Royal Palace of Caserta
Plan your visit to the Royal Palace of Caserta
Royal Palace of Caserta Tickets and Prices
| Ticket Type | Price | Includes | Conditions & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Price: Palace & Park | €18 (+€1 booking fee) | Royal Apartments, Royal Park, and English Garden | Valid for the entire day of the visit |
| EU Reduced (18-24 years old) | €2 (+€1 booking fee) | Royal Apartments, Royal Park, and English Garden | Reserved for EU citizens aged 18 to 24 |
| Free | €0 | Royal Apartments and Royal Park | Under 18s, visitors with disabilities and a companion, and 1st Sunday of the month |
| Court Theatre | Included / Dedicated | Guided tour of the Bourbon Court Theatre | Available only on Saturdays and Sundays (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) |
Artecard tickets
The Campania Artecard is the regional tourist pass that allows you to visit your first three or five chosen museums for free (including the Royal Palace of Caserta), access others with discounts of up to 50%, and use regional public transport at no extra cost.
Entry times for the Royal Palace of Caserta
- Ticket office closes: 6:45 PM
- Last entry: 7:00 PM
- Court Theatre: open to visitors only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM (last entry at 12:45 PM)
Opening hours for the Park and the English Garden only
The Royal Park and the English Garden close earlier than the Palace (opening hours vary depending on the month and daylight), allowing all visitors to make their way back comfortably by closing time.
Park Opening Hours: January–September
- January: 3:00 PM
- February: 3:30 PM
- March: 4:00 PM
- April to September: 6:00 PM
Park Hours: October–December
- October: 5:00 PM
- November: 3:00 PM
- December: 2:30 PM
English Garden Opening Hours
- January: 4:00 PM
- February: 4:30 PM
- March: 5:00 PM
- April to September: 7:00 PM
- October: 5:30 PM
- November: 3:30 PM
- December: 3:30 PM
Guided Tour of the Royal Palace of Caserta
Want to discover the Royal Palace of Caserta with an expert guide? Request information without obligation to book a private or group tour!
Getting Here and Parking
The Royal Palace of Caserta is very easy to reach by both public transport and car:
- By Train: The Caserta train station is located right across from the Palace’s entrance avenue (about a 5-minute walk).
- By Car and Parking: Take the Caserta Nord exit off the A1 motorway. The nearest municipal underground car park is located in Piazza Carlo di Borbone.
- By Plane / Shuttle: A direct shuttle bus service to Caserta operates from Naples Capodichino Airport.
→ Read the full guide with directions for travel by train and car, as well as parking information
History, What to See, Dimensions, and Virtual Tour of the Royal Palace of Caserta
A brief history of the Royal Palace of Caserta
- 18th-Century Origins: In the mid-18th century, to shield the court from English naval threats, King Charles III of Bourbon decided to relocate the capital to Caserta. The renowned architect Luigi Vanvitelli initiated the project by laying the foundation stone in 1752. The subsequent publication of the Palace’s plans and designs in 1756 influenced architecture across Europe, marking the transition from Baroque to Neoclassicism and anticipating modern concepts of form and function.
- The 19th Century and Transformations: Following Vanvitelli’s death, his son Carlo completed the work. Between the period of French rule and the Bourbon restoration, the majestic Throne Room was finished in 1845. With the Unification of Italy and the transition to the House of Savoy, the palace gradually lost its central importance: the spoiling of its furnishings bears witness to the gradual stripping of the residence, a process that continued during the Second World War.
- From the 20th century to the present day: On April 29, 1945, the palace was the site of the historic “Surrender of Caserta,” which marked the end of the Second World War in Italy. After serving as a headquarters for the Italian Air Force and hosting the 1994 G7 Summit, the Palace has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
Learn more about the history of the complex:
Why is the Royal Palace of Caserta a Unesco heritage site?
The Halls of the Royal Palace of Caserta
The Royal Palace of Caserta—the largest royal residence in the world—captivates visitors with the grandeur of its architecture and royal interiors. The visitor route leads through monumental spaces and unique art collections:
- Architecture and Monumental Route: At the entrance, the famous “Cannocchiale” (Telescope) offers a dramatic perspective of the Royal Park. The grand octagonal vestibule leads to the exquisite Court Theatre, while the majestic Grand Staircase of Honor connects the ground floor to the Royal Apartments and the solemn Palatine Chapel.
- Royal Rooms, Nativity Scene, and Contemporary Art: The route includes rooms in Rococo, Neoclassical, and Empire styles, housing the historic Bourbon Royal Nativity Scene (comprising over 1,200 period pieces) and the extraordinary Terrae Motus contemporary art collection.
- Virtual Tour: To preview the rooms before your trip, try the virtual tour of the Palace interiors.
The Royal Park and the surroundings of the Royal Palace
The Royal Park of the Palace of Caserta stretches for over 3 kilometers:
- Park Areas and Waterway: Stroll through the Parterre and the Bosco Vecchio (Old Wood), which date back to the Renaissance, and walk along the spectacular Waterway, featuring 3 km of monumental fountains.
- English Garden and Carolino Aqueduct: Explore the enchanting English Garden—renowned for its rare botanical species and esoteric symbols—and discover how Vanvitelli’s imposing Carolino Aqueduct naturally supplies the entire water system via a route spanning over 40 km, standing as an 18th-century engineering masterpiece.
- The Challenge to Versailles and Virtual Tour: Conceived by King Charles of Bourbon to surpass the French royal palace, discover the history of the Royal Park and its rivalry with Versailles, a project brought to life by Luigi and Carlo Vanvitelli.
To explore the avenues before your visit, try the virtual tour of the Royal Park.
Nearby the Royal Palace of Caserta
The areas surrounding the Royal Palace of Caserta preserve significant traces of court life and Bourbon-era projects:
- The Carolino Aqueduct and the Archi della Valle: The impressive Carolino Aqueduct—an extraordinary 38 km-long engineering feat by Luigi Vanvitelli—supplies water to the Palace and the surrounding territory. The monumental Archi della Valle (Arches of the Valley) are particularly awe-inspiring.
- The San Silvestro Oasis: Once the King’s hunting reserve and woodland, the WWF San Silvestro Oasis is now a protected natural area ideal for walks and historical excursions.
- The Belvedere di San Leucio and Silk: Visit the Belvedere di San Leucio complex and the historic Bourbon silk factory. In this village, thanks to the San Leucio Statute, a pioneering social community based on gender equality was established. Highlights include the Palace, historic dwellings, and restored period looms.
360° Virtual Tour of the Royal Palace of Caserta
Can’t visit the Royal Palace in person, or want to explore the complex’s wonders before you arrive? Through our interactive 360° virtual tours, you can stroll through the actual rooms and gardens right from the comfort of your home. You can take a virtual tour of the Royal Palace of Caserta, the Royal Park, and the English Garden, exploring them zone by zone.
The Royal Palace in numbers: is it really the largest in the world?
Is it truly the largest royal palace in the world? In terms of total volume (over 2 million cubic meters), the Royal Palace of Caserta is unrivaled. But what are its actual dimensions, and how does the Royal Palace of Caserta compare to other famous royal palaces in Europe? Here are the record-breaking figures for Vanvitelli’s masterpiece:
- Year: 1752;
- Total length: 4 km;
- Minimum floor area: 135,000 m² (excluding internal courtyards, semicircular areas, and 2 underground levels);
- Volume: 2,000,000 m³;
- Floors: 5 above-ground floors and 2 underground levels;
- Rooms: 1,200;
- Staircases: 56;
- Park size: 120 hectares;
- Aqueduct length: 38 km;
- Square diameter: 450 m;
Royal Palace of Caserta Photo Gallery
Explore the Royal Apartments, the Grand Staircase, and the Park through our collection of high-resolution shots.
Collections, History, Films, and Vintage Photos of the Royal Palace
The Art Collections of the Royal Palace of Caserta
The art collections of the Royal Palace of Caserta span a period ranging from the Renaissance to the contemporary art of the 1980s. Explore the three main collections:
- Royal Objects and Furnishings: The collections of objects and furnishings belonging to the Bourbon dynasty include period furniture, interior decorations, fine porcelain, crystal chandeliers, and precision clocks dating from the 16th to the 19th century.
- “Terrae Motus” Contemporary Art: The prestigious Terrae Motus collection, created in the wake of the 1980 Irpinia earthquake, brings together works by some of the world’s greatest artists of the 1980s, including Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Joseph Beuys, Robert Mapplethorpe, and Mimmo Paladino.
- The Picture Gallery and Old Master Paintings: The Picture Gallery and Old Master paintings section includes royal portraits of the Bourbon and Murat families, famous views by Hackert, Orientalist paintings, landscapes featuring neoclassical ruins, still lifes, religious scenes, and depictions of great historical battles.
The collections at the Royal Palace of Caserta fall into three distinct categories and span the period from the Renaissance to 1980.
Antique objects:
The Bourbon collections of objects comprise furniture, various decorative items, porcelain, chandeliers, clocks, and more, dating from the 16th to the 19th century.
The Terrae Motus contemporary art collection:
Terrae Motus, dedicated to the 1980 Irpinia earthquake, is a contemporary art collection featuring works by some of the world’s greatest artists of the 1980s—including Warhol, Mimmo Paladino, Mapplethorpe, Haring, and others.
The collection of historic paintings:
The collection of historic paintings includes royal portraits of the Bourbon and Murat dynasties, famous landscapes by Hackert, and paintings featuring Oriental themes or Neoclassical ruins. It also encompasses still lifes, large-scale battle scenes, religious paintings, and more.
History of the Bourbons and the Historical Events of the Royal Palace
Over 250 years of events, fascinating details, and historical figures have shaped this Bourbon complex. Explore the key milestones of its history:
- The Palace’s Story: In the section dedicated to the history of the Royal Palace of Caserta, we trace the monument’s timeline—from the early stages of Vanvitelli’s construction project to major contemporary events like the G7 summit.
- The Bourbons and the Kingdom: Delve into the origins of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies and the dynasty that shaped its destiny, starting with the biography of its founder, King Charles III of Bourbon.
- Anecdotes and Vintage Gallery: Discover behind-the-scenes stories, court life, and curiosities, and browse through rare vintage photographs of the Bourbons and the royal family.
History of Art and Decorative Arts at the Royal Palace
Discover the architecture, artistic styles, and historical transformations of the Royal Palace through these dedicated sections:
- Luigi Vanvitelli and the Exhibition: Delve into the biography and works of Luigi Vanvitelli—the brilliant architect behind the Bourbon complex—and find out more about the exhibition about to him.
- Architecture and Decorative Styles: Trace the evolution of architectural history and learn to recognize the styles of decorative art and antique furnishings found in the royal chambers, extending to the contemporary works of the Terrae Motus collection.
- Restoration and Rebirth: Despite the damage, neglect, and looting suffered during wartime conflicts, you can now rediscover the complex in its full, original splendor thanks to the virtual restoration project of the Royal Palace.
Films Shot at the Royal Palace and Vintage Photos
Films shot in the Royal Palace and documentaries
For over a century, the Royal Palace has captivated international filmmakers and production teams with its spectacular grandeur:
- Cinema and Hollywood: Discover the complete list of films shot at the Royal Palace of Caserta, including famous international blockbusters such as two installments of the Star Wars saga and Angels & Demons.
- Documentaries and TV: Watch key documentaries about the Palace and the Bourbon dynasty, including programs produced by Alberto Angela and major cultural broadcasters.
- Music and Music Videos: Explore music videos and special footage filmed amidst the frescoed halls and the spectacular fountains of the Royal Park.
