Castel Gandolfo: a hidden gem for a day trip from Rome

After three trips to Rome in the past five years, I didn’t think there were many new (and noteworthy) experiences to be had. So when I found out about Castel Gandolfo – essentially the Pope’s Summer Palace, I was thrilled to be able to visit somewhere new and interesting.

Castel Gandolfo is a small, picturesque town in the Alban Hills, about 25 km southeast of Rome.  It’s a popular day trip from Rome because of its history, lakeside scenery, and charming medieval streets. It overlooks Lake Albano and is famous as the traditional summer residence of the popes. 

Lago Albano, just outside of Rome

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Interesting Facts about Castel Gandolfo

• At its heart is the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, which served as a papal retreat for centuries. Since 2016, it has been open to the public as a museum.

• Castel Gandolfo also has the Vatican Observatory and beautiful Barberini Gardens, which visitors can tour

• The town is part of the Castelli Romani area, a group of hill towns known for their wine, food, and historic villas.

Exploring Castel Gandolfo will make you understand why it’s been the Pope’s summer residency. Photo credit: Carole Raddato

Visit the town, house and gardens 

Admittedly, I did not know the Pope even had a summer palace which may be a plight of my ignorance, but I’d like to think it’s just not a well-known fact. The latter was supported when I arrived in Castel Gandolfo to a sleepy town of local vendors and quiet, cobbled streets; this was not the tranquil scene I associated to any property aligned with the Vatican.

A quick stroll around the 9000-person town confirmed that our Walks tour group of twelve were the only tourists in sight. And when we entered the summer home, it felt like we were the only people in the world; enveloped by 5-square-kilometers of manicured gardens hosting the likes of 200-year-old olive trees and two white donkeys from Sardinia, just two of the many animals donated to the Pope from around the globe.

Stroll through the gardens, which are a favourite haven of the Pope.

‘Why would the Pope want to open this up to tours?,’ I thought to myself. My question was answered on the tour: Pope Francis wanted to open the retreat as he didn’t spend enough time at the home to keep it for himself. With the home and grounds now open for tours, ticket sales recycle back to the Vatican management, helping to support the gardens and manage the Vatican’s infrastructure which has been affected by years of overtourism.

Learn more about this fascinating house and gardens.

Historical significance 

The property itself originally belonged to the Barberini family, which is why both the grounds and interiors are nothing short of opulent. Their ties to Pope Urban VIII influenced their relevance in the 17th-century as they became recognized as Italian nobility and is the connection behind the Apostolic Palace eventually being transformed into the Pope’s summer residence.

Aside from the Barberini’s country-side home south of Rome, the family commissioned Bernini to construct their city dwelling, Palazzo Barberini in Rome. In both properties, you can still spot the family crest most recognizable by the bee, so keep an eye out for the various bees carved throughout the property.

The expertly manicured gardens of the Villa Barberini in the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo.

Before entering the villa of Castel Gandolfo, we were escorted throughout the levels of the Barberini gardens via golf cart for an intimate, in-depth explanation on the emphasis of the grounds. With 55 staff members solely dedicated to the upkeep of the gardens, it is no wonder the property is straight out of an untouched movie scene.

Part of the unique upkeep of the gardens revolves around original Roman remains, like cobbled streets, steps, columns and statues which transport you back in time. And water is an unmissable motif throughout the property with aqueducts, ponds, and fountains to showcase wealth and also ensure irrigation for the pristine greenery.

Well considered symmetry makes this garden seem even more magnificent.

Moving into the home itself allows for a more historical, yet comprehendible, peek into the Pope’s daily life. Preserved robes and gowns reveal the change in attire for various Pope duties. Original portraits remind you of the significance of Popes throughout history.

Then there are the gold-gilded ceilings of the halls, a sprawling banquet table for the Pope’s dignitary dining guests, the Pope’s simple bedroom in comparison, and balconies with sweeping views over the gardens, Lake Albano, and on a clear day, the Mediterranean Sea.

There’s also a lookout to the former helicopter pad, where for the first time in history, two Popes met—Pope Benedetto and Pope Francis.

FAQ´s – Castel Gandolfo 

How much does it cost to visit the Apostolic Palace and Barberini Gardens?

Tickets vary depending on what you want to see. Entry to the Apostolic Palace is around €11, while a combined ticket with the Barberini Gardens costs about €26. Guided tours and golf cart tours of the gardens are slightly more. Audio guides are also available for a small extra fee.

How long should I plan to spend in Castel Gandolfo?

Most visitors allow at least 3 – 4 hours to explore the palace, gardens, and town. If you want to stroll by Lake Albano, enjoy a meal, or take a boat ride, consider making it a full-day trip from Rome.

How do I get to Castel Gandolfo from Rome?

The easiest option is the regional train from Roma Termini to Castel Gandolfo station, which takes about 40 minutes. From the station, it’s a 15-minute uphill walk into town. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour or drive (around 45 minutes).

Where should I eat in Castel Gandolfo?

The town has plenty of family-run trattorias overlooking the lake. Specialties include porchetta, handmade pasta, and local wines from the Castelli Romani region. Dining on a terrace with lake views is one of the highlights of a visit.

Mouth-watering porchetta is one of the many flavors that you cannot miss. Photo credit: Pedro Angelini

Packed full of history and cultural significance alongside natural beauty, fresh air and an escape from the Roman crowds – plus the summer home is an extension of Vatican City, so I actually got to be in two countries within my day trip – Castel Gandolfo proved that there are still parts of Italy yet to be discovered.

Combine your tranquil escape with a city adventure – visit Castel Gandolfo’s papal palace and gardens, then return to Rome for a deep dive into its rich history with one of our Rome Tours. Unlock both charm and wonder in one unforgettable trip!