Vatican City s is both a functioning state and a sacred place, a center of global religion and a treasure house of art. As the residence of the Pope and the heart of the Catholic Church, it carries immense cultural and historical influence, drawing millions of visitors each year. Yet within its walls, there are quiet corners, gardens, and moments of stillness that offer space for reflection. Vatican City, officially theVatican City Stateoften shortened asthe Vatican, is alandlockedsovereigncity-state. It is ruled by thepope and anenclavewithin the city ofRome, Italy, and serves as the administrative center of theCatholic Church. Vatican City is governed by theSeeofRome, commonly known as theHoly See, itself asovereign entity under international law, which maintainsits temporal power, governance, diplomacy, and spiritual independence.Vaticanis also used as ametonymfor the Holy See, which is the central governing body of the Catholic Church and Vatican City, comprising the pope and theRoman Curia. The independent state of Vatican City came into existence in 1929 via theLateran Treatybetween the Holy See and theKingdom of Italy, which spoke of it as a creation. With an area of 121 acre and a population of about 1K , it is thesmallest sovereign state in the world both by areaandby population. It is the only country in the world with a population of under 1,000 people. It is among theleast populated capitalsin the world. As governed by the Holy See, Vatican City State is anecclesiasticalorsacerdotal-monarchicalstate ruled by the pope, who is thebishop of Romeand head of theCatholic Church; the highest state functionaries are allCatholic clergyof various origins. The Holy See dates toearly Christianityand is the principalepiscopal seeof the Catholic Church, which in 2018 had about 1.329billion baptized Catholics in the world, in theLatin Churchand 23Eastern Catholic Churches. After theAvignon Papacy(1309-1377) the popes have mainly resided at theApostolic Palacewithin what is now Vatican City, although at times residing instead in theQuirinal Palacein Rome or elsewhere. Vatican City contains religious and cultural sites such asSt Peter's Basilica, theSistine Chapel, theVatican Apostolic Library, and theVatican Museums. They feature some of the world's most famous paintings and sculptures. Theeconomy of Vatican Cityis supported financially bydonations from Catholic believers, by the sale of postage stamps and souvenirs, fees for admission to museums, and sales of publications. Vatican City has no taxes, and items are duty-free. read more

See all

Whatever you do, download physical tickets and take screenshots of EVERY ticket. Being able to scan QR codes are a huge issue when visiting. It was awesome to visit the Sistine Chapel and see all the amazing artifacts, but the staff can be really Jekyll & Hyde. We had tickets for Saint Peter's Basilica Dome and one employee was incredibly rude after lying to us about where to go & initially refused entrance to us stating "the line was closed" after making us go back n forth for 20 minutes of where our stroller needed to go. However, when I sternly reminded her she TOLD us did she honor our tickets. Sadly, we kept running into numerous people having the same issues about tickets. The reception is really bad inside and outside. Also being an umbrella, baseball cap and jacket regardless of what the weather looks like outside. We got caught in the rain and had to buy £10 ponchos and umbrellas despite multiple people stating it won't rain. Also, it is not very friendly with strollers. You can certainly do it with a travel stroller or have a way to carry your child, but it can be quite miserable. Just keep that in mind. read more

It's way more crowded here than in the 90's when I first visited, but that's life! Visit this place when in Rome! You cannot get another encounter like this. I think of the scenes in the movie, "Twilight: New Moon" or whatever episode the Voltari are fake scheming in this town. I loved all the shops because I am a sucker for souvenirs. Watch out for scammers, beggars, and pick-pockets though. read more

Vatican City is a must when in the Rome area for the first time. The area is full of history and is even more appealing if you are Catholic. The area is essentially one big museum. We are glad we went but would not return more than once. read more

Vatican City - Local Flavor Near Me - Rome, RM

November 12, 2024 7:30AM to 1PM - Definitely a must see while in Rome. Just got a weird vibe/energy when I was here. If they auctioned a few items, could they end world hunger or fund all the catholic schools across the globe....? My favorite was the map room, so beautiful and so grand. Sistine chapel was great but the security guards and employees just continued to yell "no photos" "keep walking" "stand in the middle" "no photos"... wonder how people got their photos taken of the creation of Adam? Maybe they signed up for special access and not peasant access. Also, really weird vibe with the yelling as isn't church/chapel supposed to be a place of worship? I always thought we treat churches/chapels like libraries and quietness is appreciated... All in all it was a memorable experience. Had an interesting interaction with some Russians (saw their passports) cutting in line at the entrance right in front of us and local Italian guy cutting in line at the cafeteria.... In the most holiest land on Earth.... Can't get over the irony of how God is watching.... Definitely pre-book your visit before coming as they can get BUSY! read more

