Gardens of Italy
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Latest page update: 24 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Choosing the best Gardens of Italy was in some ways a difficult task; how can you say which of these beautiful creations is better than another?
But whatever little hardship there may have been in the selection process was completely blown away by the enjoyment of visiting each and every one of these wonderful environments. Gardens evolve over time and it's possible to see different aspects of them each time you visit. Of course they also change depending on the season and it is this constantly changing nature of gardens that makes them so attractive. |
Villa Lante, Lazio
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The point I'm trying to reach in a very roundabout way, is that this list, just like the gardens themselves, will continue to evolve and is in no way a closed shop. I've done my best to visit the most famous gardens in Italy but of course there are exceptions and I will continue to visit and revisit them all in order to provide the most comprehensive collection possible.
So, without further preamble, the two gardens occupying first and second position in my list are Villa Taranto and Villa d'Este. The first of those, Villa Taranto is situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, next to the lakeside city of Verbania. It's not just the rich variety of flowers on display in the garden that sets it apart, but its centrepiece lawn area with a central water feature and the most incredible array of colours. Everything in the garden is perfectly manicured and a glowing testament to the work of its creator, the Scotsman Neil Boyd McEacharn who established the garden in the 1930's.
I've placed the Villa d'Este in second place on my list although the people at UNESCO would probably disagree with me as they've listed it as one of their World Heritage Sites since 2001. It won its coveted place in the list due to its innovative design and use of ornamental features such as fountains and statues. It's held up as an exemplar of the 16th century Italian garden and of the Renaissance culture.
So, without further preamble, the two gardens occupying first and second position in my list are Villa Taranto and Villa d'Este. The first of those, Villa Taranto is situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, next to the lakeside city of Verbania. It's not just the rich variety of flowers on display in the garden that sets it apart, but its centrepiece lawn area with a central water feature and the most incredible array of colours. Everything in the garden is perfectly manicured and a glowing testament to the work of its creator, the Scotsman Neil Boyd McEacharn who established the garden in the 1930's.
I've placed the Villa d'Este in second place on my list although the people at UNESCO would probably disagree with me as they've listed it as one of their World Heritage Sites since 2001. It won its coveted place in the list due to its innovative design and use of ornamental features such as fountains and statues. It's held up as an exemplar of the 16th century Italian garden and of the Renaissance culture.
Villa Taranto
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Villa Taranto is a magnificent botanical garden located in Verbania, on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region of Italy.
Established in 1931 by Scottish captain Neil Boyd McEacharn, it spans over 16 hectares and showcases one of Europe’s finest collections of rare plants and flowers. The garden features over 20,000 plant varieties from around the world, including azaleas, camellias, and lotus flowers. Highlights include the Dahlia Maze, terraced fountains, and a greenhouse housing tropical species. Open to the public since 1952, Villa Taranto is a stunning blend of natural beauty and meticulous design, attracting garden enthusiasts from around the globe. |
Villa Taranto, Verbania
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Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
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Villa d’Este, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magnificent Renaissance villa located in Tivoli, near Rome. Built in the 16th century for Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este, the villa is renowned for its spectacular gardens and fountains, symbolizing the grandeur of the Italian Renaissance.
The villa’s terraced gardens feature cascading waterfalls, ornamental ponds, and intricate fountains, including the iconic Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Organ, which produces music through water power. Inside, the villa is adorned with frescoed ceilings and walls showcasing classical themes. Villa d’Este is a masterpiece of landscape and architectural design. |
Villa d'Este, Tivoli
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The next four gardens on my list show some of the very finest work from both ends of the country. The garden of La Mortella on the beautiful island of Ischia in the Gulf of Naples takes up third position; it was created by the English composer Sir William Walton and his Argentinian wife, the Lady Susana Walton. The garden is set on various levels which allows the growth of enormous trees alongside delicate, tiny botanical specimens. Moreover, the link with the world of music is strong as within the garden complex there's an amphitheatre where you can enjoy classical music concerts and operatic performances on magical, balmy summer evenings.
The garden of Isola Bella in the Piedmont region (not to be confused with the Isola Bella beach in Sicily), is situated just a short distance from the number one garden on this list: Villa Taranto. One of the three Borromean Islands in the middle of Lake Maggiore, the tiny Isola Bella is home to the 17th century Palazzo Borromeo and its sumptuous garden. There are few more evocative locations than this in Italy; the garden's family of white peacocks happily roam the beautiful lawns while some remarkable sculptures and structures provide a variety of places from which to enjoy the panoramas of the garden and the graceful lake as its backdrop.
