2025 Vatican Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in January)

Saint Peter's Square, located in Vatican City, holds a remarkable history. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century, it serves as the grand entrance to St. Peter's Basilica. The square witnessed various papal events and addresses, including the selection of new popes. It underwent significant expansions and renovations over the years. Surrounded by magnificent colonnades and adorned with obelisks and fountains, Saint Peter's Square remains an iconic symbol of Vatican City and the Catholic Church. Welcome, world travelers, to Saint Peter's Square, Where I stand as a saint, with open arms and care. From every corner of the globe, you have come, Seeking solace, seeking hope, seeking a sacred outcome. In this grand plaza, where cultures intertwine, I greet you with love, transcending all divides and lines. Together we gather, a tapestry of diverse faces, United in reverence, in this sacred oasis. #2019travel #bucketlistreboot #awesomepic #mytripvlog

Saint Peter's Basilica is a true masterpiece of religious and architectural excellence. As you approach the towering façade, its magnificence takes your breath away. Step inside, and you are greeted by a sanctuary of unparalleled beauty and spirituality. The grandeur of the dome, designed by Michelangelo, reaches for the heavens, inviting you to contemplate the mysteries of faith and transcendence. Saint Peter's Basilica is more than a church; it's a testament to human devotion and artistic brilliance. It stands as a beacon of faith, drawing pilgrims and visitors from all corners of the globe. Let its majestic presence inspire you, as you immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere and contemplate the profound spiritual heritage it represents. Saint Peter's Basilica is a place of pilgrimage, a sanctuary of faith, and a testament to the enduring power of art and devotion. #visitrome

All throughout Europe, one can find historical influences of the Roman Catholic Church, so a visit to The Vatican will surely be unforgettable. I was immediately awestruck walking toward St. Peter’s Square and seeing the massive Basilica and long lines of people waiting to enter. Inside was even more amazing, with so many precious works of art and gold. Do take note that women must have shoulders and legs covered (security will turn people away at the entrance if they do not have proper attire). #solotravel #vaticancity #vatican

As the sun sets and the crowds disperse, St. Peter's Square in Vatican takes on a whole new ambiance. The stunning colonnade and the central obelisk light up, casting a golden glow over the square. Take a leisurely stroll around the fountains and admire the breathtaking Basilica in the tranquil atmosphere. Experience the magic of this iconic landmark without the crowds and bask in the peacefulness of St. Peter's Square after dark.

The Gregorian Egyptian Museum is one of the most popular exhibitions in Vatican Museums. It was established by pope Gregory XVI who was passionate about Egypt. There were different themes, such as galleries that display funeral supplies and memorabilia of the dead, and mummies. My favorite part is the Egyptian artifacts during the Roman period. Such an educational trip to know more about the richness of Egyptian art and culture. Address: Vatican Boulevard - 00165 Vatican City (Rome) Ambiance/Facilities: 8/10 Rating: 4/5 #tripblazers #vatican

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. It is a must visit attraction in Rome. The interior was decorated with marble. I was amazed by the wall paintings. You can see many notable artworks here, including Michelangelo. The basement was the tomb for popes. The public can now visit the tomb of Pope Benedict XVI. It is free admission. You may need to queue due to the crowds. The wait could be up to 1 hour during peak seasons. Address: St. Peter's Square - 00120 Vatican City (Rome) Ambiance/Facilities: 10/10 Ticket Price: Euro 21 per adult Rating: 5/5 #tripblazers #vatican

Do you want to attend "meet and greet" with the Pope? Then you definitely have to plan a visit to Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican (St. Peter's Basilica) on a Sunday! Of course, the exact "meeting place" is actually the St. Peter's Square at noon and it is best to check his schedule on the website in case he is not in town. However, in the morning, you can also purchase tickets to either walk up the stairs or take elevator to see the dome of St. Peter's. From the dome, everyone attending the Sunday mass looks tiny but you can still hear the singing and sermon very vividly! Spend some time and then gather at the Square to wave to the Pope. #celebratewithtrip #vatican

Truly the heart of the Vatican City, St. Peter's Square was redesigned by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the mid-17th century. It was done under the order of Pope Alexander VII, so that the greatest number of people were able to witness the Pope giving his blessing. The most prominent feature of the Square is the rows of colonnades which give the square an elliptical shape. To have a clearer view, one can go up to the dome to capture this perfectly on camera or own eyes. At the centre of the Square is a massive obelisk from Ancient Egypt and was used to decorate a city in Ancient Egypt. #celebratewithtrip #vatican

