Up to an hour
Castel Gandolfo, Papal Apartments, Secret Gardens & Astrological Domes Guided Tour
Explore the Vatican’s natural, historical, and scientific wonders.
What you'll do
Take a trip to Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence. This guided tour seamlessly blends art, astronomy, Vatican history, and nature. It’s a great way to step away from the hustle and bustle of Rome and enjoy some time in nature.
Enjoy captivating views of Lake Albano and the Alban Hills from the Papal Apartments. Your engaging guide will show you where scientists conducted celestial research at the Astronomical Observatory and share stories about how they contributed to modern astronomy. You will find impressive telescopes and astronomical domes here.
The beautiful Papal Apartments have hosted many Popes over the years – tour the elegantly decorated rooms with your guide and get an insight into what life was like for the papal figures in summertime.
Take a serene stroll through the Secret Garden, a botanical retreat just behind the Papal residence. Framed with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and manicured pathways, this oasis is a beautiful place to relax, just as the Popes did before you.
So, if you’re interested in astronomy, Vatican history, or you love peaceful gardens, this Castel Gandolfo guided experience is for you.
Castel Gandolfo Guided Tour Highlights
Learn about Castel Gandolfo’s significance
This summertime symbol of the Vatican is steeped in Roman history and culture.
Hear about the Vatican’s contribution to modern astronomy.
See the Astronomical Domes and the telescopes used for studying the skies.
View the Papal Apartments
The summertime residence of the Popes has gorgeous views and regal decoration.
Spend time in the Secret Garden
This peaceful botanical retreat is a great spot to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Extras
Please note: This attraction does not include transport to Castel Gandolfo.
What's included
Entrance to Castel Gandolfo, including Papal Apartments, Secret Gardens, and Astronomical Domes
Guided tour
Reservations
Booking required
There’s no need to prebook this attraction far in advance. You can book it on your first day in Rome at the Concierge desk, Touristation Piazza d’Aracoeli, 16.
Where you'll be
Piazza della Libertà , Castel Gandolfo (Rome), Rome, ItalyWhere you'll meet
Concierge desk: Touristation Ara Coeli Office- Piazza d’Ara Coeli, 16
Venue meeting point: Piazza della Libertà - Castel Gandolfo
Operating hours
Daily at 10am
Closings & holidays
Vatican Bank Holidays
Find out more
For more information, visit the Touristation website.
+393496966958, +390669942315
https://www.touristation.it/tours/escursioni-fuori-porta/castel-gandolfo-astronomical-domes-papal-apartments-secret-garden-experience
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