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Things to Do in Villa Borghese

Updated: March 1, 2024
 By Justin

This is an extensive guide of things to do in the wonderful park and we include details about some of the most significant and popular locales in the park.


Overview

Villa Borghese, designed by architect Flaminio Ponzio, is a big enough park that it probably won’t get too crowded.

Most of the crowds are centralized around the popular attractions in the area, so it all depends on what you plan to do while you’re here.

If you’re just interested in walking around and enjoying the natural beauty, you probably won’t run into a lot of foot traffic along the way.

Most people spend about 2 hours at Villa Borghese, but there’s enough to do here that some visitors might want to stay for either half a day or a full day.

You can enjoy a picnic in Villa Borghese, as eating in the park is allowed. There are also cafes where you can grab a bite.

If you’re interested in visiting more than one attraction in the park, we recommend setting aside at least 5-6 hours for this activity.

The park is free to visit, so you can explore without worrying about an entry fee.


Park Timing:

Tuesday to Sunday, the timing is from Dawn to Dusk, 09:00–19:00 (admission every two hours).

Mondays, Christmas Day (December 25th), and New Year's Day (January 1st) are closed.

A lot of people come here just to relax, but others enjoy biking and other fun physical activities.

Many visitors use Porta Pinciana as a starting point for their adventures in the park.

There are bike rental services and bike tours available throughout Rome, and you can read more about these opportunities on our post covering the best Rome bike tours.

Our tour will start at the entrance near Piazza del Popolo with details about Terrazza del Pincio and the Pincio Promenade. 

The tour will weave around the park, starting on the northern end, but coming back south toward the Borghese Gallery and then north again to Bioparco di Roma.

Most of the sites we will cover are in Villa Borghese, but we will also provide information about a few museums that are just outside of the park.


Self-Guided Tour of Villa Borghese

This tour will provide basic information about some of the most interesting things to see and do while you’re in Villa Borghese.

For even more details, we recommend taking a professionally guided tour or an audio tour as well.


1. Villa Medici

Also known as the French Academy in Rome, Villa Medici is a historic building which now features various collections of artwork from the past 300+ years. 

In addition to several notable paintings, tapestries, sketches and more, they also provide limited events and exhibitions which focus on specific subjects. 

Unfortunately, the only way to see this collection is if you take one of their guided tours.

  • Tickets: €12/Adults | €6/Reduced
  • Special Exhibitions: €6 per person
  • Availability: Tuesday – Sunday
  • English Tour Hours: 11 am, 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm
  • Learn More Here

Villa Medici is located on the Southern end of Villa Borghese, very close to the Spanish Steps.

One of the easiest ways to get here is via Metro, as there is a stop just 5-10 minutes from the museum.

You can also take a bus to access the site from Viale della Trinita dei Monti.


2. The Pincio Promenade

Completed between the years of 1811 and 1823, this area was one of the most popular areas with a direct connection to Villa Borghese.

Since the 19th century, the Roman people have been coming here to enjoy concerts and live events aimed at all types of audiences.

At the Southern end of the promenade, you’ll find the Terrazza del Pincio which provides an excellent view of the city.

Casina Valadier is South of the terrace, and it is currently the site of a fantastic restaurant with some of the best views available in all of Rome.

You’ll find a Statue of the Goddess Roma right across the street from Casina Valadier.

There is also a nice clock at the centre of a pool of water near the Northern end of the Pincio Promenade. 

With so many different things to see and do in the area, this is definitely a great place to spend some time in Villa Borghese.


3. San Carlino Puppet Theatre

If there are younger children in your family, this puppet theatre is sure to be a hit.

On average, they perform at least 2-3 different shows per month with several showtimes for each performance. 

In addition to these opportunities, they will also hold special events during holiday seasons.

Although this isn’t a free activity, tickets are very affordable.

  • Tickets: €10/Adults | €9/Children
  • Tickets are about €1.50 more at the Box Office
  • Recommended Viewing Age: 3 and up
  • See Upcoming Shows

The San Carlino Puppet Theatre is located at the Northwestern end of Villa Borghese.

Flamino is the closest Metro stop, just a 5-10 minute walk from the theatre. 

This attraction is also quite close to Piazza del Popolo, so you might want to consider doing some sightseeing while you’re in the area.


4. Fontana Rotunda

There are a lot of fountains in Villa Borghese, but this one has the largest basin of them all. You’ll find a walkway surrounding the fountain, so it’s not hard to find a good spot to take in the view. 

Sadly, the small rocky ledge at the centre is all that remains of what designer Giovanni Battista Falda had originally intended.

At one time, there were two cups, twelve statues, four seats and more atop this structure.

Fontana Rotunda can be found near the Northwestern section of Villa Borghese. The fountain is close to the Carlo Bilotti Museum and the closest bus stop can be found on Viale Fiorello La Guardia.


5. Propilei Egizi

This structure is sure to stand out, as its architecture is far different from most of the other sites in the park. 

Built in the Egyptian style that was popular during the 19th century, this landmark was designed to connect the ancient parts of Villa Borghese with new areas purchased by Prince Camillo Borghese.

Part of the building was demolished in 1938 to make way for a wider roadway.

The Propilei Egizi, also known as the Egyptian Propylaia, is right down the road from Fontana di Esculapio.

There are bus stops nearby along Viale Fiorello La Guardia, and you will find this site alongside the road.


6. Fontana di Esculapio

In addition to the temple, there is also a very beautiful fountain nearby which is accented by a large arch with an eagle perched on top. 

The main fountain is located at the centre of a small island which is surrounded by tranquil water.

While there used to be a statue of Aesculapius, it has since been removed.

The Fontana di Esculapio is right down the street from the Villa Borghese playground, and it’s very close to the bus stops on Viale Fiorello La Guardia.

Our tour will continue to the northeast, but before continuing, we will discuss two museums which are just a few blocks from this location.

While you could take a break from the tour and head to each museum, we recommend coming back at the end of your journey.

After all, the tour has only just begun!

If you’re not interested in visiting either museum yet, continue northeast on Viale Esculapio until you reach a playground.


7. Explora Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for a museum that your kids can enjoy, this is an excellent opportunity.

The Explora Children’s Museum has a lot of fun hands-on exhibits and experiments for kids to help them learn more about the world around them.

There are also special seasonal activities available during certain holiday events.

So, make sure to keep an eye on their calendar to see what’s on while you’re in the area.

  • Tickets: €9 per person (age 3 and up) | €6/Kids (age 1-3)
  • Thursday Afternoon: €7 per person (age 3 and up)
  • Free entry for kids under 12 months of age
  • Availability: 4 rounds every day from Tue-Sun
  • Hours: 10 am – 6:45 pm
  • Duration: 1 ¾ hour per round
  • Learn More Here

Although the Explora Children’s Museum isn’t technically located in Villa Borghese, it is just a few blocks away from the Northwestern end of the park.

Flamino is the closest Metro stop and it’s just a 5-minute walk away from the museum.


8. National Gallery of Modern & Contemporary Art

There’s quite a bit of old and classic artwork in museums around the city of Rome, but this is one of the best places to see modern and contemporary pieces from the 19th and 20th century. 

The gallery itself is over 130 years old and their collection is enormous.

In addition to their permanent exhibits, they also have limited events and exhibitions from time to time.

  • Tickets: €10/Adults | €5/Reduced
  • Free admission for everyone under 18
  • Free admission during Domenica al Museo
  • Availability: Tuesday – Sunday
  • Hours: 8:30 am – 7:30 pm
  • Learn More Here

While this location isn’t technically in Villa Borghese, it is right across the street on the Northern end of the park.

There is a bus and tram stop nearby across from Fontane delle Tartarughe, and it’s not too far from Tempio di Esculapio.

