Visiting the Vatican City: Museum, Tickets & Tips

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world, but it packs a monumental punch in terms of art, history, and spirituality. You can find the home of the Pope within the heart of Rome, but don't be fooled by the state's small size. The Vatican is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks, from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Sistine Chapel. 

If you're into art and history, be sure to include visiting the Vatican to your itinerary when in Rome!

In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting the Vatican, including its fascinating history, top attractions, and expert tips to make the most of your visit.

Is the Vatican worth visiting?

Absolutely! The Vatican is not just a destination; it's a profound experience that combines art, history, spirituality, and culture in one compact, awe-inspiring location. In the Vatican you can admire the stunning frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, gaze at the intricate architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica, and walk through the Vatican Museums' priceless art collections.

The Vatican offers a unique glimpse into the heart of both Christianity and Western art. For those interested in history, the Vatican holds centuries of religious significance and extraordinary heritage. For art lovers, it’s a haven of masterpieces from renowned artists like Michelangelo and Raphael. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a traveler, the Vatican is undoubtedly worth the visit, offering a deeply enriching experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

The Rich History of the Vatican

The Vatican’s history stretches back over 2,000 years, beginning with the Roman Empire and evolving into its current status as the center of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican gained its independence in 1929 with the signing of the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and the Kingdom of Italy, making it a sovereign state.

Historically, it has been the seat of power for the Popes and the epicenter of Christian faith. The Vatican has also been a major patron of the arts, commissioning works by some of history’s greatest artists, such as Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini. As a result, the Vatican is not only an important religious site but also a cultural treasure trove with some of the world’s most renowned art collections.

Must-See Attractions in the Vatican

St. Peter’s Basilica

Undoubtedly the Vatican’s most famous landmark, St. Peter’s Basilica is an architectural marvel and a significant religious site. Designed by Renaissance architects like Michelangelo and Bernini, it is the largest church in the world and can hold up to 60,000 people. Be sure to visit Michelangelo’s iconic Pietà statue and take the time to climb to the dome for a stunning panoramic view of the Vatican and beyond.

The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s most impressive art collections, with over 70,000 works of art spread across 54 galleries. Highlights include the Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, and, of course, the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, with the Creation of Adam being one of the most iconic images in the world.

The Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is renowned for its ceiling frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible, including the iconic Creation of Adam. Visiting the chapel is an awe-inspiring experience, especially as you gaze up at Michelangelo’s stunning work. The Sistine Chapel also serves as the site of the papal conclave, where a new Pope is elected. The Chapel is inside the Vatican Museums. 

St. Peter’s Square

Before entering St. Peter’s Basilica, take a moment to admire St. Peter’s Square. Designed by Bernini, this expansive square is bordered by a colonnade of 284 columns, creating a sense of openness and grandeur. The square is also the site of many religious ceremonies and gatherings led by the Pope.

How to get to the Vatican?

The Vatican is located in the heart of Rome, so getting there is easy. The nearest metro station is Ottaviano-San Pietro, located just a few minutes’ walk from the Vatican Museums. Alternatively, you can take a bus or even walk from other famous landmarks in Rome, such as the Spanish Steps or Castel Sant'Angelo.

Tickets to the Vatican Museum

It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons. Standard tickets typically cost around €17 for adults, with discounts available for students and children. 

You can also opt for guided tours, which provide a more in-depth experience of the museums' vast collections, including the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and countless other masterpieces. If you're planning to visit multiple attractions, consider purchasing a combined ticket for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, or even an exclusive early-access ticket to avoid the crowds. 

Additionally, the museums offer free entry on the last Sunday of each month, though this can attract larger crowds. Booking tickets online ahead of time is a great way to ensure a smooth and efficient visit to this world-renowned destination. Take into account the time of the year you're travelling as well as daily peak hours.

Tips for Visiting the Vatican

1. Plan Ahead for Your Visit

The Vatican can get extremely crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer). To make the most of your visit, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Consider booking your tickets in advance to skip the long lines, especially for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. You can also reserve a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the Vatican’s rich history and art.

2. Dress Modestly

The Vatican is a religious site, and visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders, arms, and knees. It’s advisable to avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or skirts above the knee. If you’re planning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica or the Vatican Museums, be sure to adhere to the dress code to avoid being denied entry.

3. Best Time to Visit

To avoid the throngs of tourists, try to visit the Vatican early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The Vatican Museums are typically less crowded in the first few hours after they open, while the crowds tend to thin out towards the evening. Weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Thursdays, tend to be quieter compared to weekends.

4. Don’t Miss the Papal Audience

If you’re visiting the Vatican on a Wednesday, you might have the chance to attend the Papal Audience, where the Pope addresses the faithful and gives blessings. You’ll need to reserve tickets in advance to attend this event, so plan ahead if this is something you’d like to experience.

FAQs About Visiting the Vatican

1. How long does it take to visit the Vatican? It can take anywhere from 3-5 hours to see the main attractions, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Plan for a full day if you want to explore in-depth.

2. Is the Vatican wheelchair accessible? The Vatican is accessible to visitors with mobility impairments, with ramps, elevators, and wheelchair rentals available at many attractions. However, be sure to check the specific attractions you want to visit as some might not be fully accessible.

3. Can I visit the Vatican for free? While the Vatican Museums charge an entry fee, you can visit St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square for free. However, there are costs associated with some services, like climbing the dome.