I have visited Rome once and rest assured I will be going back. There is so much to experience in this beautiful city. We've spent an entire day in Vatican City alone. Went to St. Peter’s Basilica one of the churches many tourists flock to as part of the Rome experience. Understandably, they are must-see venues of the city. I was in awe walking through the halls. There was beauty at every corner. The ceilings displayed intricate religious paintings. Then we visited the Colosseum (a must visit place when you're in Rome) and also Trevi Fountain. The fountain is so beautiful with a number of sculptures and the ornate building face. This place is so packed with people and tourists but it is absolutely worth the visiting. In conclusion, Rome is a fantastic destination regardless of the occasion. Whether exploring the streets, tasting the local cuisine, admiring the architecture and artworks, or exploring and learning about its rich history, there is something for everyone to see/do in the city. Give yourself a treat and go experience breathtaking Rome. #CelebrateWithTrip #tripblazers

There are many remarkable works of art and wonderful attractions housed in the Pio-Clementino Museum in Vatican City, but few are as well-known as Bramante's Staircase. In the Vatican Museums, there are in fact two stairs with the same name. The contemporary Bramante's Staircase was constructed in 1932 and was modeled after the original, which was constructed in 1505. considered a revolutionary architectural marvel of its time, with the recognizable spiral structure that has garnered renown throughout time. Fortunately, the Bramante's Staircase of today is completely accessible to the general public. This stairway, which is also a part of the Pio-Clementino Museum, serves as a marker for the conclusion of a museum tour and the exit for all visitors. Standing at the very top of this massive staircase and watching crowds of people descend to the lower floor is very amazing. Giuseppe Momo created this staircase in 1932, and it has many of the same characteristics as the original. Although in this situation it only enables two distinct groups of people to descend together, it nevertheless replicates the double helix structure. It does, however, include low-profile steps for all visitors and is not a ramp like the original. #bucketlistreboot #museums #vaticancity #italy #cityexplorer

to reach the museum is very easy, by metro or by bus, there's also the possibility by taxi but the traffic in Rome is very bad. I went by metro and I bought the ticket in the metro station, you can buy also via internet and get better price. the queue wasn't too long that day so I could enter without waiting time once you're inside, the atmosphere is majestic, every room is very special and you will spend a lot of time to check every details. also ther#summervacation #museum #holidayvacation #rome #vaticancity

#passionpassport ❓Did you know the largest church in the world is in the smallest country in the world? ℹ️ St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica Papale di San Pietro in Vaticano) in the Vatican City 🇻🇦 is the largest church in the world. St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica Papale di San Pietro in Vaticano) is a real masterpiece and a must see during your visit. It is one of the holiest temples for Christendom. This is the largest church in the world and the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture, dating back from 4th century AD. This place is huge and can accommodate 20,000 people. Inside, you will find impressive pieces of art including St. Peter’s Baldachin, a large bronze baldachin designed by Bernini, The Pietà, a sculpture by Michelangelo and the statue of St Peter on his throne. One of the most impressive parts of the Basilica is the dome, which was designed by Michelangelo.

Four of the Old Testament images on the ceiling were painted by Raphael himself, but he was now starting to rely more on his students, who would use his meticulous designs to paint "his" work. Between 1511 and 1514, the artist worked in this room, eventually replacing the grotesques in the center of the ceiling with four scenes from the Old Testament. The Pact between God and Noah is situated between Leo the Great and Attila (Gen. 7, 1 ft.). The Sacrifice of Isaac (Gen. 22, 1–14), Moses before the Burning Bush (Es. 3, I–), and Jacob's Ladder (10.28, 1024) are in order clockwise. Early in the 18th century, Carlo Marita repainted the little panels that Raphael had originally designed. From the time of the apostles in the Old Testament to the late Christian and medieval periods, the episodes in the large frescoes illustrate the miraculous protection given by God to the Church and his people. #passionpassport #italy #cityoverlook #italy #europe #frescoes #famousartist

