18 Best Palaces In Rome: Tale Of Royalty And Nobility’s Power, Luxury, And Art

Are you wondering what are the best palaces in Rome to visit? Are you prepared to explore the magnificent riches found in Rome’s palaces? I have been to Rome a number of times and every time, there is something that amazes me in the Eternal City. I would love to share with you some of the best palaces in Rome that you can include in your Rome itinerary.

Rome’s art culture is amazing, ranging from modern art pieces to antique sarcophagi and wall murals from Nero’s reign.

Explore the palaces (including those that have been turned into museums) at your own pace. Here, you may compare styles and artists and follow the development of artistic movements. There are plenty of options for art lovers, including complexes that include multiple distinct museums and palaces. Prepare to be impressed by planning your sightseeing with our selection of the best museums and palaces in Rome.

Read more: Best Things to Do in Rome (Italy) for First Time Visitors

Here are the Best Palaces in Rome, Italy:

1. Villa Borghese – Gallery and Gardens 

📍Address: Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Borghese Gallery Guided Tour
🌟 Ratings: 4.7 / 5

The Borghese Villa is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture that was constructed in the early 17th century outside of Rome. It has large grounds that makeup one of the city’s biggest parks. The villa’s collection of paintings, which includes works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and many other artists, perhaps makes it so well-known. One of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, the Borghese Villa offers visitors an unforgettable look at Renaissance art and architecture.

The gardens and grounds surrounding the Borghese Villa are a highlight of any visit, in addition to the villa’s impressive collection of paintings and sculptures. Over 80 hectares of sprawling parkland make up this popular gathering place for locals and tourists to stroll, picnic, or simply unwind under the trees. Numerous sculptures and fountains can be found in the park, including the well-known Fontana dei Pupazzi, or “Fountain of the Puppets,” which is situated close to the villa’s entrance.

The Giardino del Lago, also known as the “Lake Garden,” is one of the most endearing aspects of the Borghese Gardens. It includes a sizable man-made lake that is encircled by lush vegetation and scattered with picturesque pavilions. Renting a rowboat allows visitors to explore the lake while admiring the stunning views of the villa and its surroundings. Throughout the year, the gardens also host a number of special events, such as outdoor theater productions and concerts, making it a lively and vibrant destination regardless of the time of year you go.

2. Palazzo Borghese

📍Address: Piazza Borghese, 9, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Explore the magnificence and opulence of Palazzo Borghese, a magnificent palace with a vast enfilade of opulently decorated rooms. Discover the enormous wealth and high social status of the Borghese family, one of the most illustrious and influential families in Roman society. Admire the enormous collection of artwork that the Borghese family collected, many of which are on display in the Borghese Gallery.

This magnificent palace, also known as “Cembalo” or “the harpsichord,” has long been regarded as one of Rome’s wonders, and it’s easy to understand why. Its unusual design is reminiscent of an old musical instrument, and it is an incredible piece of architecture.

Enter the grand and impressive courtyard, which is surrounded by a portico with a double order of columns, ancient statues, and. Admire the magnificent “Bagno di Venere,” a sizable nymphaeum filled with statues, vines, and stunning Baroque fountains. Explore the first-floor hallways that have served as the exclusive Hunting Club’s home since the 1920s. Don’t forget to admire Antonio Canova’s semi-naked sculpture of Pauline Borghese, who was the wife of Prince Camillo Borghese and the sister of Napoleon Bonaparte.

3. Quirinal Palace

📍Address: Piazza del Quirinale, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Wednesday, Friday to Sunday, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM 
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Highlight City Center Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
🌟 Ratings: 4.6 / 5

Rome’s Quirinal Palace is a must-see location because of its magnificent collection of furnishings, tapestries, paintings, and other decor. It represents the democratic life and rich cultural heritage of the country and serves as the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. From the Renaissance to the 20th century, the Palace is home to an impressive collection of masterpieces, including works from the Savoy Kingdom and the Napoleonic era.

From the Palace’s hilltop location, you can explore its opulent halls and take in the breathtaking views of the Eternal City. You will be in awe of the Palace’s magnificent architecture, which includes its grand staircases, intricate frescoes, and impressive sculptures.

