Are you looking for a taste of paradise? Be sure you have installed in your phone Framey app and let’s go together through the most beautiful places. Italy is home to some of the most breathtaking gardens in the world, and they’re just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, there’s something for everyone.
This blog post will explore the top 15 Italian gardens you can’t miss because these gardens are sure to captivate your imagination and delight your senses!
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1) Gardens of Bomarzo, Park of the Monsters | Giardini di Bomarzo, Parco dei Mostri
Located in the town of Bomarzo in the province of Viterbo, the Gardens of Bomarzo, also known as the Park of the Monsters, are definitely an incredibly unique and unusual attraction that is worth adding to your Italy travel itinerary. Built during the Renaissance period by architect and sculptor Pirro Ligorio, the gardens are far from the traditional beauty and symmetry of typical Italian gardens.
More than that, what makes the Gardens of Bomarzo stand out are the numerous monstrous sculptures scattered throughout the park. For instance, these strange and eerie works of art were commissioned by Prince Pier Francesco Orsini as a tribute to his late wife, and they are unlike anything you’ll see in other Italian gardens.
While the Garden of Bomarzo may not be for everyone, it’s a must-see for those looking for an offbeat experience in Italy. Plus, the town of Bomarzo and the surrounding area have other worthwhile attractions to explore, including the Tuscia Botanical Garden, the thermal baths of Viterbo, and Lake Bolsena.
Finally, for a more immersive experience, we recommend reading the novel “Bomarzo” by Manuel Mújica Láinez, which will transport you to this bizarre and intriguing place. So if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, be sure to add the Gardens of Bomarzo to your Italian bucket list.
2) Botanical Garden, Padua | Orto Botanico di Padova
If you’re a nature lover or a student of biology, a visit to the Orto Botanico should be on your Italian itinerary. This stunning botanical garden is located in Padua, in northeastern Italy, and was founded in 1545 by the Venetian Republic. It is the oldest academic botanical garden in the world still in its original location, making it an absolute must-see for history and nature enthusiasts alike.
Aside from its impressive history, the Orto Botanico plays an important role in the conservation of biodiversity. With only 10% of known plant species on Earth, the garden’s role as a research center is invaluable. The new Botanical Garden hosts over 6,000 plants and about 3,500 species, making it a fascinating site for exploration and discovery.
Located at Orto Botanico, 15, 35123 Padova PD, Italy, the garden is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. Keep in mind that it is closed on Mondays. So, if you plan on visiting, be sure to check their opening hours beforehand.
Take a stroll through the garden and marvel at the beauty of the various plant species on display. With its carefully manicured lawns, intricate pathways, and vibrant flowers, the Orto Botanico is a true paradise for nature lovers.
3) Isola Bella and Isola Madre, Lake Maggiore – Italian Gardens
These are two of the most beautiful gardens in Italy that you simply can’t miss. Isola Bella is a small island that is entirely dedicated to the grandiose gardens of Count Vitaliano Borromeo. Every inch of this island that is not covered by the impressive 17th-century palace is devoted to the gardens. The gardens are considered to be the epitome of Italianate gardens, and some might even say that they are a caricature of it.
To create more space on the relatively small island, a series of 10 terraces were constructed to a height of 32 meters, which can be climbed by wide stone stairways. These terraces are entirely covered in flamboyant flower beds, tall cedars, rows of lemon and orange trees, camellias, magnolias, oleanders, and other trees that are interspersed with statues. Walking through these gardens is a truly surreal experience that will take you to another world.
For a more peaceful garden experience, you can take a boat to Isola Madre, where a modest villa sits in an English-style green park of rolling lawns and tall trees. The gardens here are much more restful and serve as a good counterpoint to Isola Bella. The gardens are lush and blooming in the spring and early summer, with azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias creating a colorful and beautiful spectacle.
If you want to visit these gardens, the address for Isola Bella is Lake Maggiore, and we highly recommend taking the time to see them.
Isola Bella and Isola Madre are two of the most beautiful gardens in Italy that will leave you in awe and provide a sense of peace and tranquility.
4) Villa Serbelloni, Bellagio – Italian Gardens
Perched high above the charming town of Bellagio on a point of land surrounded by Lake Como, Villa Serbelloni boasts one of the most stunning settings for a garden. The 19th-century Italianate style of landscaping takes advantage of every angle to frame the lake and mountain views, creating a breathtaking backdrop that will leave you in awe.
