Spanning more than 80 hectares of art, nature, and history, Villa Borghese is one of Rome’s most enchanting destinations. Known as the city’s “green heart,” this vast park blends manicured Italian gardens with English-style landscapes, fountains, sculptures, and neoclassical pavilions. Once the private estate of the noble Borghese family, today it is a haven for both locals and travelers seeking culture, serenity, and beauty in every direction.
To make your Roman journey complete, we recommend adding a visit to the city’s most iconic landmarks with our Colosseum tour and our Pantheon private tour. Both can be seamlessly combined with a Villa Borghese tour by golf cart, offering comfort and expert guidance throughout your day in Rome.
A Garden of Art and Legacy
The origins of Villa Borghese date back to 1580, when the Borghese family acquired the land where the ancient gardens of Lucullus once stood. In the early 17th century, Cardinal Scipione Borghese—nephew of Pope Paul V and an avid patron of Gian Lorenzo Bernini—transformed the estate into a “villa of delights.” The architects Flaminio Ponzio and Giovanni Vasanzio designed the majestic Villa Borghese Pinciana, now home to the world-renowned Borghese Gallery.
Within these elegant halls, masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian are displayed in a setting that perfectly unites art and architecture. The gallery remains one of the most visited museums in Rome, offering an intimate glimpse into the opulence and artistic vision of the Baroque era.
The Evolution of a Roman Paradise
Throughout the centuries, Villa Borghese evolved from a formal Renaissance garden into a romantic landscape filled with lakes, temples, and classical sculptures. In the late 18th century, Prince Marcantonio IV Borghese commissioned architects Antonio and Mario Asprucci to redesign the gardens, introducing the picturesque Giardino del Lago—a tranquil lake surrounded by greenery and adorned with the Temple of Aesculapius, an iconic neoclassical temple reflected in the still water.
Later, in the 19th century, Camillo Borghese expanded the property even further, integrating nearby lands and transforming parts of the estate into English-style gardens. In 1903, the Italian state purchased the villa, opening it permanently to the public and preserving it as one of Rome’s largest and most beloved parks.
Highlights of Villa Borghese
Strolling or riding through Villa Borghese reveals a collection of treasures that reflect Rome’s artistic soul. Among its most notable landmarks are:
- The Borghese Gallery: housing sculptures by Bernini, paintings by Caravaggio, and portraits by Raphael.
- The Temple of Aesculapius: a symbol of beauty and harmony nestled beside the lake.
- The Globe Theatre: a faithful reconstruction of Shakespeare’s London stage, used for open-air performances.
- The Bioparco: Rome’s historic zoo, now a modern conservation center.
- The Pincio Terrace: offering one of the most breathtaking views over Piazza del Popolo and the city skyline.
Art, Culture, and Relaxation
Beyond its famous landmarks, Villa Borghese is also home to elegant villas, fountains, and hidden paths shaded by pine and cypress trees. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, a picnic near the lake, or a quiet afternoon at the Casa del Cinema, a cultural hub that celebrates Italian and international film.
Art continues to thrive within the park thanks to institutions like the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Museum Carlo Bilotti, housed in the former orangery. Whether you’re an art lover or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, every corner of Villa Borghese offers something to admire.
Exploring Villa Borghese with a Golf Cart Tour
Given its vast size, exploring Villa Borghese on foot can be time-consuming. A golf cart tour in Rome offers an eco-friendly and comfortable way to experience this green oasis. With expert private guides from Kirba Tours, you’ll uncover the park’s hidden gems—its sculptures, fountains, and viewpoints—while learning about the fascinating history of the Borghese family and their artistic legacy.
These tours allow visitors to enjoy Rome’s nature and culture without the stress of long walks or crowded transport. You can easily combine your Villa Borghese tour with visits to nearby attractions like the Spanish Steps or Piazza del Popolo, creating a perfectly balanced day of art and relaxation.
Plan Your Visit
Villa Borghese is open year-round and easily accessible from several entrances, including Porta Pinciana, Piazza del Popolo, and Piazzale Flaminio. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the park’s colors and atmosphere.
Whether you’re drawn by its art, its tranquil gardens, or its sweeping views of Rome, Villa Borghese offers an unforgettable escape from the city’s bustle. Relax beneath the ancient pines, admire masterpieces of art, and experience the harmony between nature and culture that defines this Roman treasure.
Di Oursana – Opera propria, CC0, Collegamento