NOTE: Tickets are included with the Roma Pass.


9. Villa Borghese Playground

Located just a few steps from the Roman Arch, the Villa Borghese playground is a great place to take your kids if they want to have some fun in the park.

There are two swing sets, a small playhouse, a slide and plenty of room to run around.

In addition to all of the activities in the area, there is usually also a vendor selling food and drink.

If you’re looking for a place to stop and get a bite to eat, this could be a great option. Needless to say, this attraction is entirely free to enjoy.

There is a boat rental service nearby at Laghetto di Villa Borghese which you can use to go out on the scenic lake surrounding Tempio di Esculapio. 

This is a great way to enjoy fantastic views of the historic temple.

Tickets are €2 for adults and €1.50 for children, so this is a pretty affordable activity to include on your trip to the park.

You’ll find this site at the intersection of Viale Esculapio and Viale dell’Aranciera. The Villa Borghese playground is pretty close to the National Gallery of Modern & Contemporary Art.


10. Tempio di Esculapio

As we previously explained, this historic temple can be found near the Villa Borghese playground.

Tempio di Esculapio is surrounded by a small lake which you can travel across with small boats that are available to rent at Laghetto Di Villa Borghese.

Also known as the Temple of Aesculapius, this building is one of the most beautiful landmarks in the entire park.

Built in 1786, the architectural style of this structure may have been based on the ancient temple to the God of Medicine on Tiber Island.

Even if you choose to enjoy the view of this temple from across the river, this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Villa Borghese.


11. Fonte Gaia

Located on the other side of the Laghetto di Villa Borghese, this fountain was built between the years of 1927-1928 by sculptor Giovanni Nicolini.

Also known as the Satyrs or the Rabbits, the sculptures represent a pair of satyrs holding up a small satyr.

These are woodland gods from greek mythology.

The Roman take on these gods typically includes goats ears, tails, legs and horns.

Satyrs are known for being party animals who can be drunken and lustful.


12. Museo Carlo Bilotti

If you’re interested in seeing some of the most historic pieces of art in Rome, consider stopping at this museum while you’re in the park. 

In addition to housing several wonderful models, you’ll also find paintings, sketches and other pieces of art collection donated by none other than Carlo Bilotti. 

The collection includes work from Giorgio de Chirico, Andy Warhol, Mimmo Rotella, and other notable artists.

  • Tickets: Free of charge
  • Availability: Tuesday – Sunday
  • Hours: 10 am – 4 pm
  • Learn More Here

Found right alongside Viale Fiorello La Guardia, it should be pretty easy to reach this museum via the bus.

The Carlo Bilotti Museum is right next to the Portico dei Leoni and fairly close to Tempio di Esculapio.


13. Portico dei Leoni

Construction of this beautiful portico began at the end of the 18th century, but it wouldn’t be completed until early in the 19th century. 

The structure includes a reflection pool outside of a small porch with two carves of lions standing guard.

This attraction is an excellent example of Roman architecture and artwork.

You’ll find the Portico dei Leoni near the Museum of Carlo Bilotti toward the Northern end of Villa Borghese.

The closest bus stop is on Viale Fiorello La Guardia, but you can also reach this location from Viale dell’Aranciera or Viale Pietro Canonica.


14. Monument to Goethe

As the name implies, this model was erected in honor of the author and poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

The monument was inaugurated on 1904 in the presence of Victor Emanuel III.

The chisel itself was produced in Berlin by Italian sculptor Valentino Casali.

There are three other chisels around it depicting the fields of art that Goethe was known for: drama, lyrics, and philosophy.

This monument is roughly 3 metres high, and it depicts Goethe as he was when he first arrived in Rome as a young man, and he holds a notebook to denote the works he wrote here at Villa Borghese.


15. Cinema dei Piccoli

After a long day in the park, your kids might be interested in taking a break and enjoying a movie at this famous theatre.

Cinema dei Piccoli is well known for providing family-friendly viewing in Villa Borghese since 1934.

Shortly after opening, a wooden figure of Mickey Mouse holding a camera was placed on the roof of the building.

Although it had to be removed because of copyright infringement, many locals still call this location “Cinema Mickey Mouse.”

This theatre was practically designed with kids in mind, as the screening rooms are all pretty small.

Despite its age, Cinema dei Piccoli remains a popular location for children to enjoy films.

  • Tickets: €7 per person
  • Films are shown with Sony 4K Projector
  • Movies include popular blockbusters
  • Purchase tickets or learn more

You’ll find this wonderful little theatre in the South-Southwest area of Villa Borghese.

The closest bus stops are just down the street from Piazzale Brasile, just a few steps from Casa del Cinema, which is yet another great place to see movies in the park.


16. Tempietto di Diana

This small temple was built in 1789 by Antonio Asprucci, who is well known for working on several of the buildings in this area of Villa Borghese. 

The neo-classical temple owes its name to the statue of Diana which was once housed on the marble base at the centre of this structure.

You can now see this statue at the Louvre Museum.

Tempietto di Diana is very close to La Casina di Raffaello and it’s not too far from Cinema dei Piccoli.

The closest bus stop can be found on Viale San Paolo del Brasile near the Casa del Cinema movie theatre.


17. La Casina di Raffaello

This historic building may not appear to be a great place for family fun, but looks can be deceiving.

Although it was once called Palazzina dell’Alboreto dei Gelsi and used as a church, today it houses a municipal playroom called La Casina delle meraviglie.

Children from the ages of 3-14 can enjoy a library of books, storytelling events, educational workshops, temporary exhibits, summer camp activities and much more.

If you’re looking for a place to take the kids so that they can wind down, this is an excellent option.

Exhibits and workshops require a ticket, but everything else is free!

  • Exhibit/Workshop Ticket: €7/Adults | €5/Reduced
  • Availability: Tuesday – Sunday
  • Hours: 10 am – 6 pm
  • Learn More Here

La Casina di Raffaello is close to Piazza di Siena and you will find it near Tempietto di Diana.

The closest bus stop is on Viale San Paolo del Brasile near the Casa del Cinema movie theatre.


18. Piazza di Siena

Located in the center of Villa Borghese, this horse racing stadium has been the site of several equestrian competitions over the years.

In 1960, it would become the test site for the Olympic Games in Rome. 

Today, it serves as the home of CSIO and FEI Nations Cup events.

Although you can purchase tickets for seats, admission to the entire area is free to the public.

You’ll find Piazza di Siena near sites such as the Globe Theatre, the Rectory Church of Villa Borghese and La Casina di Raffaello. 

You can reach the stadium from Viale Pietro Canonica and the closest bus stops are on Viale Fiorello La Guardia near the Carlo Bilotti Museum.


19. Globe Theatre

Based on Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London, this circular theatre provides a lot of great shows throughout the year. 

As you might expect, many of the theatrical performances they offer are based on beloved tales written by none other than William Shakespeare.

This open-air theatre is only open during the warmer months, so if you’re visiting during the Spring/Summer, you may want to drop by and see if there are any tickets available.

  • Tickets: €12 – €27 per person
  • Standing Room Tickets: €10/Adults | €8/Reduced
  • Couples are entitled to reduced tickets every Sunday
  • On Wednesdays, seniors can B1G1 ticket for just €5
  • Visitors under 20 can get reduced admission on Friday
  • Children under 5 are free

You’ll find the Globe Theatre of Rome at the Northern end of Villa Borghese, quite close to the Museum of Pietro Canonica. 

You can reach this theatre from either Viale Pietro Canonica or Viale di Valle Giulia.

The closest bus/tram stop is at the National Gallery of Modern & Contemporary Art.


20. Casino dell’Orologio

This was once the house of the old gardener, but it is actually named after its clock, an addition which was made in 1791 by Antonio Asprucci.

He also added the portico, and the building became a museum for artifacts found in excavations done in Gabii.

Sadly, the museum didn’t last for long, and it was taken down in 1807.

Today, almost all of the carvings which were once housed here can now be found at the Louvre.


21. Museo Pietro Canonica

This location houses several beautiful sculptures that were created by Pietro Canonica.

In addition to these works of art, you will also find sculptures that used to line the paths of the Villa Borghese gardens. 

The building used for this museum is known as Fortezzuola and it dates back to the 17th century.

  • Tickets: Free of charge
  • Availability: Tuesday – Sunday
  • Hours: 10 am – 4 pm
  • Learn More Here

You’ll find the Pietro Canonica Museum near the centre of the park on the Northeastern side of Villa Borghese.

Take either Viale di Valle Giulia or Viale Pietro Canonica to reach the museum.


22. Temple of Antonino e Faustina

This structure was designed by Antonio Asprucci, and it was dedicated to the Roman emperor of Antoninus Pius and his wife Annia Faustina.

Beyond the pillars of this temple you’ll see a statue of Annia Faustina.

Although the arms of the monument are broken off, it’s still one of the most beautiful pieces of art in Villa Borghese.

This is a great location for a photo opportunity, and it’s about as close to the centre of the park as you can get.


23. Fontana dei Cavalli Marini

Also known as the Fountain of the Sea Horses, this beautiful attraction is definitely worth a visit. Built in 1791, the fountain depicts four horses coming up out of the water. 

This is one of the larger fountains in Villa Borghese, and it’s a great place to stop and take a rest after walking around the park for a while.

Fontana dei Cavalli Marini is just a short walk from Tempietto di Diana on Viale dei Pupazzi.

If you keep walking down this path, you will eventually reach Viale dell’Uccelliera which leads directly to the Borghese Gallery


24. Padiglione dell’Uccelliera

Otherwise known as the pavilion of the aviary, this site was once used as an actual aviary housing rare and precious birds from around the world.

There are frescoes and other works of art inside that depict birds, festoons, pergolas and more.

In addition to these features, two fountains were placed in each cage where the birds were kept.

Originally, this was to be one of the secret gardens in Villa Borghese. Today, the building is used for the offices of the Capitoline Superintendent. 


25. Edificio della Meridiana

Located just north of the Padiglione dell’Uccelliera, this building was crafted in 1688, and it was designed to be another secret garden within Villa Borghese.

The building was named after the sundial at its centre, but it was also to be used as an aviary.

Between both the Padiglione and the Edificio della Meridiana lies a garden which was used by Cardinal Borghese.

In modern times, this structure is used as the seat of municipal offices, but the interior still features a gallery with frescoed walls and a mosaic floor.


26. Borghese Gallery

This is without a doubt the most popular attraction in Villa Borghese.

Located at the Southeast end of the park, visitors should take note that this is a bit further from the city centre than most of the major attractions in Rome.

One of the main reasons for the popularity of this museum is the fact that they have a lot of artwork from famous artists such as Picasso, Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael and more. 

With several beloved carvings and paintings in their collection, this is one of the finest galleries in the ancient city.

  • Tickets: €25/General Admission
  • All tickets require a €2 reservation fee
  • Dates: Tuesday – Sunday
  • Hours: 9 am – 7 pm
  • No entry after 5 pm
  • Included with most Rome tourist passes.
  • Purchase tickets or learn more.

Although they do require a reservation fee, it is still possible to visit without booking your tickets ahead of time.

All you have to do is go to the ticket office and purchase admission when you arrive. 

This process can take a bit of time, so we recommend getting your tickets online before arrival.

Even so, if you’re the more spontaneous type, it’s nice to know you don’t need to reserve a spot.

Tours

If you want to learn about some of the most notable exhibits at this museum, consider taking their guided tour.

You can purchase tickets with a tour included for a slightly higher price. Here are the ticket prices with an added tour.

If you prefer a self-guided tour, you can purchase an audio guide for €5 at the Gebart Spa store in the basement of the museum. 

How to Visit for Free

If you want to save some money, consider coming to the Borghese Gallery on a free day.

Also known as Io Vado al Museo, this is the day when many popular museums and historic attractions are free to the public. 

The Borghese requires a €2 reservation fee, but still, this is a great money-saving deal.

The downside to taking advantage of Io Vado al Museo is that it’s usually very crowded.

To save money and avoid large crowds, consider using a Rome tourist pass to save money on this attraction another day. 


27. Parco dei Daini

If you’re looking for a more tranquil place to take a break and enjoy a picnic, consider stopping by this small enclosed garden.

Although it was originally given this name because there used to be deer and gazelles living in this area of Villa Borghese. 

You’ll find the Acqua Marcia Reservoir inside, and there are a lot of different trees in the area such as oak, pine, cypress, and even olive trees.

Parco dei Daini is at the Northern end of the park, between the Galleria Borghese and the Zoo.

The closest bus stops are on either Via Pinciana or Via Saverio Mercadante.


28. Theatre Perspective

While you’re in the area of Parco dei Daini, you may notice that there is an interesting wall on the Northern end. 

This is actually a perspective wall which used to separate the theatre in the park from the zoo on the other side.

To this day, the remaining walls have statues, sculptures, busts, and other fantastic decorations.

You’ll find this wall along Viale dei Due Sarcofaghi, which is directly behind the Rettilario at the Zoo.

The closest bus stops are on Via Saverio Mercadante, but you can also easily reach this location from the Bioparco stop at the Northern end of Villa Borghese.


29. Bioparco di Roma

Rome’s Zoo is one of the oldest zoos and the most popular locations in Villa Borghese, and it’s a great place to take the kids if you’re planning a day in the park. 

They house many different types of animals and provide several special events throughout the year.

In addition to these services, admission to Bioparco di Roma includes access to the Museum of Environmental Crime.

  • Tickets: €17/Adults | €14/Children and Seniors
  • Free for kids under 1 meter tall
  • Availability: Daily (except Christmas)
  • Spring/Summer Hours: 9:30 am – 6 pm
  • Fall/Winter Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm
  • Learn More Here.

One of the most interesting exhibits is their Rettilario, a conservation centre for reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. 

Access to this site is included with your tickets to the zoo, and there are a lot of great things to see here.

You’ll find the Rettilario just across the street from Bioparco di Roma.

The zoo itself can be found at the Northeastern end of the park.

There is a Bioparco bus/tram stop nearby, and this is one of the easiest ways to reach the area. Alternatively, you can always walk here via Viale del Giardino Zoologico.


30. Museum of Environmental Crime

This is the only museum of its kind in all of Europe, and it covers the history of crimes against the environment.

With exhibits covering illegal trade, endangered fauna and flora, pollution, poaching and more, there is plenty to see and do while you’re here. 

This is a great place to learn about conservation efforts and why certain laws exist to protect animals and plants around the world.

  • Tickets: Included with Zoo admission
  • Availability: Daily (except Christmas day)
  • Hours: 9:30 am – 6 pm
  • Learn More Here.

The Museum of Environmental Crime is a fairly new addition to Villa Borghese, and it is located at Bioparco di Roma on the Northeastern side of the park. 

You can reach the museum and the zoo from Viale del Giardino Zoologica or take the bus/tram to the Bioparco stop.


31. Museum of Zoology

Visitors who want to learn more about animals may want to combine their trip to the zoo with a stop at this museum. 

There are several interesting things to see including exhibits about the Barrier Reef, the Wetlands of Lazio, a Hall of Amphibians and more. 

In addition to these attractions, there are also several fossils of several animals such as a giraffe, an elephant, and even a giant whale.

