Discover the Passetto di Borgo and Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome

This tour offers an exclusive chance to explore two of the Vatican’s most intriguing sites: the Passetto di Borgo, a rarely open secret passageway, and Castel Sant’Angelo, a fortress with a history stretching from Roman mausoleum to papal residence. Priced at $65 per person and lasting 2 hours, it combines guided storytelling with self-guided exploration.

Starting at Piazza del Risorgimento, the tour provides reserved entry tickets to both locations, making it ideal for visitors wanting an intimate experience away from crowds. The tour is conducted in English and Italian, led by professional guides, although reviews note that guide quality may vary. It suits those eager to see hidden parts of Rome’s history and enjoy unique perspectives of the Vatican and Tiber River.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Exclusive access to the Passetto di Borgo, a secret passage seldom open to the public
Guided tour of the Passetto, with insights into its historical significance and use by popes
Reserved entry to Castel Sant’Angelo for self-guided exploration
Opportunities to view stunning vistas over the Tiber River and St. Peter’s Basilica
Tour departs from Piazza del Risorgimento and lasts 2 hours
Suitable for visitors interested in hidden history and Roman architecture

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Starting Point and Logistics at Piazza Risorgimento

The tour begins at the Touristation kiosk in Piazza Risorgimento, located directly in front of the Foot Locker store. It’s recommended to arrive on time, though early arrival isn’t necessary. The meeting point is straightforward, making it easy to locate, and the activity offers assistance at the meeting point for travelers needing help.

The total price covers entry tickets to both the Passetto and Castel Sant’Angelo, as well as an ancient Rome multimedia video. The tour offers a professional guide for the Passetto segment and self-guided access to Castel Sant’Angelo, giving flexibility to explore the fortress at your own pace.

Exploring the Passetto di Borgo: A Hidden Passageway

The Passetto di Borgo is a raised secret corridor connecting the Vatican to Castel Sant’Angelo, used historically by popes to escape danger. During the guided tour, visitors walk through this historic passageway, hearing stories about its role in papal history and times of crisis.

This corridor is usually closed to the public, making this tour a rare opportunity to walk along its length. The guide shares fascinating anecdotes about its construction, use by popes, and strategic importance in Vatican security. The one-hour guided segment offers an up-close look at this hidden part of Rome’s architecture.

Self-Guided Visit to Castel Sant’Angelo

After exploring the Passetto, visitors gain reserved access to Castel Sant’Angelo for a self-guided visit lasting around one hour. The fortress features ancient chambers, spiraling ramps, and spectacular views from its rooftop terraces overlooking the Tiber River.

The castle’s history spans from Roman mausoleum to papal stronghold and Renaissance residence. During the self-guided exploration, visitors can admire the castle’s architecture, learn about its evolution, and take in stunning vistas of Rome’s skyline.

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Highlights of the Tour at Castel Sant’Angelo

The rooftop terraces provide panoramic views of the Tiber River and St. Peter’s Basilica, making this a perfect spot for photos. Inside the fortress, there are historical chambers and artifacts that reveal its transformation over the centuries.

This part of the tour is self-guided, so visitors can explore at their own pace. The overall experience offers a balanced mix of guided storytelling and independent discovery, ideal for those who enjoy flexible sightseeing combined with expert insights.

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Enhancing the Experience with Multimedia and Anecdotes

Included in the ticket is an Ancient Rome Multimedia Video, providing additional context about the historical setting of Castel Sant’Angelo and its role throughout Roman history. The guides provide engaging anecdotes about the secret passage and the fortress’s significance in Vatican affairs.

While the guides are knowledgeable, reviews indicate that guide quality may vary, with one comment about poor English from a guide named Laurens. The expertise and professionalism of the guides contribute positively to understanding the hidden history of these sites.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Participants should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views. Pets are not allowed, and the activity may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the sites and walking involved.

The total activity duration is 2 hours, with the first hour dedicated to the Passetto guided walk and the second to self-guided exploration of Castel Sant’Angelo. Check availability for different starting times to best fit your schedule.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

This tour is unique because it combines guided access to the Passetto di Borgo with reserved admission to Castel Sant’Angelo, offering a more exclusive and personalized experience. Other options may include full guided tours of Castel Sant’Angelo** or audio-guided visits, but none typically feature the secret passageway.

Additional similar experiences include evening tours and small-group options, but this tour’s emphasis on hidden history and self-guided castle exploration makes it a standout.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

The Passetto di Borgo Guided Tour & Castel Sant’Angelo ticket provides an engaging glimpse into Rome’s secretive past and Vatican security measures. It’s particularly appealing for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

While the guided segment offers interesting stories about the secret passage, potential visitors should be aware of variable guide quality. The self-guided castle visit allows freedom to explore Roman history at your own pace, with views that will impress anyone interested in panoramic vistas.

This tour offers great value with reserved access, multimedia insights, and unique sights, making it an excellent choice for those curious about Vatican secrets and Roman fortress history.

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Passetto di Borgo Guided Tour & Castel Sant’Angelo ticket

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $65 fee covers reserved tickets for the Passetto di Borgo and Castel Sant’Angelo, plus an Ancient Rome multimedia video and professional guided tour of the Passetto.

Where does the tour start?
At the Touristation kiosk in Piazza Risorgimento, in front of the Foot Locker store.

Is there a guided tour inside Castel Sant’Angelo?
No, visitors explore Castel Sant’Angelo self-guided after the guided walk of the Passetto.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is 2 hours, split between 1 hour of guided walking and 1 hour of self-guided exploration.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The activity may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the sites’ structure and walking involved.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and a camera for photos.

Is this tour good for children?
Children aged 5 and up are admitted, but the experience is best suited for those interested in history and architecture.

Can the tour be canceled or rescheduled?
This activity is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English and Italian, with some reviews mentioning guide quality variations.