Back in the south of Italy in the region of Campania, Villa Rufolo is a garden that you may well have seen photos of without realising where it was. One of two gardens in the beautiful hill town of Ravello, Villa Rufolo can lay claim to one of the most photographed trees in Italy as it's the view that almost every visitor to the garden wants to capture. The pine tree stands in the foreground in front of the twin domes of a small church behind it while the glorious vista of the Amalfi Coast stretches out in the background.
Returning to the north of Italy and this time to the Veneto region we arrive at the wonderful Parco Giardino Sigurtà. Situated around ten kilometres of the town of Peschiera del Garda at the southern tip of Lake Garda, Parco Giardino Sigurtà is one of the most glorious expanses of parkland in Italy. Of all the gardens I've visited in the country, this one was the most fun; the garden is too big to be able to see everything on foot so when you arrive at the entrance you're provided with a choice of vehicles with which you can make your way round, including golf buggies and bicycles. I chose an electric bike which was perfect for the undulating, open spaces of the garden. One of the highlights here is a wonderful maze that you may be stuck in for a while if you lose your bearings!
The garden of Isola Bella in the Piedmont region (not to be confused with the Isola Bella beach in Sicily), is situated just a short distance from the number one garden on this list: Villa Taranto. One of the three Borromean Islands in the middle of Lake Maggiore, the tiny Isola Bella is home to the 17th century Palazzo Borromeo and its sumptuous garden. There are few more evocative locations than this in Italy; the garden's family of white peacocks happily roam the beautiful lawns while some remarkable sculptures and structures provide a variety of places from which to enjoy the panoramas of the garden and the graceful lake as its backdrop.
Back in the south of Italy in the region of Campania, Villa Rufolo is a garden that you may well have seen photos of without realising where it was. One of two gardens in the beautiful hill town of Ravello, Villa Rufolo can lay claim to one of the most photographed trees in Italy as it's the view that almost every visitor to the garden wants to capture. The pine tree stands in the foreground in front of the twin domes of a small church behind it while the glorious vista of the Amalfi Coast stretches out in the background.
Returning to the north of Italy and this time to the Veneto region we arrive at the wonderful Parco Giardino Sigurtà. Situated around ten kilometres of the town of Peschiera del Garda at the southern tip of Lake Garda, Parco Giardino Sigurtà is one of the most glorious expanses of parkland in Italy. Of all the gardens I've visited in the country, this one was the most fun; the garden is too big to be able to see everything on foot so when you arrive at the entrance you're provided with a choice of vehicles with which you can make your way round, including golf buggies and bicycles. I chose an electric bike which was perfect for the undulating, open spaces of the garden. One of the highlights here is a wonderful maze that you may be stuck in for a while if you lose your bearings!
La Mortella Gardens
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La Mortella Gardens, located on the island of Ischia in the Bay of Naples, is a stunning botanical garden.
Created in 1956 by British composer Sir William Walton and his wife, Lady Susana Walton, the garden is a tranquil oasis featuring rare plants from around the world. Designed by landscape architect Russell Page, it blends tropical and Mediterranean vegetation across terraced landscapes. Highlights include the water garden, the Thai pavilion, and a spectacular collection of orchids and succulents. La Mortella also hosts classical music concerts, honouring William Walton's legacy. |
La Mortella Gardens, Ischia
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Isola Bella (Lake Maggiore)
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Isola Bella is a stunning island on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, near the town of Stresa. Part of the Borromean Islands, it is renowned for its opulent Baroque palace and spectacular terraced gardens.
The Palazzo Borromeo, built in the 17th century by the noble Borromeo family, features lavish rooms adorned with frescoes, tapestries, and period furnishings. The meticulously landscaped gardens are a masterpiece of design, filled with fountains, statues, exotic plants, and vibrant flowers. Peacocks roam the grounds, adding to the island’s charm. Originally a rocky outcrop, Isola Bella was transformed into a floating paradise, blending architectural grandeur with natural beauty, and remains a highlight of Lake Maggiore. |
Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore
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Villa Rufolo
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Villa Rufolo is a historic villa located in Ravello, a picturesque town on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Perched high above the Mediterranean, it offers breathtaking views and a blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles.
