2026 Vatican Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

พิพิธภัณฑ์วาติกัน พิพิธภัณฑ์ที่รวบรวมงานศิลปะไว้มากมายอาจจะเป็นพิพิธภัณฑ์ที่ยิ่งใหญ่ที่สุดในโลกก็ว่าได้สุดยอดงานศิลปะที่ต้องมาดูให้ได้สักครั้งในชีวิตอยู่ที่นี่ใครมาเที่ยวยังเมืองวาติกันก็มักจะมาเยี่ยมชมพิพิธภัณฑ์แห่งนี้เป็นพิพิธภัณฑ์ที่ได้รับความนิยมมากใครจะมาเที่ยวแนะนำให้จองตั๋วล่วงหน้าออนไลน์ไม่อย่างนั้นอาจจะพลาดการเข้าชมได้เนื่องจากถ้าหากขายตั๋วหมดแล้วเขาจะปิดไม่ให้เข้าชมภายในมีศิลปะยุคประวัติศาสตร์มากมายทั้งผลงานของลีโอนาโดดาวินชีผลงานของไมเคิลแองเจโลแต่ละชิ้นเป็นผลงานชิ้นเอกระดับโลกทั้งนั้นคุ้มค่ากับการซื้อตั๋วเข้ามาเยี่ยมชมใครมาเที่ยวโรมหรือวาติกานต์ห้ามพลาดโดยเด็ดขาด#รับส่วนลดไม่พึ่งดวง #vaticanmuseums #italy🇮🇹 #rome

St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest church, towers over Vatican City 🏛️. It's a must-see highlight of any Rome trip, but knowing a few tips can significantly reduce your waiting time and help you avoid crowds 🤔. Here, we've compiled practical information to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable! 🕰️ Opening Hours and Best Times to Visit • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM (until around 5:00 PM in winter) • Peak Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (when tour groups gather) • Recommended Time: 🌅 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Early mornings at St. Peter's Basilica are serene and less crowded, with a mystical atmosphere as the morning light streams in. You might even hear the choir, allowing you to experience the basilica in its most authentic form. ⛪ Note: During Mass, some areas may be restricted, so check at the entrance! 🎟️ Tickets and Entry Information • Entry to the basilica itself is free • Entry to the dome (Cupola) requires a fee • Elevator: Around €10 • Stairs: Around €8 💡 Recommended Route: Climb the Cupola right after opening to avoid the midday crowds. The view of St. Peter's Square from above is breathtaking. The final section involves a narrow spiral staircase, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes. 👕 Dress Code (Important Guidelines) As a religious site, the basilica has a strict dress code: • Avoid clothing that exposes shoulders or knees • Even in summer, bring a light scarf or cardigan • Hats should be removed upon entry as a sign of respect Dress code checks are conducted at the entrance, so be prepared. I personally brought a light cardigan 👚. 📷 Best Photo Spots • Top of the Cupola: Offers a panoramic view of Vatican City and the square • Central Altar Canopy (by Bernini): Best lit in the morning • Dome Interior at the Main Entrance: The golden mosaics shine brightest around 9:00 AM 📸 Note: Avoid taking photos during Mass. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited. 🏛️ Top 3 Must-See Highlights 1. Pietà Statue (by Michelangelo): Located to the right of the entrance. Smaller than expected but deeply moving. 2. Bernini's Baldachin: A 30-meter-tall canopy with golden decorations that gleam in the light. 3. Cupola Ceiling Decorations: Look up as you climb to see the interplay of golden details and blue mosaics. 💡 Additional Practical Tips • Security checks similar to airports are conducted before entry (no liquids or sharp objects allowed) • Restrooms are located to the right of the entrance and near the Cupola entrance • Luggage storage is available (backpacks and larger bags are allowed) • Audio guides (for a fee) are available, with Japanese language support ✨ Summary: Tips for a Comfortable Visit • Enter between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM • Climb the Cupola first to avoid crowds • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees • Morning is the best time for photos due to the lighting Located close to the center of Rome, a visit to Vatican City is highly recommended 😉🍃.

📍 Where Is It? St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City, an independent city-state surrounded by Rome, Italy. It is one of the most visited religious and architectural landmarks in the world. 🕰️ A Glimpse into History Built between 1506 and 1626, St. Peter’s Basilica stands on the traditional site where Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and the first pope, is believed to be buried. It was designed by great Renaissance artists like Michelangelo, Bramante, and Bernini. 🎨 Architectural Marvel • Dome by Michelangelo: One of the largest domes in the world, offering breathtaking views over Rome. • Bernini’s Baldachin: A massive bronze canopy that stands over the papal altar. • The Façade: A grand entrance flanked by statues of apostles and crowned by the famous Latin inscription honoring Pope Paul V. 🙏 A Place of Pilgrimage and Worship St. Peter’s Basilica is not just a tourist attraction—it’s one of the holiest sites in Christianity. Thousands gather here for papal masses, special celebrations, and personal prayer. 🌍 Visitor Experience • Entry: Free, but there may be long lines. • Climb the Dome: You can take an elevator or climb over 500 steps for panoramic views. • Dress Code: Modest attire is required (shoulders and knees covered). 📸 Don’t Miss These Highlights • Michelangelo’s Pietà, a masterpiece of marble sculpture. • The tomb of St. Peter. • The Vatican Grottoes and the Papal Tombs beneath the Basilica. • St. Peter’s Square with its grand colonnades. ✨ Did You Know? St. Peter’s Basilica is not actually the cathedral of Rome. That title belongs to St. John Lateran. But due to its size, history, and significance, it remains the heart of the Catholic world. #adventuremoments

#Travel tips for overseas The Italian Republic, commonly known as Italy, is a republic located in southern Europe, with Rome as its capital The independent state of Vatican City is located on the country's territory In VOL.2, we will introduce our tour of Rome and the Vatican Please use this as a reference when you are sightseeing °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• Travel itinerary 🔸Day 4 10:00 Train to Rome, about 280km, about 1.5 hours 12:00 Bus from Termini Station to the Vatican, about 6km, about 1 hour (traffic jams) 13:00 Arrive at St. Peter's Basilica (there is a very long line) 15:00 Bus to the Colosseum, about 6km, about 30 minutes 15:30 Arrive at the Colosseum and Arch of Constantine 16:00 Take the bus to Piazza di Spagna, approx. 3.5km, approx. 1 hour (traffic jams) 17:00 Arrive at Trevi Fountain and Piazza di Spagna 19:00 Dinner 20:00 Arrive at Bettoja Hotel Massimo D'Azeglio ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 5 8:20 Start sightseeing in Rome Enter the Colosseum 9:30 Walk to the Mouth of Truth, approx. 1.2km, approx. 20 minutes 10:00 Arrive at the Mouth of Truth 10:30 Cafe 11:00 Walk and train to Piazza di Spagna, approx. 6km, approx. 40min 11:40 Arrive at Piazza di Spagna, shopping, cafe 16:30 Train and walk to St. Peter's Square, approx. 3.5km, approx. 30min 17:00 Arrive at St. Peter's Square 18:00 Enter the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel 20:00 Train to hotel, approx. 6km, approx. 40min 21:00 Arrive at hotel °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Things that are not available at hotels, unlike in Japan Roomwear Slippers Toothbrushes, etc. 🔹About bags In Western museums, backpacks are not allowed and may be "checked in on the spot" or "prohibited to be brought in" It is convenient to bring a small bag with a closing opening to put valuables in #Europe #European travel #Italy #Vatican #Church #Rome #Overseas travel #Solo travel

"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

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.

Vatican City is a city-state in Rome, Italy, and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the home of the Pope and is considered a treasure trove of renowned art and architecture. The Vatican Museums are famous, and the Sistine Chapel is home to Michelangelo's famous ceiling painting. Photography was prohibited here. There is a small partition at the border, making it easy to enter the country. It is recommended to go first thing in the morning, as there will be fewer people. #VaticanCity

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

The Vatican Museums, located in Vatican City, were established in the early 16th century and house artworks that the Catholic church has collected over the years. Around 70,000 works total in the museums, 20,000 of which are on show. Despite an 81 percent decrease in visitation in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic, it was still ranked fourth among the most popular art museums worldwide. #mytripvlog #vaticancity #tripblazers #museums #italy #europe

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

Italy is always super nice

I've always wanted to visit the Vatican Museums 🇻🇦 The cityscape was beautiful from the moment I got off the train. I reserved my tickets to the Vatican Museums first thing in the morning on their official website! Even though it was early in the morning, we were about the second longest in line. We had plenty of time to explore the museums. I recommend checking out the artworks you want to see in advance! The Sistine Basilica was truly spectacular and I was deeply moved. I was so happy that the staff kindly guided my mother to a place with a handrail. Photography is not allowed in the kotataras, so please keep it in your mind. The shop inside the museum was also really cute, so be sure to check it out. After leaving the museum, we went to McDonald's. The cafe latte and croissants were both delicious, so I highly recommend it! #RomeTrip #VaticanCity #VaticanMuseums #ItalyTrip

#OverseasTravel During my trip to Italy, I visited the Vatican, a place I'd always wanted to visit. It's the smallest country in the world, but the things inside were incredibly magnificent. St. Peter's Basilica was truly spectacular. The high ceilings, ornate decorations, and grand atmosphere left me speechless. Walking around the cathedral, I felt a sacred aura, and the sight of people praying was truly moving. I couldn't miss the Vatican Museums. Raphael's frescoes and Michelangelo's sculptures were a marvel of art. Walking around was a feast for the eyes. The Vatican may be a small country, but the history, culture, and art contained within were immense and sacred. This trip will be an unforgettable memory of my life.

