Book Castel Sant'Elmo tickets

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Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with visitors exploring the historic site.
Castel Sant'Elmo exhibit showcasing historical artifacts in Naples, Italy.
Visitors exploring art exhibitions at Castel Sant'Elmo, Naples, with panoramic city views.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with panoramic city view, highlighting Museo del Novecento.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with panoramic city view.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with visitors exploring the historic site.
Castel Sant'Elmo exhibit showcasing historical artifacts in Naples, Italy.
Visitors exploring art exhibitions at Castel Sant'Elmo, Naples, with panoramic city views.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with panoramic city view, highlighting Museo del Novecento.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with panoramic city view.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with visitors exploring the historic site.
Castel Sant'Elmo exhibit showcasing historical artifacts in Naples, Italy.
Visitors exploring art exhibitions at Castel Sant'Elmo, Naples, with panoramic city views.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with panoramic city view, highlighting Museo del Novecento.
Castel Sant'Elmo entrance in Naples with panoramic city view.
Tickets
3.9(67)

Tickets to Castel Sant'Elmo

from
€2.50
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Using these entry tickets, get a chance to see the iconic architectural site of Castel Sant'Elmo in Naples.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Sorrento Peninsula and Mount Vesuvius from Castel Sant'Elmo.
  • Get an opportunity to attend art exhibitions, performances, concerts, and conferences held within the castle's museum.
  • Explore the network of underground tunnels and passages at the Castel that once served as a vital part of the castle's defense system.
  • Upgrade your ticket to include a multilingual audio guide for the ultimate tourist experience!
  • Using these entry tickets, get a chance to see the iconic architectural site of Castel Sant'Elmo in Naples.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Sorrento Peninsula and Mount Vesuvius from Castel Sant'Elmo.
  • Get an opportunity to attend art exhibitions, performances, concerts, and conferences held within the castle's museum.
  • Explore the network of underground tunnels and passages at the Castel that once served as a vital part of the castle's defense system.
  • Upgrade your ticket to include a multilingual audio guide for the ultimate tourist experience!

Inclusions

  • Entry to Castel Sant'Elmo
  • Entry ticket to Museum of the 900 (as per option selected)
  • Digital, multilingual audio guide in English, Italian, French & German (as per option selected)
  • Sightseeing app with self-guided walking tours (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Live guide
  • Tip: Head to the rooftop restaurant bar to enjoy the view, bite into some sweet delicacies of Naples, and grab a few drinks on your dime.
  • Dogs are not allowed in except guide dogs.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
3.9
67 ratings
32
19
3
2
11
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Poland
  • Israel
  • Germany
  • France
  • Switzerland
  • Spain
  • South Korea
  • Romania
Guests from United States, United Kingdom, Poland and over 16 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
reviewer
Valentina
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

Breathtaking panorama 360-degree view of Naples including the islands

View original review in Italian

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reviewer
Folli
Apr 2025Verified booking
4/5

I avoided the queues and the view was beautiful

View original review in Italian

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reviewer
Maxim
Apr 2025Verified booking
4/5

Castle with great views, excellent access to significant historical features

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reviewer
BARBARA
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

Hi all beautiful, we jumped the line with your tickets. Only thing is there is no sign indicating where you have to go to skip the line. Contact the front desk office they will let you go straight through. Thank you

View original review in Italian

reviewer
ANNALISA
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

a unique spectacle! The most beautiful view of a city that resembles heaven

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Teresa
May 2025Verified booking
4/5

Beautiful View of all of Naples.

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Tiziano
Apr 2025Verified booking
4/5

No waiting at the ticket office very beautiful monument an incredible view of Naples

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Moi
May 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Agnieszka
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Lucia
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
ABBBONDI
Apr 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Enrico
Apr 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Aurora
Apr 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Katarzyna
Apr 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Anja
Mar 2025Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
VALADON
May 2025Verified booking
2/5

3 times the same ticket, so it was a pain to get in, a network problem to download the tickets that I had without knowing it, even though I was expecting an email the day before as you said. What's more, I didn't get an audio guide because it was closed due to the time I wasted getting my tickets and speaking to the people at the entrance.