Vintage photos and footage dating back to the 19th century
The Royal Palace of Caserta has undergone profound transformations over the centuries, documented in detail by a rich visual heritage:
- Vintage Photos and Footage: Explore the Palace’s extensive archive of vintage photographs and film footage spanning from the 19th century to the mid-20th century, including historical newsreels from the Istituto Luce covering the Fascist era.
- The Royal Dynasty: Browse rare historical photographs of the Bourbon family taken during the 19th century, in the final years of their reign.
- Evolution of the Complex: Compare the architectural and decorative changes that have shaped the royal chambers, furnishings, and layout of the Royal Park over the years.
What to see in the vicinity of the Royal Palace and in Campania
What is there to visit in the Province of Caserta?
The province of Caserta offers a rich natural heritage, striking landscapes, and historic villages to discover. Here are the area’s main attractions:
- Caserta and Casertavecchia: Discover the city of Caserta—home to the Royal Palace—and the charming medieval village of Casertavecchia.
- Aversa and Capua: Visit Aversa, the Norman “city of a thousand churches,” and medieval Capua—the cradle of the Italian language—featuring the renowned Campano Museum and its famous Matres Matutae statues.
- Santa Maria Capua Vetere: Explore the city of Santa Maria Capua Vetere—the site of ancient Roman Capua and home to Spartacus—and don’t miss the monumental gladiator’s Amphitheatre, famous for its gladiators.
- The Royal Estate of Carditello: Visit the Reggia di Carditello, a historic Bourbon estate and a symbol of the region’s agricultural and culinary traditions.
- Villages and Art-Filled Estates: Stroll through the medieval village of Prata Sannita, nestled in the mountains, and discover the beauty of Palazzo Mondo in Capodrise, an internationally recognized 18th-century palace.
What is there to visit in the Campania region?
Beyond the Royal Palace of Caserta, Campania offers an extraordinary wealth of art, history, and natural beauty. Explore our guides to the region’s wonders: from the spectacular Amalfi Coast to the city of Naples, from the archaeological ruins of Pompeii to islands like Capri, and across the entire Caserta area. You will find travel tips, ticket information, guided tours, and accommodation options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Royal Palace of Caserta
What are the opening hours and closing days of the Royal Palace of Caserta?
How much does the ticket for the Royal Palace of Caserta cost, and who gets in for free?
What does the full ticket include?
The full-access ticket grants entry to all sections of the monumental complex: the Royal Apartments, the Royal Park, the English Garden, the permanent exhibition on Luigi Vanvitelli, the Terrae Motus contemporary art collection, and any temporary exhibitions currently on display.
Is it mandatory to purchase tickets online?
While not strictly mandatory, booking online is highly recommended to skip the ticket office queue and guarantee entry during your preferred time slot, especially on weekends and during peak periods.
Can I cancel or modify my reservation?
How long does the visit to the Royal Palace of Caserta and the Royal Park take?
Do children or young people up to the age of 18 have to pay?
Who is entitled to free entry to the Royal Palace?
Admission to the Royal Palace of Caserta is free for several categories of visitors, including:
- All visitors on the first Sunday of every month;
- Visitors under 18 (EU and non-EU citizens);
- People with disabilities and a family member or companion;
- Tour guides and interpreters while performing their professional duties;
- Teachers and students of Architecture, Cultural Heritage, Education Sciences, and Fine Arts Academies.
Assistance for visitors with disabilities and accessibility:
Visitors with disabilities are entitled to free admission upon presentation of valid documentation (e.g., INPS certification) and an identity document. Assistance is provided by staff at the Palace entrance (please request this at the ticket office), and wheelchairs can be reserved free of charge, subject to availability. Dedicated phone number: (0039) 0823-550026.
To find out all the requirements and the full list of concessions, please consult our detailed guide on free admission and assistance for visitors with disabilities at the Royal Palace of Caserta.