Contents

Visiting Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome | Timings, Directions, Tickets & More

Castel Sant AngeloPlan Your Visit

Castel Sant'Angelo | Visitor Information At A Glance

  • What are the Castel Sant'Angelo opening hours?
    Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM (Last admission: 6:30 PM)
  • Where is the Castel Sant'Angelo located?
    Castel Sant'Angelo is located at Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193, along the Tiber River in Rome, Italy.
  • How many entrances does the Castel Sant'Angelo have?
    Castel Sant'Angelo has one main entrance that is easily accessible from the bridge, Ponte Sant'Angelo.
  • How many visitors does Castel Sant'Angelo see per year?
    Castel Sant'Angelo typically welcomes over a million visitors annually.

What are Castel Sant’ Angelo opening hours?  

Tuesday to Sunday:9.00 AM  to 7.30 PM
Last admission: 6:30 PM
Closed on: Monday, January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.

Note: On the first Sunday of the month, entrance to Castel Sant'Angelo is free for everyone. Just show up and wait in line (remember to stay hydrated in the summer heat) as pre-booking isn't available on that day.

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.

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.

Where is Castel Sant'Angelo Located?

Getting to Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome

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

Visiting Castel Sant'Angelo Bus

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.

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




Book Castel Sant'Angelo Ticket

Castel Sant'Angelo Skip-the-Line Tickets
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
More details
from
€17.90
Castel Sant'Angelo Guided Tour
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 2 hr.
Guided tour
More details
Combo (Save 5%): Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel + Castel Sant'Angelo Priority Access Tickets
Mobile ticket
More details
from
€57.76
Castel Sant'Angelo Guided Tour with Drink & Reserved Terrace Seat
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
Guided tour
More details

Know Before Visiting Castel Sant'Angelo

Skip-the-line
Entrances
Facilities
Rules
Tips
Dine
Stay
Nearby

To skip 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 skip-the-line 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 skip-the-line access to Castel Sant'Angelo, enhancing your visit.
  • Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds are smaller.
  • Roma Pass: If you have a Roma Pass, you can often access Castel Sant'Angelo without waiting in long lines. Check the latest details on the Roma Pass website for any changes in the offer.

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.

  • 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 for visitors to use during their visit.
  • 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 inside the castle, offering a cozy place to relax and enjoy refreshments with 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.
  • 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 skip 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.

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.
  • Borghese Gallery: Admire collections by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, Bernini, and Canova among others at Borghese Gallery.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Castel Sant’Angelo

What are the Castel Sant’Angelo opening hours?

Castel Sant'Angelo is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM. The last admission is at 6:30 PM.

What is the best time to visit Castel Sant’Angelo?

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 the Castel Sant’Angelo 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. However, the duration can vary depending on your level of interest and the crowds on the day of your vis

Can I re-enter Castel Sant'Angelo once I exit?

Unfortunately, re-entry into Castel Sant'Angelo is generally not allowed. Once you exit the attraction, you typically cannot return without purchasing another ticket. Make sure to see everything you want before leaving.

Where is Castel Sant’Angelo located?

Castel Sant'Angelo is located along the banks of the Tiber River in Rome, Italy. The specific address is Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy. It's easily accessible and within walking distance of several other famous landmarks in the city.

What are some of the accessibility features in place at Castel Sant'Angelo?

Castel Sant'Angelo offers elevator services upon request for visitors with mobility needs, and there are limited resting spots inside. The castle is wheelchair-friendly but elevator access might be restricted in extreme weather conditions.

Is there a dress code to be followed at Castel Sant'Angelo?

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

What is the easiest way to reach Castel Sant’Angelo?

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

Can I buy food and drinks at the Castel Sant’Angelo?

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

Is there a cloakroom at Castel Sant'Angelo?

Yes, there is a cloakroom available for visitors.

How do I book tickets to visit Castel Sant'Angelo?

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