Eyes of Rome
Eyes of Rome

Castel Gandolfo: Pope's Summer Residence & Secret Garden Tour

Discovering Vatican and the Summer Pope's Residence : Castel Gandolfo and its Beautiful Secret Gardens

Focus

  • Art
  • Nature
  • Religion

What makes this tour Special

Opened to the public only in 2016 by Pope Francis, turned the former stunning Papal summer residence into a museum

Enjoy a beautiful lake view

Discover this marvellous hidden gem and be stunned by the magnificent Papal Summer Residence.

What to Expect

PRIVATE TOUR

Enjoy your tour with your own private tour expert at your party's disposal only

DURATION

5 hours

START TIME

09:00

PRIVATE DRIVER

Meet&Greet at your hotel/accomodation. Private Driver included throughout the tour

KID FRIENDLY

This tour is suitable for kids of all ages

ENTRANCE TICKETS

Entrance tickets are included! Enjoy your tour!

What's Included
  • Ticket entrance to the Apostolic Palace
  • Exclusive visit to the Secret Garden
  • Pick up and drop off with a private driver at your disposal
  • Reservation fees
Not Included/ Optional Extras
  • Extras
  • Music Room, TV Room, Urbano VIII's Room (available upon request)

Sites you’ll visit

  • Castel Gandolfo
  • Apostolic Palace
  • Castel Gandolfo's Secret Garden
  • Over the centuries Castel Gandolfo has been elected to be the summer residence of the Popes. It is set next to the peaceful lake Albano, that can indeed be seen from one of its balconies. The historical palace takes its origins from the Middle Ages, and its story echoes the history of the Holy Church and the Popes. The second floor houses the private studio and bedrooms used by the Popes up to present.
  • Located just outside Rome, Castel Gandolfo lies on the edge of Lake Albano. Its palace is notable as the summer residence of the popes since 1623, featuring a magnificent terraced park and the former Villa Barberini, built on the ruins of a villa of the Roman emperor Domitian. Precious marble, brocades, and splendid tapestries display the true opulence of the Baroque era.
  • The Secret Garden of the Papal Palace in Castel Gandolfo is an oasis of tranquility, offering a rare glimpse into papal life. Nestled within the summer retreat of the popes, this beautifully manicured garden showcases a variety of plants, serene pathways, and stunning views of Lake Albano, embodying a blend of spiritual reflection and natural beauty.

Tour description

Embark on an exclusive 5-hour journey from the heart of Rome to the serene grandeur of the Papal Palace in Castel Gandolfo, a picturesque town that hosts one of the most beautiful retreats favored by popes for centuries. This meticulously curated tour offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome, transporting you into a world of divine tranquility and artistic magnificence.

Your experience begins the moment you step into the comfort of a private car, reserved exclusively for your journey. As you leave Rome behind, the enchanting landscapes of the Roman countryside unfold before you, setting the stage for the remarkable visit ahead.

Upon arrival at Castel Gandolfo, perched on the hills overlooking the crystal waters of Lake Albano, you will feel as if you have stepped into another era. The Papal Palace, with its storied history and architectural beauty, stands as a testament to the richness of the Catholic heritage and the love of art and nature that has been fostered within its walls.


You will be greeted by your private guide, whose knowledge and passion will enrich your visit. The guide will lead you through the opulent rooms of the Papal Palace, where each corner reveals stories of faith, art, and diplomacy. From the Pope's private apartments to the breathtaking reception halls, you will gain unique insights into the lives of the popes who have sought refuge and inspiration in this heavenly abode.

The highlight of your visit will be the enchanting Secret Garden of the Papal Palace. Unlike anything else in the Vatican's expansive gardens, this hidden gem is a sanctuary of peace and beauty. As you wander through immaculately maintained paths, surrounded by lush vegetation and exquisite flower arrangements, you will understand why this place was cherished by popes throughout history as a private haven for contemplation and relaxation.


Throughout your tour, there will be ample opportunities to capture the beauty of Castel Gandolfo and its surroundings. The views from the palace over Lake Albano are breathtaking and provide a perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.

As your visit comes to an end, you will be escorted back to Rome in your private car, with your heart and mind filled with the beauty and tranquility of Castel Gandolfo. This exclusive tour of the Papal Palace and its Secret Garden offers a unique glimpse into the secluded life of pontiffs and the timeless allure of their summer retreat.


This intimate and immersive experience is designed for those who seek to uncover the hidden gems of Italy’s spiritual and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable part of any Roman holiday.

Useful information

  • Not recommended for wheelchair users
  • All visitors and their bags have to be screened under metal detectors and to be checked by the Vatican guards.
  • It is not possible to bring large bags or backpacks, as well as bulky bags, big umbrellas and selfie-sticks. All weapons, hazardous or flammable objects are strictly forbidden.

Full Refund Cancellation Policy

Eyes of Rome has two policies with full refund terms.
The policies are included and non-optional.
  1. Dolce Vita policy is applied on all Standard Bookings placed more than 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms up to 72 hours from the date of the event for any reason. To apply for a refund including where your tour is cancelled or changed by Eyes of Rome®, please contact our customer service team at info@eyesofrome.com.
  2. Peace of Mind policy is applied on Selected Bookings and on all Bookings placed within 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms so if you are unable to attend your booking due to unforeseen circumstances outside of your control you may be entitled to a refund - please see our full set of Refundable Terms and Conditions here. To apply for a refund, please find the instructions on how to apply in the booking confirmation email you received after payment.

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