Villa Giulia (National Etruscan Museum)

Despite being one of the best museums in Rome, Villa Giulia only attracts a fraction of the visitors it deserves. Those who make the journey through the gardens of the Villa Borghese are rewarded with the ideal museum experience—a beautiful Renaissance villa filled with fascinating Etruscan art and artefacts, with only a few other visitors. No queues, no crowds. As you explore the impressive collection of Etruscan statues, vases and sarcophagi, you’ll probably have many rooms to yourself.

Before the Romans, there were the Etruscans. Relatively little is known about this intriguing civilization, which was based in the regions of Lazio and Tuscany between the 8th and 2nd century BC. Unlike the Romans, the Etruscans did not leave behind any philosophy or literature, and most of what we know about them comes from archaeological findings, such as artwork or domestic objects discovered in tombs. What makes Villa Giulia so special is that it sheds a light on the daily life and culture of the Etruscans. As you gaze at the smiling faces of the famous Sarcophagus of the Spouses, you feel as though you’re getting a glimpse of the lives—and deaths—of the Etruscans.
Getting there
A leisurely journey on the tram 3 takes you to Piazza Thorvaldsen, located close to the museum. You could also combine a visit to Villa Giulia with a walk through the Villa Borghese, one of the loveliest parks in Rome.