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While Italians are famous for their laid-back take on life, the pace of the country's capital is anything but. In fact, it's full-blown chaos. So how can a tourist expect to survive? Do as the Romans do - step into the peaceful green tranquility of 's urban parks. Here are our favourites:

Villa Borghese

offers the perfect breather from the urban grind. The park was originally the private garden of Pope Paul V's nephew in the 17th century, and is now the most visited in the city. It rests on Rome's , just above and the . Once you tear yourself away from pincio's amazing views, take a passeggiata (stroll) along with Rome's other repose-seekers. Walk around the grassy amphitheatre Piazza di Siena, take a peek at the zoo, float in a rowboat on the lake or visit the superb - home to sculptures of Bernini, Caravaggio and Raffaello.

Parco Savello

Picturesque , known locally as Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden), is a former orange grove tucked away on Aventine Hill above . The immaculately manicured lawn, dotted with fallen oranges and picnickers, sets an undeniably romantic scene - trumped only by the breathtaking view of Rome's Tiber River and dome-specked cityscape. After you've had your fill, drop into the neighbouring 5th century . Don't miss one of Rome's little secrets: a keyhole peephole just down the road in the which offers an unforgettable view of .

Villa Pamphilj

Rome's biggest park, , offers the sporty types the perfect playground. Runners flock to this park to work up a sweat - no Roman is crazy enough to run in the street. Jog alongside Rome's most athletic to see all this charming park has to offer: majestic stone pines, moss-covered fountains, the charming gardens of the Casino del Bel Respiro, puffed middle-aged men playing spirited games of calcio (soccer) and sunbathing beauties. Don't be surprised by impromptu concerts by musicians who find the park the only place they can practice without angering the neighbours.

Gianicolo

Sitting atop Janiculum Hill is the tiny - site of a battle in 1849 between the forces of national hero and the French in the name of Italian unification. A visit to this park is worth the million steps you have to climb to get there - the view from the top is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Go at sunset with a bottle of wine to witness the spectacle of the city's rooftops, domes and bell towers turning gorgeous shades of gold and pink. When the nightly parade of canoodling couples gets to be too much, head down the hill for a plate of 's famed spaghetti alla carbonara.

Parco degli Acquedotti

For those willing to venture the 8km from Rome's city centre, a visit to Rome's offers an unforgettable experience. The 15 hectare park, lying within the , takes its name from the aqueducts within it - 16th century Aqua Felix and the remains of 1st century Aqua Claudia. These iconic acqueducts crisscross the green lawns, rows of stone pines, crop fields and sheep pastures, creating a tranquil, rustic feel. You'll find it hard to believe that Rome's movie studios of are just down the street. Find a park bench and the scene will transport you back in time. Just be sure never to go alone, as there have been some cases of violence in the past.

These leafy retreats are sure to recharge your Rome-exploring reserves. If you want to read more on Rome, check out Lonely Planet's latest guide and essential

This article was refreshed in June 2012