Your Guide to Villa Borghese: Rome's Artistic Green Oasis

Getting There

Villa Borghese is easy to reach, with public transport and walking paths available. Metro Line A stops at Flaminio (near Piazza del Popolo and a park entrance) and Spagna (near the Spanish Steps entrance).

Many bus routes also stop near Villa Borghese entrances, depending on which part of the park you want to see first. Parking nearby is limited, so public transport is recommended.

Villa Borghese is also an easy walk from Piazza del Popolo or the Spanish Steps.

What to Expect

Villa Borghese is a large green space in central Rome. It includes formal Italian gardens, relaxed English-style landscapes, fountains, and overlooks.

Allow at least 2–4 hours for your visit. If you plan to visit the museums or the zoo, allow more time.

Villa Borghese is popular with locals and tourists and can get crowded, especially around the main attractions. However, there is plenty of space to explore the English and Italian gardens, museums, and the lake.

Tips & Tricks

• Rent bikes to explore the bike paths, or rent a rowboat on the lake.
• Find quieter paths away from the main attractions in the less-traveled sections of the English and Italian gardens.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's open grassy areas or shaded benches.
• Visit the Pincio Terrace for panoramic views of Rome.

Best Times to Visit

For a quieter experience, arrive at Villa Borghese early in the morning. The walking trails, lake, and gardens are more peaceful before the park gets busy. Weekdays are also less crowded than weekends.

Spring is a good time to visit, as the English and Italian gardens are in bloom. In the fall, the park's fall colors are beautiful from the overlooks. In the summer, avoid the middle of the day, when it can be very hot. Early mornings or late afternoons are better for exploring and renting boats on the lake.