View original review in French

reviewer
Kim
May 2025Verified booking
1/5

The ticket price for Sant Elmo is only €5, we paid almost 3 times as much at headout. On site, we were then refused entry with the tickets from headout as the tickets were not valid and we had to buy new tickets. We complained to Headout but did not get a refund. We won't be using Headout again in future.

View original review in German

reviewer
Roberta
Jun 2025Verified booking
1/5

I had to buy another ticket and couldn't play the audio guide.

reviewer
Bona
May 2025Verified booking
1/5

non refundable ticket.......I couldn't go.

reviewer
Morena
May 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
Elisa
Apr 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
ALHASSAIN
Jan 2025Verified booking
3/5

The location of the castle was nice, but there isn't much to do or see inside in all honesty.

reviewer
Serena
Mar 2025Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Sabrina
Mar 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Tommasina
Feb 2025Verified booking
4/5

Naples Artecard 3 Museum Pass with view of Castel dell'Ovo and cityscape.
Naples National Archaeological Museum entrance with visitors exploring the historic architecture.
Exterior view of the Capodimonte Museum
Painting of the Polittico di san Michele by Francesco Pagano inside Capodimonte Museum
Royal Palace of Naples exterior with guided tour group in foreground.
Inside the Royal Palace of Naples
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, highlighting Artecard Napoli: 3 Museums Pass experience.
Bus interior with passengers seated, enjoying WiFi and drinks on route from Naples Metropark to Rome Tiburtina.
Naples Artecard 3 Museum Pass with view of Castel dell'Ovo and cityscape.
Naples National Archaeological Museum entrance with visitors exploring the historic architecture.
Exterior view of the Capodimonte Museum
Painting of the Polittico di san Michele by Francesco Pagano inside Capodimonte Museum
Royal Palace of Naples exterior with guided tour group in foreground.
Inside the Royal Palace of Naples
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, highlighting Artecard Napoli: 3 Museums Pass experience.
Bus interior with passengers seated, enjoying WiFi and drinks on route from Naples Metropark to Rome Tiburtina.
Naples Artecard 3 Museum Pass with view of Castel dell'Ovo and cityscape.
Naples National Archaeological Museum entrance with visitors exploring the historic architecture.
Exterior view of the Capodimonte Museum
Painting of the Polittico di san Michele by Francesco Pagano inside Capodimonte Museum
Royal Palace of Naples exterior with guided tour group in foreground.
Inside the Royal Palace of Naples
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, highlighting Artecard Napoli: 3 Museums Pass experience.
Bus interior with passengers seated, enjoying WiFi and drinks on route from Naples Metropark to Rome Tiburtina.
City Cards
3.0(41)

Artecard Napoli: 3 Museums Pass

from
€32
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Visit the sights of Naples without worrying about buying tickets. With this 1 card, gain access to its attractions and transport for 3 days.
  • Enjoy free entry to any 3 attractions of your choice from the list, and get up to 50% discount for entry to the 4th attraction onwards.
  • Benefit from free rides on public transportation for the duration of your pass's validity.
  • Get access to over 40 monuments, museums, and archaeological sites such as the Catacombs, Museum of Capodimonte, Royal Palace of Naples, and many more!
  • Click here to find the list of attractions, public transport, and discounts available with this card.
  • Visit the sights of Naples without worrying about buying tickets. With this 1 card, gain access to its attractions and transport for 3 days.
  • Enjoy free entry to any 3 attractions of your choice from the list, and get up to 50% discount for entry to the 4th attraction onwards.
  • Benefit from free rides on public transportation for the duration of your pass's validity.
  • Get access to over 40 monuments, museums, and archaeological sites such as the Catacombs, Museum of Capodimonte, Royal Palace of Naples, and many more!
  • Click here to find the list of attractions, public transport, and discounts available with this card.

