Passetto di Borgo

Passetto di Borgo: Our most recommended tours and activities

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour with Basilica Access

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour with Basilica Access

Enjoy admission tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Admire world-famous artworks on a guided tour and embark on a journey through time and space. Access each site directly with your guide and forget about the hassle of waiting in line. The groups are made up by a maximum of 30 people and are all accompanied by certified Vatican tour guides, who will take the guests through the priceless artistic treasures enshrined in the seven different museums that make up the very heart of the Vatican Museum complex. In a relaxed and informal atmosphere, the guide will tell stories and curiosities that will help to understand the historical, artistic and cultural context that has molded the masterpieces hosted in the Hall of the Muses, in the Pio-Clementine Museum, in the Gallery of Maps, in the Gallery of Tapestries, in the Raphael Rooms and in the magnificent Courtyard of the Pinecone that opens in the heart of Vatican City. The tour of the Vatican Museums will culminate with the visit to the Sistine Chapel; since it is forbidden to speak aloud inside, the guide will deliver explanations and directions outside, using the special panels provided by the Museums. Once inside, you can admire the paintings that truly represent the highest peak of Italian Renaissance art, from the precious frescoes by Botticelli, Perugino, Pinturicchio, Ghirlandaio, Luca Signorelli and Piero di Cosimo, to the extraordinary vault cycle and the Last Judgement by Michelangelo. At the end of this incredible experience, the guide will briefly tell about the history of the Vatican, and will accompany you to the entrance of St Peter's Basilica using the direct access from the Sistine Chapel.

Secrets of the Passetto: Vatican's Hidden Path of Mystery

Secrets of the Passetto: Vatican's Hidden Path of Mystery

Discover the secrets of the Passetto di Borgo, a hidden path to Vatican mysteries. Step into the shadows of history with the Passetto di Borgo, one of Rome's most intriguing and enigmatic landmarks. This ancient passage, stretching from the Vatican City to Castel Sant'Angelo, holds centuries of secrets, whispered stories of popes, conspiracies, and covert escapes. Delve into the mysteries that intertwine with the Vatican, as the Passetto di Borgo has been a silent witness to history’s most critical moments. Did you know that this secluded corridor served as a secret escape route for popes in times of peril, including during the infamous Sack of Rome in 1527? For fans of Dan Brown’s "Angels & Demons", the Passetto di Borgo plays a key role in the thrilling narrative, where ancient secrets hidden beneath the Vatican come to life. As you walk through this mysterious passageway, feel the weight of centuries of intrigue and power. The Passetto di Borgo is more than just a hidden route – it’s a living piece of history, filled with stories that intertwine with the heart of Rome’s spiritual and political life. Don’t miss the chance to uncover the secrets of the Vatican, where history and mystery walk hand in hand. Enhance your experience by choosing one of the following options: The Secret Passetto of Borgo and skip-the-line entry to Castel Sant'Angelo The Secret Passetto of Borgo and skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

Passetto di Borgo: The Vatican's Hidden Passage guided tour

Passetto di Borgo: The Vatican's Hidden Passage guided tour

Discover the hidden wonders of the Vatican with an exclusive guided tour of the Passetto di Borgo, the secret passage that connects the Vatican to Castel Sant'Angelo. This fascinating and historic route was used by the popes to escape danger during times of crisis, and now, you have the rare opportunity to walk through it and learn its intriguing stories from a knowledgeable guide. As you make your way through this hidden gem, gain unique insight into its historical significance and its role in Vatican history. The tour offers an intimate experience, away from the crowds, with fascinating anecdotes and facts about the secret passage that were once reserved for the most important figures in the Catholic Church. This exclusive experience allows you to view the Vatican and Castel Sant'Angelo from a completely different perspective, while a professional guide brings the history of this remarkable place to life. Don’t miss out on this chance to explore a part of the Vatican that many visitors never see!

Rome: Passetto di Borgo Entry Ticket to the Secret Corridor

Rome: Passetto di Borgo Entry Ticket to the Secret Corridor

Join a unique and captivating experience with an exclusive ticket, granting you access to the historic Passetto di Borgo, the secret corridor once used by the Popes to escape in times of danger. You will have the option to combine the ticket with the entrance to Castel Sant'Angelo, and the opportunity to dive into Rome's history, starting with the access to the Passetto di Borgo, a passage linking the castle to St. Peter's Square, a silent witness to extraordinary historical events, such as the papal escapes during times of conflict. Then, if you selected the option, discover the impressive walls and artistic treasures of Castel Sant'Angelo, which for centuries served as a fortress, mausoleum, and papal residence. A must-see experience that takes you straight to the heart of Rome’s hidden past, filled with art, history, and legends that shaped the destiny of the Popes. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore one of the city’s most iconic attraction!