The rose gardens at Villa Serbelloni are the most famous feature of the gardens. They are bordered by elegant boxwood hedges that perfectly complement the vibrant colors of the flowers. The rose gardens are truly a sight to behold and a must-see for any flower enthusiast.
To visit the gardens at Villa Serbelloni, you’ll need to reserve a tour in advance at the PromoBellagio office in Piazza San Giacomo, below in Bellagio. This ensures a more intimate and informative experience for visitors.
While you’re in the charming village of Bellagio, be sure to take a stroll along the picturesque lakeshore through the gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril. The gardens, designed in the early 19th century, are open and uncluttered with occasional statues, a lakeside gazebo, a Moorish-style pavilion, and a water garden. It’s the perfect complement to your visit to Villa Serbelloni.
If you’re looking for a tranquil and stunning garden experience in Italy, Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio is a must-visit. Its unique setting and rose gardens are sure to take your breath away.
5) Valsanzibio Gardens, near Padova
Valsanzibio Gardens, located about 30 km from Padova is a stunning landscape created by architect Luigi Bernini. He designed the gardens at Villa Barbarigo between 1665 and 1696 for the wealthy and powerful Venetian Barbarigo family in thanksgiving for their deliverance from the plague of 1630. Today, Valsanzibio Gardens is known for its beautiful trick fountains and hedge labyrinth, which serve as allegorical difficulties for visitors to meditate on before continuing their journey through the garden.
At the heart of the garden’s theme is the harmony between natural beauty and human-made art. The labyrinth, which dates back to the 1660s and is one of the oldest plant labyrinths in the world, features over 6,000 boxwood plants, most of them over 400 years old. The statues and fountains scattered throughout the garden only enhance its beauty and create a serene atmosphere.
The numerous trick fountains add an element of excitement to the garden visit, and the hedge maze makes it a perfect destination for families with children.
Valsanzibio Gardens is truly a masterpiece, and its beauty is sure to captivate visitors from all over the world!
6) Giardino Giusti, Verona – Italian Gardens
If you’re a lover of Italian Renaissance gardens, then Giardino Giusti in Verona should be on your list of places to visit. Commissioned by Venetian diplomat Agostino Giusti in 1570, this garden is considered to be one of the finest examples of a Renaissance villa garden.
One of the unique things about Giardino Giusti is that it’s relatively small compared to other villa gardens in Italy. Instead of leading upwards as a setting for the villa, the garden rises steeply above the villa to offer a breathtaking view across the city over the villa’s rooftop.
The garden’s formal parterres, hedge maze, and winding walks were designed for strolling and as a shaded respite from Verona’s summer heat. And if you’re looking for a bit of adventure, take a stroll through the garden’s wilder section, which is reached by narrow paths enclosed by shrubbery and trees as they climb steeply to a grotto and terrace.
Giardino Giusti is a beautifully designed garden, perfect for an in-town residence. And if you’re interested in visiting this garden, you can find it at Via Giardino Giusti 2 in Verona.
7) Villa Taranto, Lake Maggiore
This magnificent garden is located on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, and it is an impressive collection of over 20,000 species of plants and flowers from around the world.
The garden’s design is the work of a retired Scottish army officer and botanist who found this microclimate perfect for growing plants from different parts of the globe. The formal beds of massed flowers, manicured lawns, and shaded woodland paths resemble an English garden park, but with a twist. The collection includes not only plants native to northern Italy but also species from the Amazon rainforest and other exotic environments.
If you love dahlias, you’re in for a treat at Villa Taranto. The Dahlia collection alone numbers over 300 kinds, which will surely amaze and delight you. Every plant in the garden is expertly curated, creating a unique and immersive experience for every visitor.
Overall, Villa Taranto is a paradise for anyone looking for an unforgettable botanical experience. Make sure to put this incredible garden on your itinerary the next time you find yourself near Lake Maggiore. Address: Via Vittorio Veneto, Verbania.
8) Boboli Gardens, Florence – Italian Gardens
Florence’s Boboli Gardens, situated behind the Palazzo Pitti, is a stunning sight to behold. Spanning 111 acres, these terraced gardens took over a century to complete and are often counted among Europe’s best classical garden parks. The Boboli Gardens artfully combine the beauty of natural landscapes with the symmetry and precision of formal parterres, architectural features, and water elements typically seen in Renaissance gardens. The gardens’ pathways and walkways are designed to allow visitors to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in a tranquil atmosphere.
From the Kaffeehaus terrace, the highest point in the gardens, visitors can take in breathtaking views of Florence and Brunelleschi’s majestic dome.
