Papal Palace & Secret Gardens at Castel Gandolfo

About this experience

This divine property has provided peace and quiet to more than 30 popes since it was built in the early 17th century. Get the papal treatment as you skip the line and enter the Papal Gardens. Overlooking the sapphire blue and emerald green waters of Lake Albano, this stunning complex is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome.Located in tiny Castel Gandolfo, one of Italy’s most scenic towns, the Papal Palace complex spans 55 hectares - 11 more than the Vatican (which makes Pope Francis the only person whose holiday home is bigger than the country he governs). This prime land ended up in papal hands back in 1596, when the once-mighty Savelli family lost the plot (to bankruptcy). Decades later, Pope Urban VIII ordered the construction of a country home here; the views across the lake and of the surrounding hills are spectacular. The audio guide will fill your ears with some high quality papal trivia as you're being driven around. Find out which pontiff installed a swimming pool, and which one laid low in Castel Gandolfo for months after handing in his resignation.Just recently Pope Francis, aka Cool Pope, opened a huge portion of these premises to the public. So you can spend some time admiring the lush tree-lined gardens and, of course, viewing the remains of Emperor Domitian’s residence. The next pope might not be as open minded, so in a few years the gardens could close to the public once again. This could be your best chance to see something that for 400 years only the Holy could See.

Highlights

• Skip-the-line access allows you to bypass queues and enter the gardens directly, saving you valuable vacation time, especially during peak season.
• Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Albano and the rolling hills of the Castelli Romani countryside.
• Families can enjoy exploring the grounds together, while history buffs can delve deeper into the site's rich past.

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)

How to use

1. Show Mobile Ticket
2. Ticketing counter
3. Your booking is confirmed. Final Ticket will be sent to you separately. Please present either mobile or printed Final Ticket for redemption.

What to expect

Things to note

• Dresscode: Avoiding sleeveless shirts, low-cut clothing, shorts above the knee, and ripped jeans. It's best to opt for respectful attire that covers your shoul
• Restriction: For security reasons, large bags, suitcases, and backpacks are not allowed within the gardens.
• Restriction: Eating and drinking are not permitted within the gardens themselves.
• Kids under 6 and disabled visitors (>74%) plus their carers get in free.
• Sleeveless or low-cut tops, shorts above the knee, miniskirts, and hats are not allowed.
• Last admission: 1 hour before closing
• Please note that a staff member will accompany you during the visit for security reasons (this is not just any palace, but the Pope's summer residence).
• Respect their instructions, and take in beautiful views while strolling through the tranquil gardens

Terms & conditions

Show your smartphone ticket at the Apostolica Palace (Castel Gandolfo) entrance. Getting There: Take the train from Roma Termini Station to Albano, get off at Castel Gandolfo. More Information:Age: 6 - 25 with valid ID