See all

Another amazing experience. I came here several times during my stay in Rome. Each time I came I saw something different and was yet still AMAZED by the entire experience. Home to some of the WORLDS most famous painting and statues as well as to the Pope himself St Peters Basilica is 10/10 Passing through the Holy doors 1000/1000 Sistine Chapel 10/10 Vatican Museums 10/10 Vatican Obelisk 10/10 read more

The Vatican City is the smallest independent country in the world by space and by residents. Despite being small in size, it is mighty in "power" as it is the spiritual and administrative headquarters for the Roman Catholic Church. This is the residence of the pope, leader of billions of Catholics from all over the world. Even non-Catholics hold this land and the Pope at high esteem. Vatican City has St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, Apostolic Palace, and Vatican Gardens. While visiting Rome, it is a must to swing by the Vatican City to visit these cultural landmarks. However, please note that these areas are all crowded and each site requires its' own extensive planning in order to have a pleasant experience. read more

Vatican City - Local Flavor Near Me - Rome, RM

What a magical place I'm not even religious but just being there and seeing all the history and every thing gold everywhere is immaculate. I can't believe how high the ceilings are and just the pristine condition everything's at. read more

See all

Few experiences compare to visiting Vatican City. St. Peter's Square is breathtaking on its own. When you enter St. Peter's Basilica, you'll be in the largest church in Christendom, surrounded by magnificent Renaissance and Baroque art. If you feel up to it, go up to the first level of the dome -- take the 231 stairs or the lift -- for awesome views of the interior of St. Peter's and outside of Rome. But Vatican City is so much more the just St. Peter's. There are the Vatican Gardens (separate review) and the Vatican Museums. Both of them are by controlled admissions. We've spent many visits in each of them over the last decade. read more

See all

How can someone not rate this 5 stars? Besides the fact your risk eternal damnation, how can you not enjoy the history and importance of the area. Yes, lines are long but when you are the one of the top spots for catholics and non-catholics alike, one should expect this. The museum is absolutely massive and one could spend days just exploring that. Obviously the Sistine Chapel is kinda a big deal and St. Peters Basilica is right up there as well. I am not religious but still walked away with wonderment and awe. read more

See all

Came to the Vatican City at the beginning of December 2025 and it was crowded, even in fall. After going thru the huge line and inside, the Vatican City was quite huge and it had a lot of rooms to explore. It seems they direct the traffic in one way and they won't let you go back to the same way as you came in. The Sistine Chapel is heavily guarded and they won't allow you to take pictures. But they allow you to enjoy and see it at your own pace. Seating is very limited because the room is usually crowded. Keep this in mind. Overall, the whole experience was divine and there is a lot to see and a lot to walk : ) read more

See all

Even though the Vatican is a must see and amazing in all its glory. I am very disappointed, I have a heart condition and was born with a genetic mutation in my DNA. I am a handicap person with much internal issues but it is not not noticeable on the outside. I also brought my handicap card for proof. I tried entering the handicap entry way I got refused, but the person next to me in crutches got accepted. I am so saddened that ppl with invisible sicknesses get pushed off to the side. happens to many times. I'm sure if the pope knew this he would not have it this way. read more

Absolutely beautiful! Mom still considers is her favorite country to date! It is the smallest country in the world ! it only took us about 10 hours to see practically everything. We came a week after Easter, so everything was still set up for mass. I didn't grow up with religion, but Mom was brought up in a Catholic, so this was huge to her. This was her holy pilgrimage. We walked around the cathedral, and my mom was able to get her rosary blessed by one of the bishops. Even without the religious buildings in art were spectacular ! It was also really nice that it wasn't extremely crowded and we were able to move through the line less than an hour ! It's literally only a 30 minute walk from Rome, so there is no reason not to visit if you're in Rome already. It was amazing to be in the vicinity of such beautiful architecture and history. It's also amazing how ornate the buildings are ! And how beautiful architecture used to be! read more

Vatican City - Christ and Mary - Local Flavor Near Me - Rome, RM

See all

Not to be missed, breathtaking architecture and complete sense of peace walking around at your own pace taking all the artistic work of its time read more

See all

Amazing!! Went on a tour from getyourguide and opt in for vatican and sistine chapel tour with skip the line- the skip the line is pricey but super important special this year because its jubilee year there are so many people in Vatican. The history, structures, the ceilings, just everything was historically beautiful. Vatican you can take pictures but once you enter sistine chapel no cameras allowed at all. Must wear comfortable shoes lots of walking!!! and I suggest bring water and a small snack its about 2 1/2 hour tour. if you want to pass holy door this will be the easiest and fastest way is to get this tour. Worth it! read more

