Exclusive Tour of the Pope's Summer Residence in Castel Gandolfo and Vatican City

itinerary

1. This unique Rome tour begins at the Vatican Museums - one of the main destinations and top things to do in Rome. And with our Priority Access you skip the line, allowing you more time to discover great works of art by Michelangelo and other famous artists. 
2. Our sightseeing Vatican visit continues to one of the most revered places to see in Rome - and the world - the Sistine Chapel. An absolute must-see in Rome, you can walk at your own pace using our audio guide, as you explore amazing works of art including Michelangelo's The Last Judgement - the largest fresco ever painted by one man. 
3. You will have an hour to walk around the Vatican Square Gardens, accompanied by our tour leader and using our audio guide, before making your way to Castel Gandolfo by train from the Vatican Station, within the walls of Vatican City. The most exclusive day trip from Rome and one of Italy's most scenic towns (located only 15 miles southeast of Rome) it is understandable why Popes have chosen this spot as their sanctuary for hundreds of years. 
4. A short ride by mini bus from the train station and you arrive to the top of this secluded, charming town where you can eat lunch and stroll around, absorbing the breathtaking views before your exclusive sightseeing tour begins. 
5. Recently opened to the public by Pope Francis for a select number of tours, the Papal Palace - also known as the Apostolic Palace was designed by Carlo Maderno - the same architect as St. Peter's Basilica's facade. Previously off-limits, you can now discover the rare history and treasures contained in this extravagant yet intimate interior, including the works of Bernini. 
6. Explore the Pope's private and luxurious Barberini Gardens by mini ecological train, using your audio guide, before sampling a yogurt snack straight from the Pope's private farm. 
7. By 4:30 pm it is time to make your way back into the city after experiencing a peaceful retreat in two of the most unforgettable places to visit in Rome. 

what's included

• Skip the line with our Priority Access 
• Audio guide accompanied by our tour leader for the Castel Gandolfo tour
• Live guide for the Vatican tour
• Small group (25 people maximum)
• Bus from the meeting point and back with our tour leader

what's not included

• Pick up and drop off 
• Lunch
• Gratuities (Optional)

meeting point

Please note - the meeting point is outside of our office. And for security reasons, we are not able to store any personal belongings at our office - so please plan accordingly. 

ending point

dress code

important information

• Weapons and blunt objects (knives, long umbrellas, etc.)
• Glass bottles, aerosol sprays, and alcohol
• Bicycles, skates and segways 
• Luggage
• Pets

Large bags and selfie sticks are also not allowed in the Vatican. There is a free Vatican cloakroom service however, once you have gone through the metal detectors. 

accessibility

Private tours are available to meet these needs, on request.