Inclusions

  • Free entry to the first 3 sites
  • Up to 50% discount from the 4th site onwards
  • 3 days of unlimited public transport use
  • Discounts and concessions
  • Tourist assistance while using the card
  • Tip: In order to make the best use of this card, plan your itinerary in advance to cover the top attractions.
  • In order to activate the Card, you must contact the service provider as per the instructions in the voucher you will receive after booking.
  • The digital pass is available in English and Italian.
  • Downloading the pass may take up to 10 minutes.
  • Enter anytime within operating hours 9am to 7pm.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for an extended duration. The exact details will be present on the ticket.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
3.0
41 ratings
9
13
3
3
13
What our guests say
reviewer
JARROUSSE
Apr 2025Verified booking
4/5

easy access to transport and museums. but I'd like to take issue with 2 things: the poor explanations on how to activate the card and the need to reactivate it each time it's used.

View original review in French

reviewer
Thierry
May 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Frocourd
Apr 2025Verified booking
1/5

I've never been able to connect

View original review in French

reviewer
Dieter
Mar 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
Walter
Jan 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
Rosana
Oct 2024Verified booking
4/5

The entrances were easy. As for public transport, we opted only for the metro, but the clerk always had to let us in. But I highly recommend it

View original review in Portuguese

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reviewer
Jose
Nov 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Maria
Oct 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Rafael
Aug 2024Verified booking
5/5

The experience with Napoli artecard is very good and I fully recommend it. Good communication with the managers of the company and good functioning of the app, always with mobile data of course.

View original review in Spanish

reviewer
Beatriz
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

We only used it for the museums and it was perfect. I had a problem activating it but they solved it right away.

View original review in Spanish

reviewer
Lemarchand
Aug 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Stefania
Jul 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
SANDRINE
May 2024Verified booking
4/5

The convenience of having the dematerialized card on your phone is great, but it doesn't work when there's no Internet connection. Which is the case in metro corridors, and it's impossible to take a screenshot. But very interesting for visiting the main museums and getting around without worrying about tickets once you've found the right organization. I recommend

View original review in French

reviewer
Sophie
Apr 2024Verified booking
3/5

Once the purchase is made, the Card is complicated to unlock. The app is not very intuitive for registration. Despite everything, the people at the tourist office are reactive in the event of a problem. The card works well in museums, but the code is not read by the machines in public transport. As a result, you always have to ask the local ticket inspector to let you through, which he always does willingly. Useful if you're sure you want to visit a few museums.

View original review in French

reviewer
MARIE
Feb 2024Verified booking
4/5

Savings, good service even when the bar code didn't read well on the various machines Only downside: constantly having to reconnect

View original review in French

reviewer
jonathan
Apr 2023Verified booking
4/5

the exhibitions and sights were marvellous beautifully displayed and of the highest quality. it was difficut to find out which sites were able to be accessed for free once we got our artecard. i woud suggest the artecard logo is displayed more prominantly on the sites

reviewer
SILVANO
Feb 2024Verified booking
5/5

FLEXIBILITY AND EASY ACCESS. WE VISITED THE MUSEUMS WE WANTED QUICKLY

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Arianna
Aug 2023Verified booking
5/5

The opportunity to see so many places I might not have seen!

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Agata
May 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
MORA
Apr 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Eugen
Apr 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Bernard
Feb 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Monica
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
massimo
Dec 2023Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Antonio
Aug 2023Verified booking
4/5

Artecard Campania - 3 days card
Tourists exploring ancient ruins in Pompeii under a clear blue sky on a full-day tour from Naples.
Ancient Herculaneum ruins with preserved columns and stone structures in Italy.
Temple of Athena in Paestum with ancient Greek columns and surrounding ruins.
Naples cityscape with historic landmarks, promoting Artecard Campania 3-day tourist pass.
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, featuring Artecard Campania for cultural exploration.
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, featuring Artecard Campania for cultural exploration.
Ancient fresco depicting mythological scene in Campania region museum.
Passengers on City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour in Rome, Italy, viewing landmarks.
Making fresh pasta with cheese in a Rome cooking class.
Artecard Campania - 3 days card
Tourists exploring ancient ruins in Pompeii under a clear blue sky on a full-day tour from Naples.
Ancient Herculaneum ruins with preserved columns and stone structures in Italy.
Temple of Athena in Paestum with ancient Greek columns and surrounding ruins.
Naples cityscape with historic landmarks, promoting Artecard Campania 3-day tourist pass.
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, featuring Artecard Campania for cultural exploration.
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, featuring Artecard Campania for cultural exploration.
Ancient fresco depicting mythological scene in Campania region museum.
Passengers on City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour in Rome, Italy, viewing landmarks.
Making fresh pasta with cheese in a Rome cooking class.
Artecard Campania - 3 days card
Tourists exploring ancient ruins in Pompeii under a clear blue sky on a full-day tour from Naples.
Ancient Herculaneum ruins with preserved columns and stone structures in Italy.
Temple of Athena in Paestum with ancient Greek columns and surrounding ruins.
Naples cityscape with historic landmarks, promoting Artecard Campania 3-day tourist pass.
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, featuring Artecard Campania for cultural exploration.
Naples cityscape with historic buildings, featuring Artecard Campania for cultural exploration.
Ancient fresco depicting mythological scene in Campania region museum.
Passengers on City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour in Rome, Italy, viewing landmarks.
Making fresh pasta with cheese in a Rome cooking class.
City Cards
2.9(43)

Artecard Campania: 2 Museums Pass

from
€48
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration

Explore Campania's treasures with free entry to top sites and unlimited travel!

  • Free entry to two attractions, including popular sites like Pompeii, and Herculaneum, access to 100+ sites.
  • Enjoy unlimited rides on local buses, trains, and metro lines with the Unicocampania transport network to reach top landmarks easily.
  • After your first two visits, get up to 50% off additional visits to 100+ museums, monuments, and archaeological sites.
  • Access tourist assistance in English and Italian for a smooth experience.

Explore Campania's treasures with free entry to top sites and unlimited travel!

  • Free entry to two attractions, including popular sites like Pompeii, and Herculaneum, access to 100+ sites.
  • Enjoy unlimited rides on local buses, trains, and metro lines with the Unicocampania transport network to reach top landmarks easily.
  • After your first two visits, get up to 50% off additional visits to 100+ museums, monuments, and archaeological sites.
  • Access tourist assistance in English and Italian for a smooth experience.

Inclusions

  • Free entry to the first 2 sites of your choice (Full list here)
  • Up to 50% discount from the 3rd site onwards
  • 3-day validity
  • Tourist assistance in English and Italian
  • Unlimited travel on Unicocampania Consortium network
  • Tip: For popular attractions like Pompeii, it's recommended to check if advance reservations are needed, even with the Campania Artecard, especially during peak times.
  • You will receive your digital pass instantly via email after booking. To activate the card, follow the instructions in the voucher.
  • The pass is first activated during entry at your first site. Once activated, it cannot be paused or extended.
  • Please note: Access to Alibus and some Sita Sud lines (e.g., Sorrento/Positano/Amalfi routes) is not included.
  • From January 1, 2023, the Galleria Borbonica and Catacombs sites are no longer free but can be visited at a reduced fee.
  • Access to the Vesuvius Great Cone is currently suspended.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
2.9
43 ratings
10
10
6
1
16
What our guests say
reviewer
Jennifer
May 2025Verified booking
5/5

We were through the line quickly at Peastum - it was a beautiful! Pompeii was another story as we were not aware of the 1st Sunday of each month being a Museum holiday where everyone egts in free. We waited in line for 2 hours because the "voucher" did not count as a printed ticket aloowing us immediate acccess, and then we were smooshed in through the gates by hoards of people trying to get in before it closed.

reviewer
Vergnes
Mar 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Dominique
May 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
Lise
Apr 2025Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
BRESSON
Mar 2025Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Sonja
Mar 2025Verified booking
1/5

Transport passes don't work at any of the barriers. Staff at both train stations and metro are well aware of this and are kind enough to let you pass through. Lady at the information desk said that they rarely work so this is a known issue. Also we were of the impression that we could use the pass to get a discounted entry to a museum after our two free visits and this was not the case. All in all we felt that we didn't save money by buying the card and had lots of issues setting it up.

reviewer
Greg
Aug 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
DELSAUT
Aug 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
marco
Jul 2024Verified booking
1/5

I would like a refund due to denial in the use of the ticket

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Mark
Sep 2024Verified booking
1/5

reviewer
Mr
Oct 2023Verified booking
4/5

Easy to use and good value for site entry and getting around. Got on train from Sorrento to Herculaneum not knowing it only stopped a few times a day. Went through to Naples and easily caught the train to Herculaneum without extra cost or trouble. 😂

reviewer
Susanne
Oct 2023Verified booking
3/5

Great once I got the cards but there was a problem getting them activated (technical at Artecarc!) , I had to email several times and eventually telephone a couple of times, quite stressful on holiday!

reviewer
Richard
Sep 2023Verified booking
3/5

I am basically an IT dinosaur and did not find the experience of using the Artecard easy, especially as the signal to my phone when we were in Italy was, at best, problematical. However Headout staff were most helpful when I contacted them.

reviewer
Arnold
Jun 2023Verified booking
4/5

Cost saving was the best thing. Using the card for travel was confusing, since you couldn't scan anything, but they would usually let you in for free if you mentioned the card. Head out was ok, helpful with setting up the app.

reviewer
GUILLARD
May 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
sabine
Apr 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Morana
Apr 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Michal
Nov 2023Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Markus
Oct 2023Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Patricia
Oct 2023Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Christopher
Oct 2023Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Leendert
Oct 2023Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Amie
Sep 2023Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Sharon
Aug 2023Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Niamh
Jul 2023Verified booking
5/5

Naples group tour exploring Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino with panoramic city views.
View of Naples with Mount Vesuvius from Certosa di San Martino monastery.
Sezione Navale exhibit at Certosa di San Martino, Naples, showcasing historic naval artifacts.
Naples Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino group tour with panoramic city views.
Pedamentina steps in Naples with guided urban trekking group exploring historic city views.
Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino in Naples during a group tour.
Naples skyline with Castel Sant'Elmo, Certosa di San Martino, and Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Naples group tour exploring Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino with panoramic city views.
View of Naples with Mount Vesuvius from Certosa di San Martino monastery.
Sezione Navale exhibit at Certosa di San Martino, Naples, showcasing historic naval artifacts.
Naples Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino group tour with panoramic city views.
Pedamentina steps in Naples with guided urban trekking group exploring historic city views.
Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino in Naples during a group tour.
Naples skyline with Castel Sant'Elmo, Certosa di San Martino, and Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Naples group tour exploring Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino with panoramic city views.
View of Naples with Mount Vesuvius from Certosa di San Martino monastery.
Sezione Navale exhibit at Certosa di San Martino, Naples, showcasing historic naval artifacts.
Naples Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino group tour with panoramic city views.
Pedamentina steps in Naples with guided urban trekking group exploring historic city views.
Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino in Naples during a group tour.
Naples skyline with Castel Sant'Elmo, Certosa di San Martino, and Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Guided Tours
NEW

Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino Guided Group Tour

from
€28
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.

Visit Naples' largest castle and a monastery-turned-museum with an expert local guide!

  • Everything you get: Begin at the Certosa di San Martino, a former Carthusian monastery and Baroque masterpiece. Uncover its unique history, art and vantage views from atop the hill. Linger in the serene cloisters and admire the Nativity scene. Next, walk to Castel Sant’Elmo, just under 5 minutes away, for modern art and military history. Take in the sweeping panoramas of the city, the Posilippo coast, and Mount Vesuvius.
  • Why choose this: Ideal for those seeking a keener insight into Naples' rich past, this two-hour tour with a certified expert is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an off-beat experience while also capturing 'gram-worthy photos: the view is worth it!

