Rome is a beautiful city full of history, ancient sites, monuments and incredible buildings. The majority of your time in the city will likely be used enjoying these sites. With so many things to see and do, there’s a lot to look forward to when planning a trip to Rome. While you want to make sure that you see everything that you want, you also don’t want to try to see too much. One place that is absolutely fascinating is the Borghese Gardens which are situated near the historic center of Rome. It’s not always high on must see lists, but consider these items and see why Borghese Gardens is one of the things not to miss in Rome.
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Enjoy the amazing Borghese Gallery artworks
The Borghese Gardens is the home to one of Rome’s preeminent museums, the Borghese Gallery. It contains works by Bernini that include Goat Amalthea with Infant Jupiter and Faun, Apollo and Daphne as well as David.
The Galleria is full of classic works of art in many forms. The aforementioned Bernini is featured with his remarkable sculptures. There is also a large ceiling fresco which is stunning in both size and sheer artistry.
There are numerous paintings by artists such as Caravaggio and Raphael.
The gallery is stunning not only for the art it holds but also for the fact that the building itself is gorgeous. It stands elegantly on the grounds of the gardens.
This amazing building is equally striking on the inside as you follow your path from room to room enjoying the many works of art on exhibit.
The Galleria is quite popular so it’s best to reserve your Galleria Borghese tickets online in advance. Depending on when you plan to visit, you might want to make these reservations days, even weeks in advance.
Visit Villa Borghese Zoo
When you think of Rome, you probably don’t think about visiting a zoo. But if you’re visiting with your family, this is a nice place to take the kids. Inside the beautiful Borghese Gardens there is a zoological park that holds over 1,000 animals and 200 species. Â
There is enough variety to really enjoy the wildlife in the park. The size of the collections of wildlife both in total and species also allows you to spend some time in this part of the park.
Children will especially appreciate being able to see all of the different types of animals on display. Â That makes it one of several great things to do in Rome with kids.
If you want to visit the park, you can purchase tickets here.
Enjoy a boat ride on the pond
The pond that is in Borghese Gardens isn’t just a nice place to relax but it also provides activities as well. There are boats for rent that you can take out onto the pond.
It’s a great way to relax and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty of the gardens. Being out on the water also gives you a different perspective of the gardens.
The boats are available for rental from 9:30am to dusk. The rides are for 20 minutes and the cost is only 3 euros for adults 1.5 euros for children so it’s also a budget friendly activity for the family.
Take in the views of Terrazza del Pincio
There are several places to get a great view of Rome throughout the city and this is one of the best. At the far edge of the park is the Terrazza del Pincio, a wide terrace that overlooks the Piazza del Popolo and the rest of the city of Rome. The panoramic view is astounding as the city spreads out before you.
Once you’ve taken in enough of the spectacular panoramic view, you can make your way down the scenic path to one of the best piazzas in Rome, Piazza del Popolo.
Rent bikes for your family
Although walking though the park is a great way to see the park, there are bikes that are available to rent as well. You can rent the traditional bicycle or even a four wheeled bike with seating that can easily fit a family of four.
This is great for small groups or families with small children as you’re able to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time without wearing out the little ones. Since the park is so big this is a great option no matter who you’re traveling with.
Be sure to bring your passport for identification purposes when renting the bikes.
You can also hire a guided bike tour for a more comprehensive experience of the park. You can check here for the available options.
Enjoy the art in the gardens
If you don’t get to visit the magnificent Galleria Borghese you can still enjoy some magnificent art. Scattered throughout the gardens are several impressive pieces. These pieces set with the Gardens as a backdrop is a great way to see some wonderful Italian artwork.
This is great for situations where you aren’t able to get tickets to the Galleria Borghese, don’t have time to stop in, or you’re with young children that you don’t want to have to take to another gallery.
Have fun at the playgrounds
The Borghese Gardens are a haven for families, and the playgrounds are perfect for kids to unwind and have fun. Scattered throughout the park, these play areas offer swings, slides, and climbing structures suitable for various age groups.
One of the most popular playgrounds is located near the Casa del Cinema, surrounded by shady trees and plenty of benches for parents to relax. These spaces provide an excellent opportunity for kids to burn off energy while parents soak in the serene beauty of the gardens.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Borghese Gardens
Getting There and Navigating
The Borghese Gardens have multiple entrances, each with its unique advantages. The Porta Pinciana entrance is easily accessible from Via Veneto, while the entrance near Piazza del Popolo provides a picturesque approach with stunning views of the city.
For families with strollers, the Piazzale Flaminio entrance is the most convenient due to its flat terrain. Once inside, the park’s pathways are well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot, by bike, or with a rented pedal cart.
Dining Options
Planning to spend the day? Pack a picnic and find a cozy spot on the grassy lawns or near one of the fountains. If you’d rather dine out, the park offers several cafés and snack bars.
Look for Caffè del Pincio near the Terrazza del Pincio for light meals, snacks, and refreshing drinks, all served with breathtaking views. Families can also enjoy ice cream from kiosks scattered throughout the gardens—a treat for kids and adults alike.
Restroom Facilities
Knowing where the restrooms are can be a lifesaver, especially for families. You’ll find well-maintained facilities near major attractions like the Borghese Gallery and the Bioparco zoo. There are also restrooms near the playgrounds and picnic areas, so you’re never too far from one when needed.
Best Times to Visit
The Borghese Gardens are open year-round, but certain times offer a more enjoyable experience:
- Spring (March to May):Â The gardens come alive with blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Fall (September to November):Â The cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors create a peaceful atmosphere for exploring.
- Weekday Mornings:Â For the best chance to avoid crowds, visit on a weekday morning. This is especially true if you plan to enjoy popular attractions like the Borghese Gallery or the zoo.
- Evenings at Sunset:Â The Terrazza del Pincio offers breathtaking sunset views, making late afternoons a magical time to visit.
Avoid the peak heat of summer afternoons if traveling with kids, as shade is limited in some areas. Plan your trip early or late in the day during summer months.
Visit the Borghese Gardens
With so many different things to do in this park, you could easily spend an entire day appreciating all that it has to offer. If you’re visiting Rome on a budget it’s a great place to visit. For families, this park is a wonderful experience and provides a fun break from the crowds and culture of the city. It may not hold the reputation of some of Rome’s more famous landmarks, but the Borghese Gardens is a treasure and should not be missed. While you’re planning your trip to Rome be sure to check out our essential itinerary so that you don’t miss anything as well as our essential guide on the best areas to stay in the city. Safe travels!
