Borghese Gallery Small Group Tour: Home to Bernini’s Masterpieces

Rome , Italy

Borghese Gallery Small Group Tour: Home to Bernini’s Masterpieces

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(15 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Villa Borghese is the most beautiful public park in Rome. It is heart-shaped and it is located right by the city center. For this reason, it is often referred to as the green heart of Rome.

In the 16th century this park was the private garden of the actual Villa, the Palace of the Cardinal Scipione Borghese.

The villa today hosts an exquisite art gallery, which among others includes artworks by Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael.

This tour is a great chance to appreciate fine art in a relaxed and intimate location. Moreover, your expert guide can tell you everything about the artworks you see.

So, if you are a fine art lover, plunge yourself in the green heart of Rome and admire the artworks of the Borghese Gallery. It is truly a refined, enjoyable and relaxing experience.

Available options

Galleria Borghese Small Group

What's included

Galleria Borghese Tickets & Fees

Licensed Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Villa Borghese was built at the behest of one of the major protagonists of the cultural life of the early seventeenth century: Cardinal Scipione Borghese.

He was the favorite nephew of Pope Paul V Borghese, who put to use his power to provide his relatives, especially his nephew, with protection and wealth.

The Galleria Borghese Museum houses and exhibits a collection of sculptures, bas-reliefs and ancient mosaics, as well as paintings and sculptures from the 15th to the 19th century.

Among the masterpieces of the collection, whose first and most important nucleus dates back to the collection of Cardinal Scipione there are works by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, Correggio, Antonello da Messina, Giovanni Bellini and sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Canova.

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

11 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

From March 19th, 2024 until June, access to the second floor of the museum will not be possible due to important renovation works

Meeting point

We meet travelers in front of Galleria Borghese. You can find the guide waiting for you holding a sign with the company logo. Please show up 15 min prior to the scheduled time.

Important notes

Your voucher is all you need to attend this tour. Upon arrival, please show the voucher to your guide.
Meeting time 15 minutes prior the start time. Please note that the tickets have as et entry time, late arrivals cannot be accomodated and no refund is due

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots