Guide to Visiting Castel Sant'Angelo

What's the best time to visit Castel Sant'Angelo?

The best time to visit Castel Sant'Angelo is on a weekday morning. Arriving on a weekday offers a more serene and less crowded experience, allowing you to explore the castle at your own pace. Starting early, when the castle opens at 9:00 AM, allows you to savor the historical ambiance in relative solitude.

If you're seeking a unique experience, consider visiting during sunset. The terraces offer an epic view of Rome's skyline as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the city. It's a magical moment, and you'll capture some fantastic photographs. You can enjoy an evening snack at Caffetteria Ristorante Le Terrazze on the terrace of Castel Sant’Angelo.

As for seasons, the peak season runs from April to September, characterized by vibrant crowds and warm weather. In contrast, the low season from October to March offers a more peaceful visit with comfortable temperatures. If you prefer fewer visitors, opt for the latter.

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Where is Castel Sant'Angelo located?

Castel Sant’Angelo address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy

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Castel Sant'Angelo is situated on the Tiber River's edge in Rome, Italy, offering easy access to the city's historic center. Accessible via the iconic Ponte Sant'Angelo bridge, adorned with angel statues, it's a central and picturesque location.

Closest bus stop: Piazza Pia, 5-minute walking distance

Direction to Castel Sant'Angelo

Getting to Castel Sant’Angelo

If you are visiting Castel Sant'Angelo, here are the best ways you can get to the attraction:

By public transportation

By bus: Take buses 23, 40, 280, 62, 64, or 982. The closest bus stop is Lgt Tor Di Nona/Rondinella and it's just a 4-minute walk to Castel Sant'Angelo from there.

By train: Train lines FL3 and FL5 stop near Castel Sant'Angelo. The closest station is Roma San Pietro, which is about 22 minutes away.

By light rail: Board train #19 to reach Castel Sant'Angelo. The nearest station is Risorgimento/S. Pietro, and it's a 16-minute walk from there.

By metro: Metro line A stops near Castel Sant'Angelo. The closest metro station is Lepanto, approximately a 17-minute walk away.

Happy couple in summer loose clothes in car driving to Castel Sant Angelo.

By car

Getting to Castel Sant'Angelo by car in Rome is possible, but it's essential to note that the historical center has restricted traffic zones, known as ZTLs (Zona a Traffico Limitato). Access within these zones is typically restricted to residents and authorized vehicles.

Parking facilities outside the restricted zones:

Piazza dei Coronari, 4 min walk
Via Paola, 21 Garage, 3 min walk
Parking Piazza Cavour, 6 min walk

Know before visiting Castel Sant'Angelo

Guided tour to Castel Sant'Angelo near its walls

To bypass the long lines at Castel Sant'Angelo, consider the following options:

Online ticket booking: Get your tickets online in advance to avoid queuing at the ticket counter. You can also choose a specific entry time for added convenience.
Guided tours: Joining a guided tour often includes fast-track entry privileges. It not only saves you time but also provides insightful information about the castle's history and significance.
Combination tickets: Combo tickets for various Rome attractions often offer skipping the ticket queue access to Castel Sant'Angelo.
Visit during off-peak hours: Consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds are smaller.

A stylish woman in a white dress strolls across Ponte Sant Angelo, framed by angel statues and the magnificent Castel Sant Angelo in Rome.

Castel Sant'Angelo is primarily accessed through a single entrance located on Lungotevere Castello. Visitors must cross the Ponte Sant'Angelo, also known as the Aelian Bridge, to reach the attraction. There are two queues at the entrance:

Queue 1 - This queue is for visitors without tickets, and is the longer of the two queues.
Queue 2 - Visitors who have pre-booked tickets/priority access can directly enter the museum via this queue.

Average wait time: To avoid long queues, it's advisable to make reservations in advance. Without early bookings, it may take at least half an hour or more to enter the museum, depending on the crowd on the day of your visit.

