Rome: The Villa Borghese Gardens

The view from the Villa Borghese

The Villa Borghese Gardens 

Metro Line A; Piazza Del Popolo

This is one of the most beautiful places in Rome.  Climb the steps to the park from the Piazza del Popolo, for the most scenic method of arrival and then enjoy the panoramic view.  You could spend a day meandering through the several parks that compose of the Villa Borghese, picnicking on the lawn, or renting a cycle-cart for your alternative viewing pleasure. 

Note:  The steps are steep and a more relax assent can be taken from the road right off of the piazza, as well can a taxi.

This is a great place for kids. At this entrance to the parks are a carousel, an old- fashioned puppet show (which doesn't run in Jan. or Aug.), the cart rentals, and toy and snack vendors.

Below are two attractions worth seeing in the complex.

Looking up at the Villa Borghese from the Piazza Del Popolo

Grandma and Aunt Carol standing beneath the Colossal Statues 

outside of the Galleria Borghese 

Some manicured gardens of the Villa Borghese

The Galleria Borghese Museum.

Now, a museum (Galleria Borghese) but the once country house of Scipione Borghese, nephew to Pope Paul V, a home to the cardinal's extravagant art collections and hedonistic pleasures.  I suggest touring this museum if only to get a look at Bernini's,  Apollo and Daphne and the Caravaggio's (my personal favorite), two Baroque masters who helped shape this city.

For best planning: This museum must be booked a day in advance.  In this way, they cut down on the crowds and lines, so it is a fine place to see art without the frustrating wait.  

Info: 

There are only six time slots for entry throughout the day: 

9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm, and 7pm (on Mondays, there are only three: 1pm, 3pm, 5pm).  

You should make sure to arrive 30 mins. before your appointment.  

#06 8548577

Entrance to the Bioparc Zoo

Paul and I playing around at the zoo

The Bioparc Zoo.

This is a great place for kids.  There are always plenty of activities going on at the zoo, and it can make for a very charming stroll.  This is not a huge zoo, but they make up for it with interesting ways to occupy a child's attention.

To best suit the Leisurely Traveler: Without kids, you may want to skip this stop.  It is worth walking by the zoo to view the entrance gates with their whimsical statues and wisteria, but other than that it can be very un-thrilling.

Info:  

Tickets for Bioparco cost €8.50/€6.50, and the tickets to the reptile house costing an extra €2.50. 

Opening hours are 9.30-5.00 from January to March and 9.30-6.00 from March 25 until November 1, with the last entrance at an hour before closing time.