The Raphael's Rooms are without a doubt one of the highlights of the Vatican Museums, possibly coming in second only to the Sistine Chapel. The rooms served as Pope Julius II's personal quarters, and he gave Raphael the contract for the paintings. They were painted by the Urbino painter from 1508 till his death in 1520. His students carried on the job until 1524 after his death. The Stanza della Segnatura (Room of Signature), which served as Julius II's personal library, is the most well-known space. The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament (theology), The School of Athens (philosophy), The Parnassus (poetry), and The Cardinal Virtues are only a few of the four frescoes that depict the four major areas of knowledge (Law). The Stanza di Eliodoro ("Room of Heliodorus"), which was painted by the artist between 1511 and 1514, is the second room. With God's involvement in people's lives, the Church's spiritual and temporal power is elevated here. As an illustration, consider The Expulsion of Heliodorus from the Temple, in which Heliodorus of Antioch is seen being flogged by angels for attempting to profane the Temple of Jerusalem. The Stanza dell'Incendio di Borgo and the Sala di Costantino are the other spaces where the students of Raphael are more active in their intervention. #passionpassport #italy #cityoverlook #museumquest #paintings #frescoes #romeitaly

Pope Pius VII (born Barnaba Chiaramonti), who established the Vatican Museums, is honored by having his museum, the Chiaramonti Museum, bear his name. There are about a thousand sculptures there, including busts of Roman generals, statues, and replicas of gods and emperors. Antonio Canova, a sculptor, founded it in 1807. Famous Roman statues can be found at the Braccio Nuovo, the building's newest section, which opened in 1822. The statue of Augustus discovered at Prima Porta, two magnificent bronze peacocks, a Roman replica of the Doriforo, and the statue of the Nile, which shows the vast Egyptian river and its tributaries, are some of the prominent pieces in the Chiaramonti Museum. #passionpassport #art #ancientsculptures #rome #italy #cityoverlook #europetravel

St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Rome Italy and is truly one of the landmarks of this great city. The city of Rome has a strong prominent nickname as well, “The Eternal City”. This basilica is sacred and many devout practitioners visit this located every year in order to congregate and celebrate what they believe. some can hike to the top of the basilica as well as take an elevator however, it is a bit of a climb up. The view from the top of the dome is gorgeous and one of the best views that Rome has to offer in this 360 degree Dome. If you happen to be in Rome be sure to take a visit to the Basilica because it is worth every penny. #europe #italy #rome #basilica #vacation

#autumnbeauty The scene gave off Beauty and the Beast vibes. I captured a photo of a classic lamp, a monument, and a side angle resembling a castle, evoking a fairytale charm. The ornate lamp cast a warm glow, while the monument stood proud, rooted in history. The castle-like silhouette completed the magical atmosphere, making me feel transported to a timeless storybook world. This blend of enchanting elements, both real and imagined, highlighted the romantic and nostalgic allure that makes such moments unforgettable.

As a huge fan of the Vatican and 'Angels & Demons,' I rushed straight to St. Peter's Square right after dropping off my luggage. The square was filled with chairs, and the LED screen displayed the Pope's public audience schedule. The Swiss Guards, who protect the Pope, stood at the entrance with their long spears. The line to enter the basilica formed a large semicircle around the square, including five winding S-shaped sections. Tour guides from various countries intermittently shared the history of the Vatican with their groups. After an hour of waiting, stepping into St. Peter's Basilica can only be described as 'woooooooow.' Seeing this sanctuary of religious art in person almost brought me to tears. Masters from the Renaissance to the Baroque period contributed to the construction of the church. Bernini's 140 biblical statues surround the square and the basilica, while Michelangelo envisioned the dome as a connection between the church and heaven, allowing heavenly light to flood the church through numerous windows. The tour guide repeatedly mentioned that, due to fire concerns, there are no paintings in the church. All the murals are mosaics, painstakingly assembled piece by piece by artisans over 120 years, involving tens of thousands of workers. Beyond its artistic value, its religious significance is even more profound. Legend has it that Peter's tomb lies directly beneath the church, which is why Michelangelo inscribed the verse 'You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church' at the base of the dome. Many Popes also wished to be buried in the basement rather than in the basilica to be closer to Peter. However, it was also because the Catholic Church needed substantial funds to rebuild St. Peter's Basilica that they began selling indulgences, indirectly sparking public criticism of the church and becoming one of the catalysts for the Reformation in 1517. It is the sanctuary of Catholicism and the starting point of Christianity. The Vatican Museums next to the church were the only pre-arranged and pre-booked visit during my two-month trip. After passing through the crowded Egyptian Museum, the somewhat incomprehensible statues, and the exquisite Gallery of Maps, I finally reached the Raphael Rooms. The most famous room is the Stanza della Segnatura, and seeing 'The School of Athens' in person was very moving. But what surprised me even more was that the three frescoes in the room (The School of Athens, The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament, and The Parnassus) each represent philosophy, theology, and poetry, embodying truth, goodness, and beauty. How could anyone conceive of using such complex yet harmonious scenes to illustrate the core ideas of the Renaissance in the Pope's office? The Sistine Chapel was smaller than I imagined, with the most famous works being the ceiling frescoes 'The Creation of Adam' and the altar fresco 'The Last Judgment.' Personally, I preferred the biblical frescoes surrounding the chapel. On the north side, Perugino's Old Testament scenes depict the life of Moses and the Exodus of the Israelites, while on the south side, Botticelli's New Testament scenes portray events from the Baptism of Christ, the Last Supper, to the Passion of Jesus. The entire chapel is like a condensed Bible, from beginning to end, with tourists caught in the middle: 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.' After the main exhibits, there is a less conspicuous gallery of cultural artifacts from various countries near the exit, showcasing gifts given to the Pope by different governments. Wandering through it, I found it fascinating how countries from the United States and China to small island nations have developed different cultural beliefs in response to their unique geographical environments and have tried to record their existence in various media using their own languages. The world is vast, yet it feels so small. The museum's collection is extensive, but the quality of the visit is poor, with tour groups from various countries crowding every corner. I envy those who can join tour groups; I also want to hear passionate explanations in Chinese! Finally, I must commend all the staff at the Vatican. They were professional and courteous in their interactions, especially the guide in the Sistine Chapel, who managed the flow of visitors with enthusiasm despite the chaos of tourists ignoring instructions and taking photos. Thank you for the hospitality.

Pula, a stunning coastal city located in the heart of Istria, Croatia, is a captivating blend of ancient history and breathtaking natural landscapes. Famous for its remarkably preserved Roman architecture, including the iconic Pula Arena—one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world—this city invites you to step back in time. Wander through the charming streets of the old town, where remnants of its rich past, such as the Temple of Augustus and the Triumphal Arch of the Sergii, await exploration. Pula also boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The vibrant local markets offer delicious seafood and Istrian delicacies that are a must-try. With its unique combination of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, Pula is a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Croatian experience. #Pula #croatia #vatican

The Vatican is one of the most beautiful buildings in the planet. It is a must see on any travelers list. Just a couple things to know before you go: -Wear pants. If your knees aren’t covered, you can’t go in. -Bring water. In the summer, Italy is incredibly hot. -Bring your walking shoes. Rome only has two metro lines. You will walk a lot. -Takes lots of pictures. The Vatican is such a memorable place to see. Hope this helps for your trip seeing Rome! It’s worth every penny! #churches #travel #100waysoftravel #thingstodo #italy

#europetrip Ever wondered which is the smallest country in the world? The answer is of course Vatican City, which is the seat of the Holy See and the Pope. The Vatican is entered through the Saint Peter's Square with the St Peter's Basilica facing towards the square. It is by now the biggest church in the world, the head of the Roman Catholic Church of the 1.4 billion Catholics in the world. The construction of the Basilica began on 1506 and completed on 18 November 1626. It is also a notable place of pilgrimage and important lithurgical function, and also a site for the Pope to receive special audience. The Pope will be giving an audience every Wednesday and Sunday. The Basilica is built upon the burial site of St Peter, the first disciple of Jesus, and the crypt belowis also the resting place of many Martyrs.

Having come to Rome, how can one miss the St. Peter's Basilica? This largest church in the world is located in the smallest country in the world. It is a 'city within a city' in Rome, and entering from Rome feels not at all like leaving the country, but rather like walking from one neighborhood to another. ⛪️ But this church is one of the most famous churches in the world. 🎫 Tickets: Visiting St. Peter's Basilica is free, but if you want to climb to the top, you need a ticket for 8 euros per person. ⌚️ It is recommended to come early in the morning to visit, otherwise, whether entering the church or climbing to the top, you will have to wait in a long line. Climbing to the top is highly recommended, although it requires walking up 551 steps, and the staircase is very narrow and tiring. Alternatively, you can choose the elevator + stairs option, which costs 10 euros per person, but you still have to climb 320 steps after getting off the elevator. Although it's tiring, the view from the top is really great, so be sure to bring a camera! ⚠️ Note: St. Peter's Basilica has certain dress requirements: Tops must have sleeves and should not expose the shoulders. Bottoms must be knee-length pants or a long skirt. ⛪️ Recommended visiting route: Egyptian Gallery - Pinecone Courtyard - New Wing Corridor - Octagonal Courtyard - Muse Hall - Hall of the Gods - Gallery of Maps - Raphael's Rooms - xi Sistine Chapel

