Skip-the-Line Borghese Gallery Small Group Tour in Rome
Embark on a small group guided experience , and discover works by Bernini, Caravaggio and Canova
Did you know that entering the Borghese Gallery without a reserved entrance can take up to an hour? That's why we've joined forces with an expert guide in Rome, who will secure your skip-the-line tickets and join you, so you can dedicate your time to learning the secrets behind the Italian Renaissance and Baroque period art. From Bernini's intricate sculptures and Caravaggio's realistic paintings to Canova's elegant work and Borghese's frescoes, this tour is filled with memorable art moments.
- New Tour
- Small group, guided tour
- Caravaggio art unveiled
- Apollo and Daphne
- Boy with a basket of fruit
- Rape of Proserpina
- Paolina Borghese sculpture
- Art and history in Rome
After meeting with your group in Piazzale del Museo Borghese, and with your skip-the-line tickets in hand, bypass the lengthy queue and head straight inside the Borghese Gallery for an incredible two-hour tour. You’ll immediately be blown away by the incredible art located within, and thanks to your expert guide, you can look forward to many intriguing stories and insights.
You'll be introduced to the masterful sculptures of Bernini, including his dynamic Apollo and Daphne and the emotionally charged Rape of Proserpina. Discover the depth and drama in Caravaggio’s Sick Young Bacchus, and marvel at Canova's elegant depiction of Paolina Bonaparte. Afterward, explore more independently or continue on your next Rome adventure.
Skip-the-Line Borghese Gallery Tour
Your 2-hour tour includes:
Skip-the-line entrance to the Borghese Gallery
Professional, English-speaking guide
Access to temporary exhibitions (when available)
Earphones for a more intimate tour experience
Small group tour of max 15
Bernini’s sculptures, Caravaggio’s paintings, Canova’s sculptures, Raphael's masterpieces, and more!
Some rooms of the Gallery may be closed to visitors due to renovation works.
Welcome to the Borghese Gallery
Your tour begins in the lovely Piazzale del Museo Borghese, located just outside the Borghese Gallery. Here, you’ll meet your expert guide and enjoy an intriguing introduction to Rome’s crown jewel of art and history. From the expressive sculptures of Bernini to the captivating paintings of Caravaggio, you’re about to take a deep dive into the art of the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Galleria Borghese, nestled within the expansive grounds of Villa Borghese, stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of Rome. Originally commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the early 17th century, it served as both a suburban retreat and a showcase for his unparalleled art collection. Designed by the architect Flaminio Ponzio, the villa and its surrounding gardens were transformed into a magnificent cultural haven. Galleria Borghese, completed in 1613, soon became the home to Cardinal Borghese's extensive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini, and Canova.
Step into a piece of History for Italian Art
Over the centuries, Villa Borghese and its gallery have witnessed the ebb and flow of history. The villa changed hands multiple times, and its collection was both expanded and altered. However, the core of the Borghese art collection remained, and in 1902, the Italian government acquired the villa, turning it into a public museum. Today, visitors to Galleria Borghese have the privilege of stepping into the lavish world of Cardinal Borghese, experiencing the grandeur of the villa's architecture and the richness of its art collection.
With your exclusive skip-the-line tickets, you'll bypass the crowds and enter the Borghese Gallery without delay. This quick access allows you more time to explore the gallery's grand halls and learn about history's most influential artists.
Bernini's Sculptures and Caravaggio's Paintings
Once inside, you'll encounter stunning sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Apollo and Daphne and The Rape of Proserpina are just some of the masterpieces found here, and your guide will bring these fascinating pieces to life through captivating stories.
As you stand before Apollo and Daphne and The Rape of Proserpina, you'll be transported to a time when Baroque art reigned supreme. Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a master of the Baroque period, skillfully brought marble to life, infusing his sculptures with dynamic movement and intense emotion. Apollo and Daphne freezes a moment of transformation as Apollo pursues the nymph Daphne, capturing the essence of metamorphosis in stone. The Rape of Proserpina, meanwhile, immortalizes the mythological abduction of Proserpina by Pluto, showcasing Bernini's ability to convey both power and vulnerability in his art.
Next, meander over to the hauntingly beautiful paintings of Caravaggio. Works like Sick Bacchus and Boy with a Basket of Fruit showcase his dramatic use of light and shadow and are thought to reflect his tumultuous life: Sick Bacchus is believed to reflect Caravaggio's own struggles, while Boy with a Basket of Fruit exemplifies the artist's mastery of light and shadow, creating a visual feast of colors and textures.
Canova's Sculptures and Raphael's Masterpieces
Your tour continues with the elegant sculptures of Antonio Canova, including the famous Paolina Bonaparte, which is renowned for its lifelike details and relaxed pose. As you stand in the presence of this sculpture, you'll be immersed in the Neoclassical beauty that defines Canova's work, marking a distinct departure from the exuberance of the Baroque era.
This tours and the Gallery, with plenty of time to explore it by yourself in case you wish to.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
8 total reviews
Leave a reviewPossibly the best guide we have ever had anywhere
sandra arnell
The gallery was stunning, but Marti took everything to the next level. Her passion for the art and storytelling ability made it a magical experience. She began by taking us on her own route through the gallery, as if we were guests of the Borghese‘s, arriving through the front door for the first time. Brilliant. She was funny, engaging and so entertaining. She is as much of a treasure as the works she presented. Brava!
Excellent tour of beautiful Borghese Gallery
Nancy Freschi
We had a wonderful informative tour of the gallery by an art historian. The tour was at 10 am and not at all crowded. We were able to take our time and hear about the amazing sculptures of Bernini and paintings of Caravaggio. Lots of interesting tidbits about the history and drama behind the artists. Our guide was lovely and extremely knowledgeable. Highly recommend for art lovers!!
Mike Cimino
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
It's always smart to wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet for most of the tour. A good camera or smartphone with a camera is also recommended.
What to bring?
It's always smart to wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet for most of the tour. A good camera or smartphone with a camera is also recommended.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Rome.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
The Borghese Gallery is wheelchair accessible, but if you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand so we can best cater to your needs.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Borghese Gallery tour rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and the Borghese Gallery is closed, we'll inform you as soon as possible.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible. We will work with you to reschedule your tour when possible or provide a full refund.
Is there a dress code to enter the Borghese Gallery?
While there is not a specific dress code, you will be expected to be wearing shoes and a shirt to the Borghese Gallery. We also recommend wearing footwear you'll be comfortable walking in.
Does the Borghese Gallery ever experience sudden closures?
During adverse weather events or due to maintenance or safety reasons, Borghese Gallery may be closed unexpectedly. In case this happens, we will work with you to reschedule the tour or provide a full refund.
Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the tour?
No, but your knowledgeable guides will happily point out excellent places to eat after your tour.
Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?
All ages are welcome on our Borghese Gallery tour. Please choose accordingly during the booking.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Hotel pickup is not included on this tour. You'll meet your guide at the Piazzale Scipione Borghese.
Where does this tour end?
This tour ends inside the Borghese Gallery. You're welcome to stay as long as you like and continue your exploration at your leisure.
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