Rose gardens are a celebration of one of nature’s most beloved flowers, offering breathtaking displays of color, fragrance, and horticultural artistry. From historic estates to modern botanical showcases, the world’s best rose gardens attract millions of visitors each year. This guide highlights the most exceptional rose gardens across the globe, providing detailed descriptions, practical information, and tips for planning your visit. Whether you’re a rose enthusiast, a gardener, or simply seeking beauty, these destinations are must-see.

1. La Roseraie du Val-de-Marne, L’Haÿ-les-Roses, France

Overview

Nestled just outside Paris, La Roseraie du Val-de-Marne is a historic rose garden established in 1894 by Jules Gravereaux. It is one of the world’s most significant rose collections, housing over 13,000 rose bushes representing nearly 3,000 varieties. The garden is a living museum of rose history, showcasing rare and ancient cultivars alongside modern hybrids.

Highlights

• Thematic Layout: The garden is organized into sections, including a historical rose area, a modern rose garden, and a display of wild species.
• Peak Bloom: June is the best time to visit, when the garden is a riot of color and fragrance.
• Cultural Events: Annual rose festivals and guided tours offer insights into rose cultivation and history.

Practical Information

• Address: Rue Albert Watel, 94240 L’Haÿ-les-Roses, France
• Hours: Open May to September, 10 AM–6 PM (check seasonal variations)
• Admission: €4 for adults, free for children under 12
• Getting There: Take RER B to Bourg-la-Reine, then a short bus or taxi ride.
• Tips:
  • Bring a notebook to record favorite varieties, as many are available for purchase.
  • Visit early in the morning for cooler weather and better photography opportunities.

Why Visit?

La Roseraie du Val-de-Marne combines horticultural excellence with historical significance, making it a must-see for serious rose lovers. Its proximity to Paris makes it an easy addition to a day trip.

2. International Rose Test Garden, Portland, OR, USA

Overview

Known as the “Rose City,” Portland, Oregon, is home to the International Rose Test Garden, established in 1917. Spanning over 4.5 acres in Washington Park, this garden is home to over 10,000 rose bushes representing more than 610 varieties. It serves as a test site for new rose cultivars, ensuring only the best roses reach global markets.

Highlights

• Diverse Collections: Includes the Gold Medal Garden, Shakespeare Garden, and Miniature Rose Garden.
• Scenic Views: Offers stunning vistas of downtown Portland and Mount Hood on clear days.
• Events: The Portland Rose Festival in June features parades, tours, and rose shows.

Practical Information

• Address: 400 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205, USA
• Hours: Open daily, 7:30 AM–9 PM (free admission)
• Getting There: Accessible via MAX Light Rail (Washington Park stop) or car (parking available).
• Tips:
  • Visit from late May to October for peak blooms.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the garden’s terraced layout involves some walking.

Why Visit?

Portland’s rose garden is a blend of innovation and beauty, with free entry and a vibrant festival atmosphere. Its urban setting makes it ideal for combining with other city attractions.

3. Queen Mary’s Gardens, London, UK

Overview

Located in Regent’s Park, Queen Mary’s Gardens boasts one of the largest rose collections in the UK, with over 12,000 roses across 85 varieties. Established in the 1930s, this garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of London, famous for its circular rose beds and vibrant displays.

Highlights

• Delphinium Border: Complements the roses with striking blue spikes in early summer.
• Mediterranean Garden: Adds variety with drought-tolerant plants.
• Accessibility: Flat paths make it easy for all visitors to explore.

Practical Information

• Address: Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4NR, UK
• Hours: Open daily, 5 AM–dusk (free admission)
• Getting There: Nearest Tube stations are Regent’s Park and Baker Street.
• Tips:
  • Visit in June or July for the best rose blooms.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the nearby lawns.

Why Visit?

Queen Mary’s Gardens offers a quintessentially British experience, combining roses with London’s historic charm. Its free entry and central location make it a perfect stop for tourists.

4. Europa-Rosarium, Sangerhausen, Germany

Overview

The Europa-Rosarium in Sangerhausen is the world’s largest rose collection, with over 80,000 rose bushes and 8,300 varieties spread across 12.5 hectares. Founded in 1903, it is a global reference for rose breeders and researchers, preserving rare and endangered cultivars.