The Boboli Gardens are home to many noteworthy features, including the Fontana del Bacco, which depicts a court dwarf dressed as Bacchus riding a tortoise. Other highlights include the elaborate Grotta del Buontalenti cave, the Rococo-style Kaffeehaus, the Neptune Fountain, and the enormous statue of Plenty known as Abbondanza.
As visitors make their way through the gardens, they’ll pass through an alley of towering cypress trees flanked by chestnut, cork oaks, and pines, ultimately leading to a stunning oval piazza featuring an island and Giambologna’s impressive Oceanus sculpture.
The Boboli Gardens in Florence is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for horticulture, history, or breathtaking natural scenery.
Whether you’re taking in the sweeping views of Florence or marveling at the gardens’ numerous artistic features, the Boboli Gardens are sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
9) Medici Villas near Florence
One of the most iconic aspects of Italian garden design can be found in the hillsides surrounding Florence, where the Medici family built their stunning villas to escape the city heat. Today, three of these beautiful gardens are open to the public and are must-sees for any garden enthusiast.
Villa Gamberaia is a stunning example of Renaissance design, complete with precise geometric hedges, formal terraces and parterres, and ornate fountains. The gardens have been the subject of admiration from garden historians, and are considered by some to be the most perfect example of small-scale garden design. The famous author Edith Wharton was also enamored with the gardens, mentioning them in her book “Italian Villas and Their Gardens.”
Nearby, visitors can explore Villa la Petraia, whose orange tree alleys and terraced gardens offer breathtaking views of Florence. Just a short walk away is the Medici Villa di Castello, whose jasmine-scented air and stunning grotto with mosaics and animal sculptures make it a must-visit.
Finally, if you find yourself in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to explore these iconic Italian gardens and immerse yourself in their rich history and stunning beauty.
10) Villa Carlotta, Como – Italian Gardens
Nestled on the western shore of Lake Como, the hillside gardens of Villa Carlotta are a true delight for nature enthusiasts. Known as Tremezzina Riviera, the region boasts a mild year-round climate that keeps the foliage green even in winter, offering an enchanting view of snow-capped subalpine peaks.
Unlike the formal designs and manicured hedges of most Italian gardens, Villa Carlotta dazzles visitors with masses of colorful flowers that change with the seasons. Basically, the gardens follow the natural slopes and curves of the hillside, with woods that open to breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Also, one of the highlights of the gardens is the 400 camellias and 40-foot-tall banks of rhododendrons in full bloom during May. However, visitors can witness the beauty of Villa Carlotta throughout the summer with the 200 roses and a succession of brilliant annuals.
To sum it up, if you need a break from the summer heat, the woodland gardens provide a cool and pleasant escape. Be sure to visit Villa Carlotta at Via Regina 2, Tremezzo, and Como, and experience nature at its finest.
11) Villa d’Este Gardens, Tivoli
Among the top 15 Italian gardens, the Villa d’Este Gardens are not to be missed. Created by Renaissance Cardinal Ippolito d’Este, these extensive gardens are the very epitome of Italian garden design and set the standard for formal gardens around the world.
The layout of the gardens is truly revolutionary and features a series of “rooms” that highlight the many fountains and water features that are the hallmark of the Villa d’Este. Each “room” is unique and offers a garden experience like no other, all set against the stunning backdrop of the surrounding Campagna hills.
To fully appreciate the Villa d’Este Gardens, you’ll need several hours to explore all of the many pools, fountains, cascades, and playful water features, as well as the pavilions, statuary, grottos, and the breathtaking views from all of the terraces.
While there are many must-see highlights in these magnificent gardens, don’t miss the chance to take in the view from the Gran Loggia, walk behind the waterfall at the Fontana dell’Ovato, or listen to the water-powered organ in the elaborate Fontana dell’Organo.
For anyone visiting Tivoli, the Villa d’Este Gardens should be at the top of your list.
You won’t be disappointed by the beauty, the grandeur, and the sheer awe-inspiring design of this truly remarkable Italian garden.
12) Villa Rufolo, Ravello – Italian Gardens
One of the most enchanting gardens in Italy is undoubtedly Villa Rufolo in the picturesque town of Ravello. Perched high above Amalfi Drive, the villa offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding landscape.
Built-in the 13th century by the Rufolo family in the Islamic-Norman style, the villa is a fascinating blend of architectural styles. The neo-Moorish cloister, added in the 1800s, enhances the villa’s beauty and charm. A beautiful avenue, lined with cypress and lime trees, leads visitors to the garden.
The upper garden, where the medieval palace ruins were incorporated, is a haven of exotic plants, statues, and architectural fragments. The garden’s flower beds undulate among the stone columns, making it a delightful place to explore and relax. Francis Nevile Reid, the Scottish botanist and art expert who purchased the villa in the early 20th century, made the garden more vibrant with his love for botany. He experimented with transplanting and grafting exotic species and continually added new plants, ensuring that the garden always offered something new to see.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a nature lover, Villa Rufolo will take your breath away with its mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and beauty.
13) La Mortella, Ischia – Italian Gardens
One of the most stunning and unique gardens in Italy is certainly La Mortella, located on the island of Ischia in the Bay of Naples. For instance, this tropical garden was created by Lady Susana Walton, the wife of British composer William Walton, who was inspired by the island’s thermal springs and warm climate.
The gardens were designed by British landscape designer Russell Page and feature over 800 rare plants from four different continents. La Mortella is not just a botanic garden, but also a serene oasis dedicated to beauty and the arts. Sculptures and musical performances are frequently held within its lush surroundings.
One of the newest additions to the garden is a Greek theater, where an entire symphony orchestra can perform surrounded by tropical foliage. The natural heating system created by the thermal springs on the island protects the roots of plants that would not normally survive in this region, thus making La Mortella a truly unique and magical experience.
In short, if you’re planning a visit to Ischia, make sure to put La Mortella on your list of must-see places. It will be found at Via Francesco Calise 39 and is sure to leave you in awe of the natural beauty that Italy has to offer.
14) Parco Giardino Sigurtà, near Verona
Parco Giardino Sigurtà is a sprawling 600,000 square meter garden park located along the banks of the Mincio River, just 24 kilometers from Verona. Firstly, the park boasts 13 distinct sections, each with its own parking area for visitors’ convenience. For instance, whether you want to explore the park on foot or prefer to drive between sections, there’s no wrong way to experience the natural beauty of this lush garden paradise.
Secondly, in the center of Parco Giardino Sigurtà sits the remains of a castle, which provides a dramatic focal point for visitors as they explore the park’s many winding paths and promenades. More than that, throughout the garden, you’ll find a stunning array of manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and ornamental ponds and lakes that create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
Afterward, while you’ll certainly find many classic features of Italian gardens at Parco Giardino Sigurtà, this garden park also has a few unique twists to offer visitors. For instance, while you might expect to find topiaries carved into traditional shapes in an Italian garden, you’ll discover box trees and shrubs that have been gently trimmed to create curious and fantastical shapes.
Furthermore, one of the most beloved features of Parco Giardino Sigurtà is the garden’s annual display of tulips in the spring. Basically, visitors are treated to a stunning burst of color as over one million tulip plants bloom throughout the park. However, every season in the garden offers its special beauty, with irises, roses, lilies, and asters taking turns in the spotlight.
Located in Valeggio sul Mincio, Parco Giardino Sigurtà is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves gardens and nature. Lastly, with its stunning landscapes, charming features, and lush flora, this Italian garden park truly is a paradise on Earth.
15) Frascati Villas near Rome – Italian Gardens
If you’re in the mood to escape the hustle and bustle of Rome for a day and breathe in some fresh country air, then head over to the nearby Alban Hills, where you’ll find the charming town of Frascati. This area was once a playground for noble Roman families who built their summer villas, which still stand today, surrounded by stunning gardens and parks.
Each of these gardens has its unique character, and visiting them is like stepping into a time machine to the 16th and 17th centuries. The most popular villa in Frascati is Villa Aldobrandini, which boasts an elegant terraced park filled with grottoes, fountains, and cascades that overlook breathtaking views of the Alban Hills. The highlight of the park is the Teatro delle Acque, a magnificent fountain whose stairs curve from terrace to terrace around cascades.
Another villa with a Teatro delle Acque is Villa Falconieri, located just outside of town. This one is surrounded by a lovely park filled with grottoes and statuary. Visiting these villas is like taking a stroll through history and will give you a taste of the opulence that once existed in this area.
In addition to these two villas, several other gardens in Frascati are worth visiting, such as Villa Mondragone, Villa Grazioli, and Villa Torlonia. These gardens are a true feast for the senses, with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and tranquil water features.
Finally, walking through these gardens is a peaceful and refreshing experience that will rejuvenate your soul.
We hope you enjoyed our list of the Top 15 Italian Gardens you can’t miss! And whether you’re a nature lover or simply enjoy strolling through picturesque landscapes, these gardens offer a feast for the senses.
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