Bring your camera onto the roof of the Castel for some stunning panoramic views of Rome.
Castel Sant’Angelo is a vast cylindrical fortress of stone and brick, located in Parco Adriano opposite St. Peter’s Square. The oldest parts of the castle were built between 123-139 AD as a funerary tomb for the Roman Emperor Hadrian, and it was at that time the tallest building in Rome; it is still sometimes referred to as The Mausoleum of Hadrian.
Like so many buildings in Rome Castel Sant’Angelo has a fascinatingly layered history, and what can be seen today is Hadrian’s ancient Roman building with medieval and Renaissance features superimposed or added in later years. The original design comprised a square base with a large cylindrical fort above it, featuring a hanging garden and topped by a tower housing the Emperor’s burial chamber, which would have been decorated with statues of marble and bronze.
The building continued to function as Imperial mausoleum until the ashes of Caracalla were placed there in 217 AD; in 401 AD it was converted to a fortified castle. It was sacked by the Visigoths in 410 AD, and the urns and ashes were lost - apart from the capstone of what was probably Hadrian’s urn, which survives as a baptismal font in St. Peter’s Basilica. The decorative statues were thrown down on attacking Goths in 537 AD. In the 16th century it became a palace used by various Popes of Rome, who carried out significant modifications to its structure and interior design. It has also been used as a prison; the astronomer Giordano Bruno was held here for six years.
The name Castel Sant’Angelo dates from the 6th century when, according to legend, the Archangel Michael appeared on top of the Mausoleum with a flaming sword in hand. This miraculous apparition occurred during the papacy of Gregory the Great in 590. At that time a great plague was wreaking havoc in the city, and in order to invoke God’s mercy Pope Gregory organised a mass procession to the tomb of St. Peter. During the procession the people of Rome saw a radiant vision of an angel sheathing a sword of fire, and thus ended the plague.
The angel has been associated with the building ever since. The bronze angel with a sword which visitors see today is a 1793 replacement for various angel statues which have adorned the Castel throughout the centuries. Visitors may see the previous occupant inside the castle today: the mid-15th Century marble angel with copper wings by Raffaello Montelupo is on display in the courtyard.
Standing on the ground floor you may look down and see the tops of Roman arches protruding from the ground; looking up, you will see modern battlements decorated with beautiful Renaissance frescoes. The Mausoleum entrance takes you first into a square atrium, which once would have been lined with marble panels (you can still see the pin marks) and a long gone statue of Hadrian facing the doorway. From there you can follow the spiralling ramp to Hadrian’s burial chamber at the centre. Remnants of the original mosaic floor can still be seen. From here you will arrive at the Room of the Urns, where some Roman urns are on show.
From the ancient heart of the building you will emerge onto the more modern castle walkways. Here you will be privy to some spectacular views, and can even sit and enjoy a drink in the café on the walls. There are a number of Papal rooms which can be accessed from here: the Farnese apartments commissioned by Pope Paul III are particularly magnificent in their sumptuous decoration and their allusions to classical Greek and Roman mythology. Pope Alexander VI Borgia also had a tunnel built connecting the Castel with St. Peter’s so that he could make a quick escape from the Vatican undetected, and built the Tower Borgia, the tower’s last defensive addition.
Discover the best of Rome on this private family-friendly walking tour through its most famous piazzas, fountains, and landmarks. Visit Castel Sant'Angelo and see where ancient emperors kept their treasures and connect with ancient history!
On your family-friendly private tour you will:
Enjoy this engaging, family-friendly walking tour of all the highlights of Rome's stunning historic centre with an expert private guide - including a delicious and well-deserved gelato break!
Your kids will love exploring some of Rome’s best-known attractions such as Piazza Navona, chucking coins into the Trevi Fountain, and spotting the fake windows and the odd 'cup' that doesn't quite fit.
You'll pass by the amazing Pantheon - designed in the 2nd Century by Emperor Hadrian. How did the Ancient Romans build that heavy cement dome with a hole in it? How did it not collapse? Your guide will share historic facts and other fascinating secrets about the Pantheon, like why the church calls it St Mary of the Martyrs.
You'll see the amazing Fountain of the Four Rivers at Piazza Navona by the sculptor Bernini, and the magnificent church of Saint Agnes overlooking it, by his arch-rival Borromini.
Your guide will help you to guess which four major rivers are represented in the giant statues by Bernini - he left us lots of clues, and will also help you find the insult left on top of the church by Borromini!
You will learn how Rome was built - layer on layer, like a giant lasagna! You'll see how Piazza Navona was built over a horse racing stadium, and a marker showing just how high the river Tiber used to flood. See if you can reach it!
Your tour ends with tickets included for a self-guided visit to the amazing Castle of the Angel or the Castel Sant'Angelo. Originally the Mausoleum of Hadrian, it became a Papal fortress with a secret passageway that connects it directly to the Vatican!
This is also the site in which, legend claims, Archangel Michael appeared sheathing a flaming sword as a sign of the end of the plague of 590 AD. Climb up to the ramparts for an amazing view of the Eternal City - don't worry the giant bronze statue of Archangel Michael will protect you!
Please note: During the Jubilee Year, Rome is expected to experience increased visitor numbers and heightened security measures. While we strive to provide a seamless experience, some attractions may face last-minute closures without prior notice, longer-than-usual wait times, or time restrictions on visits inside certain attractions due to crowd control policies.
In such cases, your guide will expertly adapt the itinerary to ensure the best possible experience, using their local knowledge to navigate any challenges. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to make your visit to Rome unforgettable despite these unique circumstances.
Immerse yourself in the delights of Rome after sundown on a relaxing evening exploring the city in a comfortable golf cart. Taking this tour is a dynamic and cinematic way to experience the most popular attractions and hidden backstreets illuminated by the dazzling city lights.
On this private golf cart tour, you will:
Whether it’s your first time in Rome or you’re rediscovering its magic, this golf cart night tour promises an elegant and immersive experience where you can sit back, relax, and let the beauty of the Eternal City unfold before you. Your magical journey usually begins at your hotel, though it is possible to be picked up at a local restaurant if you wish to grab a bite before the tour. Once you hop aboard your compact private golf cart, you’ll glide effortlessly through charming streets and grand piazzas, enjoying the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the company of your friendly local driver-guide.
Whilst the exact route around the city may vary according to the starting point and the preferences of your party, you will be sure to glide past the Colosseum, the world’s most famous amphitheatre where gladiators once battled for glory. At night, its majestic arches glow, making it even more awe-inspiring. You will also see the iconic Trevi Fountain where the cascading water and intricate sculptures are a sight to behold under the moonlight.
You will pass by the Pantheon, a 2000-year-old temple offering a vivid testament to Ancient Rome in the heart of the modern city, and learn about its fascinating history and the architectural wonders to be found within. You will also have the chance to visit the beautiful Piazza Navona, one of the city’s most lively and charming squares, home to Bernini’s magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers.
You will proceed to admire the Castel Sant’Angelo, an elaborate fortress turned papal refuge where your guide can share stories of centuries of wars, intrigue and daring escapes. The area around the castle also provides a privileged vantage point where you can enjoy incredible views of Rome and the Vatican City. Seeing the immense dome of St. Peter’s Basilica all lit up is truly spectacular.
Once your time with your guide comes to an end, they will be happy to provide you with recommendations for authentic local spots to spend the rest of your evening. You will leave with incredible memories of your scenic route around Rome and a deeper appreciation for the Eternal City under the stars.
Please note: During the Jubilee Year, Rome is expected to experience increased visitor numbers and heightened security measures. While we strive to provide a seamless experience, some attractions may face last-minute closures without prior notice, longer-than-usual wait times, or time restrictions on visits inside certain attractions due to crowd control policies.
In such cases, your guide will expertly adapt the itinerary to ensure the best possible experience, using their local knowledge to navigate any challenges. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to make your visit to Rome unforgettable despite these unique circumstances.
Rome is spectacular at any time of day, but evenings in the Eternal City evoke a special kind of magic. As the sun sets, the city’s golden glow fades into soft twilight, its ancient monuments are dramatically illuminated, giving them an ethereal beauty and its charming piazzas come to life . The bustling crowds thin out, the air cools, and Rome transforms into a more romantic, intimate, and mysterious version of itself. Embarking on an evening walking tour is the perfect way to see Rome at its best, effortlessly navigating its cobblestone streets in the company of your private guide, all the while being captivated by stunning views and stories from its thousands of years of history.
On this private evening walking tour, you will:
Your enchanted evening will begin at our conveniently located meeting point in the heart of the historic centre. Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a 2.5-hour journey of discovery around some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and lesser-known corners, regaling you with tales of Rome's past and present. You'll see how the Trevi Fountain sparkles as the water reflects the city lights, creating a dreamlike scene, and your guide can explain all the intricate details of one of Rome’s most emblematic monuments, from the ancient origins to the significance of how many coins you decide to toss in.
