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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 09 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Rebecca Winke

This 17th-century Palazzo, designed by Carlo Maderno and Bernini, is itself a perfect example of how the elite lived in baroque Rome.

It’s now also part of Rome’s national gallery, and houses the best collection of the city’s old masterpieces – a wealth of art by Filippo Lippi, Raphael, Tintoretto, Titian, Caravaggio and Holbein, plus majestic ceiling frescoes by Pietro da Cortona.

Don't miss

Look out for La Fornarina, an iconic 1595 painting that depicts Raphael’s supposed mistress, the baker’s daughter, who caused his death ‘through a surfeit of love’ as he was frescoing Villa Farnesina.

Price from: £10
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The nearest metro station is Barberini on the Metro line A. It’s a 5-minute walk from there.

Guided tours are only available for groups, and there are no audio guides, so it’s definitely worth checking out the masterpieces section on the website before you go.

When to do it

It’s open all year round, Tuesdays to Sunday. Closed Monday.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Portrait Roma

Rome, Lazio, Italy[0.8 miles]

Intimate and exclusive 14-suite boutique bolthole, with a unique fashion theme, close to all the major sights and with a lovely roof terrace overlooking the city.

Official star rating:

Mario de’ Fiori 37

Rome, Lazio, Italy[0.8 miles]

Seven gorgeous, ultra-comfortable boutique suites in a historic townhouse, in Rome’s most fashionable quarter.

Official star rating:

Inn at the Roman Forum

Rome, Lazio, Italy[1 miles]

An intimate luxury hotel secluded on a quiet street, just above the heart of ancient Rome, with a delightful rooftop garden.

Official star rating:

Babuino 181

Rome, Lazio, Italy[1.2 miles]

Contemporary boutique suites – a stylish home away from home in one of Rome’s most fashionable quarters.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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