Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, may be compact in size but is grand in history, culture, and spiritual significance.
Nestled within the heart of Rome, this city-state is the epicenter of the Catholic Church and a magnet for pilgrims, art lovers, and curious travelers alike. The Vatican is home to some of the most renowned landmarks and art collections in the world.
Whether you’re planning a visit as a religious pilgrim, an art enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking to experience one of the world’s most unique destinations, Vatican City offers something for everyone.
As part of your broader journey through Italy, don’t miss our complete Italy travel guide to help you plan smarter and make the most of your 2025 adventure. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit in 2025.
Key Highlights of Vatican City
- St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest and most iconic churches in the world. It stands as a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, combining the works of great artists like Michelangelo, Bernini, and Maderno.
The basilica is an architectural marvel that has drawn visitors for centuries. It is located in St. Peter’s Square, where some of the most important religious ceremonies take place.
Must-See Features:
- Michelangelo’s Pietà: A stunning marble sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary holding the body of Jesus after the crucifixion.
- Bernini’s Baldachin: A grand bronze canopy that stands over the high altar, marking the burial place of St. Peter.
- Dome Climb: For breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, visitors can climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome
- €17 if you’re taking the stairs (bring water and good shoes!)
- €22 if you’d rather take the elevator partway and skip a few hundred steps.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially in the peak tourist months. The basilica gets crowded later in the day, and entry is free, but the dome is an extra cost.
Book your Basilica tour with audio guide and Dome entry here
- Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
The Vatican Museums are home to one of the largest and most important collections of art in the world.
These museums contain works spanning over 2,000 years of history, showcasing classical sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and more. The highlight is the Sistine Chapel, famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
Must-See Features:
- Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel (especially the iconic “The Creation of Adam”).
- Raphael Rooms: A series of rooms painted by Raphael, which display some of the artist’s most masterful works.
- Gallery of Maps: A long gallery lined with topographical maps that depict Italy and its regions as they were known during the 16th century.
Entry Fee: €25–30 for the museums; skip-the-line tickets cost €30-35.
Tip: Pre-booking tickets online is a wise choice, as it saves time and allows you to skip long lines.
Book your Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
- Vatican Gardens
The Vatican Gardens are a serene and beautifully landscaped oasis, offering a peaceful retreat from the crowds.
The gardens have been the Pope’s private space for reflection and meditation for centuries. The meticulously designed gardens feature fountains, statues, and centuries-old trees.
Tour Details & Entry Info:
- Access is only via guided tours, including a relaxing 45-minute audio-guided open bus tour.
- Tours are available every day except Sunday, starting from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish.
- Ticket prices: €25 for adults, €20 for ages 6–17, and children under 6 are not admitted.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible
Official Booking Link: You can check available dates and book your Vatican Gardens tour through the official Vatican Museums website here.
- St. Peter’s Square:
St. Peter’s Square is an open-air plaza located directly in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s part of Vatican City but freely accessible.
- Bernini’s Colonnades: The majestic columns that create a grand entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica, designed to symbolize the arms of the church embracing visitors.
- The Obelisk: At the center of the square stands a 25-meter tall Egyptian obelisk, which was brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula
- The Fountains: Two grand fountains flanking the square, designed by Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
St. Peter’s Square is particularly famous for the Pope’s weekly addresses, which take place on Wednesdays and Sundays. If you’re interested in attending one of these addresses, be sure to visit on one of these days.
2025 Special Event: Jubilee Year 2025 marks the Jubilee Year, a significant religious event in Catholicism that occurs every 25 years. The Jubilee Year will attract over 30 million pilgrims to Vatican City. Key highlights include:
- The opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, which is only opened during a Jubilee Year.
- Special Masses and religious ceremonies held throughout the year.
Impact on Travel: The Jubilee Year will make 2025 an exceptionally busy year for Vatican City, with larger crowds and higher accommodation prices in Rome. It’s essential to plan your trip early and book hotels and tickets months in advance.
Budget Tips:
- Many of Vatican City’s attractions are free, like St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square, so make sure to take advantage of them.
- For affordable meals, you can pack snacks or eat at local trattorias outside Vatican City.
- Use public transportation (€1–2 per ride) to reach Vatican City from various parts of Rome.
Best Time to Visit Vatican City
Avoiding Peak Crowds: The Jubilee Year will make 2025 exceptionally busy, with millions of visitors expected. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or early in the morning before peak hours.
Ideal Seasons:
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are the best times to visit, as they offer mild weather and more manageable crowds.
Summer (June-August) sees the highest crowds and hottest weather, while winter (excluding Christmas and New Year) offers more affordable accommodations and fewer tourists.
Practical Information
- Dress Code: Vatican City has a strict dress code when visiting religious sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Shoulders and knees must be covered, so be sure to dress modestly.
- Accessibility: Vatican City is generally wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and elevators available in most areas. There are also services available for visitors with disabilities.
- Photography Rules: Photography is permitted in most areas, but not inside the Sistine Chapel. Be mindful of signs and rules regarding photography, as flash photography is not allowed in certain areas.
Sample One-Day Itinerary for Vatican City
Morning:
- Start your day early at St. Peter’s Basilica and climb the dome for spectacular sunrise views of Rome.
- Take a stroll around St. Peter’s Square and marvel at the grandeur of the colonnades and the central obelisk.
Afternoon:
- Head to the Vatican Museums to admire some of the world’s finest art collections.
- Visit the Sistine Chapel and take time to soak in Michelangelo’s frescoes.
Evening:
- If you’ve booked in advance, enjoy a relaxing walk through the Vatican Gardens.
- End your day with a quiet moment in St. Peter’s Square before leaving Vatican City.
Interesting Facts About Vatican City
- Vatican City is only 44 hectares (110 acres) in size but holds immense cultural and religious significance.
- It has its own postal system, so sending a postcard from here makes for a unique souvenir.
- The Swiss Guard, responsible for protecting the Pope, is easily recognizable by their colorful Renaissance-style uniforms.
Visiting Vatican City in 2025 is a journey into the heart of religious history, art, and culture. Whether you’re planning to attend the Jubilee Year celebrations or simply explore the famous landmarks, there’s no doubt that Vatican City offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
By planning ahead, booking early, and following our tips, you can make your visit memorable and stress-free. From Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes to peaceful walks in the Vatican Gardens, every corner of Vatican City is rich with history waiting to be explored.