Then you'll step back in time to uncover the incredibly well-preserved vestiges of Ancient Rome such as the Tempio di Adriano, named after the legendary emperor Hadrian, and the Pantheon, a 2000-year-old masterpiece known for its enormous dome, Corinthian columns and mystical oculus that exposes the sky above. Your guide can reveal how it has become a final resting place for illustrious Italians as well as other famous buildings around the world that have taken inspiration from this amazing feat of Roman engineering.
You will also get acquainted with Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most vibrant squares, which boasts incredible Baroque sculptures by Bernini and Boromini. You'll learn about the infamous rivalry between these 2 great artists and soak up the lively atmosphere, often punctuated by the sound of local musicians.
Last but certainly not least, your guide will lead you across the Ponte Sant'Angelo, one of the city’s most picturesque bridges, famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, dramatic statues, and deep historical and spiritual significance, having served as a vital connection to both Castel Sant’Angelo and the Vatican. Soon you will approach the castle itself which appears particularly striking at night, and find out about the major events in Rome’s history that have unfolded within its walls. From here you will also enjoy some of the city’s best views of St. Peter’s Basilica with its iconic dome shining over Vatican City providing a fitting end to your picture-perfect twilight outing. Your guide will happily provide recommendations for drinking or dining nearby, making this tour an ideal option for pre or post-dinner entertainment.
Please note: During the Jubilee Year, Rome is expected to experience increased visitor numbers and heightened security measures. While we strive to provide a seamless experience, some attractions may face last-minute closures without prior notice, longer-than-usual wait times, or time restrictions on visits inside certain attractions due to crowd control policies.
In such cases, your guide will expertly adapt the itinerary to ensure the best possible experience, using their local knowledge to navigate any challenges. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to make your visit to Rome unforgettable despite these unique circumstances.
Rome is a city brimming with history and a myriad of legends and mysteries. With over 2,000 years of intrigue, betrayals, executions, and assassinations, it's no surprise that many ghosts are believed to haunt the Eternal City. There is no better way to discover some of the most spine-chilling chapters of Rome’s story than on a guided walking tour with a local expert guide. On our eerie evening experience, you’ll traverse the winding streets after sundown to uncover the city’s most notorious hauntings and learn about the lives and deaths of those whose restless spirits are said to remain to this day.
On this 2-hour ghost tour, you will:
As night falls over Rome, the Eternal City reveals its darker, more mysterious side. On this private ghost tour, you’ll embark on a journey through the haunted heart of the city, where history and legend intertwine in eerie and unexpected ways. With a passionate local guide by your side, you’ll uncover the chilling tales of tormented spirits, grisly murders, and infamous executions that have left their spectral imprint on Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
Your adventure begins at the brooding silhouette of Castel Sant’Angelo. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian's mausoleum, the castle has served as a fortress and a prison, so it has seen plenty of death and destruction across the centuries. You’ll hear the tragic story of noblewoman Beatrice Cenci, whose execution caused great outrage among the Roman people, and learn how her spirit allegedly reappears each year on the Ponte Sant’Angelo on the anniversary of her death. You will follow in her footsteps across this ornate bridge over the Tiber, which was the site of many public executions.
As you venture deeper into Rome’s historic epicentre, you’ll proceed along the elegant Via Giulia and pass by the Chiesa di Santa Maria dell'Orazione e Morte (Church of Saint Mary of Prayer and Death). You will find out how this peculiar place of worship is known for the macabre artwork that adorns its walls and is dedicated to collecting and burying the city’s abandoned dead. Later, you’ll pause by the Ponte Sisto, where your guide can reveal some of the legends surrounding this ancient bridge, known for its spectral sightings and mysterious tales.
You will visit the famous Campo de’ Fiori, which hosts a lively market during the day but hides dark secrets by night. Your guide can show you the statue of the philosopher Giordano Bruno, who met a gruesome end in the square in 1600. You’ll find out how he was burned at the stake for heresy, and some say his defiant spirit has never left. In the nearby Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, you’ll find out about ghostly echoes from the past that have been spotted in the windows of palazzos or heard dashing across the cobblestones.
The supernatural stroll continues to Largo di Torre Argentina, where the ruins mark the spot of Julius Caesar’s brutal assassination, a site steeped in betrayal and political murder. Finally, your journey ends at the Pantheon, one of Rome’s oldest and most mysterious sites. Some say the open oculus at its centre is a portal to the beyond, and its long history of burials has left more than just architectural grandeur behind.
As your tour comes to a close and your guide disappears into the night, paranormal activity is not guaranteed, but the enthralling accounts of ghostly goings-on will certainly leave a lasting impression as a highlight of your trip to the Eternal City.
Join the fastest growing community of professional tour guides.
Use our easy to integrate toolset to include Tours & Attractions in your customer journey.