fountain was created in the early 20th century.

It showcases four seahorses emerging from the water with their tails intertwined, all of that complemented by water jets. It's a great spot to pause, enjoy the cool mist and appreciate the stone carvings.

Temple of Aesculapius

The Temple of Aesculapius is a stunning Ionic-style temple overlooking the garden's artificial lake.

Built in 1786, it's dedicated to the Greek god of medicine and healing. It is one of the most photographed spots in Villa Borghese. Plus you also have the option to rent rowboats to get a closer view!

Tempio di Antonino e Faustina

Located in Villa Borghese, this temple is a replica of the ancient Roman temple found in the Forum. It features massive columns and a triangular pediment.

Surrounded by trees and plants, it provides a very relaxed spot to just contemplate or take some photos. It’s also a popular spot for picnics!

Casina Valadier

Many restaurants surround Villa Borghese, but none have a history as rich as this elegant venue.

Atop the Pincian Hill, Casina Valadier was designed by Giuseppe Valadier between 1816 and 1837. This amazing villa offers breathtaking views of Rome's skyline.

Originally a café frequented by artists and politicians, it reopened in 2004 after extensive renovations. Today, it houses a wine bar, a restaurant and a panoramic terrace.

Monument to King Umberto I

The Monument to King Umberto I commemorates Italy's second king who was assassinated in 1900.

Designed by sculptor Davide Calandra and completed by Edoardo Rubino, it was unveiled in 1926. It features a bronze equestrian statue of Umberto I atop a marble pedestal, with allegorical figures representing Italy and other virtues.

Pincio Terrace Obelisk

The Pincio Terrace obelisk stands 9.24 meters tall (17.26 meters including its pedestal). Created by Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, it bears inscriptions honoring his wife Sabina.

After being moved several times throughout history, Pope Pius VII had it erected at its current location in the Pincian Hill's Gardens in 1822.

Museum Carlo Bilotti

Located in the Aranciera (Orangery) of Villa Borghese, the Carlo Bilotti Museum is a free contemporary art museum.

It houses an impressive collection with works by Giorgio de Chirico, Andy Warhol and Larry Rivers. There you’ll enjoy permanent exhibitions as well as temporary events.

Arco Romano – Arco di Settimio Severo

A replica of the famous Roman triumphal arch. Created in 1827 by Luigi Canina, the Arco was inspired by the original Arch of Titus in the Roman Forum.

It serves as a decorative gateway connecting different areas of the park. The arch features a statue of Emperor Septimius Severus on its summit.

A Typical Day When You Visit Borghese Gardens

With the diverse points of interest in Villa Borghese Park, there are many possible itineraries for a day in the park. What’s great is that you can customize your visit to suit your needs.

Those who aren’t confident enough to do their own thing, can choose one of the Villa Borghese Tours that appeals most to them. There are bicycle tours, walking tours, Segway tours and even garden picnics. Or you could opt for a tour of the Borghese Gallery including the garden highlights.

Visit Borghese Gardens: a one-hour walking tour

However, if you do want to explore on your own, here is a short  basic route to follow. Simply walking this route will take around one hour. Spending time at attractions or deviating from the route will of course add more time to it.

1st step

• Start at the Porta Pinciana entrance to the Villa Borghese Gardens. It’s easily reached from the Spanish Steps. This is a busy entrance where you can also rent bicycles.
• Walk straight until you reach the Cinema dei Piccoli (the smallest of its kind in the world) just a short distance from Porta Pinciana.

2nd step

• Now turn back to Porta Pinciana and look for the sign showing the way to the Borghese Gallery. It’s almost impossible to get lost on the way there along a wide, well signposted path.
• From the Borghese Gallery (whether you visited or not), turn left and continue straight until you reach a public road at the Bioparco Zoological Gardens. The Borghese Gallery gardens will be on your right after turning. If you’re not in the mood to walk everywhere, this is also where you can catch the tourist train shuttle or small electric public bus.
• Walk left along the public road. You’ll soon pass the zoo’s main entrance on your right. Keep going until you find an unpaved path on your left which joins another dirt path taking you back into the Borghese Gardens.

3rd step

• Look for the tram lines (no 3 and 19) and follow them along the adjacent main path in the direction of the National Gallery of Modern Art (book your ticket online here).
• Keep your eyes open for the lake with the Temple of Asclepius on the island in the middle. It will be on your left. Veer off the main path anywhere you like to reach the lake. Now is the time to rent a boat and row to the island for a nice break in your walk.

Last step to your Borghese Gardens visit

• Get onto Via del Lago which goes around the lake and follow it where it branches off toward the Viale Pietro Canonica. Turn right here.
• Although this path changes names a few times, you can just carry on straight with it until you come out above the Piazza del Popolo. The viewing platform on the piazza is the perfect place to end your walk, even more so when it coincides with sunset. You’ll have great views over Rome’s rooftops from here. Just be careful to keep the Villa Borghese Gardens hours in mind to avoid getting trapped inside for the night.