Built in the 13th century by the wealthy Rufolo family, it served as a center of culture and opulence during the Middle Ages. The villa’s highlights include its iconic tower, lush terraced gardens filled with vibrant flowers, and the historic cloisters. Renowned for inspiring artists and writers, including Richard Wagner, it is now a venue for concerts during the annual Ravello Festival. Villa Rufolo embodies the charm and elegance of the Amalfi Coast. |
Villa Rufolo, Ravello
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Parco Giardino Sigurta
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Parco Giardino Sigurtà is a beautiful historical garden located in Valeggio sul Mincio, Veneto, near Lake Garda. Covering 60 hectares, it is known for its vast landscapes, vibrant flower displays, and picturesque walking paths.
The park features several themed areas, including a hedge maze, a large water garden, and an impressive collection of rare plants. The history of the park dates back to the 16th century, when it was part of the Sigurtà estate. Over the centuries, it has been transformed into one of Italy's most renowned botanical gardens. Today, it attracts visitors with its breathtaking beauty. |
Parco Giardino Sigurtà , Veneto
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The great lakes of the country have been a constant well from which I've drunk in my search for the best gardens of Italy. Although I'm just about to mention the first, there are four gardens on Lake Como alone on this list, not to mention the three on Lake Maggiore. The first of the Lake Como gardens is the beautiful Villa Monastero, just to the south of the wonderful town of Varenna which is currently occupying first place on my list of Lakeside Towns of Italy. Some parts of the villa date back to the 12th century and the complex nowadays includes a museum, an events facility and the wonderful botanical garden which holds an imperious position next to the lake.
Aside from the lakes, there are certain regions of Italy that feature heavily on this list; two of the top five are in the southern region of Campania and we now come to a third: the Royal Palace of Caserta. The one time residence of the Bourbon royal family was built in the 18th century and the cavernous, regal apartments of the main building are worthy of a visit in their own right. However, what sets the Royal Palace of Caserta apart is its incredible garden. To walk from the palace itself to the end of its garden takes around half an hour and covers a distance of three kilometres. Along the way you'll pass perfectly-manicured lawns adorned with statues and interrupted at various points by some dazzling water features. The coup de grace is the fountain structure at the top of the garden which then gives way to a more natural garden area next to it called the Giardino Inglese.
Another region which has proved fertile ground for beautiful Italian Gardens is Lazio, the region of which Rome is the capital. There are three entries from Lazio on this list and the first of those is the beautiful Villa Lante in the small town of Bagnaia, close to Viterbo. The garden, created in the Mannerist style, was used as backdrop for a number of scenes in the Netflix TV series about the Medici and shares that distinction with the nearby city of Viterbo whose Palazzo dei Papi masqueraded as Rome in the show.
Completing the collection of three gardens around Lake Maggiore on this list: Villa Madre is another of the three Borromean Islands in the middle of the lake and lies just a short distance from the aforementioned Isola Bella. In a similar way to its near neighbour, the island of Isola Madre is dominated by its own Palazzo Borromeo whose botanical garden can boast its own peacocks.
Aside from the lakes, there are certain regions of Italy that feature heavily on this list; two of the top five are in the southern region of Campania and we now come to a third: the Royal Palace of Caserta. The one time residence of the Bourbon royal family was built in the 18th century and the cavernous, regal apartments of the main building are worthy of a visit in their own right. However, what sets the Royal Palace of Caserta apart is its incredible garden. To walk from the palace itself to the end of its garden takes around half an hour and covers a distance of three kilometres. Along the way you'll pass perfectly-manicured lawns adorned with statues and interrupted at various points by some dazzling water features. The coup de grace is the fountain structure at the top of the garden which then gives way to a more natural garden area next to it called the Giardino Inglese.
Another region which has proved fertile ground for beautiful Italian Gardens is Lazio, the region of which Rome is the capital. There are three entries from Lazio on this list and the first of those is the beautiful Villa Lante in the small town of Bagnaia, close to Viterbo. The garden, created in the Mannerist style, was used as backdrop for a number of scenes in the Netflix TV series about the Medici and shares that distinction with the nearby city of Viterbo whose Palazzo dei Papi masqueraded as Rome in the show.
Completing the collection of three gardens around Lake Maggiore on this list: Villa Madre is another of the three Borromean Islands in the middle of the lake and lies just a short distance from the aforementioned Isola Bella. In a similar way to its near neighbour, the island of Isola Madre is dominated by its own Palazzo Borromeo whose botanical garden can boast its own peacocks.
