Vatican Things To Do: A Guide for First-Time Travellers

One of the most unique cities in the world, the Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent country and the spiritual home of the Roman Catholic Church. Located in the heart of Rome, it is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike, who come to experience its history and culture, and to explore the many attractions within its walls. For those who are visiting the city for the first time, here is a guide to all the things to do in Vatican City, from the must-see attractions to the most popular activities and tours.

Must-See Attractions

The Vatican City is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world, and one of the four major basilicas of Rome. It is a stunningly beautiful and breathtakingly grand, and a must-see for anyone visiting the Vatican City. As for the Sistine Chapel, it is one of the most famous pieces of art in the world, with its stunning frescoes by Michelangelo. It is a pilgrimage site for many Catholics, and a must-see for anyone visiting the Vatican City.

Other must-see attractions in the Vatican City include the Vatican Museums, the Raphael Rooms, the Vatican Gardens, and the Vatican Library. The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s most priceless works of art, including the famous Sistine Chapel. The Raphael Rooms, on the other hand, are a collection of four beautiful frescoes by the famous Renaissance artist, Raphael. The Vatican Gardens, meanwhile, are a stunning oasis of nature in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city, and the Vatican Library is a treasure trove of books and manuscripts.

Popular Activities & Tours

The Vatican City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and there are a number of activities and tours that you can do while you’re there. One of the most popular activities is the Vatican Museums Tour, which takes you on a guided tour of the Vatican Museums and its priceless works of art. There is also the Sistine Chapel Tour, which takes you through the stunningly beautiful frescoes of the Sistine Chapel.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, there is the Vatican Gardens Tour, which takes you on a guided tour of the stunning gardens of the Vatican. You can also go on a private or group tour of the Vatican Library, or take a guided tour of the Raphael Rooms. For the more adventurous, there is the Vatican Catacombs Tour, which takes you on a guided tour of the ancient underground tombs.

For those who want to experience the spiritual side of the Vatican, there are a number of activities that you can do. You can take a guided tour of the Papal Apartments, attend a papal audience, or attend one of the many Masses and liturgies held in the Vatican. You can also visit some of the other churches in the Vatican, such as the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls and the Basilica of St. John Lateran.

Shopping & Dining

The Vatican City is home to a number of shops and restaurants, making it a perfect destination for those who want to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat. You can find a wide variety of souvenir shops and gift shops, selling everything from books to jewelry to clothing. There are also a few restaurants in the area, such as the Trattoria Pizzeria in St. Peter’s Square and the Albergo Ristorante in the Vatican Gardens.

Additional Tips for First-Time Travellers

When travelling to the Vatican City, it is important to remember that it is a sovereign state and has its own laws and regulations. It is important to dress conservatively, as shorts and tank tops are not allowed in the Vatican. Additionally, it is best to plan ahead, as queues can be long for some of the top attractions, such as the Sistine Chapel or the Vatican Museums. Lastly, it is important to research the currency, as the Vatican City uses the Euro, and not the Italian Lira.

Conclusion

From its iconic landmarks to its stunning gardens, the Vatican City is a place of beauty and history. With its must-see attractions, its multitude of activities and tours, and its shopping and dining options, the Vatican City is a top destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. Make sure you take the time to explore all that the Vatican City has to offer, and you are sure to have an unforgettable experience.