Welcome to the Vatican, a city unlike any other. Home to the Catholic Church, the Vatican is an independent city-state that has been a hub of religious and political power since the 4th century. A world-renowned tourist destination, the Vatican has something to offer visitors of all backgrounds and interests. From its art-filled churches and museums to its lush gardens and incredible architecture, there is no shortage of things to experience in this iconic city.

For first-time visitors, the most important thing to remember is that the Vatican is an incredibly complex place – with its own laws and ways of doing things. To get the most out of your visit, we recommend taking a guided tour so you can really understand the history and culture of this unique city. With that in mind, let’s dive into some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss.

The Sistine Chapel

No trip to the Vatican is complete without visiting the Sistine Chapel. This incredible chapel was painted by the renowned Renaissance artist Michelangelo at the request of Pope Julius II. With its breathtaking frescoes and iconic ceiling, the chapel has inspired countless generations since it was completed in 1512.

The Sistine Chapel is open to the public, but visitors must follow a strict dress code and maintain silence throughout their visit. It’s also important to note that photography is not allowed inside the chapel. Visitors can take photos in the Sistine Chapel courtyard outside, but should remain respectful of other tourists and security guards.

The Vatican Museums

Another must-see attraction in the Vatican City is the Vatican Museums. With over 54 galleries (and growing!), the museums are home to some of the most important works of art in history. From ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to Renaissance paintings and religious artifacts, there’s something for everyone in this massive collection.

The Vatican Museums are also very popular among tourists, so it’s important to plan ahead if you’re looking to avoid long lines. We recommend buying tickets online in advance or booking a guided tour so you can bypass the lines and enjoy your experience without any hassle.

St. Peter’s Basilica

No visit to the Vatican would be complete without a trip to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world and a symbol of Catholic faith for many centuries. This impressive building was designed by some of the most famous Renaissance artists, including Michelangelo and Bramante, and features a stunning baroque interior with intricate marble floors and beautiful frescoes.

Visitors can explore St. Peter’s Basilica on their own or book a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. We recommend doing some research beforehand so you know what to look out for while exploring this incredible building.

Vatican Gardens

If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience in the Vatican City, then be sure to visit the stunning Vatican Gardens. This beautiful outdoor space is filled with lush greenery, fountains, sculptures, and more – making it the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or picnic.

The gardens are open to the public from Monday to Saturday, with guided tours available for visitors who want to learn more about their history and architecture. Be sure to dress appropriately for your visit and take plenty of photos so you can look back on your time in this tranquil oasis.

Vatican Grottoes

For a truly unique experience, we recommend exploring the Vatican Grottoes – an underground network of tombs located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. The grottoes are home to several popes and other prominent figures from history, making them a fascinating place to explore and learn more about their lives and legacies.

Visitors can explore the grottoes on their own or book a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. Be sure to dress appropriately for your visit and take plenty of photos so you can look back on your time at this special place.

Popular Tours

With so much to see and do in the Vatican City, it can be hard to decide where to start – which is why we recommend booking a guided tour! Here are two popular tours we recommend for first-time visitors:

Vatican Highlights Tour

This 2-hour tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to get an overview of all the main sites in the Vatican City. You’ll explore some of its most famous attractions, including St. Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums, with an experienced guide who will provide interesting facts and anecdotes about each site along the way. Book your Vatican Highlights Tour here.

Vatican Private Experience

For a more intimate experience, we recommend booking a private tour of the Vatican City. You’ll explore its top attractions with an expert guide who will provide plenty of interesting information about its history and architecture – all while avoiding the large crowds that tend to flock to these sites during peak season. Book your Vatican Private Experience here.

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone in this incredible city! From its breathtaking churches and museums to its lush gardens and incredible architecture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this iconic destination – so be sure to plan ahead and make the most out of your visit!