Additionally, the Palace regularly hosts official gatherings and exhibitions that give visitors a rare chance to get up close and personal with Italian history and culture. Take advantage of the opportunity to see this magnificent palace and explore the treasures of Italy’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

4. Palacio Colonna

📍Address: Via della Pilotta, 17, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Sat 9:15 am-1:15 pm. Private tours on Friday.
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Galleria Colonna Entry Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

Rome’s Palazzo Colonna is a true treasure and a must-see location for both art and history enthusiasts. The palace, which is in the center of Rome, provides a singular look into the Colonna family’s opulent lifestyle and their collection of priceless artwork and furnishings.

The splendor of Renaissance, Baroque, and Roman Rococo architecture can be fully experienced by visitors as they wander through the magnificent palace. Pinturicchio, Carracci, Guido Reni, and Tintoretto, to name just a few, are just a few of the incredible artists whose works can be found in the interior.

The Great Hall, which is nothing short of spectacular, is the real star of Palazzo Colonna. Beautiful paintings, sculptures, and mirrors are placed throughout the space, which also boasts a stunning frescoed ceiling that shows the Battle of Lepanto. This room transports visitors back to the splendor and opulence of the Renaissance era, making it an unforgettable experience.

Read more: Best Churches in Rome, Italy: Guide to Its Most Stunning Religious Sites

5. Palazzo Farnese

📍Address: Piazza Farnese, 67, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Mon and Wed at 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM or Fri at 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: 4-Hour Private Tour with Driver
🌟 Ratings: 4.4 / 5

In the heart of Rome’s historic center, on Piazza Farnese 67, close to Campo de’ Fiori, you’ll find Palazzo Farnese, unquestionably one of the city’s most impressive palaces. Construction on this magnificent Renaissance villa began in 1513 and continued for a whopping 75 years, with Michelangelo, one of the city’s most popular artists at the time, designing the facade. Under Alessandro Farnese, who later became Pope Paul III in 1534, the palace was enlarged.

The Hercules Room, where the original Hercules statue now stands in Naples, the Loves of the Gods ceiling fresco by Annibale Caracci, and the statues of Giacomo della Porta that stand in front of a lovely fireplace are all highlights of the palace.

Since 1874, the French Embassy has been housed in Palazzo Farnese, which is still accessible to the general public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The 45-minute tours, which are offered in English, French, and Italian, must be scheduled at least one week in advance.

Read more: Best Piazza in Rome, Italy: A Guide to Its Most Iconic Squares & Plazas

6. Palazzo Barberini

📍Address: Via delle Quattro Fontane, 13, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM – 7 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Palazzo Barberini: 2-Hour Private Tour
🌟 Ratings: 5 / 5

The Palazzo Barberini is a masterpiece of architecture in addition to being a treasure trove of art and history. The Barberini family was among the most powerful and affluent families in Rome during the 17th century, and their power and wealth are reflected in the grandeur and elegance of the palace, which was created by the renowned architects Carlo Maderno and Francesco Borromini.

The stunning interior of Palazzo Barberini, which features elaborate stucco decorations, marble floors, and ornate ceilings, is also open for visitors to explore in addition to the palace’s impressive art collection. The impressive staircase of the palace, which features a massive fresco by Pietro da Cortona, is a favorite among tourists.

In addition, the palace’s central location in Rome makes it accessible to both visitors and residents. Due to its strategic location, tourists can visit Palazzo Barberini along with other nearby landmarks like the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain.

7. National Museum of the Palazzo di Venezia

📍Address: Via del Plebiscito, 118, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Everyday 9:30 AM – 7:30 AM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: National Museum of Palazzo Venezia Reserved Entrance Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

The sober Renaissance structure known as Palazzo Venezia, which is situated between Piazza Venezia and Via del Plebiscito, was constructed between 1455 and 1467 on behalf of the Venetian Cardinal Pietro Barbo, later known as Pope Paul II. This structure was constructed using travertine from the Colosseum and Teatro di Marcello.

The National Museum of Palazzo Venezia, the National Institute of Archeology and Art History, and the Library of Archeology and Art History are currently located in Palazzo Venezia. Pope Paul II was the first occupant of this building, and the majority of the collections on display in the museum are his. Additionally, you can view some works from the National Gallery of Ancient Art, the Museum of the Roman College, and the Sant’Angelo Castle.

