Casina di Raffaello Villa Borghese Rome
A charming children's haven in Rome's Villa Borghese, offering free play, a bookstore, and paid workshops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Casina di Raffaello Villa Borghese Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming children's haven in Rome's Villa Borghese, offering free play, a bookstore, and paid workshops.
"Lovely spot for little kids to play, with nice toys and books."
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Book paid workshops in advance, especially during peak times.
📚 Bring English Books
While most materials are in Italian, consider bringing your own English books.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Children's Playroom & Library
Indoor area
A cozy space with toys, chalkboards, and books for younger children to play and read.
Bookstore & Toy Shop
Adjacent to the playroom
Discover a curated selection of children's books, table games, and unique toys.
Laghetto di Villa Borghese
Near Casina di Raffaello
Rent a rowboat on the picturesque lake for a classic Roman park experience.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Paid Activities
Language Barrier & Staff Interactions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Book paid workshops in advance, especially during peak times.
📚 Bring English Books
While most materials are in Italian, consider bringing your own English books.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around Villa Borghese, so wear comfy footwear.
📸 Capture the Moment
The park offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially by the lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Book paid workshops in advance, especially during peak times.
📚 Bring English Books
While most materials are in Italian, consider bringing your own English books.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around Villa Borghese, so wear comfy footwear.
📸 Capture the Moment
The park offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially by the lake.
💰 Budget for Activities
Entry is free, but special events cost around 7 euros per child.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Casina di Raffaello offers a charming, free entry space for children within Villa Borghese, featuring a playroom, library, and shop. While many appreciate the relaxing atmosphere and kid-friendly setup, some visitors have encountered issues with staff rudeness and a lack of English-language materials.
"Great place for spending some time with your kids. There are some toys, chalk board and books. There's a big sofa where you can lay and read with your kids. WC is available. The playing area is mostly for younger kids. But those who are over 10 can read interesting books. It would be great to find more English books available.
There's a little shop inside as well. You can buy books, table games, interesting toys here.
You can visit the location for free. Though they have a schedule of interesting events where your kid can participate for a payment of 7 euro.
The atmosphere here is really relaxing. The staff are friendly and helpful"
Anima Libera
"This store is a lovely space for children, but unfortunately, the service is horrendous, especially towards non-locals. I walked in and asked about a specific book, and the staff pointed me to one I decided to purchase. However, the attendant took the book from me, saying they needed to check if there were other copies available, and no other details. This attendant also spoke English and between English and my broken Italian would have been able to communicate if the very book she was suggesting and recommending to me was unavailable.
While at the register I soon realized that a local parent also was interested in another copy of the same book, and the attendant held the book behind the counter and stated there were no more copies left.
Initially, the attendant said she was unsure of who had seen the book first and suggested we work it out, but after the other shopper stated she had noticed it first, the attendant decided to give it to her instead.
This was incredibly frustrating. I was pointed to and shown the book, no mention of it being held for anyone, and I had it in hand, ready to purchase.
The staff was rude and unprofessional by withholding the book, and the experience was disrespectful. Both the attendant and the other customer lacked any grace in handling the situation.
Simply seeing an item in a store doesn’t give you ownership of it. Ownership comes from either purchasing or claiming an item in a clear and fair manner, not just by expressing interest after someone else has already picked it up. It's a matter of respecting both the store's policies and the other customers in line, even when they are not Italian. Not surprised to see other reviews stating the very same experience."
Jose Garavilla
"Super lovely spot for little kids to play. Nice toys and books. Also a great shop with kids toys and books for sale."
Sheryl M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casina di Raffaello is located within Villa Borghese park. You can reach it by public transport, with buses stopping near the park entrances. Walking or cycling within the park is also a popular option.
Street parking can be challenging in Rome. It's recommended to use public transport or consider a taxi/ride-sharing service to reach the park's vicinity.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk through Villa Borghese park from the Spanish Steps area to reach Casina di Raffaello. Allow about 15-20 minutes.
Many visitors enjoy walking or renting bikes to explore the vast park. The Casina di Raffaello is centrally located within the park.
Yes, restroom facilities are available at the Casina di Raffaello.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Casina di Raffaello itself is free. However, participation in specific workshops, readings, or organized events for children incurs a fee, typically around 7 euros.
Opening hours can vary, especially for events. It's best to check the official schedule or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
For paid events and workshops, booking in advance is highly recommended, as spots can be limited.
Yes, you can enter the Casina di Raffaello and use the free play areas and library during opening hours without a ticket.
The Casina di Raffaello is primarily designed for children, with specific areas for younger ones. Older children can enjoy the book selection.
🎫 👧 Onsite Experience
Activities include a playroom with toys and chalkboards, a children's library, and a bookstore. They also host paid workshops and readings.
The indoor playroom is generally best suited for younger children, including toddlers, with a selection of toys.
The majority of books are in Italian. Visitors have noted a desire for more English book selections.
The atmosphere is described as relaxing and friendly, with a dedicated space for children to engage with books and toys.
There is a small, somewhat dated but functional outdoor playground near the Casina di Raffaello.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The shop offers a variety of children's books, table games, and interesting toys.
Within Villa Borghese park, there are cafes and places to eat. For more extensive dining options, you'd need to exit the park.
Yes, Villa Borghese is a popular spot for picnics. You can find many scenic areas to enjoy your meal.
The shop focuses on children's books and toys, rather than traditional souvenirs, but unique items can be found.
The Casina di Raffaello primarily focuses on books and toys; snack availability is limited or non-existent.
📸 📸 Photography
The surrounding Villa Borghese park offers many picturesque locations, especially the lake and gardens.
Photography is generally permitted inside, but it's always good to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography in the park.
While not explicitly stated, be respectful of private events or areas where photography might be discouraged.
You can capture charming shots of children playing, the quaint building, and the beautiful park scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with exploring the rest of Villa Borghese park. Renting a rowboat on the lake is a classic family activity, and there's a small outdoor playground nearby.
+1 Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options within the Casina are limited. Be prepared for potential language barriers and varying staff attitudes, as noted by some reviewers. 📚 Book Lovers & Toy Enthusiasts
Even if you're not visiting with children, the shop is worth a browse. The surrounding Villa Borghese park also offers a beautiful setting for a relaxed afternoon, perhaps with a book purchased from the Casina.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Villa Borghese Park
+1 The park is dotted with statues, fountains, and scenic viewpoints, making it a delightful place to wander. Getting to the Casina itself involves navigating the park's pathways, so comfortable shoes are a must. Beyond the Casina, Villa Borghese boasts the Borghese Gallery and Museum (reservations essential), the Bioparco di Roma (zoo), and numerous gardens. It's a destination in itself, perfect for a leisurely day out. Many visitors combine a visit to the Casina with a stroll through the park, enjoying the natural beauty and historical elements.
Understanding the Casina di Raffaello Experience
It's important to note that the primary language used for books and activities is Italian. Some visitors have reported negative experiences with staff, citing rudeness or preferential treatment towards locals.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit