Rome’s Municipal Rose Garden Reopens for Spring 2026

One of the most beautiful seasonal attractions in the city is returning this spring. From April 11 to June 14, 2026, the spectacular Municipal Rose Garden of Rome (Roseto Comunale di Roma) will once again open to the public, offering visitors the chance to admire more than 1,100 varieties of roses in full bloom.

Overlooking the Circus Maximus, the Palatine Hill, the bell tower of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, and the majestic Vittoriano, the Rome Rose Garden is considered one of the most scenic and romantic gardens in the city, as well as one of the most unique botanical collections in Europe.

Located on the slopes of the Aventine Hill, this peaceful oasis is one of the best places to experience spring in Rome, surrounded by nature, history, and breathtaking panoramic views.

A Unique Botanical Collection in the Heart of Rome

The upper section of the Municipal Rose Garden of Rome, covering approximately 10,000 square meters and designed like a natural amphitheater, is home to over 1,100 varieties of ancient and modern roses from around the world.

Visitors can admire roses arriving from:

  • The Far East
  • South Africa
  • New Zealand
  • The Americas

Some botanical rose species preserved inside the garden date back as far as 40 million years, making the collection not only visually extraordinary, but also historically fascinating.

The garden’s spectacular setting and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most beautiful gardens in Rome and one of the city’s most underrated spring experiences.

A Celebration of Biodiversity and Environmental Protection

The reopening of the Rose Garden Rome on Saturday, April 11 will also include a special event dedicated to biodiversity and sustainable environmental practices.

To mark the occasion, Sabrina Alfonsi, Councilor for Agriculture, Environment, and Waste Management, will participate in an initiative aimed at promoting natural pest control and protecting the city’s green heritage.

During the opening event, several predatory insects—natural enemies of the most common rose parasites—will be symbolically released inside the garden.

The initiative forms part of a larger ecological pest-control program promoted by Rome’s Department of Environmental Protection. Similar biological treatments have already started on palm trees in:

  • Piazza Vittorio
  • Piazza di Spagna

and will soon continue in:

  • Villa Aldobrandini
  • Villa Torlonia

to combat the destructive red palm weevil while avoiding the use of chemical products.

According to Sabrina Alfonsi, the goal is not only to protect plants naturally, but also to strengthen biodiversity and create a healthier balance between the city and its surrounding ecosystem.

The International Rose Competition Returns in May

One of the most anticipated moments of the season at the Municipal Rose Garden of Rome is the return of the famous Premio Roma per le Nuove Varietà di Rose (“Rome Prize for New Rose Varieties”).

The awards ceremony will take place on May 17, 2026 at 6:00 PM on Via di Valle Murcia, and the event will be open to the public.

The lower section of the garden, known as the Competition Area, will officially open from May 18 to June 14, 2026.

Here, visitors will be able to admire:

  • The new roses participating in the international competition
  • The winning varieties from previous editions of the Premio Roma

This annual event has become one of the most important international showcases dedicated to innovation, cultivation, and botanical research in the world of roses.

One of the Best Things to Do in Rome in Spring

While many visitors focus only on monuments and archaeological sites, the Rome Rose Garden reveals a quieter and more romantic side of the Eternal City.

Whether you are passionate about flowers, photography, biodiversity, or simply looking for peaceful gardens in Rome, the Municipal Rose Garden of Rome offers one of the city’s most magical spring experiences.

With free admission, panoramic views over the Circus Maximus and the Palatine Hill, the prestigious Premio Roma competition, and more than a thousand rare roses from around the world, this hidden gem is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rome in spring.

Opening Hours and Visitor Information

🌹 Collection Area

📅 April 11 – June 14, 2026
🕘 Open daily, including weekends and public holidays
⏰ 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM

🌹 Competition Area

📅 May 18 – June 14, 2026
🕘 Open daily, including weekends and public holidays
⏰ 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM

🎟️ Admission is free and open to everyone.

📍 Entrance:
Via di Valle Murcia 6, 00153 Rome

📧 Guided tour reservations: