Journey from Rome to Castel Gandolfo in Italy’s Alban Hills, and go where many Catholics never get the chance to go — the Pope’s summer residence. Explore the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo and the Barberini Gardens. Then, sit down at a lunch buffet with fresh foods from the Pope’s private farm like yogurt, cheese, honey, salad, produce, and bruschetta with olive oil and tomatoes.
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From your location in Rome: Hotel, B&B, Other
8:30 AM
Meet the driver at yout location in Rome. Hop on your comfortable luxury minivan for a 1-hour drive to Castel Gandolfo, where the traditional papal summer residence is situated, just outside of Rome in the Alban Hills.
On arrival, take a break to grab a coffee or shop for souvenirs (both at own expense) before your group begins it 45-minute tour of the Apostolic Palace. Learn about the rare treasure housed here, as well as its history that dates back to 1626. Get a chance to stroll along the terrace, and take pictures of the surrounding Italian landscape.
You will then be handed over to an official Vatican guide for a spectacular tour of the Apostolic Palace for an insider’s look at the rare treasures and history it contains. Stand in awe of the most intimate areas of the palace like the Pope’s actual bedroom, study and private chapel, all recently opened for limited visits. Explore this remarkable complex, often referred to as the ‘Second Vatican’, culminating in the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape from the Papal Terrace, a privilege reserved for very few’.
After, it’s off to the Barberini Gardens for just over an hour. Walk along the paved pathways, and marvel at the intricately landscaped grounds. From bright green grass to ruby roses and towering trees, the gardens are well worth exploring. See the Magnolia Garden, the Path of Roses, the ruins of the imperial theater, an ancient passageway, and the Belvedere Gardens.
Get on your original luxury minivan you took to Castel Gandolfo to make the journey back Rome.
