Private tour of Borghese Gallery masterpieces: Caravaggio, Bernini, Canova. Led by an art historian with skip the line tickets and optional visit to the Villa Borghese Gardens
A private, in-depth visit to the Borghese Gallery, one of Rome’s most exclusive museums
See Bernini and Caravaggio masterpieces up close with an expert art historian
Explore a 17th-century villa built for one of Rome’s greatest art collectors
Enjoy a peaceful walk through Villa Borghese Gardens and panoramic views from the Pincio
Ideal for art lovers, couples, and travelers seeking a refined Rome experience
- Private licensed guide with a degree in history or archaeology
- Timed entry tickets to the Borghese Gallery
- Personalized, private walking tour
- Optional walk through Villa Borghese Gardens to the Pincio Terrace
- Optional private transfer from centrally located hotels
Description:
Discover one of Rome’s most extraordinary cultural treasures on this private Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese Gardens tour, an immersive experience that combines world-class art, elegant architecture, and panoramic views over the Eternal City.
This carefully curated private tour allows you to explore the Borghese Gallery with an expert art historian, admire masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Canova, and then enjoy a relaxed walk through the lush greenery of Villa Borghese, Rome’s most beautiful park.
Perfect for art lovers, first-time visitors, and travelers seeking a refined and inspiring experience, this tour offers an ideal balance of museum excellence and open-air beauty, all at a comfortable and unhurried pace.
Itinerary – What You Will Experience
The Borghese Gallery: A Jewel of Art and Architecture
Your private tour begins at the Borghese Gallery, one of the most beautiful museums in Rome and arguably in the world. Originally built in the 17th century as the suburban villa of Cardinal Scipione Borghese, this elegant palace was designed to showcase his extraordinary art collection.
As you step inside, your friendly art historian guide will lead you through the gallery’s refined rooms, explaining the vision of Cardinal Borghese—an avid collector and passionate admirer of Bernini and Caravaggio—whose legacy shaped one of the most important private collections in Europe.
You will admire the breathtaking neoclassical sculpture Paolina Borghese as Venus Victrix by Antonio Canova, a masterpiece of grace and sensuality. You will stand before Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s most celebrated Baroque sculptures, including Apollo and Daphne, The Rape of Proserpine, and David, works that seem to come alive through movement and emotion.
The tour continues with Caravaggio’s powerful paintings such as Boy with a Basket of Fruit, David with the Head of Goliath, and Saint Jerome, alongside Renaissance masterpieces by Raphael (Young Woman with Unicorn, The Deposition), Titian (Sacred and Profane Love), Antonello da Messina, Giovanni Bellini, and other masters of the Renaissance and Mannerist periods.
For the beauty of the artworks and the harmony of the palace itself, the Borghese Gallery is truly a must-see for anyone who loves art, history, and Italian culture.
Villa Borghese Gardens and the Pincio Terrace
If you wish, after the museum visit your guide will take you outside for a pleasant walk through the Villa Borghese Gardens, the most elegant and scenic park in Rome. Once the private gardens of the Borghese family, today this vast green space is filled with tree-lined paths, fountains, and quiet corners perfect for relaxing after the museum experience.
The walk culminates at the Pincio Hill, where one of Rome’s most beautiful panoramic terraces opens before you. From here, you will enjoy a superb view over Piazza del Popolo and the rooftops of Rome—an unforgettable spot for photos and a memorable conclusion to your tour.
Why Choose This Tour
- Private, expertly guided visit to the Borghese Gallery with timed entry
- Led by a licensed art historian with deep knowledge of Bernini, Caravaggio, and Renaissance art
- Combines museum highlights with a relaxing walk through Villa Borghese Gardens
- Personalized pace and flexible itinerary based on your interests
- Insightful storytelling that brings artworks, artists, and history to life
- Optional private transfer from your hotel for maximum comfort
Who Is This Tour For
- Art lovers and museum enthusiasts
- First-time visitors to Rome seeking a must-see cultural experience
- Couples and families looking for a refined, private tour
- Travelers interested in Bernini, Caravaggio, and Renaissance masterpieces
- Visitors who want a relaxed pace and expert explanations
- Anyone who wants to combine art, nature, and panoramic views in one experience
Book Your Private Borghese Experience
Reserve your private Borghese Gallery and Villa Borghese Gardens tour online or contact us to customize the experience. We are happy to adjust timing, add a private transfer, or tailor the visit to your interests for a truly unforgettable day in Rome. All reservations are subject to availability. Should the experience be unavailable, we guarantee a full and prompt refund.
FAQs – Borghese Gallery Private Tour
How long is the Borghese Gallery tour?
The guided visit inside the Borghese Gallery lasts approximately 2 hours, in accordance with official museum regulations. The optional walk through the gardens adds about 45 minutes for a total duration of three hours.
Is this tour suitable for families and children?
Yes, this private tour is family-friendly. Your guide can adapt explanations to engage teenagers and younger visitors.
Is transportation included?
This is a walking tour. However, for your convenience, you may add a private transfer from your hotel to the starting point by selecting the option in the reservation box. Please note that this service may not be available if your hotel is not located in the city center.
Are Borghese Gallery tickets included?
Yes, timed entry tickets to the Borghese Gallery are included in the tour price.
Is the tour accessible?
The Borghese Gallery is partially accessible. Please contact us in advance to discuss specific mobility needs.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. No strict dress code is required, but respectful attire is suggested for museum visits.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The museum portion runs regardless of weather. In case of rain, the outdoor garden walk can be shortened or adjusted.
Included:
- Friendly Private guide
- Skip the line tickets
Not included:
- Transportation
- Lunch
Languages:
Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian, Polish
Meeting point:
Near the entrance. Detailed intructions and map will be emailed.
Duration:
3 Hours
Dress code:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Options:
Private Hotel Pick-up

