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Top 10 attractions in Vatican

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Vatican Museums
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Vatican Museums

10
4.6/5
1.7k reviews
The Vatican Museums are one of the world's oldest museums, housing ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts as well as Renaissance art treasures. They are a museum containing priceless gems. Although the Vatican Museums are not large in area, their collections are numerous and truly masterpieces. For example, Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam" is housed here and is well worth seeing. At the same time, for archaeology enthusiasts, the museum's collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts is also worthy of study. Of course, in addition to the collections, the museum's architecture is also noteworthy. The ancient, wall-like exterior walls, the spiral ramp at the exit, and the sculpture "The Broken Earth" in the Pinecone Courtyard are all worth appreciating. The Vatican Museums, located in Vatican City, are a world-renowned comprehensive museum complex whose collections span from ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman civilizations to Renaissance art. Its origins can be traced back to the early 16th century when Pope Julius II brought the unearthed Laocoön sculpture to the palace for public display. It expanded continuously over the centuries and now comprises numerous galleries and art installations. The visitor flow is generally one-way: entering from the Pinecone Courtyard, one passes through the sculpture gallery, tapestry gallery, and map gallery, ending at the Sistine Chapel. Classical sculptures are widely recognized as the museum's highlight. The Laocoön and Apollo in the Octagonal Courtyard have been classics repeatedly copied and interpreted since their excavation; the Broken Body in the Hall of Muses, though only the torso remains, still evokes a vibrant life force that profoundly influenced Michelangelo's work. The Egyptian collection contains mummies and stone carvings from thousands of years ago, while the Etruscan collection gathers artifacts from early Italian civilizations. Upon entering, the first place you arrive at is the Pinecone Courtyard, where Arnaldo Pomodoro's bronze sculpture "The Broken Earth," next to a 4-meter-high bronze pine cone, is a popular first photo opportunity for many visitors. The Renaissance section is equally dazzling. The Raphael Room, originally the papal bedroom, features frescoes in four interconnected halls. The "School of Athens" in the Signature Hall, which brings together philosophers like Plato and Aristotle in a single scene, is considered one of the masterpieces of the High Renaissance. The Tapestry Gallery boasts nearly 20 tapestries woven by Brussels artisans based on Raphael's sketches, while the Map Gallery features walls covered with massive maps of Italy and a magnificent ceiling—all worthy of careful observation. Finally, the Sistine Chapel, the grand finale, features Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam" ceiling fresco above, and the "Last Judgment" behind the altar is equally breathtaking. Photography is prohibited inside the chapel, allowing for peaceful contemplation. A few tips: It usually takes more than half a day to complete the entire tour, so when it's crowded, it's recommended to prioritize your energy and time for the Sistine Chapel; the painting gallery next to the entrance courtyard is not on the main tour route, but Raphael's "Transfiguration" and Leonardo da Vinci's unfinished "Saint Jerome" are housed here, so it's easy to miss them when you're in a hurry; at the exit before leaving the museum, the double helix ramp designed by Momo is itself an architectural work, and taking photos from the top of the ramp is a very popular spot for taking pictures of this museum.Vatican · Vatican
Saint Peter’s Basilica
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Vatican

Saint Peter’s Basilica

9.5
4.7/5
1.3k reviews
Saint Peter's Basilica is located in the Vatican and serves as the central sanctuary of the Catholic world, traditionally believed to be built on the burial site of Saint Peter. The current church was constructed in the early 16th century, taking over a hundred years to complete, with Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Raphael contributing to its design. It can accommodate tens of thousands of worshippers simultaneously. The central dome, designed by Michelangelo, spans over 40 m in diameter and stands more than 130 m tall, towering as one of Rome's most recognizable landmarks. The expansive square in front is encircled by a colonnade topped with statues of saints, creating a majestic atmosphere. The facade features five gates, from right to left: the Holy Door, the Door of the Sacraments, the Central Door, the Door of Good and Evil, and the Door of Death, each adorned with reliefs of biblical figures and stories. The Holy Door opens only during Jubilee years, typically every 25 years, and remains closed otherwise. Inside the nave, massive pillars divide the central aisle from the side passages, with arches between them covered in sculptures and decorations so lavish they take one's breath away. The interior is an artistic treasure trove, with three masterpieces not to be missed: Michelangelo's "Pietà," housed in a small chapel to the right of the entrance, depicts the Virgin Mary cradling Christ's body with solemn restraint—now viewable only behind protective glass; the bronze baldachin above the main altar, crafted by Bernini, features four spiral columns approx. 20 m tall supporting a nearly 30 m-high structure, adorned with a white dove at its center and guardian angels at the corners, surrounded by eternal lamps; and Bernini's "Chair of Saint Peter" at the far end of the nave, where a gilded bronze throne is crowned by cherubs encircling a stained-glass window with a white dove, radiating light. Additionally, the bronze statue of Saint Peter inside has had its right foot polished shiny by generations of visitors, making it a bustling spot. To reach the top, follow the passage marked "Cupola" to the right of the entrance: the full climb involves over 500 narrow spiral steps, though an elevator can take you partway, leaving about 300 steps to ascend. The dome's interior is adorned with exquisitely detailed mosaic panels arranged in petal-like layers. From the circular platform inside the dome, you can overlook the entire nave, then climb a narrow staircase to the outdoor terrace for panoramic views of Rome, including a close-up look at the 13 statues on the facade's cornice, with Christ holding the cross at the center. If visiting on a Sunday, you might witness the Pope leading prayers in the square, adding a special memory to this itinerary.Vatican · Vatican
Sistine Chapel
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Vatican

Sistine Chapel

7.6
4.8/5
330 reviews
The Sistine Chapel is located in the Vatican. It serves as the chapel for the Catholic pope and the venue for the secret election of new popes—when white smoke rises from the chimney on the roof during an election, it signifies the birth of a new pope. The chapel was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the 1470s and consecrated in 1483. It measures over forty m in length and approx. thirteen m in width, with no supporting columns inside. Six semicircular arched windows are set high on each side wall, while a towering vaulted dome spans overhead. Light pours in from above, perfectly illuminating the frescoes on the walls and ceiling. What made it world-famous are the two sets of frescoes Michelangelo left here. Commissioned by Pope Julius II at just 33 years old, he spent over four years painting the Genesis-inspired ceiling on the high vault, with nine scenes arranged in reverse narrative order, surrounded by figures of prophets and sibyls. More than two decades later, now in his sixties, he returned to the chapel and spent approx. five years painting The Last Judgment on the entire wall behind the altar. These frescoes are hailed as "the divine comedy of painting history." Standing in the chapel and looking up, the densely packed figures and dynamic compositions create a powerful impact. During your visit, note these details: The ceiling is about 20 m above the ground, making brushstrokes hard to discern with the naked eye—bringing a small telescope will reveal finer details. To protect the frescoes, photography and videography are prohibited inside the chapel, and silence is required, so allocate ample time for quiet contemplation. The side walls are equally noteworthy, featuring Botticelli's The Trials of Moses, Rosselli's The Crossing of the Red Sea, and Perugino's depiction of Moses' departure. Together with the ceiling fresco and The Last Judgment, they form a comprehensive collection of Renaissance murals.Vatican · Vatican
Cupola di San Pietro
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Cupola di San Pietro

5.9
5.0/5
18 reviews
The Cupola di San Pietro has an inner diameter of approximately 42m and covers the entire basilica. The history of this great dome spans a century of twists and turns. It was first designed by Bramante in 1506, and after his death in 1514, Raphael took over. Six years later, Raphael also passed away. The church authorities, drawing inspiration from Gothic design for the top of the basilica and emphasizing the contrast between light and shadow, adopted rose windows. Consequently, the dome was canceled due to considerations regarding the light contrast effect at the entrance of the basilica. Later, at the age of 71, Michelangelo took over the work and restored the dome in the name of "love for God, the Virgin Mary, and St. Peter." There are 11 statues on the cornice of the dome, with the statue of Jesus Christ in the center. On either side of the cornice, there is a clock; the one on the right shows Greenwich Mean Time, and the one on the left shows Rome time. The great dome is one of the symbols of Rome.Vatican · Vatican
Saint Peter's Square
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Vatican

Saint Peter's Square

5.2
4.7/5
479 reviews
Saint Peter's Square is the central square and an important site for Catholic pilgrimages and religious activities. It was primarily constructed in the 17th century and is situated directly in front of the basilica. The area is spacious, and the overall layout is solemn and symmetrical, echoing the magnificent facade of the basilica and reflecting the artistic characteristics of Baroque architecture that seeks grandeur, spatial depth, and visual impact. Today, it is the main venue for the Pope's public audiences, important religious ceremonies, and festive events. Tourists and pilgrims from all over the world gather here to admire the square's architecture, sculptures, and the magnificent exterior of the basilica.Vatican · Vatican
Raphael Rooms
Selected for Best Things to Do in Vatican

Raphael Rooms

4.9
4.7/5
38 reviews
Raphael Rooms are a suite of interconnected rooms that formed the public part of the papal apartments. They typically include four main rooms: the Hall of Constantine, the Room of Heliodorus, the Room of the Segnatura, and the Room of the Fire in the Borgo. Among them, the Room of the Segnatura houses Raphael's masterpiece, "The School of Athens." "The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament," located in the same room, expresses Christian theological thought and forms an artistic layout that corresponds with "The School of Athens." Today, this is an important part of the museum tour route, where visitors can admire the details of the frescoes up close and learn about Raphael's artistic achievements, as well as the close connection between art, philosophy, and religion during the Renaissance.Vatican · Vatican
Gardens of Vatican City
No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Vatican

Gardens of Vatican City

4.5
The Vatican Gardens, located in Vatican City, are a private urban garden and park that covers more than half of the land area, located in the western part of the territory and belongs to the Pope. The gardens include buildings such as Vatican Radio and the Governor's Palace. The gardens cover an area of ​​about 23 hectares, about half of the city's area. Stone walls enclose the gardens on the north, south and west sides. The gardens and parks were built during the Renaissance and Baroque periods and are decorated with fountains and sculptures. The history of the gardens can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when orchards and vineyards extended to the north of the Apostolic Palace. In 1279, Pope Nicholas III moved his residence from the Lateran Palace back to the Vatican and surrounded the area with walls. He planted an orchard, a lawn and a garden. They first appeared near the Church of Sant'Egidio, where the courtyard of the Belvedere Palace and the museum are located today. The Vatican Gardens are a site that combines natural beauty with religious culture. It not only displays the exquisite skills of the art of horticulture, but also carries a rich historical and spiritual connotation. For tourists, a visit to the Vatican Gardens is a rare opportunity to gain insight into the cultural heritage and religious traditions of the Vatican.Vatican · Vatican
Vatican Necropolis

Vatican Necropolis

4.2
4.0/5
1 reviews
Vatican Necropolis is an underground cemetery of great historical and religious significance located in Vatican City, situated beneath the foundations of Saint Peter’s Basilica. Dating back to the 1st century, this cemetery was an important burial site during the Roman Empire, providing valuable archaeological evidence for the study of early Christianity and Roman history. A well-known part of this cemetery is the area associated with Saint Peter, who is said to be buried there. The cemetery preserves exquisite frescoes and carvings, showcasing ancient Roman artistic styles and religious symbolism. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of these historical sites through guided tours and experience their religious and cultural significance. Due to its unique historical and religious value, Vatican Necropolis attracts numerous visitors and scholars. Visits require advance booking to protect these precious sites.Vatican · Vatican
St. Peter's Baldachin
Selected for Best Things to Do in Vatican

St. Peter's Baldachin

4.1
4.8/5
7 reviews
St. Peter (Baldacchinodi San Pietro) under the canopy, also known as the bronze canopy, was completed by Bernini himself, and it is also one of the three outstanding treasures in the church collection, second only to Michelangelo's "Saint". The semi-circular balustrade in front of the canopy is permanently lit with 99 lanterns, and below it is the altar where the Pope holds mass, facing the rising sun in the east and holding the mass in front of the pilgrims. On both sides of the altar, there is a large pipe organ. When Mass is held, a low, soothing and beautiful melody is issued from the pipe organ, filling the entire hall.Vatican · Vatican
St. Peter Square Obelisk
Selected for Best Things to Do in Vatican

