Explore Vatican City: A Journey Through the World's Smallest Country

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS

1/24/20254 min read

Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, is a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality. Although compact, it holds some of the most iconic landmarks, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. The city-state is home to the Pope and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore centuries of cultural heritage. Whether you're admiring Michelangelo’s masterpieces or strolling through the tranquil Vatican Gardens, Vatican City provides an enriching travel experience for those seeking beauty, history, and devotion in one location.

Top 12 Attractions in Vatican City

1. St. Peter's Basilica

  • Highlights:

    • Michelangelo’s Pietà and the breathtaking dome.

    • Bernini’s Baldachin (Altar Canopy) and the grand interior.

    • The tombs of past Popes beneath the basilica.

  • Tips:

    • Arrive early to avoid long lines.

    • Climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of Vatican City and Rome.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest clothing required (no shorts, sleeveless tops, or skirts above the knee).

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially on weekdays.

  • Location:

    • St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City.

  • Price Range:

    • Free entry to the basilica; dome climb costs approximately €10.

  • Travel Guide:

    • From the Vatican Museums, follow the signs to St. Peter’s Basilica (5-minute walk).

2. Sistine Chapel

  • Highlights:

    • Michelangelo’s stunning frescoes on the ceiling, including The Creation of Adam.

    • The Last Judgment fresco behind the altar.

  • Tips:

    • Keep voice levels low, as the Sistine Chapel is a place of worship.

    • Photography is prohibited.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest clothing is required (no shorts or sleeveless tops).

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Early morning or late afternoon, ideally as part of a guided tour to skip the lines.

  • Location:

    • Vatican Museums, Vatican City.

  • Price Range:

    • Entry to the Vatican Museums (€17–€21).

  • Travel Guide:

    • Accessed via the Vatican Museums.

3. Vatican Museums

  • Highlights:

    • Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, the Egyptian Museum, and the modern art collection.

    • The Sistine Chapel is a part of the museum experience.

  • Tips:

    • Book tickets in advance to skip the long queues.

    • Consider hiring a guide for in-depth insights.

  • Dress Code:

    • No specific dress code, but modest attire is encouraged in religious spaces.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Early morning, weekdays are less crowded.

  • Location:

    • Viale Vaticano, Vatican City.

  • Price Range:

    • Adult ticket: €17–€21.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Easily accessible by bus (lines 49 or 64) or walking from St. Peter's Basilica (5 minutes).

4. St. Peter’s Square

  • Highlights:

    • The grand design by Bernini, with its 284 columns embracing visitors.

    • The central obelisk and twin fountains.

  • Tips:

    • Visit in the morning for fewer tourists.

    • Attend the Sunday Mass for a chance to see the Pope (if available).

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest clothing is required for entry to the basilica nearby.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Early mornings or after 5 PM to avoid crowds.

  • Location:

    • St. Peter's Square, Vatican City.

  • Price Range:

    • Free entry.

  • Travel Guide:

    • The square is right in front of St. Peter’s Basilica and easily accessible by walking.

5. Vatican Gardens

  • Highlights:

    • Beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains, and historic monuments.

    • Tranquil spots for reflection and walking.

  • Tips:

    • Guided tours are required, so book in advance.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest clothing, no shorts or sleeveless tops.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Spring or autumn for comfortable weather and less crowded.

  • Location:

    • Vatican City, behind St. Peter’s Basilica.

  • Price Range:

    • Guided tours cost about €35–€40.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Tours can be booked through the Vatican Museums or official Vatican website.

6. Apostolic Palace

  • Highlights:

    • The official residence of the Pope.

    • The papal private rooms are richly decorated with historical significance.

  • Tips:

    • The palace is not always open to the public, so check for available tours.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest attire is encouraged.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Limited public access, often around special events or papal audiences.

  • Location:

    • Vatican City, adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica.

  • Price Range:

    • Tours available on request.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Located within the Vatican City complex, guided tours are the best way to experience it.

7. Vatican Library

  • Highlights:

    • A collection of rare manuscripts and texts, including the famous Codex Vaticanus.

  • Tips:

    • Entry is usually reserved for scholars, so it’s not open for casual visits.

  • Dress Code:

    • Smart casual, no casual wear like shorts or sandals.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • By appointment or during special exhibitions.

  • Location:

    • Vatican City.

  • Price Range:

    • Free entry for scholars, but access is generally restricted.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Accessible by walking from St. Peter's Square.

8. Pinacoteca Vaticana

  • Highlights:

    • The collection of artworks by famous artists like Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio.

  • Tips:

    • Spend time in the Raphael Rooms and the Transfiguration painting.

  • Dress Code:

    • No specific dress code.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Early mornings to avoid crowds.

  • Location:

    • Vatican Museums, Vatican City.

  • Price Range:

    • Included in the Vatican Museums ticket price.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Accessible from the Vatican Museums’ main entrance.

9. Vatican Necropolis (Scavi Tour)

  • Highlights:

    • The underground burial sites, including the tomb of St. Peter.

  • Tips:

    • Book your tour well in advance as spots are limited.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest clothing required.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Early morning to ensure availability.

  • Location:

    • Beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.

  • Price Range:

    • Tickets around €13, with guided tours included.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Tours are conducted at set times and require prior booking.

10. The Swiss Guard Barracks

  • Highlights:

    • Watch the Swiss Guards in their colorful uniforms, providing security to the Pope.

  • Tips:

    • While the guards are on duty, they may not allow photography in some areas.

  • Dress Code:

    • Casual attire is acceptable.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Whenever the guards are on duty, especially during ceremonies.

  • Location:

    • Vatican City, near the Apostolic Palace.

  • Price Range:

    • Free entry.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Accessible by walking from St. Peter's Square.

11. The Bramante Staircase

  • Highlights:

    • The iconic double-helix staircase, known for its architectural beauty.

  • Tips:

    • Take time to admire its design—this is a great spot for photos.

  • Dress Code:

    • Casual attire is fine.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • During quieter hours, typically early morning or late afternoon.

  • Location:

    • Vatican Museums.

  • Price Range:

    • Included in the Vatican Museums entry ticket.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Walk through the Vatican Museums to access the staircase.

12. Saint Anne’s Church (Sant’Anna dei Palafrenieri)

  • Highlights:

    • A quiet church offering peace amidst the bustling Vatican City.

  • Tips:

    • A hidden gem perfect for moments of reflection.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest attire required.

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • When seeking a break from the crowded attractions.

  • Location:

    • Near St. Peter’s Square.

  • Price Range:

    • Free entry.

  • Travel Guide:

    • Easily accessible by walking from St. Peter's Square.

Disclaimer

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, some details about ticket availability, opening hours, or visitor restrictions may vary. Please verify these details on the official Vatican City websites or with local authorities before planning your visit. Your experience may vary based on seasonal factors, ongoing events, or renovations.