6 hour(s)
English
Included
€ 1600
€ 1472.00
Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
Lowest Price Guarantee — no other provider offers this tour for less
Embark on an exclusive journey to Bracciano, a charming town just a few miles from Rome, offering both historical intrigue and natural beauty. The highlight of the trip is a visit to the Odescalchi Castle, an iconic structure steeped in mystery and history. This grand castle was once the administrative and representative hub for the influential families who owned it. As you stroll through the castle, you will be immersed in its six century long story, with the museum showcasing a fascinating array of ancient weapons, furnishings, paintings, books, manuscripts, statues, and exquisite frescoes. Every corner of this magnificent fortress holds secrets from its past, offering a rare glimpse into Italy’s rich history.
The tour extends to areas usually off-limits to the public, offering a more intimate experience of the castle. You will have the rare chance to explore the Secret Garden, a serene and hidden oasis, as well as the private apartments once occupied by Paolo Giordano Orsini and Isabella de' Medici. Isabella, a woman renowned for her beauty and political intrigue, left behind a legacy marked by secrets and mysterious events. Her life was filled with scandal, and her presence still seems to linger in the castle, particularly in the Red Room. Many visitors have reported sensing her ghostly presence, adding an eerie and captivating dimension to the experience.
Beyond the castle’s walls, the town of Bracciano offers stunning views of the serene lake, enhancing the journey with its natural beauty. The impressive medieval architecture of the town adds to its charm, making it a perfect destination for history buffs, mystery lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome. Whether you are captivated by the castle’s history, intrigued by Isabella's secrets, or simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Beautiful Castle tucked away in the Italian countryside. We made this stop on our way towards Rome. We wanted to break up the trip to Rome and this stop was, so worth it. Beautiful architecture, unbelievable that we were allowed nearly everywhere inside the castle. Amazing pieces of artwork. Blows my mind the amount of history in the area.
Visiting Castello di Bracciano is a lovely experience, but be ready for a bit of steep walking up. After the Belvedere, you cross a small bridge and buy tickets. Tip for families: use the bathroom right after purchasing tickets! We skipped it, and when my son needed to pee mid-tour, we had to walk all the way back down to the entrance—not easy with two kids. Inside, the castle feels spacious, atmospheric, and rich in history. Don’t expect original furniture, but the recreated rooms, paintings, and especially the collection of weapons, armors, swords, and pistols kept my little one fascinated. The panoramic views from the castle are stunning and worth every step. We went on a quiet Easter Friday, with mild weather, and it was perfect—not crowded, not too hot or cold. I would recommend visiting in spring or autumn, as summer heat would make the outdoor sections uncomfortable. Overall, a beautiful visit with kids, full of history, atmosphere, and great views.
Having visited hundreds of castles and museums this one totally blew our minds. Ten euros to get in. Use your phone to get a free video/audio guide in Italian or English or take their guided tours. And then go. Takes about 1h to 1.5 hours to visit it all but it really is spectacular and gives a real sense of what life was like. The audio guide is awesome. One tip: download the video so you can watch it on your phone as sometime you might have connectivity issues due to the thick walls. The views of the lake are also breathtaking. Wish they'd open a café on the lawn but that's just coffee addiction speaking 😂😁
Perched high above the tranquil waters of Lake Bracciano in Italy, castello Orsini-Odescalchi is one of the most impressive Renaissance-era castles in the country. Built in the 15th century by the powerful Orsini family, it was later inherited by the noble Odescalchi family, who still own it today. Over the centuries, it has hosted popes, kings, and generals, including Pope Sixtus IV and King Charles VIII of France. It is very well-preserved and now functions as a museum, featuring period furnishings, ancient weapons, frescoes, and artworks that offer a glimpse into noble life during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. It is also a sought-after venue for high-profile weddings, famously hosting the marriage of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes in 2006. Well worth a visit, €10 entrance, and an hour on the slow train from Rome.
I didn't know much about this place and my expectations weren't high, but my family and I enjoyed it very much. The castle has a panoramic tower that has an observation view of the entire lake. If you're around - Don't hesitate.
