Take the train to Castelgandolfo
Castel Gandolfo feels like a peaceful escape from the bustle of Rome. This small town, perched on the edge of a volcanic crater lake, is part of the Castelli Romani region, known for its wine, porchetta, and slow pace of life. The Apostolic Palace, once used by popes as a summer retreat, is now open to the public, and the Barberini Gardens are a highlight. With cobbled streets, panoramic views, and cozy trattorias, this is where Romans go to breathe.
Itinerary
Arrive Mid-Morning: Take the train from Roma Termini or Roma San Pietro and enjoy the scenic ride.
Visit the Apostolic Palace: Start your day with a visit to the Papal Palace and its museum — an impressive slice of Vatican history outside the Vatican walls.
Stroll the Barberini Gardens: These beautifully manicured gardens feel like something out of a dream — book in advance for a guided tour.
Lunch with a View: Walk around to the other side of the Lake to one of the rustic eateries like Da Agnese and try local specialties like porchetta, the localcrusty bread, artichokes, or fresh pasta with wild board ragù. You can even order the food to go and have a picnic by the lake.
Take a Walk by the Lake: End the afternoon with a peaceful walk or gelato by the shores of Lake Albano
3 Local Tips
Try the local DOC wine – Frascati Superiore or Colli Albani – produced in the surrounding hills.
Ask for the porchetta (herb-stuffed roasted pork), a beloved specialty of the region.
Don’t rush — Castel Gandolfo is all about slowing down and soaking it in.
Recap
Roma Termini
Spring through early fall is ideal, especially for the garden tours and lakeside walks. But it's charming year-round, and quieter in the off-season.
Other tips
Take the train to Castelgandolfo
Roma Termini
Spring through early fall is ideal, especially for the garden tours and lakeside walks. But it's charming year-round, and quieter in the off-season.
Ariccia
Regional train
Year-round, but autumn is especially lovely—cooler temperatures, seasonal mushrooms, and truffles begin to appear on menus.
Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano
Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
Any time of year. Mornings are best for visiting the basilica before crowds arrive. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable walking weather.
Take the train to Castelgandolfo
Roma Termini
Spring through early fall is ideal, especially for the garden tours and lakeside walks. But it's charming year-round, and quieter in the off-season.
Ariccia
Regional train
Year-round, but autumn is especially lovely—cooler temperatures, seasonal mushrooms, and truffles begin to appear on menus.
Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano
Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano
Any time of year. Mornings are best for visiting the basilica before crowds arrive. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable walking weather.
ItaliaTours has been providing expert tours for travelers to Italy for over 20 years. Our guides are highly educated expert storytellers who love sharing their passion for "il bel paese". We are fully licensed and insured, so that you can feel confident when booking with us.
Call/Text/WhatsApp: +1 617 207 661
Toll-free from USA: +1-888-598-6870
Call from Italy: +39 06 967 41298
info@italiatours.com
