The world’s smallest sovereign state, Vatican City packs Renaissance masterpieces, the seat of the Catholic Church, and one of history’s greatest art collections into just over 100 acres.

Why Visit Vatican City

Vatican City houses St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, home to some of the most significant religious art and architecture on Earth. Despite its tiny size, it draws millions of visitors each year for its unmatched concentration of history and artistry.

Top Experiences

  • St. Peter’s Basilica: Marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà and climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
  • Sistine Chapel: Stand beneath Michelangelo’s famous ceiling and Last Judgment fresco.
  • Vatican Museums: Wander galleries filled with masterpieces collected over centuries by the papacy.
  • St. Peter’s Square: Take in Bernini’s colonnade and the square’s grand scale.
  • Vatican Gardens: Tour the manicured grounds rarely seen by the general public.
Private Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour fast track entrance.

Private Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour fast track entrance.

★ 5.0 (36)
From USD 279.74

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Private Rome Historical and Early Vatican Guided Tour

Private Rome Historical and Early Vatican Guided Tour

★ 5.0 (34)
From USD 268.55

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Rome Walking Tour

Rome Walking Tour

★ 5.0 (21)
From USD 179.04

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Rome Port to Rome and Vatican City

Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Rome Port to Rome and Vatican City

★ 5.0 (20)
From USD 895.18

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Rome In A Day Port Tour (Driver Only/Self Touring)

Rome In A Day Port Tour (Driver Only/Self Touring)

★ 5.0 (18)
From USD 1096.59

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Rome Highlights Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Port

Rome Highlights Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Port

★ 5.0 (13)
From USD 1154.37

View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Practical Tips

  • Book Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tickets online in advance to skip long lines.
  • Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, to enter St. Peter’s Basilica.
  • Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be less crowded.

FAQ

Do I need a ticket to enter Vatican City?
St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter, but the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel require a paid ticket.

How long does a Vatican Museums visit take?
Plan for at least three hours to see the museums and Sistine Chapel without rushing.

Is Vatican City part of Rome?
No, it’s an independent sovereign state entirely surrounded by the city of Rome.