Tourism in Vatican

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Europe / Southern Europe

Tourist attractions

St. Peter's Basilica

Region: Central Vatican

Religious architecture

Highlights include Michelangelo-designed dome and world's largest basilica interior.

St. Peter's Square

Region: Front of basilica

Square

Elliptical square embraced by Bernini's colonnade. Papal audiences held here.

Vatican Museums

Region: Northern corridor

Cultural heritage

Collection of approximately 70,000 items from ancient sculpture to modern painting.

Sistine Chapel

Region: Within museums

Religious architecture

Famous for Michelangelo's ceiling and 'Last Judgment.' Conclave venue.

Vatican Gardens

Region: Western side of city-state

Garden

Papal private gardens. Entry by guided tour reservation only.

Pinacoteca

Region: Museum complex

Art museum

Displays masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and others.

Vatican Library

Region: Within Vatican Palace

Cultural heritage

Houses world's oldest manuscripts and first editions. Limited access to researchers.

Vatican Necropolis

Region: Under basilica

Archaeological site

Special tour viewing St. Peter's tomb and ancient Roman cemetery.

Paul VI Audience Hall

Region: Next to St. Peter's Square

Modern architecture

Winter general audiences held here. Pericle Fazzini's bronze wall is spectacular.

Vatican Post Office

Region: Right corridor of square

Modern facility

Popular spot for purchasing and mailing limited-edition stamps.

Suggested itineraries

Half-Day Vatican Must-See Course

Duration (days): 1

Highlights: Vatican Museums early entry, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica rooftop

Enter museums first thing in the morning to avoid crowds, exit to basilica by noon, and conquer cupola climb.

2-Day Deep-Dive Pilgrimage Plan

Duration (days): 2

Highlights: Necropolis excavation site, Vatican Gardens tour, Paul VI Hall audience

Incorporates reservation-required internal tours and includes papal audience experience for an intensive faith and art journey.

Travel tips

  • Museum tickets are most reliably purchased with date-time designation on the official website.
  • Complete silence is mandatory in the Sistine Chapel.
  • Metal detector gates prohibit large knives or sprays.
  • Early cupola entry allows time-saving elevator use.
  • When using postal services, always affix Vatican stamps.
  • Summer sun is strong with little shade in the square; hat essential.
  • Museums generally closed Sundays (free admission last Sunday morning only).
  • Street vendors in the square sell many unofficial goods; negotiation necessary.
  • Staying on the Rome side allows enjoyment of basilica night lighting.
  • Only one ATM exists within Vatican. Credit card recommended.

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