Things To Do In Vatican

The Vatican is a city state located within Rome, Italy, and is home to the Pope and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. It is one of the most visited places in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year with its rich culture, architecture, and history. It is a unique place to explore, with many things to do and see. This guide provides an overview of the top activities and attractions in the Vatican, and includes detailed descriptions of popular tours and activities.

Introduction to the Vatican City

The Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world, and is a walled enclave within the city of Rome. It covers an area of approximately 44 hectares and has a population of around 1,000 people. It is one of the most famous places in the world, and is home to a vast array of religious and cultural attractions, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museums, and the Papal Palace.

The Vatican City has a rich history, having been established as an independent state in 1929 by the Lateran Treaty between Italy and the Holy See. It has remained an independent state ever since and is now home to the Pope and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Vatican is known for its wealth of culture and art, with many of its most famous attractions being located within its walls. It is also home to a number of unique religious attractions, such as St. Peter’s Basilica, where the Pope presides over mass, and the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo painted some of his most famous artwork.

Top 10 Things To Do In The Vatican

There are a multitude of things to do in the Vatican City that are sure to delight any traveler. Here are 10 of the top things to do in the Vatican:

1. St Peter’s Basilica

St Peter’s Basilica is one of the most famous churches in the world. It was built in the 16th century by Michelangelo and Brunelleschi and is considered one of the greatest works of Renaissance architecture. It is also home to some of the world’s most renowned artworks and sculptures, including Michelangelo’s Pietà. Visitors can admire the grandeur of this impressive basilica by taking a guided tour.

2. The Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is an awe-inspiring work of Renaissance art. Michelangelo painted the ceiling and walls of this chapel between 1508 and 1512 and it is now considered one of his most iconic works. Visitors can admire Michelangelo’s works up close on a guided tour or private visit.

3. The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s greatest works of art, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces. The collections are spread over nine different museums, each offering something unique for visitors to explore. Popular attractions include the Raphael Rooms, Pinacoteca (Picture Gallery), and Egyptian Museum.

4. The Vatican Gardens

The Vatican Gardens are an oasis in the heart of Rome. This spectacular garden covers an area of approximately 50 acres and is home to a variety of flowers, plants, and trees. Visitors can explore this tranquil spot on a guided tour or simply take a leisurely stroll.

5. Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo is a mighty fortress located on the banks of the Tiber River. It was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD but was later transformed into a military fortress in 590 AD. Visitors can explore this impressive castle on a guided tour or by taking a leisurely stroll along its fortified walls.

6. The Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of Rome’s best-preserved ancient structures. This magnificent building was constructed in AD 118 by Emperor Hadrian and is now considered one of Rome’s architectural masterpieces. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful frescoes and sculptures as well as its famous oculus (open window).

7. Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s most famous squares, located in the heart of the city. This picturesque piazza is home to several impressive fountains as well as numerous cafes and restaurants which offer a great spot for people-watching or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee or gelato.

8. The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most iconic sights, connecting Piazza di Spagna with Piazza Trinità dei Monti. This impressive staircase is lined with cafes and shops where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or gelato while admiring the view from this scenic spot.

9. Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, located in Piazza di Trevi. It was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi in 1762 and features an intricate fountain with Baroque sculptures depicting scenes from Roman mythology. Visitors can admire this impressive fountain while throwing coins into its waters (it is said that doing so will ensure that you return to Rome).

10. Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic sights, located in the city center near Piazza Venezia. This magnificent amphitheater was erected by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and was once used for gladiator fights and public spectacles such as animal hunts and executions. Visitors can explore this impressive structure on a guided tour or simply admire it from outside its walls.

Popular Tours in Vatican

Visiting the Vatican can be overwhelming due to its vast array of attractions and cultural sites, so taking a tour can be a great way to make sure that you don’t miss out on any of its highlights. Here are two popular tours that will help you experience all that the Vatican has to offer:

Vatican Tours Private Tour

This private tour offers an intimate experience of the Vatican City, tailored for each individual group or family. On this tour you will have your own private guide who will take you through some of its most notable attractions, such as St Peter’s Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, The Raphael Rooms, The Vatican Museums, The Pinacoteca (Picture Gallery), and more. You will also have time to explore some of its lesser-known attractions such as the gardens and courtyards which are normally off-limits to visitors without special permission. This tour also includes skip-the-line access so that you don’t have to wait in long queues at popular attractions such as St Peter’s Basilica or The Sistine Chapel. Book a Vatican Tours Private Tour here.

Vatican City Walking Tour

This walking tour takes visitors through some of the highlights of the Vatican City on foot, such as St Peter’s Square, The Sistine Chapel, The Raphael Rooms, The Pinacoteca (Picture Gallery), The Vatican Museums, The Papal Palace, Castel Sant’Angelo, The Pantheon, and more. This tour offers an intimate experience which allows visitors to explore hidden gems such as secret courtyards and gardens that are normally off-limits to visitors without special permission. This tour also includes skip-the-line access so that you don’t have to wait in long queues at popular attractions such as St Peter’s Square or The Sistine Chapel. Book a Vatican City Walking Tour here.

Conclusion

The Vatican City is an incredible place to visit with many things to do and see for every type of traveler – from art lovers to history buffs or those looking for a spiritual experience. There are many attractions within its walls that are sure to delight any visitor, from St Peter’s Basilica to The Sistine Chapel or The Pantheon or Piazza Navona. Taking a guided tour is a great way to make sure that you don’t miss out on any of its highlights, and there are plenty of tours available that cater to different interests such as private tours or walking tours. So if you’re planning a trip to Rome, make sure to set aside some time to explore all that the Vatican City has to offer!