Visit Naples' largest castle and a monastery-turned-museum with an expert local guide!

  • Everything you get: Begin at the Certosa di San Martino, a former Carthusian monastery and Baroque masterpiece. Uncover its unique history, art and vantage views from atop the hill. Linger in the serene cloisters and admire the Nativity scene. Next, walk to Castel Sant’Elmo, just under 5 minutes away, for modern art and military history. Take in the sweeping panoramas of the city, the Posilippo coast, and Mount Vesuvius.
  • Why choose this: Ideal for those seeking a keener insight into Naples' rich past, this two-hour tour with a certified expert is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an off-beat experience while also capturing 'gram-worthy photos: the view is worth it!

Inclusions

  • Expert local guide
  • Entry tickets to Certosa di San Martino
  • Entry tickets to Castel Sant'Elmo
  • Walking tour

Exclusions

  • Transportation
  • Food
  • Audio guide
  • Food
  • Personal expenses
  • This tour is only in Italian.
  • This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with mobility issues.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Castel Sant’Elmo | Naples' historic fortress

From being a church to a castle and finally a prison, the star-shaped Castel Sant’Elmo boasts of colorful history. This 14th-century old fortress is located atop Vomero Hill, offering a mesmerizing view of Naples. In this guide, find information on ticket options, opening hours, how and when to visit, tips and more. 

Why visit Castel Sant'Elmo?

  • Expansive views: The location of Castel Sant'Elmo offers an excellent vantage point atop Vomero Hill. The panoramic views from this location help you see as far as the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the vibrant city below.
  • Architectural uniqueness: The fortress is shaped like a star, featuring pointed bastions that not only added to its defensive capabilities but also contributed to its distinctive aesthetic. Moreover, Its location allowed for a sweeping view of the surrounding areas, ensuring that any approaching threat could be spotted well in advance.
  • Sunset point: Castel Sant'Elmo offers front-row seats to the sun dipping behind the horizon, and the sunset here is the stuff made of dreams. Plan your visit in the late afternoon to experience this magical moment.
  • Interesting history: Castel Sant'Elmo was originally designed to be a fortress that kept guard over Naples. Later, it became the residence of Spanish royalty, and also the seat of the Neapolitan Republic. Over the 19th and 20th centuries, it also assumed the role of a prison. Now, it is the central vein in the museum networks of Campania and Naples.
  • Museo del Novocento: Situated inside Castel Sant'Elmo, this museum showcases a curated collection of artworks that span the 20th century, including Futurism and the Nuclear Art Movement. The exhibits capture the evolution of Naples' artistic expression.

Which Castel Sant’Elmo ticket is best for you?

Castel Sant'Elmo

If you're short on time

Go for: Castel Sant'Elmo tickets and Museo del Novecento with Pemcards Postcards
Duration: Flexible

  • Explore the 14th-century fortress, peek inside the historic Saint Elmo chapel, walk the ramparts, and view art installations at Museo del Novecento.
  • Self-guided tour offers flexibility in exploring the remarkably preserved ruins of the 14th-century castle.
  • Turn digital photos to postcard prints with Pemcards Postcards, a service that can send digital photos as postcards to anyone across the world.

Recommended Tickets

Combo: San Martino Charterhouse & Museum + Saint Elmo Castle with Pemcards Postcards Tickets

If you're an art and architecture enthusiast

Go for: Combo tickets with San Martino Charterhouse & Museum
Duration: Flexible

  • Avail skip-the-line access to San Martino Charterhouse & Museum and entry to Castel Sant'Elmo.
  • View the religious and mythological works of celebrated artist Battista Caracciolo.
  • Send postcards of digital photos via Pemcards.
  • If you avail the off-peak entry option to Castel Sant'Elmo. get access to the castle from 4 PM to 7:30 PM vis-a-vis the regular 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM entry.