Vatican City - Local Flavor Near Me - Rome, RM

See all

I signed up for the Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center with Walks and while it made for a long day, it was phenomenal. The tour started at piazza novana and ended in the Vatican City with a break for lunch in the middle. We could have stayed in Vatican City for days. I never imagined how vast it would be and taking it all it was impossible. read more

See all

My Vatican City Triptych 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Are you going to see the Pope? My sister laughed when I answered her question: Not if I can help it. Why not? You don't want to see the Pope? Hell no I don't want to see the Pope. I'm going to do everything I can to make sure I miss him. Why do you say that? The Pope is cool. Yeah, the Pope is cool, I answered. I have all the respect in the world for the Holy Father. So why don't you want to see him? I said, because I know if I run into him he's going to want to hang out with me all day and I'm not down with that. What in hell are you talking about? The Pope is going to want to hang out with you? Of course the Pope would want to hang out with me, I answered. Think about it, all the guy does is pray and work every day. He never goes on Vacation. Never gets a day off. I have no doubt whatsoever he'd jump at the chance to sneak out of his Palace and hang out with me. Shaking her head in disbelief she asked, So, what's wrong with that? What's your problem? Look, I told her, I don't want to be rude but the guy is a total Buzz Kill. It's like he became Pope and he forgot how to party. And if you go out somewhere with him, what are the chances the guy is ever going to pick up a check? I bet he doesn't even carry a wallet. She laughed and said, He took a Vow of Poverty, you moron. You're just proving my point, I replied. 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 So, I went to Vatican City and I managed to avoid His Holiness. And that's probably a good thing. Because just in case I did run into him, I had a few things on my mind that he was going to hear about. Like, why is there no discount for former Altar Boys on admission to the Vatican Museum? What's up with that? I mean, no Altar Boy discount after requiring me to learn the Mass in Latin. No discount after all those years of getting up early 5 days a week to serve at 7 o'clock Mass. Huh? After serving at countless weddings for people who never tipped the Altar Boys. After serving Christmas Midnight Mass every year. All that dedication and I can't even get a discount to see the your Art Collection from like 5 or 600 years ago? Not cool, bro. 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Visiting Vatican City was a dream come true. It was even more spectacular than I had imagined it would be. It is one of the most emotional travel experiences I have ever had. It hit me even before stepping a foot inside St Peter's or the Vatican Museums. I felt my heart racing as we walked the last block down Via di Porta Angelica before entering St Peter's Square. Cutting through the colonnade and entering the square was almost overwhelming. I slowly turned around to take it all in. Then I slowly turned around again. Through teary eyes I stared at the dome of St Peter's for the longest time. I thought about the story of Michelangelo and Pope Julius II. Then I turned and my gaze moved along the tops of the colonnades added by Bernini, that define the piazza in front of the basilica. One by one I tried to check out each of the 140 statues of different Saints. I thought surely I can name a few of these guys. But try as I might, I couldn't. Not one of them. Quite embarrassing, actually. Embarrassing because it exposed how little I knew about the iconography of Christian art. Just a couple hundred years ago a typical visitor here would have easily been able to identify many if not most of the Saints in question. For generations Artists used easily recognizable accoutrements to help a largely illiterate audience identify the Saint being portrayed. Since St Peter, who Catholics count as the first Pope, was given the Keys to the Kingdom of Heaven by Jesus, when you see keys in a religious artwork, it's a good guess you are looking at a representation of a Pope. St Peter himself is easily to identify in an artwork by his symbol, an upside down crucifix. The story is when he was condemned to be crucified by the Romans, Peter requested to be crucified upside down because he felt unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus. I pushed my ignorance of the iconography out of my mind and focused on the overall effect of the nameless statues on top of the colonnades. They seem to me like loving guardians watching over the endless procession of pilgrims that visit Vatican City year in and year out. All around me tour groups gathered and were lectured by their leaders. Random Priests and Nuns walked here and there through the crowds. Pigeons swooped down from on high, fighting over crumbs dropped by careless visitors. Before I left the square I took a hard look all around me. I wanted to remember this scene forever. Mikey C says: and I will. read more

See all

We didn't love the museums as much as we had anticipated, even with the well-produced audio tour. Part of our lack of enthusiasm may have been due to jet lag, but a lot of it was from being part of a massive throng of people pressing through the museums in order with limited access to the outside walks, gardens and gathering spaces. Part of it was our naiveté of thinking we could pick and choose the museums we wanted to see. That's not how it works, and with 5 thousand visitors daily, I get it. Finally making it to the Sistine Chapel was worth the claustrophobic experiences to this chapel. I'm just not sure we'll do it again. read more