St. Peter Square Obelisk

4.1
4.5/5
26 reviews
The obelisk is 37 meters high and is carried by four bronze lions. It is a wordless stele, and there are no Egyptian hieroglyphs inscribed on the stele like other Roman obelisks. From the top of the cathedral overlooking the large obelisk, is a very spectacular view.Vatican · Vatican

Experiences you can't miss in Vatican

Featured Food & drink in Vatican

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Rome: Vatican Food Tours, Cooking classes & Free Tours
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Rome: Vatican Food Tours, Cooking classes & Free Tours

5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 3–4 hrs
Free cancellation
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Rome: Breakfast & Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
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Rome: Breakfast & Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

4.7/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
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Vatican: Fun Treasure Hunt for Kids and Families with Gelato
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Vatican: Fun Treasure Hunt for Kids and Families with Gelato

Duration: 2 hrs
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Highlights of Rome: E-bike Tour of the City with Gelato
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Highlights of Rome: E-bike Tour of the City with Gelato

Duration: 4 hrs
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Italian Food Tastings & Pottery Workshop
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Italian Food Tastings & Pottery Workshop

Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Rome: Chocolate Tour Artisans Specialities Gourmet Tastings
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Rome: Chocolate Tour Artisans Specialities Gourmet Tastings

Duration: 2.5 hrs
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Rome: VIP Golf Cart Food Tour
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Rome: VIP Golf Cart Food Tour

4.9/5
· 14 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
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Fettuccine & Tiramisu Masterclass: Pasta & Dessert
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Fettuccine & Tiramisu Masterclass: Pasta & Dessert

Duration: 3 hrs
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Featured Day tours in Vatican

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Skip the Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & St. Peter's
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Skip the Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & St. Peter's

4.7/5
· 73 reviews· 266 booked
Duration: 1–3 hrs
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94.5% of travelers recommend
From€34.73
Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Skip-the-Line Tour
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Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Skip-the-Line Tour

4.7/5
· 3.9k reviews· 335 booked
Duration: 3 hrs
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92.2% of travelers recommend
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Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica VIP Guided Tour
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Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica VIP Guided Tour

4.6/5
· 174 reviews· 77 booked
Duration: 150 mins
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91.4% of travelers recommend
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Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour
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Skip-the-Line Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour

4.7/5
· 209 reviews
Duration: 3–5 hrs
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81 consecutive positive reviews
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Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour
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Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour

4.8/5
· 3.2k reviews· 27 booked
Duration: 2–4 hrs
English
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95% of travelers recommend
From€64.00
Complete Vatican: Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peters Basilica
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Complete Vatican: Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peters Basilica

4.6/5
· 354 reviews· 49 booked
Duration: 3–4 hrs
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Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
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Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

5.0/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 2.5–3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Skip the Line Tickets
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Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Skip the Line Tickets

92 booked
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Featured City sightseeing in Vatican

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Vatican museums admission ticket + Vatican city tour - open bus Giardini
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Vatican museums admission ticket + Vatican city tour - open bus Giardini

Duration: 2 hrs
English
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Rome Vespa Tour: Hidden Gems and Iconic Landmarks
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Rome Vespa Tour: Hidden Gems and Iconic Landmarks

4.9/5
· 25 reviews
Duration: 75–90 mins
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Vespa Sidecar Tour In Rome with Pickup, Drop-off, Gelato included
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Vespa Sidecar Tour In Rome with Pickup, Drop-off, Gelato included

5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 3 hrs
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Skip-the-Line Vatican Entry & Panoramic Open Bus Tour
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Skip-the-Line Vatican Entry & Panoramic Open Bus Tour

Duration: 4 hrs
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Vatican City: St. Peter's Basilica Walking Tour
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Vatican City: St. Peter's Basilica Walking Tour