Villa Monastero
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Villa Monastero is a historic villa located along the shores of Lake Como, in the town of Varenna. Originally a monastery, it was transformed into a private residence in the 18th century.
The villa is renowned for its stunning lakeside gardens, which are meticulously landscaped and feature a variety of plants, flowers, and sculptures. Inside, the villa houses a museum with exhibitions related to the region’s history and culture. Its elegant rooms offer spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Over the years, Villa Monastero has hosted numerous cultural events and remains a significant example of Italian lakeside architecture. |
Villa Monastero, Lake Como
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Royal Palace of Caserta
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The Royal Palace of Caserta is a magnificent 18th-century palace located in the town of Caserta, Campania. Built by the Bourbon kings of Naples, it is one of the largest palaces in Europe, designed by architect Luigi Vanvitelli.
The palace features a stunning Baroque façade, expansive gardens, and over 1,200 rooms, including grand halls, private chambers, and a lavish theatre. Its most notable feature is the vast park, stretching for over three kilometres, with fountains, waterfalls, and intricate landscaping. The palace was used as a royal residence until the 19th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
Royal Palace of Caserta
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Villa Lante
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Villa Lante is a Renaissance villa located in the Lazio region of central Italy, near the town of Bagnaia, just outside Viterbo. Built in the 16th century for the noble Gambara family, the villa is renowned for its exceptional gardens.
The villa itself features elegant architecture with a symmetrical layout, characterized by decorative loggias and frescoed interiors. The surrounding gardens are famous for their fountains, water features, and beautifully manicured lawns, offering a tranquil escape. Villa Lante represents the perfect blend of architecture and nature, showcasing the Renaissance ideal of harmony. |
Villa Lante, Lazio
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Isola Madre
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Isola Madre is one of the Borromean Islands, located on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. Known for its lush gardens and tranquil atmosphere, the island is a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and history.
The main feature of Isola Madre is its extensive botanical garden, filled with exotic plants, flowers, and rare species, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape. The island is also home to a grand 16th-century villa, once the residence of the Borromeo family. Inside the villa, visitors can admire period furnishings and historical artefacts. |
Isola Madre, Lake Maggiore
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For our next two gardens on the list we remain in the north of Italy and find another entry that's next to a lake. Villa Carlotta is situated on the western shores of Lake Como, close to the lakeside town of Tremezzo. The garden covers around twenty acres and the 18th century villa at its centre is now a museum housing a variety of works including sculptures by the legendary Italian sculptor Antonio Canova.
We stay in the north for our next garden on the list and head back to the region of Veneto of which Venice is the capital. Around thirty kilometres inland of Venice we find the gardens of Villa Pisani. The beautiful Baroque villa is one of several that lies along the Naviglio del Brenta, the canal that links Venice to the historic city of Padova, a short distance west of Villa Pisani. This is another garden with some wonderful statues and ornamental structures as well as a maze that can take a little while to find the centre of.
Earlier in the list we encountered Villa Rufolo in Ravello, famous for its views of the Amalfi Coast and iconic tree; well just a short walk from there we find Ravello's second garden on this list, the wonderful Villa Cimbrone. Just as Villa Rufolo can claim to have its iconic status, Villa Cimbrone can possibly outdo it with its Terrace of Infinity. A series of busts line the terrace area from which you can get a different set of panoramas down on to the Amalfi Coast and somewhat more dizzying as well with the vertiginous drop from its balcony.
Most of the garden listed above are in rural locations or around lakes but the next one is in the historic city of Verona. Giardino Giusti is a Renaissance garden created in 1580 whose fame grew when it became an integral stop-off on the Grand Tour in the 17th and 18th centuries. The garden's huge trees and landscaped areas mark it out as a haven of peace just a stone's throw from the bustling city centre.
We stay in the north for our next garden on the list and head back to the region of Veneto of which Venice is the capital. Around thirty kilometres inland of Venice we find the gardens of Villa Pisani. The beautiful Baroque villa is one of several that lies along the Naviglio del Brenta, the canal that links Venice to the historic city of Padova, a short distance west of Villa Pisani. This is another garden with some wonderful statues and ornamental structures as well as a maze that can take a little while to find the centre of.
