Step into the courtyard and find sleek papal cars from different eras, polished to perfection, evoking the style and spirit of past papal journeys beyond Vatican walls.
Situated on: Ground floor
4.3(22.5K Ratings)
Castel Gandolfo Tickets
Corinne
Catherine
Jorge
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Constructed atop the ruins of Emperor Domitian’s villa, this serene summer retreat of the Popes since 1626, boasts opulent rooms adorned with period furnishings, intricate frescoes, and a private chapel. Each space offers a glimpse into the day-to-day life of the Popes, blending Renaissance elegance with centuries of papal history.
Ascend to the third floor of the Apostolic Palace to discover the Vatican Observatory's historic domes, inaugurated by Pope Pius XI in 1935. Open to the public for the first time in almost 100 years, the telescopes here now offer visitors a rare opportunity to peer into the cosmos from the very site where celestial observations were conducted for decades.
Stroll through the meticulously landscaped Barberini Gardens, a harmonious blend of formal Italian design and natural beauty. The gardens feature geometric hedges, classical statues, and tranquil fountains, all set against the backdrop of lush greenery. Enhance your experience with a guided minibus tour of the extended Pontifical gardens.
Conclude your visit by exploring the charming town of Castel Gandolfo. Wander through its quaint streets and enjoy local delicacies in the town's cafés. The town's elevated position offers breathtaking views of Lake Albano, a serene volcanic lake perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful moment by the water.
Yes, the Apostolic Palace is now open to to visitors.
Yes, guests can pre-book their tickets online now to visit the Castel Gandolfo Papal Palace and Gardens.
You can visit the Apostolic Palace, adjoining pontifical gardens and depending on your ticket, you may have access to Villa Barberini and its gardens.
No. You would have to specifically book tickets that include access to the Castel Gandolfo Papal Palace and its gardens.
The palace welcomes visitors on Monday, and Friday between 8.30 AM to 2 PM with final entry at 1 PM and on Saturday from 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM, with final entry at 4.30 PM.
Since the Palace holds significant religious and historical importance, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Shorts or sleeveless shirts are not allowed. Wear comfortable shoes for easy exploration.
Beautiful experience, amazing escape from the city. Worth touring!
It was a real privilege to visit such an exclusive palace, rich in history and in a truly lovely location. My heartfelt thanks to Papa Francesco who generously opened to the public a palace to which few had access.
We visited Castel Gandolfo in 2023 and were most impressed with the extensive gardens. While booking our tickets in July 2025, it was not at all clear what 'the secret gardens' entailed, and that this was not the same as the more extensive (Barberini?) gardens that were included as part of our ticket in 2023. We had promised the friends who were visiting the site with us for the first time a long walk through extensive and beautiful gardens, and we were all greatly disappointed that the 'secret garden' was only one relatively small area under the residence. I suggest that the website make it more clear that there now appear to be two different tours that need to be booked separately, and provide links to the site that people can use to book the more extensive guided garden tour.
smooth transaction. e.ticket. castel gandolfo is a very lovely and peaceful place. the palace gardens and inside is very beautiful. somewhere tourist should not dare miss😍
Although I grew up in the castles, I had never visited the pope's palace, so I was happy to finally see it. Also, I learned new things: for example, I didn't know he had helped the Roman people during World War II. But it is not worth paying an extra 5euros for a site, but going there directly and saving money
The palace and the garden are both interesting and I recommend the visit both for the historical significance and the extremely picturesque location. We had a walking problem and were promptly assisted and escorted to a more comfortable route. Excellent organization and friendly and helpful staff
The experience was interesting and enriching Unfortunately, I did not like buying tickets online and paying more for them
Castle and gardens The view But I think the person in the store deliberately gave me the wrong change !!!!
The presale price is excessive
Beautiful experience ..........
It was very interesting to see, and an amazing setting. The WWII history section was very informative.
a visit to the papal palace , the secret garden, the town center and the lakefront.
Wonderful to walk around the pope residence and see the little chapel.
The view and the gardens we really loved
Great tour to experience the summertime of the Papel palace and gardens. The town is nice with great restaurants
good visit - I will return to visit
The courtesy of the staff in charge
Hello, i could not go due to train cancellation. May be some other ocasion. Br, victor
All very nice all the same even though a lot of things were barred
Organized and well-maintained place
It was a good guided tour. To perfection with very knowledgeable staff
The Appstolic palace is beautiful!!!
This experience is perfect for those who want to spend a day full of culture and excitement
This experience is perfect for
The visit to the apostolic palace was an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy reserved entry to the Pope’s historic summer retreat with lush gardens, open to public after centuries.
Inclusions
Timed entry to Apostolic Palace
Access to secret garden
Audio guide (English/Italian)
Exclusions
Access to observatory domes
Minibus tour of extended gardens
Transport to and from Rome
What to bring
What’s not allowed
Accessibility
Additional information
Lynn
Maria
Laura