Highlights

• Historical Roses: Features roses dating back centuries, including wild species.
• Rose Museum: Offers exhibits on rose history and cultivation.
• Events: Hosts an annual Rose Festival with guided tours and workshops.

Practical Information

• Address: Am Rosengarten 2, 06526 Sangerhausen, Germany
• Hours: Open May to October, 9 AM–6 PM
• Admission: €6 for adults, €3 for children
• Getting There: Reachable by train from Leipzig or Berlin, followed by a short bus ride.
• Tips:
  • Allow at least half a day to explore the vast grounds.
  • Check the website for festival dates and special events.

Why Visit?

Europa-Rosarium is a paradise for rose enthusiasts, offering unmatched diversity and a deep dive into rose heritage. Its scale and significance make it a bucket-list destination.

5. Keisei Rose Garden, Yachiyo, Japan

Overview

Japan’s Keisei Rose Garden, established in 1959, is a premier destination for rose lovers in Asia. Located in Chiba Prefecture, it features 10,000 rose bushes across 1,600 varieties, set against a backdrop of meticulously designed landscapes. The garden is known for its innovative rose displays and vibrant colors.

Highlights

• Thematic Areas: Includes a fragrance garden, climbing rose arches, and a rose trial field.
• Night Illuminations: Evening visits in spring and autumn feature illuminated roses.
• Rose Shop: Offers rose-themed products, including plants and cosmetics.

Practical Information

• Address: 755 Owada-Shinden, Yachiyo, Chiba 276-0046, Japan
• Hours: Open April to October, 9 AM–5 PM (extended hours during festivals)
• Admission: ¥1,200 (approx. $8 USD) for adults, free for children under 6
• Getting There: Take the Keisei Line to Yachiyo Station, then a short taxi ride.
• Tips:
  • Visit in May or October for peak blooms and illuminations.
  • Book tickets online for evening events to avoid crowds.

Why Visit?

Keisei Rose Garden blends Japanese aesthetics with rose horticulture, offering a unique cultural experience. Its proximity to Tokyo makes it an excellent day trip.

6. Butchart Gardens, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Overview

The Rose Garden at Butchart Gardens is part of a 55-acre horticultural masterpiece created in 1904. Located near Victoria, this world-renowned garden features over 6,000 rose bushes across 280 varieties, set within a sunken quarry transformed into a floral paradise.

Highlights

• Complementary Displays: The rose garden is paired with Japanese, Italian, and Mediterranean gardens.
• Seasonal Events: Summer fireworks and winter light displays enhance the experience.
• Dining: On-site restaurants offer afternoon tea with garden views.

Practical Information

• Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada
• Hours: Open daily, 9 AM–sunset (varies by season)
• Admission: CAD $38 for adults (seasonal pricing), discounts for children
• Getting There: Accessible by bus or ferry from Victoria or Vancouver.
• Tips:
  • Visit in July or August for the fullest rose blooms.
  • Purchase tickets online to skip lines during peak season.

Why Visit?

Butchart Gardens is a destination unto itself, with the rose garden as a highlight among diverse landscapes. Its romantic ambiance and comprehensive facilities make it ideal for all visitors.

7. Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, New York, USA

Overview

Located within the New York Botanical Garden, the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden is a stunning urban oasis designed by Beatrix Farrand in 1916 and revitalized in 1988. It features over 5,000 rose bushes across 650 varieties, emphasizing sustainable gardening practices.

Highlights

• Organic Practices: Uses eco-friendly methods to maintain vibrant blooms.
• Design: Formal layout with pergolas, fountains, and seasonal companion plants.
• Educational Tours: Offers workshops on rose care and garden design.

Practical Information

• Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458, USA
• Hours: Open May to October, 10 AM–6 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: $30 for adults (includes NYBG entry), discounts for children
• Getting There: Take the Metro-North Railroad to Botanical Garden Station.
• Tips:
  • Visit in early June for peak blooms.
  • Check the NYBG website for special rose-related events.

Why Visit?

The Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden combines urban accessibility with horticultural excellence, offering a peaceful retreat in New York City. Its focus on sustainability appeals to modern gardeners.