Rome: Passetto di Borgo Tour & Castel Sant’Angelo Ticket

Rome: Passetto di Borgo Tour & Castel Sant’Angelo Ticket

Embark on a captivating journey through Rome's rich history with a guided tour of the Passetto di Borgo, the secret escape route used by popes. This unique experience includes integrated daytime admission to the iconic Castel Sant'Angelo, allowing you to discover its fascinating past. Your guided tour begins at Piazza della Città Leonina, where you'll delve into the secrets of the historic Passetto di Borgo, recently reopened to the public after meticulous restoration. Here, you'll discover the intriguing stories behind this passageway. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through San Marco’s Bastion, offering insights into its architectural marvels and historical significance. Continue your exploration with access to Castel Sant'Angelo, a fortress that has served as a mausoleum, papal residence, and military stronghold. Wander through its ancient corridors and admire the breathtaking views of Rome from its terraces. As the tour concludes, you'll find yourself in a central location, perfect for further exploration of the Eternal City.

Rome: Evening Guided Tour of Passetto di Borgo

Rome: Evening Guided Tour of Passetto di Borgo

Step into the enchanting world of after-hours Rome with this special evening tour. Embark on a captivating journey through the Passetto di Borgo, a hidden corridor steeped in history and intrigue. Your guided tour begins at Piazza della Città Leonina, where you'll delve into the secrets of this iconic escape route, recently reopened to the public after meticulous restoration. Your expert guide will illuminate the secrets of the Passetto and the San Marco’s Bastion during a captivating one-hour tour. As twilight descends, wander between the bastions and the Sala Paolina, where history and architecture intertwine to create a mesmerizing atmosphere. This unique experience offers a rare glimpse into the storied past of these iconic landmarks, enhanced by the serene beauty of Rome at night. Conclude your adventure in a central location, perfect for enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife or a peaceful stroll along the Tiber River.

Rome: Paths of the Vatican Guided Tour

Rome: Paths of the Vatican Guided Tour

Embark on a journey into the heart of Vatican City, where history, art and architecture intertwine in perfect harmony. Admire the landmarks that have shaped the Vatican's legacy, starting with the historic Castel Sant'Angelo Fortress, a monumental structure that has spanned centuries of history. Originally built as the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, it later became a formidable papal fortress. Next, observe the ‘Passetto di Borgo’, the elevated passageway that connected the castle to the Vatican, a safe route used in times of need. Continue your walk along Via della Conciliazione, one of Rome's most iconic streets, which will lead you directly to St Peter's Square, in the heart of Vatican City. Here your guide will reveal the history of this monumental space, while you will be immersed in the majestic beauty of St Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of architecture and art. Finally, don't miss the opportunity to admire the Arch of Constantine, an imposing testimony of ancient Rome that celebrates imperial victories and stands as a symbol of greatness and power.

Rome: Passetto di Borgo Guided Tour

Rome: Passetto di Borgo Guided Tour

Embark on a captivating daytime adventure through Rome's storied past with this guided tour of the Passetto di Borgo and San Marco Bastion. Begin your exploration with daytime access to the Passetto di Borgo, the secretive escape route used by popes throughout history. Your expert guide will lead you through the San Marco Bastion, revealing the fascinating tales and architectural wonders that define these iconic landmarks. During this one-hour tour, you'll discover the strategic importance and historical events that shaped the legacy of the Passetto and Bastion. As you wander through these ancient passageways, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Rome's rich history and the pivotal role these sites played in it. Conclude your tour in a central location, perfect for continuing your exploration of Rome's vibrant streets and cultural treasures.

