Rome: Borghese Gallery & Gardens Small Group Guided Tour
Active
2h
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
Appreciate art like a collector with a visit to the Borghese Gallery and Gardens. Carefully controlled entry means that unlike the nearby Vatican Museums, this collection of masterpieces is never crowded. The gallery includes pieces by Raphael and Bernini, and the tour includes the Borghese Gardens: a peaceful oasis amid the chaos of the capital.
Available options
Borghese Gallery Guided Tour
Group Tour - English: Guided tour of the Borghese Gallery and Gardens with small groups of no more than 15 people.
What's included
Expert, English-speaking tour guide
Villa Borghese Gardens Visit
Headsets so you can always hear your guide
Small group of no more than 15 people
Entry ticket to the Borghese Gallery
Borghese Gallery Guided Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Cardinal Scipione Borghese commissioned both the Villa Borghese itself and many of the great works still on display in its gallery. Works by Bernini, Caravaggio and Titian remain in their original settings, as envisioned by the Cardinal, a fiercely determined collector.
Strictly controlled entry to the Villa and Gallery can make booking difficult and complicated.
On this fully-guided tour you’ll hear more about Cardinal Borghese’s quest to complete his collection, and the stories behind the artworks themselves, including Bernini’s ‘Apollo and Daphne’, Canova’s ‘Pauline Bonaparte’, Caravaggio’s ‘St. Jerome’ and Raphael’s ‘The Deposition’. Your guide will be an English-speaker and an expert on the collection, and audio headsets ensure you’ll hear every word they say.
2
Included in this tour is a visit to the Borghese Gardens: once the Cardinal’s private park, now a favorite spot for locals to relax among sculptures, plants and water features and get away from it all.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
1,943 reviews
5★
1472
4★
272
3★
90
2★
38
1★
71
Tripadvisor
4.4
220 reviews
5★
174
4★
14
3★
8
2★
4
1★
20
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
All personal belongings must be left on arrival at the reception of the Borghese Gallery
We regret that we are unable to accommodate pushchairs or strollers on our group tours
Meeting point
Meet your guide in Piazzale del Museo Borghese, in front of the Borghese Gallery Main Entrance. (Villa Borghese entrance on via Pinciana)
Important notes
• Please ensure to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start time of your tour to check-in.
• Our City Wonders guides will have a City Wonders blue polo shirt or jacket with a flag at the meeting point for easy recognition.
• Only small bags are allowed inside the museum (free cloakroom)
• Please note that the second floor of Borghese Gallery will be partially closed for renovations until the end of December, for this reason the tour duration may vary slightly.
• Please be advised that the venue closes at 7:00 PM. If 5:45 PM entry time is selected, you will have an hour and 15 minutes to explore the museum
• Gratuities for your guide/driver that provided excellent service are appreciated!
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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