Hanbury Botanical Gardens
A historic Italian botanical garden with exotic flora and stunning Mediterranean Sea views, established by an English philanthropist.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy blooming flowers and roses
Hanbury Botanical Gardens
Best Time
Enjoy blooming flowers and roses
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Italian botanical garden with exotic flora and stunning Mediterranean Sea views, established by an English philanthropist.
"Incredibly beautiful property, absolutely worth a visit for its exotic flora and spectacular views."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Prioritize sneakers for extensive walking and uphill climbs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. A cafe is available for breaks. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Exotic Flora Collection
Throughout the gardens
Discover over 5,000 species of plants from around the world, acclimatized to the Riviera's climate.
Spectacular Mediterranean Views
Coastal viewpoints
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea from various terraced points within the gardens.
Historic Villa Hanbury
Central villa
Explore the elegant villa, once home to the Hanbury family, showcasing its historical architecture and charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Prioritize sneakers for extensive walking and uphill climbs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. A cafe is available for breaks. :water_wave:
🚗 Limited Street Parking
Be prepared to park along the main road, as dedicated parking is scarce. :car:
⏳ Allow 2-3.5 Hours
Give yourself ample time to fully appreciate the vast gardens and views. :hourglass:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Prioritize sneakers for extensive walking and uphill climbs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration. A cafe is available for breaks. :water_wave:
🚗 Limited Street Parking
Be prepared to park along the main road, as dedicated parking is scarce. :car:
⏳ Allow 2-3.5 Hours
Give yourself ample time to fully appreciate the vast gardens and views. :hourglass:
🌸 Spring for Blooms
Visit in spring to witness the vibrant flowers and roses in full bloom. :flowerplayingcards:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hanbury Botanical Gardens for their stunning Mediterranean views and diverse exotic flora, calling it a walk of wonder. However, some reviews mention that certain areas appear unkempt or are closed due to damage, and parking can be inconvenient.
"Visited end of July. Perhaps there was a water restriction as the gardens seemed dry. Places needed trimming or at least tidied up. A bit run down. Paths and stairs need renovating. A few areas/paths closed. I would love to visit again when not so dry and renovations finished. Free parking limited to the street. Lovely view of the sea."
P Edwards
"Just a fantastic garden and setting. Put aside a few hours for a walk around the garden. Numerous viewpoints and benches to sit and soak up the plants, cactus and trees. Even a cafe!"
stuart
"Would not have missed this botanical gardens. We've spend approximately 3 hours here. The garden is beautiful even at early September. It is true that some parts need some maintenance, but it also gives some extra charm to it. Imagine the potential! A big plus is the silence, especially since the rest of Cote d'Azur is such a busy and extravert environment. Highly appreciated!"
Jan-Thijs Koster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gardens are located at Corso Montecarlo 43, Mortola Inferiore, near Ventimiglia, Italy. Many visitors arrive by car and park along the main road, as dedicated parking is limited. Public transport options might be available from Ventimiglia, but check local schedules.
Parking is not dedicated and visitors typically park along the main road. Be prepared for a short walk from your parking spot to the entrance.
While specific public transport details can vary, consider local buses or taxis from Ventimiglia. Driving and parking along the road is a common alternative.
Information on direct public transport can be scarce. It's advisable to check local bus routes from Ventimiglia or consider a taxi for convenience.
You can use the address Corso Montecarlo 43, Mortola Inferiore, Ventimiglia, Italy, or search for 'Giardini Botanici Hanbury' on your GPS device.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are considered reasonable by many, though some find them a bit high for the current condition of certain areas. Check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Some reviews mention student discounts, but it's best to inquire directly with the gardens or check their official website for current offers and eligibility.
While online booking might be available, purchasing tickets upon arrival is also common. It's recommended to check the official website for the most convenient options.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to consult the official Hanbury Botanical Gardens website for the most accurate and current operating times before your visit.
Yes, some areas may be closed due to storm damage or maintenance. Visitors should be prepared for potential closures and check for updates if possible.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Spring is highly recommended for the blooming flowers and roses. Late afternoons offer softer light for photography.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2 to 3.5 hours to fully explore the gardens and enjoy the views.
Yes, there are facilities available, including a cafe where you can also consume your own snacks.
The gardens offer a beautiful natural environment for children to explore, but the extensive walking and uneven terrain require comfortable shoes and supervision.
You'll find a diverse collection of over 5,000 species from various climate zones, including exotic flora and a beautiful rose garden in spring.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for vantage points offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and capture the diverse plant life, especially during the golden hours of late afternoon.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, allowing you to capture the beauty of the exotic flora and stunning landscapes.
Late afternoons provide softer light, ideal for photography. Spring also offers vibrant colors with blooming flowers.
It's always best to check with the garden administration regarding drone usage, as many botanical gardens have restrictions to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and plant details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature & Garden Enthusiasts
Take your time to appreciate the Gardenesque style and the historical significance of the estate. Consider visiting in spring to witness the vibrant blooms and roses. 📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Botanical Exploration
+2This ambitious project aimed to test the acclimatization of plants from diverse climates to the Riviera's unique environment. The result is a living museum of biodiversity, where visitors can wander through distinct microclimates, from arid zones to lush, shaded areas. The gardens are now operated by the University of Genoa, continuing their legacy of research and conservation.
+1While the gardens are celebrated for their beauty, some visitors note that certain areas may appear a bit 'run down' or have closures due to storm damage. Despite this, the overall experience remains one of wonder and delight, offering a glimpse into a rich horticultural history.
Navigating the Terraced Landscape
Visitors often find that 2 to 3.5 hours are needed to fully appreciate the gardens, as there is much to see and explore. The layout encourages a leisurely pace, allowing you to discover hidden corners and soak in the stunning coastal views.
While the gardens are a natural wonder, be aware that parking can be a challenge, with visitors often needing to park along the main road.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit