A world of plants and gardens

The Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden) of Rome is far more than a park: it's a living collection of thousands of species from across the globe, laid out in themed gardens that climb the slopes of the Gianicolo (Janiculum). Here's what you shouldn't miss on your visit.

The historic greenhouses

Among the most captivating spaces are the greenhouses:

  • The Corsini greenhouse (a monumental, historic glasshouse).
  • The tropical greenhouse, filled with exotic plants, palms, and humid, jungle-like rooms.
  • The collections of succulents and cacti.

The greenhouses are a journey through the planet's climates, and they're an especially welcome stop on cold days.

Want to explore the Orto Botanico at your own pace?

My Rome Driver takes you to Trastevere with a private driver and waits to whisk you off to your next stop. Flat rate, door to door.

Check availability and get a quote

Reply within 30 minutes · Flat rate · Free cancellation up to 24h before

The Japanese garden and the bamboo grove

Two of the most beloved corners:

  • The Japanese garden, with its pond, little bridges, and serene, zen-like atmosphere.
  • The bamboo grove, an evocative green tunnel where you walk beneath towering stalks.

These are the most photographed spots in the garden, perfect for a moment of calm.

The rose garden and the garden of medicinal plants

Also not to be missed:

  • The rose garden, spectacular above all in spring.
  • The garden of medicinal plants, which echoes the tradition of the old monastery herb gardens.
  • The aromatic garden and the sensory garden, designed with the visually impaired in mind.

The Baroque staircase and the great trees

The monumental heart of the garden is the Baroque staircase with the Fountain of the Eleven Jets, framed by centuries-old plane trees. As you climb the paths you'll pass monumental trees, a Mediterranean woodland, and gorgeous views out over Rome. It's a heritage site that is at once botanical and scenic.

How to plan your visit

  1. Start at the Baroque staircase and the fountain
  2. Tour the greenhouses (Corsini and tropical)
  3. Unwind in the Japanese garden and the bamboo grove
  4. Admire the rose garden and the garden of medicinal plants
  5. Climb among the great trees toward the Gianicolo (Janiculum)

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see at the Orto Botanico of Rome? The historic greenhouses, the Japanese garden, the bamboo grove, the rose garden, the garden of medicinal plants and the sensory garden, and the Baroque staircase with its fountain and centuries-old plane trees.

What is the bamboo grove? The garden's stand of bamboo: an evocative "green tunnel" of towering stalks, one of its most photographed corners.

Is there a Japanese garden? Yes, with a pond, little bridges, and a zen-like atmosphere: one of the most loved and tranquil spots in the garden.

What is the garden of medicinal plants? The garden of healing plants, which recalls the tradition of the old monastery herb gardens.

How much time do I need? Usually 1.5-2 hours for a relaxed visit through the greenhouses, themed gardens, and leafy walking paths.

See also

Book a driver to Trastevere

Flat rate · ZTL access · Door to door

Article #621 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026