Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) Tours

Though Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) is not one of the seven hills of ancient Rome, its history is long and its attractions worthwhile. Visit San Pietro in Montorio church, see the monumental Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, and wander the hidden university botanical garden, but the hill's main draw is its sweeping views of the city.

The Basics
Named for the ancient god Janus, Janiculum Hill  is located west of the Tiber River above Trastevere, and is a highlight of many walking, Segway, and Vespa tours of this charming historic neighborhood. Trastevere food tours also often stop at the top of Janiculum Hill to take in the view, as do private driving tours of Rome’s scenic overlooks. Fontana dell'Acqua Paola terrace is considered one of the best vistas in the city.
 
Things to Know Before You Go

• The view from Janiculum Hill stretches across the historic center of Rome to the Roman Forum, so bring your camera.
• Walking and Segway tours of Trastevere offer little shade; comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
• The scenic overlooks at Fontana dell'Acqua Paola and the botanical garden are wheelchair accessible; the San Pietro in Montorio church is not.
• You must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to enter the church.
• The botanical gardens are an ideal spot for a stroll with kids.

 
How to Get There
Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) is located above the Trastevere neighborhood, and it can be confusing to wind your way through the neighborhood’s back streets to reach the top. It’s best to visit with a group or private tour.
 
When to Get There
Most of the attractions and views on Janiculum Hill are outside, so visit on a day with clear skies and mild temperatures. The quiet church, on the other hand, provides a cool refuge from the midday summer heat.
 
Rome’s Seven Hills
Gianicolo is not one of Rome’s seven legendary hills, though many consider it the honorary eighth hill. Rome’s historic seven hills are east of the Tiber and form the geographical heart of ancient Rome. Caelian Hill is the farthest southeast, and the others are Aventine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Esquiline Hill, Quirinal Hill, Viminal Hill, and Palatine Hill, where Romulus is said to have founded Rome and where the most famous archaeological ruins can be seen.