Two hours with a guide

The experience

With 4.8 out of 5 from 154 reviews, it is the highest-rated guided tour of the castle on GetYourGuide. Starts from $55 per person and can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours before. The price includes the reserved entry ticket, the guide, and headsets if needed. There are two meeting points, depending on the option you choose.

The story starts from Hadrian's mausoleum and the legend of 590, with Archangel Michael sheathing his sword above the mole as the plague ends. Then the frescoes, the papal apartments, the corridors, and the angel sculptures by Bernini, Raggi, and Morelli mentioned in the listing. Recent reviews often name the guides - Amanda, Vincenzo, Rosella, Barbara - always for two reasons: plenty of history and a touch of humor.

The listing is clear on one point: the tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues, and anyone arriving after the departure time will not be admitted or refunded. When booking, you need the full name and date of birth of everyone, and each person must bring a valid ID. Strollers cannot enter most of the castle: they must be left at the entrance.

• Two hours with a guide, the highest rating among the castle's guided tours
• Reserved entry ticket and headsets
• Hadrian's tomb, frescoes, and papal apartments
• The legend of the archangel and the 590 plague, told on the spot
• From the terrace, the view of the castle's defensive walls
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

How it works

1. Before departureMeeting point

   One of the two meeting points, depending on the option: you'll find it in your confirmation. Arrive early, because after the departure time the listing does not guarantee entry.

2. StartEntrance and mausoleum

   With the ticket already reserved, you pass security and enter Hadrian's tomb, the Mole Adriana from the 2nd century AD.

3. First hourFrom the tomb to the fortress

   The Roman ramp, then the rooms where the tomb became a fortress within the city walls. Here the guide also explains where the castle's name comes from.

4. Second hourThe papal rooms

   Frescoes, papal apartments, and corridors: the castle as a residence, with its richest period under Paul III Farnese.

5. EndThe terrace

   From the top, you see the castle's defensive walls, the Tiber, and St Peter's. The guide finishes the story, and you are free to stay.

What's included

Who it's for

What travellers say

Tips before booking

• When booking, enter the full name and date of birth of each person as on their ID. The ticket is named: bring your passport or original ID card. If the details do not match, the museum may deny entry without a refund.
• Check which of the two meeting points matches your option and arrive before departure.
• No strollers, suitcases or large bags: the castle has no cloakroom and does not allow animals.
• Wear comfortable shoes: you climb for two hours, up to the terrace.
• The Passetto is not included. If you want it, there is the Passetto with a guide and the castle, non-refundable; days and prices in the Passetto guide.

Read more:

• Guided tours compared
• What to see inside

Frequently asked questions

Compare with

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