Explore at your pace
Audio guide
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Combine royal elegance, church history, and cosmic exploration in one visit to the Pope’s historic summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo.
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Open after almost 100 years, the twin domes allow you to explore the working environment of papal astronomers, with exhibits that highlight centuries of astronomical study.
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Walk through the papal apartments, where popes once worked, prayed, and entertained visiting dignitaries.
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Navigate the palace with an English/Italian audio guide in this self-guided tour that brings the unique Vatican setting vividly to life.
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Timed entry to Apostolic Palace
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Access to observatory domes
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Audio guide (English/Italian)
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Guided tour
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Access to secret garden
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Minibus tour of extended gardens
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Transport to and from Rome
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Step inside Castel Gandolfo’s Papal Palace and observatory domes with an audio guide for a self-paced journey through history and science.
Getting started
Begin at the main entrance of the Apostolic Palace, where your ticket will be validated. After a brief security check, pick up your audio guide and set off to explore at your own pace.
What to expect
Castel Gandolfo's Apostolic Palace
Once the summer residence of popes, the Apostolic Palace is a testament to centuries of papal history and tradition. This site offers a rare glimpse into the private world of the Vatican outside Rome.
Features
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Papal apartments: Walk through the official rooms once reserved for pontiffs, each space echoing with stories of diplomacy and faith.
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Historic artworks: Admire exquisite frescoes and artworks that decorate the palace interiors, reflecting centuries of religious and artistic heritage.
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Observatory domes: Access the two historic domes, where astronomy and papal curiosity meet. These domes have played a significant role in advancing scientific understanding.
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What to bring
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Arrive at your scheduled time slot with a photo ID matching the name on your booking to ensure a smooth entry process.
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If you’d like, bring your own headphones for the physical audio guide included with your ticket.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring both the palace and the observatory domes.
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Carry a bottle of water, especially in warmer months, as you may spend considerable time outdoors.
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Follow Vatican dress etiquette by covering your shoulders and knees. A light scarf or shawl can be handy.
What’s not allowed
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Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are prohibited for security reasons.
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Only registered service animals are allowed; pets are otherwise not permitted.
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Food and drinks cannot be consumed inside the palace or dome areas.
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Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly forbidden on site.
Accessibility
- The domes are located on the third floor and are generally not accessible to visitors with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs.
Additional information
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This ticket does not grant access to the secret gardens, the minibus tour of the extended gardens, or any guided tours.
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Transport is not included. You can reach the venue by car, bus, or train from Rome in about 40 minutes.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
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Please arrive at the redemption point 20 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.
Ticket redemption point
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Show your ticket at Castel Gandolfo.
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Address: Piazza della Libertà, 00073 Castel Gandolfo RM, Italy .
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Landmark: At the main entrance of the Papal Palace.
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