Rome's best parks: green escapes in the Eternal City

25.12.2024 - 04:07 / euronews.com / Julius Caesar

Rome may be famed for its ancient ruins and Renaissance art, but it is also Europe’s greenest capital, home to the more green space than any other European city.

Scattered among Rome’s iconic landmarks lies a collection of lush parks, hidden gardens and sprawling heritage villas awaiting your discovery. While Rome’s piazzas throng with vibrant cultural celebrations for the 2025 Jubilee, Rome’s parks promise moments of tranquillity.

Whether you’re picnicking beneath pines, cycling along ancient roads or seeking panoramic city views, Rome’s green spaces offer a quieter, more contemplative side of the Eternal City, perfect for those looking to experience the Jubilee in a more serene setting.

Villa Borghese is a quintessential Rome park, offering a mix of manicured gardens, cultural landmarks and shaded paths perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. At its heart lies the Galleria Borghese, an art museum packed full of Renaissance masterpieces, though the park’s open-air art is equally impressive. Take a walk to uncover statues, fountains and even a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre which hosts open-air performances all summer.

The Pincio Terrace, one of the park’s highlights, offers panoramic views over Piazza del Popolo and the city skyline. For a more serene experience, rent a rowboat on the park’s lake and float leisurely over to the Temple of Aesculapius, an 18th-century masterpiece which rises from the water like a scene from mythology. Nearby, the Bioparco di Roma, the city’s zoo, provides a family-friendly addition to the park’s offerings.

A smaller, lesser-known alternative to Villa Borghese is Villa Torlonia, a historic 19th century villa once belonging to Prince Giovanni Torlonia before serving as the official residence of Mussolini. Its grounds are dotted with elegant fountains, tree-lined paths and unique structures, including the whimsical Casina delle Civette (House of the Owls). After strolling the gardens, be sure to visit the Villa’s very own museums, for more insight into its fascinating history and the art collection of the Torlonia family.

Between the two villas, the Gardens of Sallust offer an interim moment of calm, featuring a crumbling Roman estate and urban gardens that once belonged to Julius Caesar.

On the green northern edge of the city lies Villa Ada. Set upon 450 hectares of parkland, Villa Ada is the second largest of Rome’s parks and a favourite among locals and visitors.

As well as the River Tiber running a picturesque trail through the park, this expansive natural haven features wooded areas, open meadows and a serene lake, setting a peaceful scene for outdoor activities like jogging, cycling and picnicking.

Also in the neighbourhood are Parco Virgiliano and Villa Chigi,