Orto Botanico di Roma
About
The Orto Botanico dell'Università di Roma "La Sapienza", commonly known as the Orto Botanico di Roma, is a sprawling 12‑hectare botanical garden in Rome’s historic Trastevere district. Operated by the Sapienza University, the garden traces its roots back to the Renaissance Papal Botanical Gardens, preserving a legacy that spans more than a century. Visitors wander through themed sections—including a serene Japanese garden, towering bamboo groves, and the Giardino dei Semplici, home to over 300 species of medicinal plants—and explore a diverse collection of more than 3,000 species, from cacti and carnivorous plants to tropical orchids, all housed under the garden’s charming greenhouses. Perched on the slopes of the Janiculum overlooking Palazzo Corsini, the Orto Botanico offers both botanical wonder and historic architecture, making it a must‑visit destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.
Highlights
- Japanese Garden
- Bamboo Grove
- Giardino dei Semplici
- Cacti Greenhouse
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are ideal for experiencing the garden’s most vibrant and fragrant blooms, while the cooler temperatures keep visitors comfortable.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes