Private Borghese Gallery Tour
See masterworks by Bernini and Caravaggio with pre-arranged entry tickets and an art expert
Step into the world of Cardinal Scipione Borghese on a private tour through his 17th-century suburban manor. This tour shows the evolution of sculpture and painting from the Renaissance through the Baroque era in Rome. Skip the line and hear the scandalous stories behind the Borghese family's private commission of neoclassical art. Witness the incredible detail of Bernini's marble figures and the haunting realism of Caravaggio's shadows. This private tour offers unparalleled access and insight.
What You Get With This Tour
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Feel the marble almost breathe
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Skip-the-line Borghese Gallery tickets
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Expert English-speaking guide
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Guided tour of the Borghese Gallery
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Iconic Bernini sculptures, masterpieces by Caravaggio & Renaissance paintings by Raphael
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Private group experience
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Guide tips
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at the museum entrance
Meet your personal guide in front of the main entrance to the Borghese Gallery. You will receive a brief introduction to the villa's 17th-century origins as a playground for the wealthy Borghese family before heading inside. -
2
Skip the line for baroque masterpieces
Enter the gallery using pre-booked tickets to begin your exploration of the ground floor. Listen as your guide shares how Cardinal Scipione Borghese amassed one of the most impressive collections of art in history through both patronage and occasionally forceful acquisition. -
3
Admire the genius of Bernini
Stand inches away from the incredible detail of The Rape of Proserpina and Apollo and Daphne. Your guide will explain how Bernini transformed hard marble into soft flesh and delicate leaves, earning him the reputation as a successor to Michelangelo. -
4
Explore the Caravaggio room
Step into a space dedicated to the revolutionary painter known for his dramatic use of light and shadow. You will see David with the Head of Goliath and hear about the artist's turbulent life and mysterious death while examining his realistic style. -
5
View the works of Raphael and Titian
Head to the upper floors to discover the softer beauty of the High Renaissance. See Raphael’s Deposition of Christ and Titian’s Sacred and Profane Love while learning about the transition from classical balance to the movement of the Baroque from your guide. -
6
Your tour finishes at the villa exit
Conclude your private visit with a final look at the neoclassical statue of Paolina Bonaparte by Canova. Your guide will leave you inside the gallery or near the exit, where you are welcome to enjoy a peaceful stroll through the surrounding public gardens.
Additional Information
Discover what to expect, what’s included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Accessibility: As this is a private tour, the itinerary can be accommodated to be wheelchair or mobility accessible. Please reach out to us, after making the booking, to make the proper arrangements.
ID Requirement: Please bring a valid government-issued ID for site entry as it may be requested during security checks.
Dress Code: While the gallery is not a church, modest attire is recommended as a sign of respect for the historic villa and its collection.
Bag Policy: Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas are not permitted inside the gallery and must be checked at the cloakroom before entry. We recommend leaving them at your accommodation to not delay the tour.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can enter sites on time.
Your 2-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Skip-the-line Borghese Gallery tickets
Private guided tour of the Borghese Gallery, tailored to you
Iconic Bernini sculptures, masterpieces by Caravaggio & Renaissance paintings by Raphael
Optional free time to explore the villa gardens
Private group experience
What to bring:
Government-issued ID
Comfortable walking shoes
Camera
Water bottle
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Customer Reviews
We had such a fantastic time at the galleries, where our guide shared such wonderful background stories and insights - and made us feel like we had the place to ourselves (even though it’s a busy place!) A highlight of our time in Rome x
Our guide was a wealth of knowledge and she made every room on the Borghese tour a wonderful experience offering the stories behind the art.
The Borghese Gallery is a very special place as was our guide, Eleonora. Her deep knowledge of history and the gallery made this tour one of the highlights of our vacation.
This tour allowed for an undisturbed experience of the Borghese Gallery’s stunning collection!! Our guide was knowledgeable and attentive!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, this private tour is excellent for families as the guide can tailor the storytelling to engage children. The two-hour duration is also ideal for maintaining the attention of younger travelers.
Do you have any small group tours of the Borghese Gallery?
Yes! If you are looking for a group tour, check out our Skip-the-Line Borghese Gallery Small Group Tour in Rome.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
As this is a private tour, the itinerary can be accommodated to be wheelchair or mobility accessible. Please reach out to us, after making the booking, to make the proper arrangements.
Is there a bag policy?
Yes, all large bags and backpacks must be checked at the cloakroom. We recommend bringing only a small purse or camera bag to avoid delays during the security screening process.
