Top Parks and Gardens to Visit in Rome
If you’re thinking about traveling to Rome, the first attractions that may come to mind are historical jewels such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and St Peter’s Basilica.
However, there’s a rich history in the city’s parks as well, and best of all – it doesn’t cost a thing to enjoy them. The most famous is Rome’s central park, Villa Borghese, with its leafy lanes, magnificent museums, and bikes for hire.
1. Villa Borghese
The most central of Rome’s main parks, Villa Borghese was originally the 17th-century estate of Cardinal Scipione Borghese. It covers about 100 acres of wooded glades, gardens, and grassy banks and offers plenty of space to run around in – though it’s not absolutely car-free.
Among its attractions are the landscaped Giardino del Lago, Piazza di Siena, a dusty arena used for Rome’s top equestrian event in May, and a panoramic terrace on the Pincio Hill.
Film buffs should head to the area around the Piazzale San Paolo del Brasile entrance, where the Casa del Cinema hosts regular film-related events, and the Cinema dei Piccoli is one of the world’s smallest cinemas.
Bike hire is available at various points, including the Bici Pincio kiosk in the southern part of the park, as are four-seater electric bikes. Or try Villa Borghese Bike Rental.
2. Vatican Gardens
Up to a third of the Vatican is covered by the perfectly manicured Vatican Gardens, which contain fortifications, grottoes, monuments, fountains, and the state’s tiny heliport and train station. Visits are by guided tour only – either on foot (two hours) or by open-air bus (45 minutes) – for which you’ll need to reserve at least a week in advance.
After the tour, you’re free to visit the Vatican Museums on your own; admission is included in the ticket price. Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and enlarged by successive pontiffs, the Vatican Museums boast one of the world’s greatest art collections.
3. Pincio Hill Gardens
Take in dreamy views from these balcony gardens that overlook Piazza del Popolo. The 19th-century Pincio Hill is named after the Pinci family, who owned this part of Rome in the 4th century. It’s quite a climb from the piazza, but at the top you’re rewarded with lovely views over to St Peter’s and the Gianicolo Hill.
Alternatively, approach from the top of the Spanish Steps. From the gardens, explore Villa Borghese, Villa Medici, or Chiesa della Trinità dei Monti at the top of the Spanish Steps.
4. Gianicolo
The verdant hill of Gianicolo (or Janiculum) is dotted with monuments to Garibaldi and his makeshift army, who fought pope-backing French troops in one of the fiercest battles in the struggle for Italian unification on this spot in 1849. The Italian hero is commemorated with a massive monument, while his Brazilian-born wife, Anita, has her own monument nearby.
Rome’s highest hill offers superb viewpoints with sweeping panoramas over Rome’s rooftops, along with several summer-only bars that boast thrilling views. There are also weekend children’s puppet shows on the hill and a small collection of carnival rides.
5. Orto Botanico
A great place to unwind, Rome’s botanical garden cloaks the steep slopes of the Gianicolo Hill. Formerly the private grounds of Palazzo Corsini, Rome’s 30-acre botanical gardens are a slightly neglected gem, a perfect spot to relax.
Plants have flourished here since the 13th century, and current gardens were established in 1883, showcasing up to 8000 species, including some of Europe’s rarest plants.
6. Parco Savello
Officially called the “Parco Savello” but known as the “Giardino degli Aranci” (Orange Garden), this walled park is a romantic haven. Stroll down the central avenue, passing towering umbrella pines and lawns filled with blooming orange trees, and enjoy sunset views of St Peter’s dome and the city’s rooftops.
7. Villa Celimontana
With its grassy banks and colorful flower beds, this leafy park is a wonderful escape from the crowds. At its center lies a 16th-century villa housing the Italian Geographical Society, while a 39ft-plus Egyptian obelisk stands to the south.
8. Roseto Comunale
Stretched out on the slopes of the Aventine Hill, this idyllic garden boasts over 1100 rare rose varieties, nurtured into bloom each spring by horticultural experts. The ancient Circo Massimo serves as a stunning backdrop, enhancing the garden’s beauty.
9. Villa Torlonia
This atmospheric park off Via Nomentana is steeped in WWII history. Filled with towering pine trees, palms, and scattered villas, this splendid 19th-century park was once owned by Prince Giovanni Torlonia, a powerful banker and landowner.
10. Via Appia Antica
Named after consul Appius Claudius Caecus, this ancient thoroughfare, regarded as the regina viarum (queen of roads), features beautiful cobbles flanked by lush greenery. While exploring, discover fascinating historical sites and stories surrounding this ancient route.
11. Villa Ada
Once the private estate of King Vittorio Emanuele III, Villa Ada sprawls across approximately 395 acres and is perfect for leisurely walks. It’s a local favorite that comes alive during the summer with outdoor concerts at the Roma Incontra il Mondo festival.
12. Villa Doria Pamphilj
Lorded over by the 17th-century Villa Doria Pamphilj, this expansive park is a haven for those wanting to escape the city noise. Originally a private estate, it was designed with extensive walkways amid beautiful greenery, making it a popular jogging spot.