Cloackrooms labelled with different numbers

Cloakrooms: Castel Sant'Angelo provides cloakroom facilities where visitors can securely store their bags and belongings during their visit.
Restrooms: The attraction has restroom facilities available at level 0.
Gift Shops: There are gift shops within the complex where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to the castle and its history.
Café: A café is located on the terrace of the castle, offering a cozy place to relax and enjoy refreshments with panoramic views of Rome.
Elevator Services: Elevator services are available upon justified request, ensuring that visitors with special requirements have access to different levels of the castle.
Bookshop: In the courtyard of Alexander VI, you'll find a bookshop offering a range of books and materials related to the castle's history and Rome's heritage.

Photography: Respect posted signs regarding photography restrictions, such as the use of flash or tripods.
Silence: Maintain a quiet atmosphere, particularly in religious spaces. Keep mobile phones on silent mode.
No touching: Do not touch or disturb the exhibits, sculptures, or frescoes. Preserve these valuable artworks.
No smoking: Smoking is typically not allowed inside the premises. Use designated smoking areas if available.
Accessibility: Be considerate of other visitors, especially those with disabilities, when using elevators or ramps. Yield space to those in need.
Security: Follow the security protocols and cooperate with the staff during any security checks.

Man and woman in Casual Summery White Clothes

Arrive early to Castel Sant'Angelo for a more serene experience with fewer crowds.
For a unique experience, visit during sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from the terrace.
Avoid the first Sunday of the month when entry is free, as it can get extremely crowded.
Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as you'll explore the castle and its many levels.
Take in the view of Castel Sant'Angelo from the pedestrian bridge over the Tiber River.
Book your tickets online to bypass the long queues at the physical counters.
Consider visiting the museum on a weekday for a less crowded experience compared to weekends.
Explore the nearby attractions, such as St. Peter's Basilica and St. Angelo Bridge, to make the most of your visit to the area.

Café Inside Castel Sant'Angelo: Enjoy a delightful coffee with views of Rome within the castle itself.
Scialla: Located near Parco Adriana, this spot, 800 m, offers a variety of pizza flavors for a quick pick-me-up after your visit.
La Salumeria: The restaurant, 280 m away. is run by incredibly earnest staff serving Italian, Mediterranean, Healthy, Sicilian & Southern-Italian cuisine.
Borghiciana Artisan Pasta Factory: Suitable for vegetarians with vegan options available. Enjoy authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes at this local favorite only 550 m away.

Stay - This is a Photograph of Luxury stays

Budget:
Hotel Sweet Home, 5.3 km; Hotel Labelle, 4.3 km

Mid-range:
NH Collection Roma Giustiniano, 800 m; Hotel La Rovere, 700 m

Luxury:
Hotel Vilon, 1 km; The First Roma Arte, 1.5 km

Pantheon Rome: Former temple, and now, church, the Roman Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings.
Piazza Navona: Visit the beautiful baroque square where Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers stands.
St. Peter’s Basilica: Only 140 meters away is the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica church is one of the most renowned works of Renaissance architecture.
Sistine Chapel: View the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel that are considered to be a cornerstone of Renaissance art.
Colosseum: Visit the ancient Roman Colosseum has withstood the test of time and natural disasters.
Roman Forum: Visit the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the Roman Forum.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Castel Sant’Angelo

What is the easiest way to reach the castle?

The easiest way to get to Castel Sant'Angelo is by bus.

What is the best time to visit the castle?

It's best to visit on a weekday morning for a more serene experience, or consider going during sunset for spectacular views.

How long does a tour take?

Visiting Castel Sant'Angelo usually takes around 2 to 3 hours to explore all its sections and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace.

Can I re-enter the castle once I exit?

Unfortunately, re-entry into Castel Sant'Angelo is generally not allowed. Once you exit the attraction, you cannot return without purchasing another ticket.

Is there a dress code to be followed?

While there isn't a strict dress code, it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

Can I buy food and drinks at the castle?

Grab a meal at the rooftop restuarant, Le Terrazze Restaurant, where you can enjoy a hearty Italian meal along with panoramic views of Rome.

How do I book tickets to visit the castle?

You can book tickets online in advance via authorized platforms to skip the long queues at the physical counters.

What are some of the accessibility features at the castle?

Only certain sections of the castle are accessible to wheelchair users. Make sure to check your tickets for wheelchair accessibility while booking.