  • Tickets: €7/Adults | €5.50/Reduced
  • Free admission on Domenica al Museo
  • Free for kids under 6 years old
  • Availability: Tuesday – Sunday
  • Hours: 9 am – 7 pm
  • Learn More Here.

The Museum of Zoology is located just North of Bioparco di Roma and can be easily accessed from Via Ulisse Aldrovandi. Alternatively, you can also take the bus or tram to the Bioparco stop.

TIP: Tickets to the Museum of Zoology are included with the Roma Pass and the Rome City Pass.


How to Get to Villa Borghese

This large and popular park is located just Northeast of Rome’s city centre.

It is within walking distance of several bus and metro stops, as well as quite a few notable landmarks.

The park is large, but most people enter near the Spanish Steps (map)

If you plan to use public transportation to get here, make sure to read our post about navigating Rome’s metro system.

Metro Stops

There are two metro stops which pass by the Southern edge of Villa Borghese. The closest stop is Flamino, which is located right next to Piazza del Popolo.

Alternatively, you can also get off at Piazza Barberini and walk a few blocks North to the park.

Bus Stops

There are several bus stops in and around Villa Borghese which are serviced by dozens of city buses.

Here are a few of the better locations to hop off and the various bus lines you can take to get there.

  • Casa del Cinema – 61, 89, 120F, 150F, 160, 490, 495, 590, N1, SHOP1
  • Museo Carlo Bilotti – 61, 89, 120F, 150F, 160, 490, 495, N1
  • Flamino – 61, 89, 120F, 150F, 160, 490, 495, 590, N1
  • Borghese Gallery – 52, 53, 63, 83, 92, 223, 360, 910
  • Bioparco (Zoo) – 52, 223, 910

Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Stops

If you’re planning to take a hop-on-hop-off bus, these are the closest stops to Villa Borghese.

  • Big Bus Tours – Jump off at the Spanish Steps and head a few blocks North.
  • Gray Line – The closest stop offered by this service is at Piazza Barberini.
  • City Sightseeing – Located just 3 blocks away from the park, the Spanish Steps are the closest stop.
  • Omnia Vatican & Rome – At around 7 blocks South of Villa Borghese, the closest stop offered by this bus tour is at the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Best Times to Visit

Villa Borghese is open 24/7, but there are times when it can get pretty busy.

Thankfully, the park is so large that you probably won’t have any issues with crowds.

That said, if you’re hoping to visit while it’s nice and quiet, you may want to consider arriving during less popular hours, perhaps early in the morning when you could enjoy a peaceful walk through the Vineyard areas.

The typical popular times at Villa Borghese on weekdays. Image source: Google.

The typical popular times at Villa Borghese on weekdays. Image source: Google.

The busiest hours are between 11 am – 6 pm, and that is likely because most of the biggest attractions in the park are open during this time of day.

After 6 pm, most of the museums start to close up for the night, including the Vatican Museums, so this could be a great time to come and take a walk or perhaps even do some stargazing from Pincio Terrace.

If you want to beat the crowds, consider coming between the hours of 8 am – 11 am.

Many popular attractions will start to open up for the day at around this time, so you won’t necessarily have to miss out on anything.

The typical popular times at Villa Borghese on weekends. Image source: Google.

The typical popular times at Villa Borghese on weekends. Image source: Google.

Anyone planning to stay for half a day or more might want to think about having a picnic near Casino Nobile, while it gets a bit busier during the afternoon hours.

As with the most popular sites with spectacular views of Rome, you can expect this park to be at its busiest during weekends.

The best way to avoid the largest crowds is to plan your visit for a weekday, perhaps exploring the historical connection between the Borghese Family and Cardinal Scipione Borghese during the quieter hours.


 

About The Author

Justin

Justin is a travel content writer and editor with over a decade of experience in the field. He graduated from Portland State University in 2012. He has lived in the Pacific Northwest his whole life and knows the American West Coast very well. Read More...
Updated: March 1st, 2024
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