Is the Borghese Garden free to enter?

Yes, the park itself is a public space and is free to enter. You can enjoy the walking paths, the Pincio Terrace, and the exterior of the temples without a ticket. However, museums like the Galleria Borghese require paid entry.

What is the best time to visit the Borghese Gardens?

Late afternoon is the best time, especially for the Pincio Terrace which offers one of Rome's most famous sunset views. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends when locals flock to the park for picnics.

Can I visit the Galleria Borghese without a reservation?

No, it is almost impossible to visit the Galleria Borghese without a pre-booked ticket. Tickets often sell out two to three weeks in advance, so it is essential to plan ahead if you wish to see the art collection.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Absolutely, the Borghese Gardens are very family-friendly. There are wide open spaces for kids to run, a small cinema for children (Cinema dei Piccoli), and the Bioparco (zoo) located within the park grounds.

Is the park accessible for those with mobility issues?

Yes, the main paths are paved and relatively flat. While there are some slight slopes, most of the park is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The Pincio Terrace can be reached via a lift from the Metro Spagna area.

Where can I find food or water along the route?

There are several small cafes near the Pincio and Galleria Borghese. Additionally, you will find many 'Nasoni' drinking fountains throughout the park where you can refill your water bottle for free with cold Roman water.

What is the closest Metro station to the start of the walk?

The closest station is Spagna (Metro Line A). From the station, you can take the lift or climb the Spanish Steps to reach the Pincian Hill where the walk begins at Villa Medici.

Can you rent bikes in the Borghese Gardens?

Yes, there are several rental points throughout the park where you can rent bicycles, tandem bikes, and four-wheeled 'surrey' bikes. This is a popular way to see the larger park area more quickly.

What is the Temple of Aesculapius?

It is an 18th-century neoclassical temple built on a small island in the park's lake. It was designed to look like an ancient ruin and is one of the most photographed spots in the gardens.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the rhythmic bustle of the Eternal City and step into the 'Green Heart of Rome' with this self-guided walk through the Borghese Gardens. Spanning nearly 200 acres, this historic park offers a refreshing sanctuary where Renaissance elegance meets the wild beauty of nature. Originally the private vineyard of Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the 17th century, the estate was transformed into a landscape garden that blends formal Italian styles with the romantic, rolling lawns of the English tradition. This walking route invites you to explore the park's most iconic landmarks, from the majestic Villa Medici to the panoramic heights of the Pincio terrace. As you follow the path, you will encounter hidden temples, wide avenues lined with ancient umbrella pines, and the world-renowned Galleria Borghese, home to masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat, a scenic photography spot, or a deep dive into Roman art history, this neighborhood stroll provides the perfect balance. You can admire the neoclassical architecture of Piazza di Siena or watch the rowboats drift by the Temple of Aesculapius. This self-guided adventure allows you to set your own pace, stopping to soak in the views of Piazza del Popolo or resting under the shade of centuries-old trees. For those seeking a break from the stone and marble of the city center, this walking tour Rome offers a breath of fresh air and a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Roman aristocracy. While the park is free to explore, it remains one of the most culturally rich areas of the city, housing several museums and a historic zoo. Discover why Villa Borghese has remained a favorite destination for locals and travelers alike for centuries.

Highlights

Panoramic views over Piazza del Popolo from the Pincio Terrace

The picturesque lakeside Temple of Aesculapius

The grand equestrian arena of Piazza di Siena

Renaissance architecture and gardens at Villa Medici

World-renowned masterpieces at the Galleria Borghese

Serene walking paths lined with iconic Roman pine trees

Tour Stops (6)

Villa Medici

Begin your self-guided walk at the Villa Medici, a stunning example of Mannerist architecture perched on the Pincian Hill. Originally built for Cardinal Ricci in the mid-16th century, it was later acquired by the powerful Medici family. Since 1803, it has housed the French Academy in Rome, serving as a prestigious retreat for artists and scholars. Look closely at the garden facade to see the intricate ancient Roman bas-reliefs embedded in the walls. The villa is famous for its lush gardens and its role in cultural exchange. While the interior is often reserved for residents, the exterior and the surrounding atmosphere set a regal tone for your exploration of the park.

Passeggiata del Pincio

Walk toward the Pincio Terrace, one of the most beloved viewpoints in all of Rome. This promenade was designed in the early 19th century by Giuseppe Valadier, the same architect who redesigned Piazza del Popolo below. From this height, you can see the grand obelisk of the piazza, the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in the distance, and the winding rooftops of the historic center. The terrace is lined with busts of famous Italians, creating a 'hall of fame' in the open air. It is a quintessential spot for photographers and a favorite place for locals to enjoy a sunset stroll away from the traffic.

Temple of Aesculapius

Continue into the heart of the gardens to find the Lake Garden, or 'Giardino del Lago.' The centerpiece here is the Temple of Aesculapius, a neoclassical structure dedicated to the Greek god of medicine. Built in the late 18th century, it was designed to look like an ancient ruin reflected in the calm waters of the man-made lake. You can often see people renting small rowboats to get a closer look at the temple’s ionic columns. This area exemplifies the English landscape style that became popular in Italy, emphasizing romanticism and the beauty of seemingly wild, yet carefully curated, nature.

Piazza di Siena

Make your way to Piazza di Siena, a large oval arena named after the home city of the Borghese family. Modeled after the Piazza del Campo in Siena, this space has been the site of prestigious equestrian events since the 1920s. Surrounded by towering umbrella pines and cypress trees, the piazza feels like an ancient Roman circus. Even when there are no horse shows taking place, it is a magnificent open space that highlights the scale of the Cardinal's former estate. It serves as a natural amphitheater and a perfect spot to appreciate the park's blend of sports, history, and landscaping.

Bioparco di Roma

As you head toward the northern edge of the park, you will pass the entrance to the Bioparco di Roma. Established in 1911 as the Rome Zoo, it is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Europe. Unlike traditional zoos of that era, it was originally designed without bars, using moats and natural barriers to house animals. Today, it has transitioned into a 'Bio-park' focused on conservation, education, and the protection of endangered species. The entrance itself is a work of art, featuring grand sculptures of lions and elephants, marking a transition from the formal gardens to a more family-oriented section of the park.

Galleria Borghese

Conclude your walking route at the magnificent Galleria Borghese. This building was specifically designed by Cardinal Scipione Borghese to showcase his incredible collection of antiquities and modern art. Inside, the gallery houses some of the most famous sculptures in the world, including Bernini's 'Apollo and Daphne' and 'The Rape of Proserpina,' as well as significant works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. The architecture of the villa itself is as much a masterpiece as the art within it. Note that entry requires a pre-booked ticket, but even from the outside, the villa stands as a monument to the peak of the Roman Baroque era and the legacy of the Borghese family.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard walk takes about 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to stop at the Pincio viewpoint, the lake, and the exterior of the major villas. If you plan to visit the museums, you should add at least two hours per museum.