Sorta odd to be sitting here writing a review for Vatican City. It is definitely worth a visit despite the hassle - it is beautiful though we were not able to enter St Peter's Basilica as part of our tour as they were preparing foe an event given it is Jubilee year. Tons of chairs were all set up outside. My advice is to book a tour that allows you to skip the line - the lines are massive even early in the morning on an October weekday. The Vatican museum and Sistine Chapel were packed!! It felt line we were being herded through as there is a constant flow of people walking by and pushing along. Our tour guide was good about pausing at certain points though to describe the artwork and other interesting findings. read more

See all

Horrible lines. Could barely walk. It was hot too many steps now let's talk about the inside. They could sell one item and feed the hungry forever disgusting and everyone there was rude and nasty never again. read more

Visited Vatican City with the family recently. I didn't know what to expect when we visited, but it has a wonderful museum of artifacts from around the world. The exhibits included cultural artifacts such as a native American Indian headdress and artifacts from native cultures around the world. That's a stark contrast to the other sculptures, paintings, and reliefs in the rest of the museum. The place was constructed with the highest quality and it has a rich history. We primarily wanted to visit the Sisteen Chapel, but before you can do that, you have to walk through the museum. The artwork in this place is unparalelled. I've never seen so many carved statues in one place before. There are famous paintings everywhere and it's just something you have to see to believe. The Sisteen Chapel was smaller than I expected, but covered in Michaelangelo's work, nonetheless. If you're in Italy, it's a must-see. However, the place is insanely crowded and you are given a time window during which you're allowed to enter. If you miss your window, you have to change your ticket for another time. Amazing. read more

See all

A gorgeous and must visit place in Rome. I lived close by so I walked it everyday and got to know most of the streets, shops, and gems!! There's free filtered bubble and flat water near the castle! So fill up and reuse your plastic bottles if you're not using a water bottle. read more

Open bus tour was great! Arrive at the museum an hour before your tour to get through the line and security. Wear long pants/skirts and covered shoulders or you won't be allowed admittance. The gardens were beautiful and the guide was perfect time, 45 minutes. read more

See all

Vatican City is the moment I decided heaven is absolutely going to have marble floors and so much art. This is the smallest country in the world! And no you don't get a passport stamp! But it does have its own post office, mint, and phone system. I walked in as a mild sinner and walked out like I had just been spiritually dry-cleaned. Honestly, if this doesn't get me into heaven, nothing will. read more

Even if you're not religious, this is a must see and truly amazing. The history and artifacts in the museum alone are worth going to, but of course the Sistine Chapel where Michael Angelo created his masterpiece on the ceiling is sort of inconceivable. This is also where the conclave meet to elect a new Pope which just took place two months ago.Pictures don't do justice to the enormity and beauty here. When you see St. Peter's Basilica and the square you do feel like you're somewhere truly special regardless of your religion. When in Rome I suggest a visit it's worth the time even in the summer sun. read more

See all

Beautiful location, 2nd visit. Went to secure tickets to mass. The Sistine Chapel is amazing The architecture is gorgeous Easy to get to read more

Vatican City - Local Flavor Near Me - Rome, RM

See all

One of the most magnificent places to visit in the world if not the best. I got goosebumps touring the Vatican. If you are in Rome, do not miss it. read more

Stepping into Vatican City is like wandering into a living painting, tiny even as small countries go but packed tighter than rush hour Rome with masterpieces and pilgrims. The colonnades of Saint Peter's hug you with enormous, ancient embrace. Stand in the middle, tilt your head back and relish every Roman skyline cliché in one visual take. The sheer scale humbles you and it's a must‑see for mega‑architecture fans. The museums and Sistine Chapel are the labyrinth of Renaissance glory. Feast your eyes on the pink‑granite obelisk anchoring the square. Perfect for people‑watchers and pilgrims alike. It is wall‑to‑wall tourists, selfie‑sticks poking out like wheat in a field. Remember: bring patience. Arrive early (first light is when the Square is nearly empty). Post‑museo? Hit a side‑street cafe in Borgo or Prati. Avoid the souvenir‑swamped mall by the exit. Vatican City is everything: miniature nation, mega landmarks, spiritual. It's regal, overflowing and a smidge exasperating. Crowd fatigue is real, but that Sistine gulp of glory? No filler, no filter. Definitely a must, but do it on your terms: arrive prepared, tread softly and let the art envelope you. Enjoy the tiniest country that is the biggest experience you might squeeze into an afternoon. Better however, break up your visit and make it more than one. read more

出門東奔西走，看過那麼多日出，又回歸到原來的生活，旅行不能改變什麼，不過每出門走過一次，就會多接觸，了解一種生活方式～ 梵蒂岡， 世界上最小的國家， 裡面的寶藏那真的是包羅萬象， 一輩子一定要來一次，不，不只一次的地方， 一個值得你，一來再來的地方！ read more

See all

The Vatican City is the headquarter of the Roman Catholic Church, and it's also the home to the Pope and a place for iconic art and architecture. There are millions of tourists visiting each year, and I would suggest you to plan at least a day trip here. read more

See all

Absolutely horrendous. I knew it would be crowded because we went on the last Sunday of the month when the entrance to Vatican Museums is free. When we got there at 7.30 the queue was already 2h worth of wait and they open at 9am. Then our bottles were confiscated at the security point because they were metal (sorry for not polluting the planet with plastic bottles!!). After we queued for about 30 minutes at St Peter's Basilica, we were told that only people with special permission would be admitted and we can queue again at 1pm. I guess posting it to the website or putting up a sign would be too tourist-friendly. If I wasn't an atheist to begin with, I would be an atheist now. DO NOT GO ON THE LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH. It's not worth it. read more

We had a spectacular day at the Vatican City. We did hire a guide. I highly recommend this. She took us thru everything and when we started to get tired we just let her know and she took us to the most important pieces. But it was all unbelievably gorgeous. It's hard to imagine when you look at it that human hands crafted it. It's a long day, so bring lots of water and snacks. But it's worth it. read more

See all

While it's beautiful micro country with amazing artwork and architecture, inside and outside the whole Vatican City, but if you go in the summer it's ungodly hot inside since they still think air conditioning will get you sick, but not the hordes of tourists sneezing everywhere... never mind the BO. If you want to really enjoy yourself I'd recommend visiting in an off month and it could properly about 2 days to explore everything, and don't forget to book in advance since its popular year round. read more

Absolutely breathing and a can't miss!! Go earlier in day for less of a crowd. It was more beautiful than I ever imagined!! read more

See all

Magnificent with amazing history and art. Love the Vatican City and it's a dream come true to come here! read more

See all

A must-see when visiting Rome, regardless of your religion. You NEED a tour guide. Non negotiable. It's insanely busy, huge, and you will get lost, wait in lines, and otherwise have a horrible time without a guide. I've been twice, both with a guide, and it was well worth the price! This year was more crowded than usual because of it being a jubilee year so keep that in mind when planning. The earlier you arrive, the better. read more

We did the Vatican city muesuem, Sistine chapel. Note that this is all in one entrance. The muesuem is huge and you would probably need a day. If you plan to combine St peters Basilica, then plan ahead of the day.the access and entrance to the Vatican are well planned and managed. The muesuem is way over crowded, but you can see artifacts. There are restrooms in certain levels. The restaurant at lower level between the muesuem is great. The sistine chapel is great with a lot of details to add. There is a postal office at the lower level it's cool that you send cards from there to anywhere in the world. The total cost in 2024 was 2 euros. The kids enjoyed a lot on the visit to the Vatican city. It is definitely a great place to visit and a lot of history . read more

Vatican City - Local Flavor Near Me - Rome, RM

See all

Area is packed with people. It's crazy crowded all around Vatican City! Long lines for food and checkouts at the shops. Lots of people just standing in the way. (Move out of the walking path please) If you don't mind the obnoxious crowds, it's fine. There's lots of food options and shopping that can be done here. Except to walk a lot. Ubers can get you close, but due to all the people on foot, they can't get you that close. read more

The Vatican City is the world's smallest country, with an area of just 0.44 square kilometres, it is a micro-state landlocked within the city of Rome. It's the home of the Catholic Church and an iconic and beautiful attraction for tourists to visit while in the city, regardless of their religion. It is home to the Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. The entire area is stunning, from St Peter's Square to the Basilica, it can get insanely busy with tourists though and it can be difficult to get somewhere to sit down, let alone somewhere to stand and try and take clear photos and admire the views. The lines seem well managed but they were slow-moving, so you must be prepared to wait for quite a while even with a ticket. It's well worth a visit while heading to Rome regardless of your religion just to see the stunning buildings and history behind the Vatican City, and it ticks another country off your list too! read more

See all

Good job Catholic Church. This was a once in a lifetime experience. Great staff and well maintained facilities after thousands of years. You can see the work of Michaelangelo. I hope I will get to meet him someday in heaven (I will complement him profusely). BTW thanks for choosing a Pope from the USA. To the Pope: we are very proud of you. I hope our paths will cross sometime. I'm jealous of your home. read more