Where else in the world would you find a park where you can go for a stroll or exercise in the middle of original Roman statues and fountains, Egyptian obelisks and marble Roman arches? Well, when in Rome you do find all of that at Villa Borghese. It is such a beautiful park and your visit will likely have the background sound of cicadas singing happily all day long. Comissioned by Cardinal Borghese in the 17th century, who wanted to build the largest Villa and gardens in Rome, you may also have wonderful views of the Vatican and the city by entering the park via Piazza del Popolo. If you want to extend your exercise and make cultural visits check the Borghese Gallery (with Caravaggio and Bernini masterpieces), the Modern Art Museum or some Shakespeare reading or performances at a replica of London’s Globe Theater (yes you read it right, it is called Silvano Toti). It is also a family fun program, just add a visit to the zoo. Borghese is one of the greatest things to do in town, whether you just go for a walk, try some jogging, rent a bike, row on the lake or read a good book under the shade of the Stone Pine trees.