Tivoli is situated 17 miles (28 km) east of Rome, along the Aniene river and on the slopes of Monti Tiburtini. Since ancient times, the town was famous for its climate, beauty and healing qualities of its waters. It become a resort for ancient wealthy Roman families.

Emperor Hadrian created here his residence, Villa Adriana, that is considered - for the magnificence of its architecture - one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The visionary dream of Adriano, who was an amateur architect, was to reproduce here the most beautiful place of all he had been visiting during his travels throughout the Roman empire. The villa extends over 300 acres and is the largest and most luxurious ever built.

Our tour explores the monumental buildings, baths and pools, tricliniums, water ponds, guesthouse and imperial palace. During our walk, we will travel through wild bushes and olive and pine groves.

In 1550, Cardinal Ippolito d'Este, one of the leading personalities of the Renaissance, was appointed governor of Tivoli. He created a splendid residence for himself in town. He was the son of Lucrezia Borgia and Alfonso D’Este and used to the luxurious life of the court of France. He hired the greatest Renaissance architects, painters and engineers to build his splendid villa on the site of a simple ancient monastery. Since the palace grounds were too small, he acquired all the land he could purchase in order to develop gardens to impress his guests and visitors. The Italian style gardens of Villa D’este are famous worldwide for their variety of water fountains, spurs, waterfalls, grottoes and centenary trees. It is not to be missed!

For this tour, a car is required. The tour duration is 4 to 8 hours and comfortable walking shoes are suggested.