DinaLast Updated on September 15, 2026
I have heard people say “I have seen everything in Rome” many times, even when they have only visited the Eternal City a few times. However, even after spending years in Rome, I continued to discover new corners and completely different neighbourhoods.
One of them is EUR, an area that looks nothing like Rome’s historic centre. Here you will find modern buildings, wide avenues, parks, an artificial lake and the impressive Giardino delle Cascate, or Waterfall Garden.
EUR Waterfall Garden: quick information
- Admission: Free
- Opening hours: Normally daily from 07:00 to 20:00
- Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours with the lake
- Nearest metro station: EUR Palasport, Line B
- Alternative metro station: EUR Fermi, Line B
- Location: Passeggiata del Giappone, Parco Centrale del Lago
- Best time to visit: Spring or later in the afternoon
- Best for: Walking, picnics, families and photographs
Admission is free, and you do not need a reservation. Opening hours and access may change because of maintenance or special events, so check the latest information on the official EUR S.p.A. website.
Is the EUR Waterfall Garden worth visiting?
Yes, if you want to see a different side of Rome away from the famous monuments and large tourist crowds.
My verdict: Combine the waterfalls with a complete walk around the lake and the EUR district. It is not worth travelling there simply to photograph the water for ten minutes and leave.
I would not prioritise it over the Colosseum, Pantheon or Vatican during a short first visit. It is more worthwhile if you have already seen the main attractions, are staying for several days or want a quiet afternoon in an area visited mainly by people who live in Rome.
How to reach the EUR Waterfall Garden
Take Metro Line B towards Laurentina and get off at EUR Palasport. The lake and waterfall garden are approximately five to ten minutes away on foot.
You can also use EUR Fermi, particularly if you want to begin your walk from the other side of the park.
For ticket prices, operating hours and practical information, read my complete guide to the Rome Metro.
The EUR district and the history of the waterfalls
EUR was planned during the Fascist period for the 1942 Universal Exposition, which was cancelled because of the Second World War.
However, the lake and waterfalls were constructed later. The artificial lake was completed for the 1960 Rome Olympic Games, while the Waterfall Garden was inaugurated in 1961.
The garden was designed by landscape architect Raffaele De Vico and covers approximately 42,000 square metres. It contains waterfalls, fountains, channels, natural rocks and several types of plants.
The waterfalls were not created only for decoration. The moving water helps oxygenate the lake and forms part of the area’s hydraulic system.
The garden’s lower section opened to the public in 2017, 56 years after its inauguration, following restoration work. You can find more information about its construction and function on the official Parco Centrale del Lago page.
What to see around the EUR lake and waterfalls
1. Giardino delle Cascate
The most impressive section is the lower part of the garden beside the lake. The waterfalls, smaller channels, cypress trees and natural rocks create a landscape you may not expect to find in Rome.
The garden has also been used as a film location, including for Gabriele Muccino’s Italian film L’ultimo bacio.
2. Hashi Bridge
The Hashi pedestrian bridge crosses the central waterfall and connects the two sides of the garden.
Its name comes from the Japanese word for “bridge.” It was restored before the lower section of the garden reopened to the public in 2017.
3. The artificial lake
The lake is approximately one kilometre long and is surrounded by walking paths and green spaces. You can walk around it, sit on the grass, read a book or have a picnic.
Allow approximately 30–45 minutes for a relaxed walk around the lake without long stops.
4. Passeggiata del Giappone
Passeggiata del Giappone is known for its Japanese cherry trees, donated by Tokyo to Rome as a symbol of friendship between the two cities.
The best period to visit is normally from the middle of March until early April, when the cherry trees blossom. The exact dates depend on the temperatures each year.
What is the best time to visit?
The area is particularly beautiful during spring because of the blossom and milder temperatures. During summer, visit later in the afternoon because several sections around the lake are exposed to the sun.
For photographs, go in the morning or shortly before sunset. The park attracts more local families during weekends, but it does not normally experience the same crowds as Rome’s historic centre.Ποια είναι η καλύτερη ώρα για επίσκεψη;
What else can you see in EUR?
If you have more time, combine the lake with:
- Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana: The famous “Square Colosseum,” approximately 20–25 minutes away on foot
- Basilica dei Santi Pietro e Paolo: The large basilica with its distinctive dome
- La Nuvola: The modern convention centre designed by Massimiliano Fuksas
- Museo delle Civiltà: A museum dedicated to cultures from different parts of the world
- Viale Europa: The district’s main shopping street, with cafés and shops
How to plan an afternoon in EUR
Get off at EUR Palasport and begin with a walk around the lake. Continue along Passeggiata del Giappone before visiting the Waterfall Garden and completing the route on the opposite side of the park.
You can then walk towards Viale Europa for an ice cream, coffee or aperitivo. Allow approximately two to three hours for the lake, waterfalls and a short walk around the district.
For more ideas, continue with my guide to the best things to see in Rome.
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