8. Paseo El Rosedal, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Overview

Paseo El Rosedal, located in Palermo’s Parque 3 de Febrero, is South America’s premier rose garden, established in 1914. Spanning 3.5 hectares, it features over 18,000 roses across 1,000 varieties, framed by pergolas, lakes, and sculptures.

Highlights

• Andalusian Patio: A Spanish-style courtyard with climbing roses.
• Poets’ Garden: Features busts of famous poets alongside rose displays.
• Boating Lake: Adds a scenic element with pedal boat rentals.

Practical Information

• Address: Av. Infanta Isabel, Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Hours: Open daily, 8 AM–8 PM (free admission)
• Getting There: Accessible by Buenos Aires’ Subte (Line D) or bus.
• Tips:
  • Visit in October or November (spring in Argentina) for peak blooms.
  • Bring sunscreen, as the garden has limited shade.

Why Visit?

Paseo El Rosedal offers a vibrant, free-to-visit experience with a distinctly Latin American flair. Its integration with a larger park makes it perfect for a full day out.

9. Columbus Park of Roses, Columbus, OH, USA

Overview

The Columbus Park of Roses, located in Whetstone Park, is a 13-acre garden established in 1953. It features over 12,000 roses across 400 varieties, earning the title of “Best Rose Garden” in a 2010 national competition. The garden is a community treasure, maintained by volunteers.

Highlights

• Diverse Sections: Includes heritage roses, hybrid teas, and a fragrance garden.
• Perennial Borders: Enhances the roses with complementary plants.
• Events: Hosts rose shows and open houses in summer.

Practical Information

• Address: 3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
• Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk (free admission)
• Getting There: Accessible by car or COTA bus from downtown Columbus.
• Tips:
  • Visit in June for the annual Rose Festival.
  • Download the garden’s map online for easy navigation.

Why Visit?

Columbus Park of Roses is a community-driven gem, offering free access and a welcoming atmosphere. Its size and variety make it a standout in the Midwest.

10. Mottisfont Rose Garden, Hampshire, UK

Overview

Mottisfont, a National Trust property in Hampshire, is home to one of the UK’s most celebrated rose gardens, designed by Graham Stuart Thomas in the 1970s. It features over 1,000 old-fashioned roses, including rare pre-1900 varieties, set within a walled garden.

Highlights

• Historical Roses: Focuses on gallicas, damasks, and albas with intense fragrances.
• Seasonal Beauty: Complemented by peonies and clematis in early summer.
• National Trust Perks: Includes access to Mottisfont’s historic abbey and grounds.

Practical Information

• Address: Mottisfont, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 0LP, UK
• Hours: Open daily, 10 AM–5 PM (rose garden peak in June)
• Admission: £16 for adults (includes estate), discounts for National Trust members
• Getting There: Train to Romsey, then a short taxi or bus ride.
• Tips:
  • Visit mid-June for the best rose displays.
  • Book tickets online to avoid queues during peak season.

Why Visit?

Mottisfont’s rose garden is a haven for heritage rose enthusiasts, offering a romantic and historic setting. Its National Trust status ensures a high-quality visitor experience.

Planning Your Rose Garden Adventure

Best Times to Visit

Most rose gardens peak in late spring to early summer (May–July in the Northern Hemisphere, October–November in the Southern Hemisphere). Check each garden’s bloom schedule for optimal timing.

Tips for Visitors

• Photography: Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as many gardens involve extensive walking.
• Learning: Take guided tours or workshops to deepen your rose knowledge.
• Souvenirs: Many gardens sell rose plants, oils, or books for enthusiasts.

Combining Visits

Pair rose garden visits with nearby attractions:

• France: Combine La Roseraie with Paris’ cultural landmarks.
• USA: Visit Portland’s garden alongside the Oregon Zoo or Powell’s Books.
• UK: Explore London’s museums or Hampshire’s countryside near Mottisfont.

Sustainability

Support gardens that prioritize eco-friendly practices, like the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, to promote sustainable horticulture.

The world’s best rose gardens offer more than just flowers—they provide a glimpse into history, culture, and the artistry of gardening. From the vast collections of Europa-Rosarium to the intimate charm of Mottisfont, each garden has a unique story to tell. Plan your visits to coincide with peak blooms, immerse yourself in the fragrance and beauty, and let these gardens inspire your own love for roses. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a dedicated rosarian, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences.