Top 7 Places to Visit in Vatican City

Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world both by area and population, is a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality. Despite its size, it boasts some of the most significant cultural and religious sites in the world.

Here are the top seven places you must visit when in Vatican City.

1. St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is not only the largest church in the world but also one of the holiest Catholic shrines. It stands on the site where Saint Peter, one of Jesus' apostles and the first Pope, was crucified and buried. Designed by some of the greatest architects of the Renaissance, including Michelangelo, it is an architectural masterpiece.

The Basilica's grand façade, adorned with statues of apostles and saints, invites you into a world of religious art and history. Inside, you can marvel at Michelangelo's Pietà, a stunning sculpture depicting Mary holding the body of Jesus. The magnificent dome, also designed by Michelangelo, offers a breathtaking view of Vatican City and Rome. For those wanting to visit, securing St. Peter's Basilica Rome tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid the long queues.

2. Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are a must-visit for art lovers. They house one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the world, amassed by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries. The museums include the Gregorian Egyptian Museum, the Gregorian Etruscan Museum, and the Pio-Clementine Museum, among others.

The highlight of the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes. The Creation of Adam, where God gives life to Adam with His fingertip, is one of the most iconic images in Western art. The Last Judgment, another of Michelangelo's masterpieces, covers the altar wall of the chapel.

3. St. Peter's Square

St. Peter's Square, or Piazza San Pietro, is a monumental open space in front of St. Peter's Basilica. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it is surrounded by a grand colonnade with 284 columns arranged in four rows. The square can hold over 300,000 people and is often the site of papal ceremonies and gatherings.

At the center of the square stands a 25.5-meter-tall Egyptian obelisk, brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula. Two fountains, one by Bernini and the other by Carlo Maderno, add to the square's grandeur. The square is especially beautiful at night when it's illuminated, creating a serene atmosphere.

4. Vatican Gardens

The Vatican Gardens cover more than half of Vatican City's 44 hectares and are a place of peace and tranquility. These gardens date back to medieval times and are adorned with beautiful fountains, sculptures, and exotic plants.

Visitors can take guided tours to explore the various sections, including the Italian, French, and English gardens. The gardens also offer a stunning view of St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican's fortifications. The tours provide a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and serenity that contrast with the bustling city outside.

5. Apostolic Palace

The Apostolic Palace is the official residence of the Pope and includes the Papal Apartments, the Vatican Museums, the Vatican Library, and several private and public chapels. The palace is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture and houses some of the most important works of art in the world.

Visitors can explore the Raphael Rooms, a suite of reception rooms featuring frescoes by Raphael and his workshop. The most famous of these is The School of Athens, which depicts an array of classical philosophers, including Plato and Aristotle.

6. St. Peter's Dome

The St. Peter's Dome offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome and Vatican City. Designed by Michelangelo, the dome stands at 136 meters tall and is an architectural marvel. Visitors can either climb the 551 steps or take an elevator part of the way to reach the top.

From the summit, you can see the entire Vatican City, the Tiber River, and the seven hills of Rome. The climb is strenuous, but the view from the top is worth the effort, providing a breathtaking perspective of the Eternal City.

7. Vatican Necropolis

The Vatican Necropolis, also known as the Scavi, is an ancient Roman cemetery located beneath St. Peter's Basilica. This underground site is believed to be the burial place of St. Peter himself. The Necropolis is not as widely known as other Vatican attractions, but it offers a fascinating look into early Christian history.

Visitors can take guided tours to explore the ancient tombs, including St. Peter's reputed final resting place. The tours are limited to small groups and must be booked well in advance, but they provide a unique and intimate experience of the Vatican's ancient past.