Villa Borghese Park, a green interlude in the heart of Rome

In the centre of a city where architecture has been developing since the dawn of time and where historic monuments fill the places with history, the Villa Borghese brings back a breath of nature.

For half a day for those in a hurry, or a whole day for the luckiest travellers, take a stroll through the wide, shady alleys of Rome's green lung. Like the locals, take a seat on the lawn of the Piazza di Siena to read a book, close your eyes for a moment or chat with friends over a picnic.

In the 16th century, Cardinal Scipione Borghese, a member of a wealthy noble family, had a green, light-filled and opulent residence built beyond the Porta Pinciana near Rome. Here he housed his art collection, the extraordinary accumulation of a passionate amateur. Typical of the Italian style of the period on the outside, the building was modified at the end of the 18th century in a neo-classical style at the request of Marcantonio IV Borghese.

From the family inheritance, Scipione Borghese in particular, but also his successors, created one of Italy's most fabulous art collections, which was bought by the State in 1902. Despite sales and family splits, the Borghese collection, now on display in the country residence that has become a gallery integrated into the city, remains incredibly rich. Sculptures from Roman times to the 19th century and paintings by great masters, mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries, are the main attractions. Bernini's Sleeping Hermaphrodite, Bernini's Abduction of Proserpine and Caravaggio's David with Goliath's Head are just some of the masterpieces on display.

The Temple of Aesculapius and its small lake, a cool setting in this oasis of greenery, are worthy of a postcard landscape. The picturesque atmosphere is typical of the films that showcase the dolce vita... a true Italian dream! In imitation Greek, the monument with its four columns is dedicated to the god of medicine.

To make the most of this small building surrounded by its artificial lake, hop on a boat for a romantic stroll along the water's edge. For €3 per adult for 20 minutes, this unusual activity offers a new perspective on the jewels of the Villa Borghese.

With family or friends, combine fun and practicality by taking a ride in a rosalie! This collective means of locomotion requires a fair amount of elbow grease, but promises unique memories. A number of bike and rosalia hire stands have been set up in the grounds of Villa Borghese, and you can expect to pay around ten euros for an hour's hire.

For something to eat after a good walk around Villa Borghese, head to Pescado Seafood Restaurant. A place where Italian culinary savoir-faire meets seaside flavours! Spaghetti with sea urchins, seafood risotto and prawn ravioli are all on offer in elegant, intimate surroundings.

Address: Viale Bruno Buozzi, 31/33, 00197 Roma RM, Italy

Times: 12.30 - 15.30 / 19.30 - 23.30 Tuesday to Saturday / 19.30 - 23.30 Monday