Rome by night

Rome by night

Admire the Eternal City shrouded in magical shadows created by the night lighting and discover the beauty of Rome through its most beautiful places with a romantic night tour. The tour begins at Piazza Barberini where you can see Bernini’s masterpiece Fountain of Tritone and Palace Barberini. The next stop is Trevi Fountain, the oldest Roman aqueduct and one of the most beautiful masterpieces of the Baroque Era. Here, standing with your back to the fountain and using your right hand, you can throw a coin over your left shoulder into the Fountain: according to the legend, you will be ensured good luck forever. Through the richest streets of the city go to Piazza di Pietra, where you can see Hadrian’s temple illuminated by night lights, and then the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved Roman buildings. Here you can take some pictures in front of the temple dedicated to all the gods of heaven and earth. The next stop is Piazza Navona where you can see Bernini’s splendid Fountain of the Four Rivers and the Egyptian obelisk. Admire the Church of St. Agnese in Agone, one of Borromini’s masterpieces, and walk between street artists and musicians. Through the Bernini’s Bridge of Angels, also called the Bridge of Lovers, you’ll get to Castle of Angels, secret refuge of the popes, and from here you can admire the Tiber River illuminated by night lights. The last stop is St. Peter Square: illuminated by the night lights it’s even more beautiful. Here you can see the Egyptian obelisk surrounded by the wind rose and play the perspective game of Bernini.

Rome Walking Tour Through Castel Sant’Angelo’s History

Rome Walking Tour Through Castel Sant’Angelo’s History

Begin your journey along the Via dei Coronari, a picturesque cobblestone street that transports you to the heart of Renaissance Rome. This historic thoroughfare, named after the sellers of rosaries ("coronari") who catered to pilgrims traveling to St. Peter’s Basilica, has retained its old-world charm. Flanked by elegant palazzi and quaint shops, Via dei Coronari offers a glimpse into Rome’s vibrant past as a bustling hub for traders, artisans, and pilgrims. As you reach the banks of the Tiber River, the majestic Ponte Sant’Angelo welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty and rich history. Originally commissioned by Emperor Hadrian in 134 AD to connect the city to his mausoleum, this bridge has transformed into a masterpiece of Baroque art, adorned with ten stunning angel sculptures designed by Bernini and his students. Each angel, holding an instrument of Christ’s Passion, adds a spiritual resonance to the bridge, making it a visual and symbolic pathway to Castel Sant’Angelo. A visit to the disruptive architecture of Castel Sant’Angelo, a giant sitting on the banks of the Tiber, is a must for Rome enthusiasts. Continuously inhabited for almost 2,000 years, this monumental structure reveals the many transformations it has undergone throughout history. Delve into its depths to explore the burial chamber of the Mausoleum, originally built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD to house his ashes at the very heart of the structure. For centuries, this sacred space was sealed away, preserving its mystery. Ascend to the upper levels to uncover how the popes of the Middle Ages transformed the mausoleum into a formidable fortress, linking it to the Vatican Palaces through the elevated corridor known as the Passetto di Borgo, a secretive escape route in times of danger. Discover the refined Renaissance-era rooms, some adorned with intricate frescoes, designed by the leading architects of the period for the papal residents. At the same time, delve into the darker history of Castel Sant’Angelo as a place of torture and execution, from its grim prisons to the infamous Shooting Court, where gruesome punishments were carried out. Your journey culminates at the Terrace of the Angel, where the iconic bronze statue of the archangel Michael stands as a guardian over the city. From this vantage point, soak in unparalleled views of the Vatican and the sprawling cityscape of Rome—a breathtaking finale to an unforgettable exploration of this timeless monument.

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What people are saying about Passetto di Borgo

Overall rating

4.9 out of 5 stars
4.9
4.9 out of 5 stars
(96 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

Our tour of the Vatican was great, and our guide truly made the experience better. He had extensive knowledge about the history of Rome and was especially impressive when explaining the details of the Sistine Chapel. He was attentive, thoughtful, and always made sure we were comfortable and informed. The overall organization of the tour was very good.

5 out of 5 stars

the tour was so good and informative. we really enjoyed it. our tour guide was so kind and he really made sure that all of us can see everywhere. it was a wonderful experience.

5 out of 5 stars

The tour was very good. At the end you have the option to stay in the museums or go to St. Peter's Basilica without queuing. Simply perfect

5 out of 5 stars

Very good. A very competent and friendly guide. The secret paths themselves cannot be accessed from the inside, however.

5 out of 5 stars

Vincenzo made the best guide - he was knowledgeable and witty. I wish he had been my teacher in school!