Recommended tickets

Artecard Campania Napoli

If you're on a budget

Go for: Artecards
Duration: 3 days with optional upgrade to 7 in the case of Artecard Campania

  • Want to see more for less? Explore 3 major sites for free with Artecards Naples and Campania, and get up to 50% discount from the 4th site onwards.
  • Benefit from free public transport during this window.
  • If you're availing the Artecard Campania card, you can also upgrade to a 7-day pass that grants you free access to 5 attractions.

Recommended tickets

Discounted tickets

  • Individuals of the European Community between the ages of 18 and 25 can enter at a reduced rate.
  • Children below the age of 18 of EU and non-EU countries can enter free.
  • Italian permanent teachers, EU tour guides and interpreters, members of ICOM and ICCROM, EU student groups, journalists, students enrolled in history, literature and art-related disciplines, etc. can enter free of cost upon the presentation of a valid ID.

Cancelation policy

There is no free cancelation; tickets once canceled cannot be rescheduled.

Castel Sant’Elmo highlights

Historic Architecture

Admire the architecture

The fortress boasts a unique six-pointed star design, a notable feature of military architecture. Stroll around the castle's ramparts, and deep moats as you admire the design that made it difficult for attackers to mount a successful assault. 

Museum of the '900

Museum of the '900

Discover the largest collections of 20th-century Italian artworks at the Museum of the '900 (Museo del Novecento). Behold contemporary, spatialism, and futurism styles of art spread across 4000 Neapolitan masterpieces. Standout works include Eugenio Viti's sensual La schiena, Raffaele Lippi's unnerving Le quattro giornate di Napoli, and Giuseppe Desiato's magnetic photograph Monumento.

Panoramic Views from Castel Sant'Elmo

Enjoy panoramic views

Located on top of the Vomero Hill, Castel Sant’Elmo offers stunning panoramic views of the Neapolitan countryside and city, Capri islands, and Sorrento peninsula. On a clear day, expect sweeping views of Mount Vesuvius. The castle’s terrace is a perfect spot for picture-perfect photographs.

exhibitions

Cultural events and exhibitions

Check the schedule for ongoing cultural events and exhibitions. Castel Sant'Elmo is not just a static monument; it's a vibrant cultural hub, given the Museum of the 20th century has found a home within it. View art installations and attend performances and celebrations that enliven the fortress.

Plan your visit to Castel Sant’Elmo

Timings
Location
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
Visitor Tips
Eat
Stay
opening hours of Castel Sant'Elmo
  • Castle Timings: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM 
  • Museum of the '900 Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Last Entry: 1 hour before closing time 

Closed: The museum is closed on Tuesdays. The castle is closed on December 25 and January 1. 

Best Time to Visit: Visit in the morning or later in the afternoon during spring/fall for a more tranquil experience.

Getting There by bus

Address: Via Tito Angelini, 20/A, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy

Find on Map

Getting there

  • By Funicular: Montesanto, Chiaia
    Nearest stop: Morghen, Piazza Amedeo
  • By Metro: Line 1
    Nearest stop: Vanvitelli
  • By Bus: Line V1 bus
    Nearest stop: Piazzale San Martino stop.
  • By Car: Take the Giacinto Gigante route from the city center and reach Sant'Elmo in around 30 minutes (approx. 7 km) 
    Car Parking: The nearest parking spot is inside the castle premises, a 2 min walk from the main attraction. 
elevator facility
  • Cloakroom  
  • Paid parking facility inside the castle premises 
  • Wheelchairs  
  • Audio guides can be bought separately from the entrance  
  • Restrooms 
  • Elevator
  • Coffee bar
  • Teaching room
  • Library and photo library
  • Multimedia stations
wheelchair
  • Although wheelchaors are available upon request, only some portions of the Castel Sant’Elmo are wheelchair-navigable.
  • Individuals with restrictive mobility are advised to take a funicular ride up the castle as a walk to the castle can be difficult.
  • If you're travelling with a toddler/infant, please bear in mind that there are no prams available inside the attraction.
smoking
  • Local visitors are required to show IDs on arrival.
  • International tourists are required to share passport and visa details on arrival.
  • Pets are not allowed inside the castle premises.
  • Smoking, or consuming alcoholic beverages or drugs is forbidden.
  • Please do not carry any heavy luggage like trolleys and backpacks. 
San Elmo castle in Naples during Sunset
  • The castle provides free admission on Father's Day and Cultural Diversity Day, so consider visiting then. However, you can expect the castle to be more crowded on these days.
  • For stunning views, all the way to Capri, plan to visit when the sun is shining and the sky is clear. Even better — try to visit during sunset.
  • Make use of the coin-operated binoculars offered by the castle authorities.
spaghetti
  •  Osteria il Pacchero Napoli: Popular for Italian dishes and good wine, Osteria il Pacchero Napoli serves Neapolitan cuisines with a twist. It is located 4 min away 
  • Cantina La Barbera: Known for spaghetti and pasta in Naples, Cantina La Barbera is 7 min away 
  • Ristorante Al 53: Famous for classic Neapolitan seafood & pasta dishes, Ristorante Al 53 is 17 min away 

