Borghese Gallery, Canova’s Masterpieces Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Rome , Italy

Borghese Gallery, Canova’s Masterpieces Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

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(1157 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

Enjoy the Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese Gardens in Rome with skip-the-line admission and a guided walking tour limited to 15 people.

This popular attraction often sells out in advance, so by pre-booking a ticket, visit one of the world’s most beautiful art museums hosting the works of extraordinary artists. Admire Caravaggio’s most important paintings, among which “Young sick Bacchus” and “Boy with a Basket of Fruit”; Bernini and Canova’s magnificent sculptures’ collection, boasting works like “Apollo and Daphne”, “David”, “The Rape of Proserpina” and “Paolina Bonaparte”. Of course the tour won’t miss out on Raffaello’s “Entombment of Christ”. The guide will lead the tour through the marvelous rooms of Casina Borghese, with its splendid frescoes, disclose the secrets, the stories and the painting techniques concealed behind the masterpieces of one of the world’s most beautiful art museum.

Villa Borghese gardens and gallery, you cannot miss it when you visit Rome.

Available options

Small Group Tour

Guided Tour: small-group tour max 20 people, with an expert guide. Please arrive 15 minutes before the activity time.

What's included

No additional fees or taxes

Walking tour of Villa Borghese Gardens (No Guide)

Borghese Gallery guided visit (2 hours)

Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The best way for us to describe the Villa Borghese gardens is:

As the keeper of the Villa Borghese Pinciana, I publicly declare: whoever you are, providing to be a freeman, fear no hindrance here; go where you like, ask what you wish; leave when you want. Everything you see was made more for the guest than for its landlord. In the golden century, when peaceful years made any thing splendid for the refined ones, the landlord forbade all iron rules for the guest.

Let good faith be the only rule for our friend.

But if someone, consciously and purposely, by wickedness and deceit, was to break the golden rules of courtesy, be alert, the angry keeper may break these friendly words on your head.

(Latin inscription carved on marble plate at Villa Borghese).

Stop 2

We will visit one of the world’s most beautiful art museum hosting the works of extraordinary artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, Canova and Raffaello. The gallery’s most important sculptures and paintings are from Cardinal Scipione Borghese’s collection (1579 - 1633).

We’ll admire Caravaggio’s most important paintings, among which “Young sick Bacchus” and “ Boy with a basket of fruit”; Bernini and Canova’s magnificent sculptures’ collection, boasting works like “Apollo and Daphne”, “David”, “The rape of Preserpina” and “Paolina Bonaparte”. Of course we won’t miss out on Raffaello’s “Entombment of Christ”.

We will lead you through the marvelous rooms of Casina Borghese, with its splendid frescoes, we’ll disclose the secrets, the stories and the painting techniques concealed behind the masterpieces of one of the world’s most beautiful art museum.

To end the tour, we’ll walk through the Villa Borghese gardens, enjoying its beauty and calm far from the roman chaos.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

724 reviews

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622

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Tripadvisor 4.7

433 reviews

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378

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code is smart casual

Travelers with excessive sized bags will have certain problems, please note that small or large bags are not permitted inside the Borghese Gallery, and will need to be checked in at the cloakroom before the tour to be collected afterwards.

Meeting point

Departure Point: We will meet in front of Borghese Gallery entrance
Directions: Please arrive in front of the main entrance to the Borghese Gallery 15 minutes before the activity starts.
Our staff will be meeting you holding a “Loving Rome” flag.
Dates: See Availability

Important notes

Arrive strictly 15 minutes before entrance times. We are unable to accommodate other entrance times. Entrance is strictly limited so you must arrive early. Anyone who arrives after these times cannot be accommodated.
• Dress code is smart casual
• Travelers with excessive sized bags will have certain problems, please note that bags are not permitted inside the Borghese Gallery, and will need to be checked in at the cloakroom before the tour to be collected afterwards.
• Wheelchair accessible

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