It's definitely worth staying in the historic part of the city: all the sights are within walking distance. 📍to see: •Trevi Fountain (it used to be free, but now you have to pay to go down to the fountain, plus a €3 tip for getting married – a sacred thing). You can only take a photo without people early in the morning at 5:30-6 am during sunrise. •Colosseum; •Spanish Steps (which lead to the street of boutiques and the most delicious gelato); •Church of San Ignatius, for a selfie in the popular mirror - €1; •Vatican - €30; 🍝to eat: •Italian restaurant - Boccano - for pasta; •Popular Italian street food - Pasta Imperiale, where pasta for €8 is served in green boxes; • La Matrichiana dal 1870 - a delicious place; • Pizzeria Emma; • L'antico Forno - those cornetto croissants with pistachio paste. Be prepared to wait in line; • Barcaccia - Stracciatella gelato

There are some must-see spots on your trip to Italy. Of course, I went to almost all of them, but there were some that stood out the most! 1. Swimming at Positano Beach. I didn't bring my camera, so I couldn't take any pictures. But it was a completely different experience from looking at it from the hill! You absolutely must try the lemon beer and lemon sorbet! 2. Sending a letter from Vatican City. You probably don't know this one, because there weren't any Koreans there! Because Vatican City is a country, the post office is also incredibly well-established. A letter to myself sent to Korea, it arrived within two weeks. 3. Buying a ton of souvenirs from Florence. The most memorable souvenirs from my trip across Europe. Definitely olive oil, truffle oil, and even balsamic vinegar. If I ever go back, I'll definitely bring them back! 4. What I needed for the Leaning Tower of Pisa photo shoot: a box of McDonald's potato chips. Isn't this just a cute little prop? Taking photos like everyone else + creating our own memories! #OverseasTravel #EuropeTravel #TravelPlanning #2026NewYear

Every time you visit the Vatican, be sure to stop by St. Peter's Square: the world's largest open-air square, designed by Bernini. You can see the spectacular obelisk and Baroque-style fountains. Remember to find the best spot for a panoramic shot! St. Peter's Basilica is an absolute must-see. It is the largest church in the world, designed by Michelangelo. The interior is truly breathtaking, and climbing to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of the Vatican is well worth it!

Heads up, Vatican City totally counts as its own country, so don't sleep on racking up another passport stamp! 🌍 Make sure to swing by while you’re in Rome—this spot is iconic. Grab some tasty bites from the cute little cafés nearby. Street food here? *Chef’s kiss*. Watching pilgrimages go down is honestly such a vibe; the energy is unreal! 😇 I seriously wish I had spent one more day—catching the Pope’s speech is bucket-list material. And yo, do NOT miss the Sistine Chapel (yep, *that* 16th century masterpiece). 📍Address: Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Sundays are mostly closed except the last Sunday of the month, when it’s *free*! The Chapel’s ceiling is mind-blowing—pics on your phone won't do those Michelangelo vibes justice. All in all, make sure you squeeze Vatican City into your travel plans—it's a whole other level! For ticket info and skip-the-line tips, just hit up trip.com.

#hellonewyear Vatican City may be the smallest country in the world, but nothing here feels small. In a few compact streets, it holds layers of faith, power, art, and history that shaped Europe for centuries. 🏛 What to see – St Peter’s Basilica – overwhelming in scale and detail, quiet only if you arrive early – St Peter’s Dome – one of the best views in Rome – Vatican Museums – endless galleries ending in the Sistine Chapel – St Peter’s Square – open, monumental, and surprisingly calm at dawn 🎨 Why it matters This is not just about religion. The Vatican is a concentration of human ambition – architecture, art, symbolism, and authority all pressed into one place. 🎟 Tickets (approx.) – Basilica: free – Dome: 8–10 EUR – Vatican Museums: 17–20 EUR 🕒 Best time to visit – Early morning or late afternoon – Avoid Sundays if you want museums – Dress code is enforced (covered shoulders and knees) 🗺 Combine with – Castel Sant’Angelo – Walk along the Tiber – Trastevere in the evening The Vatican doesn’t rush you. It stands still, while centuries move around it.