Earlier in the list we encountered Villa Rufolo in Ravello, famous for its views of the Amalfi Coast and iconic tree; well just a short walk from there we find Ravello's second garden on this list, the wonderful Villa Cimbrone. Just as Villa Rufolo can claim to have its iconic status, Villa Cimbrone can possibly outdo it with its Terrace of Infinity. A series of busts line the terrace area from which you can get a different set of panoramas down on to the Amalfi Coast and somewhat more dizzying as well with the vertiginous drop from its balcony.
Most of the garden listed above are in rural locations or around lakes but the next one is in the historic city of Verona. Giardino Giusti is a Renaissance garden created in 1580 whose fame grew when it became an integral stop-off on the Grand Tour in the 17th and 18th centuries. The garden's huge trees and landscaped areas mark it out as a haven of peace just a stone's throw from the bustling city centre.
Villa Carlotta
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Villa Carlotta is located on the western shore of Lake Como in Tremezzo. Built in the late 17th century, it was originally a noble residence before being transformed into a museum and public garden.
The villa is renowned for its beautiful botanical gardens, which feature a wide variety of plants, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and centuries-old trees, creating a stunning backdrop to the villa’s grand architecture. Inside, visitors can explore art collections, including works by famous artists such as Canova and Hayez. The villa was once the property of the Milanese aristocracy and later became a cultural and historical landmark. |
Villa Carlotta, Lake Como
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Villa Pisani
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Villa Pisani is a grand Venetian villa located in the Veneto region, near the town of Stra, along the Brenta River. Built in the early 18th century for the Pisani family, the villa is an exquisite example of Venetian Renaissance architecture.
The villa’s elegant façade and elaborate interiors feature stunning frescoes, ornate stuccoes, and a vast collection of artwork. Its extensive gardens, designed by renowned landscaper Francesco Zanin, include fountains, sculptures, and a maze. Historically, Villa Pisani has been a symbol of wealth and power, hosting various European nobility. It later became a public museum, offering insight into Italy's aristocratic past and architectural heritage. |
Villa Pisani, Veneto
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Villa Cimbrone
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Villa Cimbrone is a historic villa located in Ravello, a town perched on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Built in the 11th century, the villa was later transformed into a grand residence in the 19th century by the British aristocrat Lord Grimthorpe.
The villa is renowned for its stunning gardens, which blend Italian landscaping with elements of Romanticism. Its most famous feature is the "Terrace of Infinity," offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline. Villa Cimbrone has long attracted artists, writers, and travelers, and today, it serves as a luxury hotel and cultural venue. |
Villa Cimbrone, Ravello
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Giardino Giusti
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The Giardino Giusti is a historic Renaissance garden located in Verona, near the city centre. Created in the late 16th century by the noble Giusti family, it is renowned for its elegant design and beautiful views of the surrounding city and hills.
The garden is laid out in a classical Italian style, with terraced levels, symmetrical pathways, hedges, fountains, and statues. A central feature is the “Labyrinth,” a maze of cypress trees that adds an element of mystery. The garden also contains a small temple and a grotto. Over the centuries, it has remained a symbol of Verona's rich cultural heritage and aristocratic past. |
Giardino Giusti, Verona
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You might be surprised to find a place called Hanbury Botanical Gardens in Italy; this is another entrant with strong British connections as it was devised by Sir Thomas Hanbury in the 19th century. It's situated in the mainly coastal region of Liguria in north-western Italy and, depending on which direction you're heading in, one of the first or last places you'll see in Italy if travelling via France as it's right on the international border between the two countries; slightly closer to the French town of Menton than it is to Ventimiglia, the Italian border town.
We return to Lake Como for the next two gardens. Villa del Balbianello shot to fame in recent years as it was used as one of the filming locations for the 2002 Star Wars Attack of the Clones movie, and not content with that, followed it up four years later by starring in the Casino Royale James Bond film. Links with Hollywood are strong in this part of the world with George Clooney's villa just a few kilometres south of the garden.
Over on the eastern shore of Lake Como is the beautiful town of Bellagio, one of the quintessential lakeside towns of Italy which is home to the lovely Giardini di Villa Melzi. The garden was designed in the early 19th century and is one of the favourite places to visit for visitors to Bellagio and the whole lake area.
Possibly the most unusual garden on this list is another entry from the Lazio region. The small town of Bomarzo is interesting in its own right but its fame has been dwarfed by that of its garden called the Mostri Park. Translated into English that's the "Park of Monsters" which you wouldn't normally think would be the best way to attract people to a garden. However, you can rest assured that the monsters are not real, but some of the most fantastic and imaginative stone sculptures you would ever wish to see.