Beautiful little country just a stone throw away from Rome city. Designed well and maintained well. Pope ceremony was a great experience. #instatravel #Vaticancity

During our trip in Italy, we specially arranged the tour to Vatican when we were in Rome. Vatican is almost the smallest country in the world and it’s surrounded by Rome, we booked the tickets online for visiting this museum and having breakfast here in advance, so if you’d like to enjoy the same experience with us, please don’t forget to book, or otherwise maybe you need to queue in a long line outside. #cherryblossom2024

How good is to walk in between those amazing roofs and all that religious energy? Even if you are not catholic (as I am not), is just a pleasure seeing all that magic happening there #italy #Vatican

"Rome's wonders captivated my soul! Vatican Museums' artistry left me in awe. Trevi Fountain, a timeless masterpiece. The Colosseum's grandeur echoes through history. Arch of Constantine's triumph stands proud. Vittoriano's majesty, breathtaking. Saint Peter's Basilica, a spiritual haven. Pantheon's ancient allure, mesmerizing. Each site, a chapter of Rome's eternal charm! 🏛️🇮🇹 #RomanSplendors #travelmagic #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks

1. Ciao Roma 🇮🇹 Felix has been to Rome when he was 1.5 years old and it felt so good to be finally back (now he‘s 6) 2. We parked the car outside of town and used public transport to travel into the center 🚂 Italian trains and metros are dog friendly but it‘s definitely not Felix‘ favorite way to travel. He often gets nervous when we are entering underground stations. Anyways, he behaved so so good and we were very proud of him 😍 3. Slurps from one of many water fountains in Rome (water is save to drink) 💦 4. Felix barked at a police officer at the Vatican 🙈 Oops. Well, he asked if Felix is a Chow Chow🤪 5. Taking romantic pictures at the Colosseum 🌹 6. Hotel life 🛁 7. Gelato is simply the best 🍦 8. Felix threw 2 coins into the Trevi fountain (it‘s said that you will fall in love with an Italian afterwards 🙊) 9. Zoomies at the Spanish steps 🌸 10. Tail down = exhausted bear 🐻❄️ We made more than 30k steps in Rome every day 🥵 Our days were very packed during the past week so we are really looking forward to enjoy some quite time in nature again this week 🤗 #weeklyrecap #rome #travel #italy #spanishsteps #roma cr：wanderlust_samoyed& Contact us for removal

#freehotelstay #vaticanmuseum

As a lover of history and art, visiting the Vatican was a dream come true. This tiny, independent city-state within Rome is home to a treasure trove of artistic and cultural masterpieces, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler with an appreciation for the finer things in life. My journey began with a visit to the Vatican Museums, a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries. From the exquisite sculptures of the Belvedere Courtyard to the mesmerizing Raphael Rooms, each gallery was a feast for the senses. But the true highlight of the museums was the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's masterpiece that left me speechless. The ceiling's vibrant frescoes, depicting scenes from the Old Testament, were breathtaking in their scale and detail. I stood in awe, marveling at the artist's genius and the sheer power of his work. Next, I ventured into St. Peter's Square, the vast expanse that surrounds St. Peter's Basilica. The square's grandeur was evident from the moment I stepped onto its marble expanse. The towering dome of the Basilica, a symbol of the Catholic Church, dominated the skyline, and the crowds of pilgrims and tourists added to the sense of awe and reverence. Inside St. Peter's Basilica, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the building. The cavernous interior, adorned with marble and gold, was filled with a hushed reverence. I walked past the many chapels, each with its own unique history and artwork, and eventually made my way to the Pietà, Michelangelo's sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Jesus. The sculpture's beauty and emotion were overwhelming, and I found myself standing there for several minutes, simply taking in the artistry. My Vatican adventure ended with a climb to the top of St. Peter's Basilica, where I was rewarded with breathtaking views of Rome. The city spread out before me like a miniature model, its landmarks etched against the horizon. I stood there for a long time, savoring the view and reflecting on the incredible experiences I had just had. Visiting the Vatican was a truly unforgettable experience. It was a journey through time and art, a chance to immerse myself in the rich history and culture of one of the world's oldest and most influential institutions. I left the Vatican feeling inspired and enriched, with a newfound appreciation for the power of art and faith.#vatican #rome #italy #vaticancity