Temple of Aesculapius (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Temple of Aesculapius?
What makes it 83% Couple-Friendly: The romantic rowing boats, sunset views, and picnic spots make it an intimate date venue, though lack of restrooms nearby limits visit length.
Positives:
- Scenic seclusion: The small island temple offers a quiet retreat inside Villa Borghese.
- Easy access: The gravel path is flat and leads directly from the park entrance.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: No restrooms or cafés are located at the temple island.
- Weather-dependent boat rides: Boat rentals may pause during high winds or heavy rain.
What is Temple of Aesculapius?
- A small 18th-century Ionic temple situated on an artificial island in the central lake of Villa Borghese, commissioned by Marcantonio IV Borghese and designed by Antonio Asprucci and Giuseppe Valadier in 1786
- Dedicated to Aesculapius, the ancient Greco-Roman god of medicine, the circular plan and fluted columns reflect the era’s neoclassical revival of classical temple architecture
- Set amid landscaped gardens and fringed by cypress and umbrella pines, the temple embodies romantic neoclassicism within Rome’s urban green space
What is so special about Temple of Aesculapius for couple trip?
- Paddle a rowboat around the 18th-century Ionic temple island
- Picnic on shaded lawns by the lake
- Photograph reflections at dawn or dusk
- Explore with a guided garden tour for deeper insights
Recommended visit duration: 0.5–2 hours
Why 0.5–2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a boat ride, picnic, and lakeside stroll.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Temple of Aesculapius
Row a small boat:
Rent a rowboat at Laghetto di Villa Borghese and paddle around the temple island.
Tip: Aim for a 20-minute row in calm waters; ducks often swim nearby.
Shoreline picnic:
Enjoy fresh fruit, cheese, and bread on the lake’s grassy banks.
Tip: Buy supplies at a market on Via Veneto and sit under umbrella pines.
Sunrise or sunset photography:
Capture the temple’s Ionic silhouette reflecting in the water.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes before dawn or dusk for the best light on the gravel path.
Guided garden tour:
Join a 1.5–2 hour small-group walk highlighting Borghese gardens and the temple.
Tip: Book the “Borghese Garden & Temple” tour in advance for a €36 per person rate.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Temple of Aesculapius
- Timing: Visit at sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds and capture the best light.
- Combine visits: Pair your trip with a Pincio Terrace stroll for panoramic city views.
Reviews of Temple of Aesculapius
Husam Qissi
Very interesting experience “A mix of history and nature… a lake in the heart of the city.” If you’re looking for a place that magically transports you from the busy tourist streets of Rome into a peaceful natural escape, the lake inside Villa Borghese is a must-visit. This beautiful spot gives you a unique experience — shifting you from the atmosphere of the city’s ancient sites straight into ...
Marek W
For the best view of the temple, be sure to rent the row boat. It’s a pleasant, but short, 20min experience. I’d recommend knowing how to use a row boat as there were many people there unable to do so. The temple and pond can also be viewed from the walking paths just beyond the fence surrounding the pond.
Michel Desjardins
Very nice lake. Looks bigger on Google map than in reality. Too many small boats on our for our liking. It's free. Great park around!
Will McCabe
Picturesque lake with a temple, unfortunately the temple was closed when I visited. The lake has fish and cute little turtles swimming around in it. There are geese, ducks and other wading birds that I didn't recognise as well. There are also little paddle boats that can be rented out allowing you to have a little sailing around on the lake. Overall, a very picturesque place, I highly recommend.
Victoria Rose
This was so beautiful. Has been a highlight on my trip so far. You can also go on your own paddle boat for 5 euros per person. We didn’t, but the atmosphere was amazing. There was a woman playing the harp, fish and turtles swimming and stunning scenery.
When is the best time to visit Temple of Aesculapius (Rome, Italy)?
Spring and autumn bring colorful blooms around the lake. In summer, visit early to avoid midday heat. Boat rentals run year-round but may close in heavy rain.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Boat rental (20 min, 2 persons) | EUR 7 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 15 |
| Guided garden tour (2 persons) | EUR 72 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 94 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Temple of Aesculapius
Address: Via Ulisse Aldrovandi, 6, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
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About Temple of Aesculapius
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 06 060810 BEST nearby Activities
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