Castel Gondolfo Gardens

You can google images for both to help you decide.

On a Saturday in May of 2013 we took the local train (40-minutes) from Rome to the charming town of Castel Gondolfo to visit the Pope's Gardens which were newly opened to the public. We purchased tickets on the Vatican website. Tickets also included the Vatican Museum the following Monday.

After about a 15- minute hike from the station up to the town, we spent an hour or so in the town strolling the piazza, watching a wedding, checking out a place to have lunch, and having a coffee. A short stroll brought us to the Summer Home of the Pope where we met our tour guide and small group. The Barberini Palace and lovely, extensive gardens are built over the ancient Roman Villa of Domitian, with many artifacts, theatre, and statuary. We only saw one religious statue: The Virgin Mary. The tour was about 2-hours or so with lots of gentle walking.

Back in town, we selected an outdoor table at "Ristorante Bucci", with amazing views overlooking Lake Albano. It was one of the best meals in our three weeks in Rome!

Thanks Char. Sounds like a beautiful day. We likely will try the same!