How to Visit the Villa Borghese Gardens with Kids

For kids, gardens aren’t always that excited, but there’s plenty to do in the Villa Borghese to keep them entertained.

The zoo is a popular attraction for families with children, as there’s plenty to see. There’s also a play park where they can unleash their energy.

There’s also the Casina di Raffaello which is a play centre for children aged between 3 and 10. Kids can take part in activities and workshops, or browse the children’s library.

Beyond the zoo and the Casina di Raffaello, there are numerous attractions to keep your little ones entertained. One of the highlights is the carousels, located along Viale dei Bambini and near Porta Pinciana. These rides are open in the afternoons and provide a classic and unmissable amusement experience that kids will for sure adore.

Looking to explore more of the park? I can only advise you to rent a family bike or a pedal go-kart. The park features wide and paved paths absolutely delightful for cycling. They’re also a great way for families to cover more ground. Rentals are available at the Pincio Terrace and Porta Pinciana entrance.

Another fun activity is the boat trip on the lake. You indeed have the option to rent a small rowing boat for kids to enjoy the water, feed ducks and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Also, don’t miss the San Carlino Puppet Theater. You children will love the entertaining puppet shows. Located near the water clock, this theater isn’t much frequented by tourists so it’s a great way for families to immerse in local culture.

One last piece of advice: Take advantage of the playgrounds scattered throughout Villa Borghese. The playground near Casa del Cinema is my favorite one with its climbing frames and swings for kids to burn off energy!

Villa Borghese Gardens History

Before setting off on your visit to the Borghese Gardens, you might want to know a little bit about the Villa’s history.

The gardens date back to the 16th century, when they began as a small vineyard, belonging to the Borghese family. As the years went by, the Borghese family acquired more and more land, until eventually they had 80 acres of gardens.

Cardinal Scipione Borghese later decided to commission the building we now know as the Borghese Gallery as his private home. He wanted somewhere impressive enough to stand out, and somewhere large enough to house the Borghese family art collection.

But as well as building his private home, he also transformed the land into beautiful gardens. And to further impress his guests, Scipione Borghese had peacocks and ostriches who roamed the gardens.

Villa Borghese Gardens Photos

Want to know what the Villa Borghese Gardens really look like?

Check out these Villa Borghese Gardens photos I took during my visit and get a feel for the stunning sights that await you!

Where Can I Sleep near Villa Borghese Gardens?

Here’s my selection of hotels for a comfortable stay near Villa Borghese Gardens:

• 🛏️ The Shire Hotel: an elegant 3-star hotel just steps away from the gardens. It offers a continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for mid-range budgets, it's perfect if your priority is to stay very close to Villa Borghese.
• 🛏️ DolceVeneto: a cozy and affordable guesthouse about 700 meters from Villa Borghese. Recently renovated, it provides great value with many amenities: air conditioning, complimentary wine or champagne, etc. Suitable if you’re on a budget and seek some comfort.
• 🛏️ Operà Suites Pinciana: located a 5-minute walk from Villa Borghese. This one is an upscale option that features air-conditioned rooms and a shared terrace. It's pricier but it comes with a prime location near major attractions.

Where Can I Eat in Villa Borghese Gardens?

No matter your tastes and budgets, here are some of my favorite dining options in or near Villa Borghese Gardens:

• 👨‍🍳 Casina Valadier: an elegant restaurant located within the park with panoramic views of Rome. It's known for its fine dining experience and is ideal for special occasions. I must admit it’s on the pricier side, but it provides an unforgettable culinary experience in a historic setting.
• 👨‍🍳 Caffè delle Arti: located near Villa Borghese, this stylish café-restaurant boasts a fresh and seasonal menu and an extensive natural wine list. One of my favorite spots for lunch or dinner. As for the prices, they’re between moderate and high.
• 👨‍🍳 Terrazza Borghese: located just outside the park, this rooftop restaurant provides stunning views of Villa Borghese. It offers creative interpretations of classic Roman dishes in an upscale setting. Prices are on the higher end, but believe me, the experience justifies the cost.
• 🥪 Park Kiosks: a great budget-friendly option. You’ll find numerous small kiosks throughout the park to grab some snacks, drinks and light meals.

FAQs

Conclusion

No matter what your interests are, you’ll find something that appeals to you when you visit Borghese Gardens.

Armed with a map after doing prior research, there is no reason to get lost in this vast park with its many attractions.

Just remember to make sure about the Villa Borghese Gardens Hours for the time of year you’re visiting.