Papal Palace & Secret Gardens at Castel Gandolfo

Take a tour of the Pope's tranquil gardens just 40 minutes from Rome

★ 4.4 · 519 ratingsFlexible visit

From€16.00Price updates with your selection.

A historic dome-topped building and other structures are situated on a lush, green hillside under a blue sky.

A formal garden featuring a central octagonal fountain, red flowers in geometric patterns, and potted plants on gravel paths.

A display of ornate costumes, including a golden throne, a black robe, a black outfit with a purple sash, and a red uniform with medals.

Opulent marble-floored hall with artworks on walls, a central medallion, roped-off areas, and a person standing by an arched window.

Golden papal tiara and crossed keys emblem on a pale green patterned background.

Image creditsImage 1: AMBImage 2: franco lucatoImage 3: Vivida Photo PCImage 4: Vivida Photo PCImage 5: Vivida Photo PC

DurationFlexible visit

LocationCastel Gandolfo

Venue hours

Opening times

Venue hours and ticket availability are checked separately.

Papal Palace & Gardens of Castel Ga

Mon, Aug 3: 09:00 – 13:00
Tue, Aug 4: 09:00 – 13:00
Wed, Aug 5: 09:00 – 13:00
Thu, Aug 6: 09:00 – 13:00
Fri, Aug 7: 09:00 – 13:00
Sat, Aug 8: 09:00 – 17:00

Local time · Europe/Rome

The experience

Take a tour of the Pope's tranquil gardens just 40 minutes from Rome

These tickets for the Papal Gardens at Castel Gandolfo get you a rare glimpse inside the Pope's impeccable gardens – the Gardens of Villa Barberini – plus venture inside the grand Apostolic Palace.

Overlooking the emerald green waters of Lake Albano, this stunning complex is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome. There's a reason why Italian's plan their dream weddings here – it's mesmerizing.

Just 40 minutes by train from Rome, Pope Francis opened a huge portion of the site to the public in 2014. Spend some time admiring lush tree-lined gardens and manicured shrubbery, and make sure to visit the Belvedere and Magnolia gardens.

This divine property has provided peace and quiet for more than 30 popes since it was built in the early 17th century. You'll be overcome with Papal intrigue and fascinated further inside the Apostolic Palace.

What’s included

Entrance to the Papal Gardens at Castel Gandolfo, just 40 minutes from Rome
Entrance to the Papal Palace
A relaxing stroll through the lush gardens of the Pope's summer residence
Stunning views of Lake Albano and the town of Castel Gandolfo
Audioguide in English or Italian (if option selected)

Not included

Transportation to Castel Gandolfo

Where to go

Papal Palace & Gardens of Castel Gandolfo

Piazza della Libertà

View meeting point mapLocal timezone: Europe/Rome

Before you book

Important visitor information

Must know

Sleeveless or low-cut tops, shorts above the knee, miniskirts, and hats are not allowed.

Before purchase

Kids under 6 and disabled visitors (>74%) plus their carers get in free.

How to use

Show your smartphone ticket at the entrance of the Papal Palace

Please note that a staff member will escort you during your visit due to security reasons (this is not just anybody's palace, but the Pope's summer residence, after all). Respect their instructions, and take in beautiful views while strolling through the tranquil gardens

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