We return to Lake Como for the next two gardens. Villa del Balbianello shot to fame in recent years as it was used as one of the filming locations for the 2002 Star Wars Attack of the Clones movie, and not content with that, followed it up four years later by starring in the Casino Royale James Bond film. Links with Hollywood are strong in this part of the world with George Clooney's villa just a few kilometres south of the garden.
Over on the eastern shore of Lake Como is the beautiful town of Bellagio, one of the quintessential lakeside towns of Italy which is home to the lovely Giardini di Villa Melzi. The garden was designed in the early 19th century and is one of the favourite places to visit for visitors to Bellagio and the whole lake area.
Possibly the most unusual garden on this list is another entry from the Lazio region. The small town of Bomarzo is interesting in its own right but its fame has been dwarfed by that of its garden called the Mostri Park. Translated into English that's the "Park of Monsters" which you wouldn't normally think would be the best way to attract people to a garden. However, you can rest assured that the monsters are not real, but some of the most fantastic and imaginative stone sculptures you would ever wish to see.
Hanbury Botanical Gardens
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The Hanbury Botanical Gardens are located in the town of Ventimiglia, Liguria, near the French border. Established in the early 20th century by the British botanist Thomas Hanbury, the gardens cover approximately 18 acres and feature a wide variety of Mediterranean and subtropical plants.
The gardens are laid out in terraces, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. Key features include exotic plants, lush flower beds, and well-maintained pathways. Over the years, the garden has become a centre for botanical research and conservation. Today, it is a popular destination for visitors interested in horticulture and the natural beauty of the Ligurian coast. |
Hanbury Botanical Gardens, Liguria
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Villa del Balbianello
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Villa del Balbianello is a historic villa located on the western shore of Lake Como, in Lenno. Built in the late 18th century, it sits on a scenic promontory offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The villa is known for its beautiful gardens, terraced landscapes, and the stunning loggia overlooking the water. Its interior is elegantly furnished with art and antiques, reflecting the former owners’ aristocratic lifestyle. The villa was once the residence of various prominent figures, including explorer Guido Monzino, who donated it to the FAI (Italian Environment Fund). Today, it is open to the public and hosts events and exhibitions. |
Villa del Balbianello, Lake Como
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Giardini di Villa Melzi
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The Giardini di Villa Melzi is a stunning historic garden located in Bellagio, on the shores of Lake Como. Created in the early 19th century, the gardens were designed for Francesco Melzi d'Eril, a prominent nobleman and vice president of the Italian Republic.
The gardens feature a harmonious blend of Italian and English landscaping styles, with beautifully manicured lawns, winding paths, and a diverse collection of plants, including exotic species. Notable highlights include sculptures, a small temple, and an elegant lakeside promenade offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. |
Giardini di Villa Melzi, Lake Como
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Mostri Park - Bomarzo Gardens
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The Mostri Park, also known as the Bomarzo Gardens, is a unique and fascinating garden located in Bomarzo, Lazio. Created in the 16th century by Prince Pier Francesco Orsini, the park is famous for its surreal and bizarre sculptures, designed to evoke awe and wonder.
The garden features large, monstrous figures, including a giant elephant, a crocodile, and the iconic Mouth of Hell. These striking sculptures are set amidst dense greenery and winding paths, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The park was designed as a place for reflection and escape, blending nature with artistic expression. |
Mostri Park - Bomarzo Gardens, Lazio
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The beautiful southern Italian island of Capri provides the first of our final quartet of gardens. The Giardini di Augusto or Augustus Gardens are named after the first Roman emperor on an island that was once the de facto capital of Italy during the controversial reign fo the second emperor: Tiberius. The gardens are situated in one of the most exclusive pieces of real estate in the world, just a short walk from the glamorous are of shops in Capri's Via Camerelle. Aside from the gardens themselves, the views down to the likes of Marina Piccola or across to the island's Faraglioni sea stacks are breathtaking.
The final three gardens belong to the central regions of Italy with the city of Florence providing two of them. For some people, the very epitome of an Italian Renaissance garden comes in the form of the Boboli Gardens which sprawl away from the central Palazzo Pitti on the west bank of the River Arno. The 18th century gardens cover some 11 acres and are one of the favourite visitor attractions in the city.
