Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo Day Trip
From Pope Alexander VII to Benedict XVI, numerous popes have spent their holidays at the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo. Set off on our day trip from Rome and explore the Apostolic Palace and its gardens to learn all about this place's relationship with the Vatican.
Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo Day Trip
At the scheduled time, we'll meet up outside the train station Termini de Roma. There, we'll hop on a train to Castel Gandolfo, a town with close ties to the Vatican.
When we get to the Pontifical Villas, we'll start exploring the gardens of the Pope's historic summer residence. We'll travel around on an eco-friendly vehicle as we discover the beauty of these green spaces and their fountains, sculptures and plants.
We'll make several stops in the gardens to visit their most iconic areas. During this part of the tour, we'll see Villa Barberini, the Papal Gardens, Villa Cybo and some other places of artistic interest. We'll also discover why this place was chosen as the Pope's resting place during the period of Urban VIII.
After our sightseeing tour, you'll enter the Apostolic Palace, aka the Papal Palace, on your own. This building ceased being a papal residence in 2016 when Pope Francis decided to turn it into a museum, but we'll discover who lived here before it was opened to the public!
You'll get to visit the throne room and admire the artwork in the gallery of Benedict XIV. You'll also see the Swiss Guard's room and pieces such as papal cars and Pope Pius IX's gestatorial chair.
At the end of the visit, we'll give you your train tickets to return on your own to Termini Station in Rome.
Price
More Information
Duration
5 hours - 5 hours 30 minutes.
Included
Round trip transportation by train
Transportation by bus
English–speaking tour escort
Tickets
Audioguide at the Apostolic Palace
Not included
Guide in the Apostolic Palace
When to book?
You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
No printing of documentation required.
Provider
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Does this activity have a dress code?
A - To enter the villas, visitors must have their shoulders and knees covered. Visitors should also avoid wearing clothing with deep necklines.
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Q - Can I enter the Pontifical Villas with large backpacks or bags?
A - Visitors are unable to bring large backpacks, long umbrellas or other bulky objects. Plastic bottles and small bags are permitted.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
If you have any other questions please contact us .
Free cancellation
Largo Giovanni Montemartini
