Castel Gandolfo is one of the medieval walled villages just outside of Rome known as the Castelli Romani, or Roman Castles. Castel Gandolfo is best known for the Pontifical Villas, or Apostolic Palace. This historic summer residence for popes includes a baroque palace, the vast Barberini Gardens, ruins from the Roman emperor Domitian’s villa, and a working farm. The Apostolic Palace was once closed to the public, but Pope Francis turned it into a museum.
Visit on a tour or a shore excursion, or opt for a food and wine tour that combines a visit with an introduction to local specialties like porchetta and Romanella wine. Adventurous travelers can take a self-driving tour of the Castelli Romani in a vintage car or on a Vespa.
Tours of Castelli Romani—including the town of Castel Gandolfo and the Apostolic Palace—include a significant amount of outdoor walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
You can use small electric golf carts to tour the Barberini Gardens.
The palace and estate are not accessible to wheelchair users, but the town of Castel Gandolfo can easily be explored with a wheelchair.
The town of Castel Gandolfo is located about 15 miles southeast of Rome, in the Lazio countryside, and can be reached by car or by taking a train from the Roma Termini station. To explore the countryside and lake outside the town, it’s best to join a private or small-group tour that includes transportation to avoid having to navigate the rural roads.
The countryside of the Castelli Romani, the town of Castel Gandolfo, and the lush Barberini Gardens at the Apostolic Palace are at their best in spring and fall.
To escape from Rome’s crowded and popular streets, head to the rolling hills of the Castelli Romani. Once a series of fortified strongholds, these historic towns, and the surrounding countryside, are among the most scenic spots in all of Italy. Towns like Castel Gandolfo, Arriccia, Nemi, and Frascati offer medieval charm and sweeping views, and the area is known for excellent sheep cheese, cured pork, and red wine.