Visitors can admire a variety of items in the palace’s corridors, including Renaissance paintings, multicolored wooden sculptures, rugs, weapons, armor, and terracotta sculptures. A must-see for art enthusiasts is Palazzo Venezia, which features artwork created between the earliest periods of Christianity and the Renaissance. Due to its role as the Fascist government’s administrative center under Mussolini’s rule, the palace has a long and interesting history.

Read more: Museums in Rome, Italy: Guide to the Best Art & History Collections

8. Palazzo della Cancelleria

📍Address: P.za della Cancelleria, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Weekdays 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday and Public Holidays 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Leonardo da Vinci Exhibition Entrance Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.3 / 5

On the orders of Cardinal Raffaele Riario, the magnificent Palazzo della Cancelleria was constructed in Piazza della Cancelleria 1 in 1483. In 1516, the palace passed into the possession of the Vatican after being given to Cardinal Giulio de Medici by Pope Leo X. The palace’s main floor is covered in carvings that represent Cardinal Riario’s authority, and its stunning travertine facade was created by Bramante and Bregno.

The Hall of the Hundred Days, which was painted by Giorgio Vasari under the direction of Cardinal Farnese in just 100 days, is one of the palace’s most striking features. Intriguing events occurred during the palace’s construction as well, including the removal of 44 granite columns from the Pompeii Theater and marble from the Colosseum. Additionally, the remains of a 4th-century basilica were discovered in the courtyard in the 1980s.

9. Palazzo Corsini

📍Address: Via della Lungara, 10, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM – 7 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Free Entry with Roma Pass: 48 or 72-Hour City Card
🌟 Ratings: 4 / 5

On the orders of Cardinal Raffaele Riario, the magnificent Palazzo della Cancelleria was constructed in Piazza della Cancelleria 1 in 1483. In 1516, the palace passed into the possession of the Vatican after being given to Cardinal Giulio de Medici by Pope Leo X. The palace’s main floor is covered in carvings representing Cardinal Riario’s authority, and its stunning travertine facade was created by Bramante and Bregno.

The Hall of the Hundred Days, which was painted by Giorgio Vasari under the direction of Cardinal Farnese in just 100 days, is one of the palace’s most striking features. Intriguing events occurred during the palace’s construction as well, including the removal of 44 granite columns from the Pompeii Theater and marble from the Colosseum. Additionally, the remains of a 4th-century basilica were discovered in the courtyard in the 1980s.

10. Palazzo Montecitorio 

📍Address: Piazza di Monte Citorio, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Generally not open to the public, but guided tours are available. 
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Rome by bike – Classic Rome Tour
🌟 Ratings: 4.2 / 5

The Palazzo di Montecitorio is a must-see if you’re interested in the history of politics in Italy. In 1653, Pope Innocent X asked Gian Lorenzo Bernini to design a home for the Ludovisi family. The building has changed a lot over time. In the early 20th century, architect Carlo Fontana made some changes, and Ernesto Basile did some renovations. Today, the Chamber of Deputies meets in the Palazzo di Montecitorio. It is one of the most famous places in Italian politics.

One of the best things about the Palazzo di Montecitorio is the new building that was built behind the old one. The Velario is the name of the room where people debate. It is lit by a beautiful glass canopy. The history of the Italian people is shown in an allegorical frieze on canvas by Giulio Aristide Sartorio in the lower part of the debate chamber. The big hallway next to the debate room is called the “Transatlantico” because the furniture and architecture remind people of the big halls on ships that crossed the ocean at the start of the 20th century.

In addition to being an important political building, the Palazzo di Montecitorio is also a center for both old and new art. The building has art by Carlo Carrà, Giorgio De Chirico, Renato Guttuso, and others in its rooms. One of the rooms in the palace is called the Sala della Lupa. It is known for its old tapestries and its connection to the referendum on June 2, 1946, which led to the creation of the Italian Republic. If you are going to Rome and are interested in history and politics, you should definitely visit the Palazzo di Montecitorio.

11. Flavian Palace 

📍Address: Via di S. Gregorio, 30, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Everyday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Skip-the-Line Tour to Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill
🌟 Ratings: 4.8 / 5

The Flavian Palace, also known as Domus Flavian, is an ancient Roman palace on Rome’s Palatine Hill. Emperor Domitian built the palace in the first century AD and used it for official functions, serving as a public counterpart to the emperor’s private residence, the Domus Augustana. Some of the most notable remains of the Flavian Palace are its impressive fountains in its courtyard.

The palace was finished in 92 AD and is credited to master architect Rabirius. The palace was divided into three sections: the public Domus Flavia, which was used for official business, ceremonies, and entertainment, the private Domus Augustana, which took up more than two-thirds of the palace, and the gardens. The palace was built on top of Nero’s Domus Transitoria and Domus Aurea, and subsequent emperors added to and built over Domitian’s palace.

Today, visitors can see the ruins of the Flavian Palace, which have been partially rebuilt, and imagine the opulence and luxury that once existed. The palace grounds are vast, with gardens, a stadium, guesthouses, and swimming pools. The palace represents the emperors’ immense power to manipulate nature, as the entire structure was built on man-made foundations stretching from the Gemeline hill to the Palatine.

Anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture should pay a visit to the Flavian Palace. The palace provides a glimpse into the emperors’ lavish lifestyle, power, and grandeur. The ruins of the palace and its impressive fountains are sure to impress visitors, and the sprawling palace grounds offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Don’t pass up the chance to visit this extraordinary site and travel back in time to ancient Rome.

12. Palazzo Madama

📍Address: Piazza Madama, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Wednesday – Monday, 10 AM – 6 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Roman National Museum Experience with Multimedia Video
🌟 Ratings: 4.6 / 5

Palazzo Madama, located near Piazza Navona, is a magnificent palace in Rome that serves as the seat of the Italian Senate. The Medici family commissioned the palace in 1503, and it served as their primary residence in Rome. The palace was named after Margaret of Parma, the wife of Alessandro de ‘Medici, and was built over the ruins of Nero’s Baths. The palace is a must-see for visitors to Rome and an impressive example of Renaissance architecture and history.

The rich history and architecture of Palazzo Madama can be explored by visitors. The palace’s construction over the second Imperial Baths adds to its importance, and visitors can marvel at the palace’s beauty and grandeur, which includes stunning interior designs and remarkable artworks. Visitors can explore the area’s many other attractions, including restaurants, cafes, and shops, thanks to its proximity to the famous Piazza Navona. A visit to Palazzo Madama is a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience that provides insight into Italy’s rich cultural and political heritage.

13. Palazzo Massimo alle Colonne 

📍Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 141, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Free Entry with Roma Pass: 48 or 72-Hour City Card
🌟 Ratings: 4 / 5

The beautiful palace Palazzo Massimo alle Colonne is situated in Rome’s Campo Marzio neighborhood. The complex of buildings is a masterpiece by the architect Baldassarre Peruzzi and dates back to the Middle Ages. The columns from Domitian’s Odeon that were rebuilt in the back piazza gave the palace its name. Following the destruction of the previous factories during the Sack of Rome in 1527, the structure was rebuilt, and it now looks out onto the contemporary Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. The façade’s monochrome paintings, which are believed to have been created in 1532 to commemorate Angelo Massimo’s marriage, are available for viewing by visitors.

The palace is not generally accessible to the public, but on March 16th, it is well worth going to celebrate Paolo Massimo’s miraculous resurrection, which occurred in 1583 thanks to Filippo Neri’s intercession. On this occasion, visitors are welcome to visit the chapel on the second floor of the palace. For those who are interested in Roman architecture and history, Palazzo Massimo alle Colonne is a stunning and noteworthy structure that is well worth a visit.

Read more: Best Neighborhoods in Rome, Italy: A Guide to Its Best Local Spots

14. Palazzo Koch

📍Address: Via Nazionale, 91, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

Palazzo Koch, an impressive structure that has been standing since the end of the 19th century, is situated in the center of Rome. Gaetano Koch created it to house the National Bank of the Kingdom of Italy, which later changed its name to the Bank of Italy. The palace is renowned for the technological and architectural innovations used by the architect, such as state-of-the-art electrical and hydraulic installations, an impressive grand staircase, and air conditioning systems. Numerous works of art are displayed in the representative rooms, along with polychrome marbles, silk tapestries, substantial Murano chandeliers, and furniture, for visitors to admire.

A museum devoted to money has been housed in Palazzo Koch since 1993. It features a collection that spans about 5,000 years, from Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets to contemporary currencies. The Exhibition Hall of Oriental Art, which features priceless pieces from India, Persia, Tibet, China, and Cambodia, opened its doors in 2019. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this magnificent palace and museum, where you can learn about the fascinating history of money and take in Rome’s exquisite architectural and artistic design.

15. Palazzo Pallavicini-Rospigliosi 

📍Address: Via Ventiquattro Maggio, 43, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: The Central Hall is open to the public every 1st of the month (except January), 10 AM – 12 PM and 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
* Private visits every day of the week, with a maximum of 15/18 days’ notice

Rome’s Casino dell’Aurora and Palazzo Pallavicini Rospigliosi are two undiscovered attractions that give visitors a peek into the city’s lengthy history. The casino, which was originally a hunting lodge and was built in 1621, has stunning frescoes, moldings made of marble and travertine, and sculptures from the Roman Empire. Among the impressive frescoes on display are “L’Aurora” by Guido Reni, “Triumph of Fame” by Antonio Tempesta, and “The Triumph of Love” by Antonio Tempesta.

This building, which is on Rome’s highest point, has a long and fascinating history, including periods when Julius Caesar and Roman emperors were owners. Visitors can now personally experience the property’s beauty and history because the Pallavicini-Rospigliosi family has owned it since 1704. Don’t pass up the opportunity to explore Palazzo Pallavicini Rospigliosi and Casino dell’Aurora and find one of Rome’s undiscovered gems.

16. Apostolic Palace 

📍Address: 00120 Vatican City
⏰Opening Hours: Not open to the public for general visits but some parts of the palace, such as the Vatican Museums, are open to the public and have their own separate visiting hours
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

Without taking a tour of the famous Apostolic Palace, the Pope’s official residence, a trip to Rome would be incomplete. The palace, which is in Vatican City, has more than a thousand rooms, including papal apartments, the Vatican Library, and various executive offices. But it’s more than just a house; it’s also a popular tourist attraction that gives visitors a look at the opulent lifestyle of the Popes.

Visitors can explore the different structures that make up the Palace as well as its stunning gardens, museums, and chapels. In charge of carrying out the duties of the Vatican State is the Palace as well. Any trip to Rome must include a stop at the Apostolic Palace, whether you’re a history or religious enthusiast.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vatican (The Holy See)

17. Lateran Palace 

📍Address: P.za di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: The Archbasilica of St. John in Lateran Entry Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.3 / 5

For those interested in the history of Rome and Christianity, the Lateran Palace, which is part of a larger complex that also includes the Basilica of St. John Lateran and other important Christian sites, is a must-visit location. The palace once served as the popes’ official residence for over a thousand years, but it was abandoned after a fire in 1308 and later transformed into a hospital, museum, and archive. The palace now serves as the home of the Vatican Historical Museum and boasts a magnificent papal apartment with ten rooms and a chapel with frescoes by illustrious artists.

The palace’s austere design and three three-story facades are based on Palazzo Farnese, and the popes Sixtus V Peretti and Clemente XII Corsini’s coats of arms are displayed on its balconies. Visitors will be awed by the palace’s grand staircase and the frescoes in the chapel, which depict Pope Sixtus V’s deeds and weave together events from the Old and New Testaments with the history of imperial and Christian Rome. The Lateran Treaty, which governs ties between the Holy See and the Italian State, was signed in 1929 with significant participation from the palace.

Read more: 4 Papal Basilicas in Rome, Italy: Spiritual Heart of Christian Faith

18. Palazzo Doria Pamphili

📍Address: Via del Corso, 305, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
⏰Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9 AM – 7 PM | Fri-Sun, 10 AM – 8 PM
🎟️Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Private Tour – Doria Pamphilj Gallery
🌟 Ratings: 5 / 5

Rome’s Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, which is on Via del Corso, is a must-see sight. The Pamphilj family has amassed an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and furniture since the 16th century, making it one of the city’s few privately owned palaces. A variety of artifacts are included in the collection, which dates back to Pope Innocent X, including works of Medieval and Byzantine art, portraits by Renaissance painters, and the mummified body of the family saint.

In addition to the extensive collection, the interiors feature stunning frescoes, elaborate decorations, and antique furniture. With more than 1,000 rooms, the palace is bigger than Buckingham Palace. On your next trip to Rome, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the splendor and heritage of Palazzo Doria Pamphilj.