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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
