Discover Vatican City
The Vatican is the smallest country in the world holding the largest collection of stories.
St Peter's, the Sistine Chapel and centuries of art in less than half a square kilometer.
Capital
Vatican City
Currency
Euro (€)
Best Time
April to June, September to October
Vibe
Sacred, monumental, awe-inspiring
Budget
$$$Why Vatican City
Vatican City is essential for anyone in Rome — Michelangelo's frescoes and Bernini's piazza are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, regardless of belief.
Must Try
- A morning visit before the crowds
- A walk along the Vatican walls from outside
- Sistine Chapel guided tour at opening
Must Visit
- St Peter's Basilica and Square
- The Vatican Museums and Raphael Rooms
- The Sistine Chapel ceiling
Before You Go
- Strict dress code — shoulders and knees covered
- Book Sistine Chapel tickets weeks ahead
- Pickpockets work the queues — backpack in front
Local Legend
The Swiss Guard, the world's smallest army, has protected the popes since 1506 — their striped uniforms were designed during the Renaissance and have barely changed. Recruitment still requires Swiss citizenship.
Explore by Category
What to Visit in Vatican City
Cities
- Vatican City
Landmarks
- St Peter's Basilica and Square
- The Vatican Museums and Raphael Rooms
- The Sistine Chapel ceiling
Stories from Vatican City
View allfirst-day
Local insight
Slipping into St Peter's at 7am, before the queues, the basilica was almost empty and the morning light through Bernini's baldachin felt like a private screening of two thousand years.
hidden
A local legend
The Swiss Guard, the world's smallest army, has protected the popes since 1506 — their striped uniforms were designed during the Renaissance and have barely changed. Recruitment still requires Swiss citizenship.
sunset
The one line that stays
The Vatican is the smallest country in the world holding the largest collection of stories.
4 Quizzes about Vatican City
View allFood Lover Quiz
Which Vatican City signature bite matches you?
Destination Quiz
Which Vatican City region should you visit first?
Culture Quiz
Test your Vatican City everyday habit know-how.
Adventure Quiz
What's your Vatican City explorer type?
On the map
Where is Vatican City?
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