All the highlights of your Private Rome Castle Tour
Your private full day Castelli Romani tour will start with pick-up in your centrally located hotel in Rome. Traveling in a comfortable AC Mercedes (or similar make vehicle) and accompanied by our knowledgeable English-speaking driver-escort you will discover the so-called Roman Castles — a group of small towns located just one-hour drive from the busy city of Rome. A popular summer retreat for nobility seeking respite from the tumultuous politics of Rome, these towns have a rich history tracing back to the decline of the Roman Empire. Beginning with the construction of fortifications, they evolved into medieval castles over time.

Monte Porzio Catone and a Visit to a Traditional Winery: First Stop of Our Private Castelli Romani Tour from Rome
The tour will start in Monte Porzio Catone situated among the hills covered by olive groves and vineyards. Growing on this unique volcanic territory, the grapes have a very distinctive flavor that can't be found in any other place on the planet. We will visit a local traditional winery for a full wine tasting with some typical homemade delicatessen.

Our Castelli Romani Tour from Rome Continues to Castel Gandolfo
Next, we'll embark on a brief journey along the renowned Via Appia, ancient Rome's thoroughfare to the East. Our destination is Castel Gandolfo, home to the Apostolic Palace where Popes continue to reside during the summer months, benefiting from the refreshing climate.
Almost 400 years old and designated part of the territory of the Vatican City State, this residence was testimony to the turbulent history of the area and served as a refuge for local people from Allied bombing raids and a popular site for the paparazzi.
You will be given free time to explore the village, admire the Pope's residence and the small volcanic crater Lake Albano as well as the Collegiata di San Tommaso da Villanova church designed by Bernini.

Exploring Ariccia in our Private Rome Castle Tour: A Culinary and Cultural Delight
Our next destination is the charming town of Ariccia, once the esteemed residence of the influential Chigi family. Today, it's renowned for its succulent roasted pork (known as porchetta), fine wines, and notable landmarks including Bernini's Baroque square, Palazzo Savelli-Chigi, and the Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta. For lunch, we recommend a visit to a local "fraschetta," a traditional Roman tavern offering a delightful array of local products, cheeses, and the famous "coppiette" — thinly sliced, dry-cured pork, ideally paired with a glass of wine. After this culinary experience, we'll bid farewell to the area and return to your accommodation in Rome.