Duration: 1–2 hrs
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Rome: Vespa Tour with Professional Photoshoot as a Passenger
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Rome: Vespa Tour with Professional Photoshoot as a Passenger

5.0/5
· 77 reviews
Duration: 1.5–2.5 hrs
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Rome by Night: St. Peter's, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon
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Rome by Night: St. Peter's, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon

4.4/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
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Rome: Fun Golf Cart Giro with Music and Gelato
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Rome: Fun Golf Cart Giro with Music and Gelato

4.9/5
· 59 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
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More things to do

Private Tours in Vatican

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Free things to do in Vatican

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Saint Peter’s Basilica

9.5
4.7/5
1.3k reviews
Vatican · Vatican
Saint Peter's Square

Saint Peter's Square

5.2
4.7/5
479 reviews
Vatican · Vatican
St. Peter's Baldachin

St. Peter's Baldachin

4.1
4.8/5
7 reviews
Vatican · Vatican
St. Peter Square Obelisk

St. Peter Square Obelisk

4.1
4.5/5
26 reviews
Vatican · Vatican

What travelers say about Vatican

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hol***jwOctober 26, 2026
5.0
It exceeded expectations, especially our tour guide, a Taiwanese woman surnamed Zhou. Despite her small stature, she possessed immense energy, delivering a captivating and passionate explanation that completely enthralled everyone. The three-plus hours allowed us to appreciate the highlights of the museum and cathedral—truly excellent value for money.

Vatican Museums

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cathyjySeptember 23, 2026
5.0
Director Lu's explanations were professional and engaging. He explained the background and stories behind the important works in great detail, which was very rewarding. It was definitely worthwhile to follow my fellow Shanghainese, Director Lu, to appreciate the precious collection.

Saint Peter’s Basilica

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淡定求不得May 29, 2025
5.0
It is very convenient to make an appointment and buy tickets, which can reduce uncertainty. We went there at the appointment time and were quickly inside. This place is definitely worth a visit, as it houses a wide variety of collections from successive popes, as well as murals.

Sistine Chapel

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SUNSHINE ONUSApril 30, 2025
5.0
The world's largest Catholic church is highly recommended. It is majestic, luxurious and meaningful. St. Peter's Basilica is known for its magnificent architecture, exquisite art and profound religious significance. Countless art treasures are displayed inside the church. The most famous ones include Michelangelo's sculpture "Pietà" and Bernini's "Throne of St. Peter". These works of art not only show the artists' superb skills, but also convey deep religious emotions. The walls and domes of the church are decorated with a large number of mosaics and murals. These works are based on religious stories, with bright colors and rich details, showing the artistic styles of the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Cupola di San Pietro

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poohwubearJune 7, 2023
5.0
Wow, wow, wow! St. Peter’s Square is stunning and larger than I imagined. The fountains, the architecture is all so grand!

Saint Peter's Square

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GeorgezouOctober 10, 2019
5.0
The Raphael Rooms contain four rooms where Raphael worked. Here are displayed 16 murals created by Raphael and his students over a period of 10 years. The most famous is the Academy of Athens, which is magnificent and a place worth lingering.

Raphael Rooms

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漂鸟WandervogeMay 25, 2020
5.0
From the top circular walkway inside St. Peter's Basilica, you can overlook the entire interior of the cathedral. It is an absolutely stunning visual experience. You are so close to the dome and the masters of the Renaissance, yet so far away from the world...

St. Peter's Baldachin

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漫天狂舞的飞雪August 9, 2023
5.0
The smallest country in the world, with a small population, but a high international status

St. Peter Square Obelisk

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Vatican?

Don't miss these attractions in Vatican: Vatican Museums, Saint Peter’s Basilica, and Sistine Chapel. If you like Food & drink, try Rome: Vatican Food Tours, Cooking classes & Free Tours. If you enjoy Day tours, try Skip the Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & St. Peter's.

You can give Rome: Vatican Food Tours, Cooking classes & Free Tours and Rome: Breakfast & Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Skip the Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & St. Peter's, Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Skip-the-Line Tour, and Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica VIP Guided Tour. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 5, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Vatican is around EUR 34.73 – EUR 77.61. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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