Earlier in the list I mentioned Villa Lante which features in the Medici Netflix TV show and another garden that shares that distinction is that of the Villa Farnese in the small town of Caprarola in Lazio. Both the main building and the garden itself are worthy of a day-trip from Rome where most sights are packed with visitors. The wonderful Villa Farnese remains something of a relative secret and you can usually find yourself as one of very few visitors to this quite extraordinary site.
Completing the list is the second entry from Florence: the Giardino Bardini. Another Renaissance garden in the same Oltrarno ("across the Arno") area of Florence as the Boboli Gardens, Giardino Bardini's sloping lawns provide some wonderful views across the River Arno to the major sights of the city such as the Ponte Vecchio and Florence Cathedral.
The final three gardens belong to the central regions of Italy with the city of Florence providing two of them. For some people, the very epitome of an Italian Renaissance garden comes in the form of the Boboli Gardens which sprawl away from the central Palazzo Pitti on the west bank of the River Arno. The 18th century gardens cover some 11 acres and are one of the favourite visitor attractions in the city.
Earlier in the list I mentioned Villa Lante which features in the Medici Netflix TV show and another garden that shares that distinction is that of the Villa Farnese in the small town of Caprarola in Lazio. Both the main building and the garden itself are worthy of a day-trip from Rome where most sights are packed with visitors. The wonderful Villa Farnese remains something of a relative secret and you can usually find yourself as one of very few visitors to this quite extraordinary site.
Completing the list is the second entry from Florence: the Giardino Bardini. Another Renaissance garden in the same Oltrarno ("across the Arno") area of Florence as the Boboli Gardens, Giardino Bardini's sloping lawns provide some wonderful views across the River Arno to the major sights of the city such as the Ponte Vecchio and Florence Cathedral.
Augustus Gardens
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The Augustus Gardens (Giardini Augustus) are located on the island of Capri, offering stunning views of the island's rugged coastline and the famous Faraglioni rock formations. Situated on the slopes of Mount Solaro, the gardens were designed in the early 20th century by the German industrialist Alfred Krupp.
The terraced gardens are filled with vibrant Mediterranean plants, including bougainvillea, pines, and palms. Walkways guide visitors through the lush landscape, leading to breathtaking panoramic vistas. The gardens provide a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Capri’s elite during the early 1900s. |
Augustus Gardens, Capri
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Boboli Gardens
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The Boboli Gardens are located in the historic centre of Florence, behind the Pitti Palace. These expansive gardens, dating back to the 16th century, are a prime example of Italian Renaissance landscape design.
The gardens feature terraced lawns, classical statues, fountains, and intricate pathways, offering stunning views of Florence and the surrounding Tuscan hills. Notable features include the Grotta del Buontalenti, a decorative cave, and the Isolotto, an island with a central fountain. The gardens are also home to a variety of plant species and sculptures. The Boboli Gardens are easily accessible by walking from the Ponte Vecchio, just a short distance away. |
Boboli Gardens, Florence
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Villa Farnese (Caprarola)
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Villa Farnese is located in the town of Caprarola, in the Lazio region of central Italy, about 60 kilometres north of Rome. Built in the late 16th century, the villa is renowned for its stunning Renaissance architecture and elaborate gardens.
The villa features a pentagonal design, with grand staircases, frescoed rooms, and beautifully decorated halls. The interior frescoes, created by prominent artists like Taddeo Zuccari, are particularly noteworthy. The surrounding gardens are beautifully landscaped with fountains, terraces, and scenic views. Nearby, visitors can explore the medieval town of Caprarola. To reach the villa, visitors can drive from Rome or take a train to the nearby Viterbo. |
Villa Farnese, Caprarola, Lazio
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Giardino Bardini
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Giardini Bardini is a historic garden located in the Oltrarno district of Florence, near the Pitti Palace. The gardens date back to the 17th century and are renowned for their beautifully landscaped terraces, fountains, and panoramic views of the city.
One of the highlights is the Baroque-style stairway, which leads visitors through lush greenery to the top of the garden, where they can enjoy views of Florence’s skyline and the Duomo. The gardens also feature a collection of sculptures and ornamental plants. Close by, visitors can explore the Boboli Gardens and the historic centre of Florence. |
Giardino Bardini, Florence
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As I alluded to at the top of the page, I don't consider this list to be finished and not only in terms of the order by which the above gardens appear, but with the expectation that other gardens will find their way onto the list. The twenty two gardens above represent just a small percentage of the fantastic landscaped places in Italy and the search for more will continue.
