Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome - Hours & Tickets

Castel Sant’Angelo is an ancient fortified structure sitting alongside the River Tiber in Rome. It has had multiple uses over the years and the central part of it was originally constructed as the mausoleum for the Emperor Hadrian. Later, it was converted by a Pope into the defensive fortress you see today. Inside, you enter up the original winding Roman passageway that Hadrian’s body would have been taken along. As you get higher up the castle though, you will see beautifully decorated ornate papal apartments, courtyards, passageways and ramparts. The views over Rome get better and better as you go higher too.

There are 6 different levels at the castle including the entrance floor and the flat roof top. There’s lots to see here, but it’s easy to rush through it if you don’t know what you’re looking at. As such, we’d recommend taking the audio tour. For best prices, we’d recommend buying in advance. This also means you skip the ticket line. Use this booking form to secure your place at one of the most magnificent castles you’re ever likely to see:

Castel Sant’Angelo is featured in the Dan Brown book and film “Angels & Demons” as the location where the Illuminati held four senior cardinals captive. The raised wall walkway from the castle to the Vatican known as Passetto di Borgo (or Passetto) is also featured in part of the story although we were disappointed to find that this walkway is not part of the main public access. If you’re a fan of the story check out the Angels & Demons Half Day Tour.

Castel Sant Angelo is open every day except Monday from 9am to 7pm and adult admission is 16 Euros (2024 prices). Make sure you spend some time outside the castle on the bridge (Pont Sant Angelo) which is lined with Bernini statues.

LOCATION & CONTACT

Address: Castel Sant’ Angelo, Lungotevere Castello, 50 00186 – Roma, Italy
Tel: +39 06 681 9111
Metro: Nearest Metro stop is Lepanto.

Castel Sant’Angelo is on the banks of the River Tiber at the start of Via della Conciliazione, the grand roadway leadin to St Peter’s Square in Vatican City.