Visiting Vatican City is one of the highlights of a trip to Rome.
The smallest state in the world, in the heart of Rome, offers rich history and impressive sights.
Plan to spend at least a half day, ideally a full day, in Vatican City to truly enjoy all it has to offer.
Here, you’ll find essential tips, insider advice, and the best attractions to make the most of your visit to the Vatican.
Top Attractions In Vatican City
# 1 TOP-PICK
VATICAN MUSEUMS & SISTINE CHAPEL
Skip-the-line tickets
The Vatican Museums house some of the world’s most important art collections, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes.
BOOK HERE
# 2 PICK
ST. PETER’S BASILICA & DOME
One of the largest and most significant Catholic churches
For stunning panoramic views over Rome and the Vatican, the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is the place to go.
# 3 PICK
ST. PETER’S SQUARE
Impressive sight with a hidden gem
Designed by famous architect Bernini, this vantage point is an essential stop for a perfect photo.
1. St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest and most significant Catholic churches.
The interior is free to enter, though waiting times can stretch to one or two hours, especially later in the day.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Before entering, visitors pass through a security check under the colonnades in St. Peter’s Square.
Plan around two hours for the basilica alone to fully appreciate its scale and beauty.
2. St. Peter’s Square
Designed by the famous architect Bernini, St. Peter’s Square is an architectural masterpiece.
The square features an impressive layout and a hidden gem—a point near the Vatican obelisk that offers a unique perspective on the surrounding colonnades.
This vantage point is an essential stop for a perfect photo.
Be sure to read our guide on the hidden gems in Rome for more details about this special spot.
3. The Dome Of St. Peter’s Basilica
The St. Peter’s Basilica Dome climb is a must for stunning panoramic views over Rome and the Vatican.
Though there’s an entry fee, the experience is well worth it.
From the top, you can enjoy one of the best views of Rome.
Morning light provides a great backdrop for photos, so try to time your visit accordingly.
For more insights, including ticket details, check our guide on visiting St. Peter’s Dome.
TICKET FOR THE BASILICA AND DOME
4. Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums house some of the world’s most important art collections, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes.
To avoid long waits, booking tickets in advance is not only highly recommended but crucial.
It’s also a great option if you experience Rome in the rain like we did.
Explore our detailed guide on visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel for more tips and important info.
Allocate enough time here—we spent 3 hours viewing these impressive collections.
> VATICAN MUSEUMS & SISTINE CHAPEL SKIP-THE-LINE TICKET
Essential Tips For A Smooth Vatican City Visit
- Dress Code and Etiquette
To access all areas within St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Museums, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
This dress code is strictly enforced.
Plan your outfit accordingly to avoid any surprises. - Best Times to Visit
Avoid visiting on Wednesdays and weekends, and the worst times to visit Rome.
The Pope’s audience on Wednesday mornings, combined with the high weekend crowds, can make these times particularly busy.
Mid-week visits are usually less crowded. Also note that the Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month when admission is free (with potential exceptions for holidays). - Book Tickets in Advance
Skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended for the Vatican Museums, the Dome, and other popular Rome attractions like the Colosseum.
Pre-booking not only saves time but also secures your spot on busy days.
There are even early-access tickets available for some attractions if you want to avoid the crowds altogether. - Consider Booking a Guided Tour
Guided tours like these provide insightful information and can include priority access to main attractions, saving you time.
Getting To Vatican City And Accessibility
The Vatican is well-connected by public transportation. Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano station or hop on a bus that stops near St. Peter’s Square.
If you’re planning to stay nearby, check out our article on where to stay in Rome for accommodation recommendations within walking distance of Vatican City.
Most major attractions in Vatican City are wheelchair accessible, with some areas providing accessible entrances. It’s a good idea to confirm accessibility details in advance for a smoother experience.
FAQs for Visiting Vatican City
How much time should I set aside for a visit?
To explore the main attractions, plan at least half a day, though a full day is ideal if you want a relaxed visit.
What’s the best time to visit St. Peter’s Basilica?
Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to avoid the longest lines.
How much does it cost to enter the Vatican Museums?
Regular admission to the Vatican Museums is around 17 euros. On the last Sunday of the month, admission is free, though the crowds can be larger on this day.
Is there a dress code in Vatican City?
Yes, there is a dress code in Vatican City. Covering your shoulders and knees is required to enter the St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums, especially the Sistine Chapel.
Tips For A Memorable Visit To Vatican City
On a recent visit, we found that entering St. Peter’s Basilica early in the morning provided the ideal lighting for photos and minimal crowds.
Purchasing tickets for the Dome in advance also saved us valuable time.
To explore both St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums comfortably, start your day at St. Peter’s and plan to visit the Vatican Museums in the late afternoon.
If you’re planning to see the Sistine Chapel inside the Vatican Museums, keep in mind that this attraction alone can take extra time due to its popularity.
Allocating enough time to fully appreciate each area will make your visit more enjoyable.
⭐️ Need help planning your Rome and Vatican City trip? Check out our itineraries, packed with tips, maps, and suggested routes: Rome in one day, Rome in 2 days, and Rome in three days.
Nearby Sights Around Vatican City
A short walk from St. Peter’s Square, Castel Sant’Angelo and the Angel’s Bridge offer great views over the Tiber River.
Built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it later served as a fortress. Now you can visit this attraction and enjoy great views from atop.
Another nearby highlight we included in our self-guided walking tour of Rome is the Trastevere neighborhood, where you can enjoy walking through narrow, charming streets and enjoy local cuisine like Cacio e Pepe.
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Final Thoughts On Planning Your Visit To Vatican City
A well-planned day in the Vatican allows you to take in the art, architecture, and history without feeling rushed.
Take your time exploring each attraction, and be sure to factor in time for lines and security checks.
For more travel tips, check out our guide for visiting Rome for the first time, and feel free to share your own Vatican experiences in the comments!