Frequently asked questions about Castel Sant’Elmo tickets

How much is a ticket to Castel Sant’Elmo?

Tickets to Castel Sant'Elmo start at €7, which includes access to the castle and the Museo del Novecento. Ticket prices vary with combo tickets and Artecards.

How can I purchase Castel Sant’Elmo tickets?

You can buy Castel Sant’Elmo tickets online. Alternatively, you can book tickets from the castle premises. However, you might have to face longer queues and risk tickets being sold out.

Can I cancel Castel Sant’Elmo tickets?

No, unfortunately, Castel Sant’Elmo tickets once purchased cannot be cancelled or rescheduled. 

Are there discounts available on Castel Sant'Elmo tickets?

European Community individuals aged 18-25 receive reduced entry, while children under 18 from both EU and non-EU countries enter for free. Italian permanent teachers, EU tour guides, students in relevant disciplines, and specified groups can enter free with a valid ID.

What do Castel Sant’Elmo tickets include?

Standard tickets include access to the castle and the Museo del Novecento. Ticket upgrades include combos with San Martino Charterhouse. If you want to explore Naples and the Campania regions further, consider purchasing the Artecards.

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

The best time to visit Castel Sant’Elmo is during the early hours of the opening time. During this time, the weather is better and the place is less crowded, offering you the time and space to explore the military fortress in your own time.

How long does it take to complete a Castel Sant'Elmo tour?

It can take between 3-4 hours to fully explore the castle and museum, for there's lots to see and walk through. However, if you're keen to see just the castle, you can finish your tour in under 2 hours.

From the happy customers

Jennifer Michelle LeRow

Jennifer

May, 2025
We were through the line quickly at Peastum - it was a beautiful! Pompeii was another story as we were not aware of the 1st Sunday of each month being a Museum holiday where everyone egts in free. We waited in line for 2 hours because the "voucher" did not count as a printed ticket aloowing us immediate acccess, and then we were smooshed in through the gates by hoards of people trying to get in before it closed.
Artecard Campania: 2 Museums Pass
Mr Denis Mclean
GB

Mr

United Kingdom
Oct, 2023
Easy to use and good value for site entry and getting around. Got on train from Sorrento to Herculaneum not knowing it only stopped a few times a day. Went through to Naples and easily caught the train to Herculaneum without extra cost or trouble. 😂
Artecard Campania: 2 Museums Pass
JARROUSSE LECROQ
FR

Jarrousse

France
Apr, 2025
easy access to transport and museums. but I'd like to take issue with 2 things: the poor explanations on how to activate the card and the need to reactivate it each time it's used.
View original review in French
Artecard Napoli: 3 Museums Pass
Rosana Aparecida de Oliveira Batista da Silva
BR

Rosana

Brazil
Oct, 2024
The entrances were easy. As for public transport, we opted only for the metro, but the clerk always had to let us in. But I highly recommend it
View original review in Portuguese
Artecard Napoli: 3 Museums Pass