Villa Medici

Stunning Views, but Not the Medici Experience I expected! We spontaneously decided to visit Villa Medici on a Sunday afternoon while exploring the area near the Spanish Steps. We hadn’t booked in advance, but were able to get same-day tickets for an English guided tour just a few hours later, which was very convenient. I was also traveling with someone with a disability, and entrance was free for both of us — accessibility was smooth and staff were helpful and respectful throughout, which I truly appreciated. The guided tour itself was well-led and informative, but focused mainly on contemporary art and the gardens. The villa itself has been converted into a residence/hotel for artists in residence, so you only get access to a handful of rooms, many of which are curated with modern installations and furniture. If you’re expecting deep Medici history, like I was, you might be a little let down — there was surprisingly little historical context about the Medici family or their influence on the property. That said, the gardens are lovely, and the panoramic view of Rome from the terrace is absolutely worth seeing — one of the most peaceful spots we found in the city. Overall, it was a pleasant visit, but not quite what I was hoping for given the name and reputation of the Medici legacy. I’d recommend it for art lovers or those wanting a quieter, off-the-beaten-path stop, but if you’re hoping for rich Renaissance history, you may want to look elsewhere.

It was mostly about art and the gardens. Most of the building has been turned into a hotel so you only see like 5 rooms, many of which are being filled with modern art and furniture. I thought there'd be more Medici history and information. The redeeming part was the amazing view of Rome you get from up there. However, I just really didn't find this worth it.

A very beautiful place As in every place in Rome, you can feel the history in every wall. The gardens are remarkable. It's right next to the Spanish steps so I definitely advise not to ignore this place. Highly recommend. You can book a visit directly via the site with or without a guide.

A very nice villa and gardens, definitely worth a visit. The view of Rome from the garden is truly amazing. You can only go with guided tours, and that is worth it, as it is a way to learn about the villa and its history. Overall it was a very nice and interesting visit and tour and I recommend it.

Beautiful villa with amazing views of Rome. The park is amazing but unfortunately you cannot walk through the whole thing because the artists create their works there. I wish I had a bigger tour of the villa. The combination of old things and modern art doesn't work very well in the villa.

One can almost miss this place from the outside due to the French flag atop and its relatively spartan facade. But the view from the inside court is simply stupendous in its splendour. Decorated partially by reliefs and sculptures from Ancient Rome it shows the wealth and prestige possessed by the Medici family during the middle age. We took a guided tour of the place and it is highly recommended to do so. Our guide took us around into the gardens as well and opened two special rooms for us - one of them called the Studio containing some wonderful depictions of birds, animals and flora of all kind painted al Fresco for the patron Fernando Medici who loved all such things and cultivated a scientific curiosity

It was a nice change to all the touristy places in Rome but still showed off the charm the city has. The ticket was quite cheap and was worth every penny. We took an 1,5h long tour around the villa and its gardens. The tour guide was really cool and got to know a lot. The view from the garden terrace was also great - you could see the whole city and spot all the landmarks. We had a really great experience, recommend it.

This is for sure worth a visit, the extent of art is massive, the rooms are amazing. Lots to see.

Located on the edge of Villa Borghese, Villa Medici is a peaceful cultural oasis above the Spanish Steps that blends art, history, and gardens with stunning views over Rome. The guided tour is worth it, insightful and surprisingly serene. Don't miss the gardens or the chance to catch a rotating art exhibit. A hidden gem away from the crowds.

This palace can be viewed only by taking one of the guided tours so make sure you plan for the tour in your language. The exterior front of this palace may be very humble but it was intended to be that way because it hides from the public what is an otherwise very ornate facade in the rear of the building that when you stand in the internal Courtyard and private plaza looks out and over the Vatican. This is now a functioning school to a small collection of dedicated artists who have a one year residency here and come from all over the world to study participate learn and in some cases to replicate the marbles that can be found elsewhere in the city. The guided tour in English was excellent, filled with facts and interestings things about this location and a walk through the garden was a pleasant experience that takes you out and away from the bizziness of the city of Rome. Make sure you ask them about The Secret passage that connects this house to the Vatican. There are a lot of stairs here small narrow and steep so be prepared to do some walking but it's well worth it so you can get out into the garden and find the beautiful little Bunny rabbit that habitats this local.

I had a wonderful tour of the beautiful Villa Medici and gardens, located just above the tourist-laden ho-hum Spanish Steps. You can only visit this 16th century Villa by taking one of the guided tours they offer (6 euro) so make sure you plan in advance and check the tour schedule, or you will not be visiting the Villa! Our tour guide (I took the tour in English) was very knowledgeable and entertaining - he even engaged the children in our group during our breathtaking 1.5 hour tour. The frescoes in the bedrooms we viewed are unbelievable, the gardens are magical and the views of the city are astounding. The Villa Medici has a rich and varied history (it's now the locale for the French Academy in Rome, and has been since 1803) and our guide spoke to us a bit about the current artists in residence and exhibitions. The cafe there is lovely, with a gorgeous view of the city. Balthus (director of the French Academy in the 1960's) designed the metal chairs and tables! I highly recommend a visit to the Villa Medici if you're looking for a relaxing escape into 16th century Rome off the beaten tourist path!