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Getting lost in Rome’s magical gardens and parks can take you a full day, and when the weather is hot, reading in the shade is the epitome of happiness.
One of my favorite things to do in Rome during autumn and spring is to pop by Villa Torlonia and the Botanical Garden of Rome, two of the most beautiful parks out there.
There are also a handful of secret gardens in Rome you shouldn’t miss, picturesque woods and majestic gardens to visit, and you’ll discover them all here.
Rome’s 12 Most Magical Gardens and Parks
It’s true there are lots of things to do in Rome solo, with kids or with your other half.
But sometimes, you really don’t want to queue for one more Roman landmark and just want to break away from the bustle of the city.
Why not enjoy incredible Tiramisu or classic Roman suppli before spending the afternoon in one of these magical gardens?
Or better yet, try the maritozzo – it’s one of the most classic desserts in Rome and definitely calls for some down time to digest!
Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Villa Torlonia
Villa Torlonia is located close to the Trieste area, which is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Rome, and the famous Via Nomentana, a very important road in the city.
Villa Torlonia was ordered by the rich banker Giovanni Torlonia, and accomplished by the architect Giuseppe Valadier.
In the villa – one of the prettiest villas in Rome!, you have a mix of Roman and English garden sceneries.
Exotic plants, avenues and an eclectic garden as completed with a cute fairytale house, the Casina delle Civette (House of Little Owls).
This is nothing but one of the best hidden gems in Rome, and a perfectly magical garden to take your other half on a romantic date.
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Villa Borghese
Villa Borghese is one of the most beautiful parks in Rome, and you can access it from various entrances.
It’s close to one of the coolest museums in Rome, the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art.
In Villa Borghese, you’ll find countless statues, many of which are funnily headless.
There are a few hidden gems in Villa Borghese you’ll discover while walking around, like the clock and an arch in ruins, as well as the famous Temple of Asclepius.
All very much worth a sight, all making Villa Borghese one of the most magical gardens in Rome!
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Orto Botanico
Orto Botanico is tucked away behind Trastevere, and is one of the cheapest things to do in Rome since the entrance fee is only 4 euros.
You have several parts inside the Botanical Garden, with a very cute Japanese Garden, a rose garden, a butterfly house and even a bamboo forest.
This is here one of the most magical gardens in Rome, in my opinion – you can get some really beautiful views of Rome here on a clear day!
Visit one of Rome’s bookshops to get a secondhand book, get some snacks and head on over to the Botanical Garden.
Don’t forget the mosquito spray – it can get quite humid in this park!
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Park of the Aqueducts (Parco degli Acquedotti)
The Parco degli Acquedotti is another one of the most magical gardens in Rome, and what makes it so special is the ancient aqueduct that is part of the background.
A lot of locals visit the Parco degli Acquedotti during spring and summer for picnics, and you can easily cycle there or access it with the metro.
Definitely awesome if you’re looking for more nontouristy things to do in Rome, and an amazing spot to see autumn in the city!
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Laghetto dell’EUR
The Laghetto dell’Eur is one of the most magical gardens in Rome because it hosts something you won’t see in many places in town: a Japanese garden.
There aren’t many spots to see cherry blossom in Rome, but there is an entire pathway lined with cherry trees at the Laghetto dell’Eur, the Passeggiata del Giappone.
The cherry trees were donated to the city of Rome by the city of Tokyo, so make sure to visit the place during the hanami!
The artificial lake offers beautiful photo opportunities, with magical colors, waterfalls, and overall pure Pinterest aesthetics.
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Villa Sciarra
Villa Sciarra, located close to Trastevere and Monteverde Vecchio, was gifted to Mussolini in 1932, and was then transformed into a public park.
It tends to be much less crowded than places like Villa Borghese, and you will find absolutely stunning statues scattered throughout the park.
The fountains and the botanical garden are also worth a sight in Villa Sciarra, in which you’ll be able to relax entirely and completely.
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Villa Doria Pamphilj
Villa Doria Pamphilj is one of the most beautiful villas in Rome, and was built in 1630 by the Pamphilj family.
While a lot of villas in Rome are located on the outskirts of the city, this one is centrally located at the end of Via del Corso, one of the best shopping streets in Rome.
Not only is the villa incredibly gorgeous, but you will also find one of the most magical gardens in Rome inside.
Sculptures, greenery and clear waters – this is a top-notch spot for a romantic date!
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Orange Gardens
The Orange Gardens, or Parco Savello is a stunning place located atop the Aventine Hill.
This is one of the famous Seven Hills of Rome, and is clearly a romantic spot where you can bring your other half and have an amazing time.
The Aventine Keyhole, one of Rome’s best hidden gems, is located really close but when you’re at the Orange Gardens, all you want to do is stare at the gorgeous sunset, really.
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Villa Celimontana
Villa Celimontana is located just a few steps away from the marvelous Colosseum, and should be on your bucket list if you’re looking for free things to do in Rome.
Located on top of the Caelian Hill, Villa Celimontana became a public park in 1926 and offers beautiful views of th ecity.
Come to jog, to have a picnic or to read a book, and you’ll find peace and quiet there.
A few hidden gems are to be unveiled at Villa Celimontana, too – the Egyptian Obelix, the lovely arch, the old fountain… All must-sees!
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Via Appia Antica
Via Appia Antica is one of the most famous streets in Rome, and the Roman Empire, with all its vibrant history is still palpable in the air.
No stilettos here – Via Appia Antica is entirely made of huge cobblestones.
If you’re one to hike, you’ll absolutely love this place, which has many magical gardens and green spaces all around.
You can still visit the catacombs and mausoleums along Via Appia Antica and can either choose to do it on your own or with a tour guide.
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Pincio Hill Gardens
I mentioned Villa Borghese earlier in this guide and still wanted to mention the Pincio Hill Gardens, which are located at the far end of Villa Borghese.
They’re easily accessible from either Piazza del Popolo or Piazza di Spagna, and you can see an immaculate sunset there.
Actually, this makes for one of the most instagrammable places in Rome, given that you’ll find many sculptures, curated gardens and architecture there.
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Most Magical Gardens in Rome: Pineto Regional Park
There are lots of natural parks around Rome, but the Pineto Regional Park is really close, and located at the northwest of the city.
It’s considered one of the largest parks within the Eternal City, and makes for a lovely place for birdwatching.
The place spreads throughout 240 majestic acres of naturally protected nature, so if you’re looking to go hiking near Rome but can’t really leave the city, that’s the place for you!
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Rome’s 12 Most Magical Gardens and Parks
There you have them, all the most magical gardens and parks to visit in Rome!
Whether you’re looking for places to have a picnic in Rome or just quiet places to study, write and read, these are perfect.
Some spots, like the Pincio and the Orange Garden, also double as perfect places to see the sunset in Rome, so make sure you include them in your bucket list!
Until next time!
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