About this experience
Step into the history and intrigue of Castel Sant'Angelo, originally Hadrian's Mausoleum, a monument that has witnessed the rise of empires and the power of the papacy. From its origins as a grand imperial tomb to its transformation into a fortress and papal residence, every hall, terrace, and rampart tells a story of ambition, strategy, and power. Discover the secrets of its architecture, the legends that echo through its walls, and the stunning views over Rome from its terraces. Conclude your journey by strolling through Borgo Pio along the Vatican Walls to St. Peter's Square, where Bernini's iconic elliptical Colonnade welcomes you to the heart of the Vatican.
The tour includes priority entry to the basilica, where you can admire Michelangelo's famous work: the Pietà. the ticket also includes access to the dome with lift.
A mesmerizing journey of history, art, and grandeur an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City.
At a glance
- Duration: 4 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 4 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Visit The Passetto
- Route inside the Basilica with the Digital Audioguide
- ticket Dome with lift
- Visit Bernini’s Colonnade
- Visit to St. Peter's Basilica with priority entrance included
- 3 hours professional guide
- Admission tickets to the Castel Sant' Angelo
Not included
- Tips
- The tour does not include a guided visit inside the basilica
Itinerary and highlights
The visit of Castel Sant'Angelo (Hadrian's Mausoleum) is a truly experience through the centuries to better understand the development of the city of Rome from the imperial time to the present time. The monument was built of the Emperor Hadrian and with the time became at first a fortress and later on a residence for the Popes.
It is considered a symbol of Rome’s imperial power and Pope’s power. During the visit we can see the transformation of the building from monumental tomb to a fortress and a residence. We are going to hear and see the secret places and the several stories related to the building that was connected to the Pope’s palaces through a secret corridor called ‘’Passetto di Borgo’’, an escape route to guarantee the safety of the Pope. After visiting the Castle, cross Borgo Pio and along the Vatican Walls we will reach the place where in a relaxing atmosphere you can sip a good glass of Italian wine and taste typical Roman cuisine, not to be missed when visiting Rome!
Rome used to call it, is also known as Passetto di Borgo, or Passetto. It corresponds to that raised and fortified section of the Vatican Walls that from the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican, starting from behind the colonnade by Bernini runs along via dei Corridori and via Borgo Sant'Angelo and ends in Castel Sant'Angelo.
In totale il colonnato comprende 284 colonne di ordine dorico, ciascuna alta sedici metri. Le colonne sono disposte su quattro file in modo da creare tre corsie. La corsia centrale è carrabile, mentre le due laterali sono percorribili esclusivamente a piedi.
St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, the heart of Catholicism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the largest churches in the world (23,000 square meters). Built between 1506 and 1626, it features a majestic Michelangelo dome, a façade by Maderno, and an interior with Bernini's Baldachin, housing masterpieces such as Michelangelo's Pietà.
Meeting and pickup information
- The guide will be waiting for you with a sign at the entrance to the Castle
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Italian — Guide
- French — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Welcome Italy
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- One day before please contact the agency to confirm meeting time with the guide
- Dress code is smart casual
- Please provide the correct information requested in your booking
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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