A comprehensive guide on getting to Castel Gandolfo

Where is Castel Gandolfo located?

Address: Piazza della Libertà, 00040 Castel Gandolfo RM, Italy. [Find on maps]

The Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo sits on a scenic hill overlooking Lake Albano, offering a unique glimpse into papal history. It’s a perfect addition to a day trip from Rome, easily combined with visits to Frascati, Albano Laziale, or the Roman Castles.

Closest landmark: Just a short walk from the Piazza della Libertà and the shores of Lake Albano.

Getting to Castel Gandolfo by public transport

Best for: Quick, scenic access from Rome

Travel time (from Roma Termini or Tiburtina): ~35–45 minutes

Closest stop: Castel Gandolfo Station – ~10-minute walk uphill to the Apostolic Palace

Timings: Regional trains run roughly every 30–60 minutes (check Trenitalia schedules)

How to get there from Rome:

  • Board a Trenitalia regional train from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina.
  • Arrive at Castel Gandolfo Station and follow the short uphill walk through the town to the Apostolic Palace.

Best for: Direct access from Rome with scenic town approach

Travel time (from Rome city centre / Anagnina): ~45–60 minutes, depending on traffic

Closest stop: Piazza della Libertà – ~5–8-minute walk to the Apostolic Palace

Timings: Cotral buses run roughly hourly; allow extra time during peak traffic

How to get there from Rome:

  • Take a Cotral bus from Anagnina metro station (Line A terminus) or other city stops.
  • The bus drops you near Castel Gandolfo town centre, then it’s a short walk to the palace, passing lakeside streets and local cafes.

Getting there by car

When traveling by car, you can use the GPS coordinates 41.7346° N, 12.6554° E to navigate directly to the Castel Gandolfo Apostolic Palace.

Driving Routes

From Rome (North):

  • Take the A1/E35 motorway southbound and exit at Valmontone or Frascati.
  • Follow signs for Castel Gandolfo / Albano Laziale, then continue on local roads toward Piazza della Libertà.
  • The Apostolic Palace is located near the lakeshore, with entrances visible from the main piazza.

From Naples (South):

  • Take the A1/E45 motorway northbound and exit at Valmontone.
  • Follow signs for Castel Gandolfo / Albano Laziale, then follow the town streets to Piazza della Libertà.
  • The palace is a short walk from parking areas along the lake.

Parcheggio Comunale Piazza della Libertà:

  • Located near the town center, about a 5–8 minute walk to the Apostolic Palace.
  • Open 24/7.

Parcheggio Lungolago:

  • Lakeside parking offering scenic views, roughly a 10-minute walk uphill to the palace.
  • Open 24/7.

Street Parking in Castel Gandolfo Town:

  • Available in marked zones around Piazza della Libertà and surrounding streets.
  • Pay attention to local signs; some areas require tickets or have time limits.

Best way to get to Castel Gandolfo Apostolic Palace

  • Budget-friendly: Take a Cotral bus from Rome (Anagnina metro station or other city stops). Single tickets are inexpensive, and buses drop you near the town centre, a short walk to the palace.
  • Fastest route: Regional train from Roma Termini or Tiburtina to Castel Gandolfo Station, followed by a 10-minute uphill walk to the palace. This is usually quicker than the bus, especially outside peak traffic.
  • To sightsee / stroll in: Arrive by train or bus and wander through Castel Gandolfo’s charming streets and lakeside paths. This lets you enjoy the town’s atmosphere, local cafes, and scenic views before entering the palace and gardens.
  • Flexible option: Driving is also feasible, offering flexibility to explore the Alban Hills or make stops along Lake Albano. Parking is available near Piazza della Libertà or along designated lakeside spots, with a short walk to the palace.

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Frequently asked questions about getting to Castel Gandolfo Apostolic Palace

Which is the fastest way to get to the Apostolic Palace?

Take a regional train from Roma Termini or Roma Tiburtina to Castel Gandolfo Station, then enjoy a 10-minute uphill walk to the palace.

Which is the cheapest way to get to the Apostolic Palace?

Use a Cotral bus from Rome (Anagnina metro station or other city stops). Single tickets are inexpensive and drop you near the town centre.

Which is the closest bus stop to the Apostolic Palace?

Piazza della Libertà is the main stop, about a 5–8 minute walk to the palace entrance.

Which is the closest train station to the Apostolic Palace?

Castel Gandolfo Station is a 10-minute uphill walk to the palace.

Is there parking for disabled visitors?

Accessible parking spaces are available near Piazza della Libertà; it’s recommended to contact the palace in advance for assistance.

Can I combine a visit to Castel Gandolfo with other nearby attractions?

Yes. Castel Gandolfo is part of the Roman Castles region, so you can easily include Frascati, Albano Laziale, or lakeside viewpoints in the same day trip.

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Facade of Castel Gandolfo with clock tower, Italy.

About

Telescope inside the Castle Gandolfo Observatory with wooden dome ceiling.

Timings

Tourist couple at Castel Gandolfo overlooking Lake Albano.

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