Everything to know about visiting the Vatican in Rome

Steeped in tradition, history, and maybe even a little bit of mystery, Vatican City—the seat of the Catholic Church—is the most-visited spot in Rome. It’s no wonder why, either, as the tiny city-state is home to breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica, world-renowned museums, manicured gardens, and so much more.

Heading to the Eternal City on our Rome tours? Follow our guide for the best things to see and do in Vatican City.

Frequently asked questions about Vatican City

Pair the above map of the Vatican with these helpful facts and you’ll be prepped and ready to head to there on our Rome tours.

What is Vatican City?

Vatican City is an independent city-state (making it its own country), and is the heart of the Roman Catholic religion. It’s home to a little more than 750 people, most of whom are priests, nuns, and people who work in service of the church.

Where is the Vatican?

You may see the country’s name written as Vatican City, Rome. That’s because it’s surrounded by the city of Rome. Vatican City sits off the western banks of the Tiber River, making it accessible from the popular neighborhoods in Rome like Trastevere.

How big is Vatican City?

The country covers 121 acres. That’s roughly the size of about 90 football fields.

How do I get to Vatican City?

You can walk to the Vatican from Rome—no passport required! To get the best experience though, you’ll want to add our Iconic Sights: Vatican City excursion offered on many of our Rome tours. On this optional activity, a local guide will lead you through the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

How long do I need to visit Vatican City?

Spending a half-day in the city of the Vatican gives you enough time to see all of the bucket-list sites.

7 fun facts about Vatican City

Vatican City is one of the most revered holy sites on the planet, and its unique history and inner workings make it all the more fascinating. Here are a few fun facts to know before you go.

1. It’s the smallest country in the world

Vatican City is actually an independent city-state. It’s governed as an absolute monarchy headed by—who else?—the pope.

2. The Vatican City state became an independent country in 1929

Vatican City gained its independence from Italy when Italian officials and the governing body of the Catholic Church signed the Lateran Treaty. This treaty recognized the Vatican’s sovereignty under international law.

3. Vatican City mints its own money

Not only does Vatican City mint its own euros, but it also prints its own stamps, issues its own passports and license plates, operates media outlets, and has its own flag and anthem.

4. The city of the Vatican is tax-free

Vatican City’s revenue comes from contributions, museum admission fees, and the sale of souvenirs and stamps.

5. St. Peter’s Basilica stands atop a maze of catacombs

In 64 A.D., Emperor Nero blamed—and executed—Christians for a blaze that destroyed much of Rome. He buried the executed, including St. Peter, on the site where the Basilica now stands.

6. The obelisk in St. Peter’s Square came from Egypt

Roman Emperor Caligula had the more than 350-ton obelisk transported from Egypt so he could place it at the center of an amphitheater he built at the base of Vatican Hill. It was moved to St. Peter’s Square, where it now stands, in 1586.

7. Vatican City’s Swiss Guard is the world’s smallest standing army

Swiss Guards arrived in Vatican City in 1506 to protect Pope Julius II, and are easily recognizable in their bright, striped uniforms—complete with poufy pantaloons and feather-topped helmets. The maximum number of Swiss Guards allowed in Vatican City is just 135.

Tips for visiting Vatican City

Not only is Vatican City the most popular place in Rome for travelers, but it’s also a historical and religious site. That means there are a few extra things to consider when planning a visit.

Dress appropriately

Like many places of worship, Vatican City and its museums enforce a dress code that prohibits shorts, hats, sleeveless tops, miniskirts, and articles of clothing that leave the knees exposed.

Pack light

Travelers who visit Vatican City’s museums will be required to pass through a security check. To keep things moving quickly, leave prohibited items—including food and drinks—in your hotel room.

Know when to go

Vatican City is the most popular place in Rome for visitors, which means it’s busy pretty much all year long. The busiest times include the peak summer season, holidays and weekends, and Wednesdays, when there’s usually a Papal Audience. For fewer crowds, try visiting in the afternoon, or in the off-season (October through March). Note, though, that the Christmas season brings with it sizable crowds.

Check out our Beginner’s Travel Guide to Rome for even more things to see and do in Italy’s capital city.

6 things to see in Vatican City

Tiny Vatican City packs a giant punch when it comes to can’t-miss works of art and historical gems. It would be easy to spend several days exploring every nook and cranny, but these are some highlights you’ll want to fit in when you visit while on tour.

1. St. Peter’s Square

Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed this outdoor area in the 17th century. Open to the public, it features a more than 3,000-year-old Egyptian obelisk, elegant fountains, and rows of towering marble columns.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican City’s centerpiece is also its crowning jewel. Inside the Basilica, visitors will find intricate mosaics, the tombs of St. Peter and previous popes, Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s bronze Baldacchino and its towering spiral columns, and priceless works of art, including Michelangelo’s 15th-century Pietá.

3. The Vatican Necropolis

A.K.A. the Vatican Scavi, this burial ground lies about five floors below St. Peter’s Basilica and is home to a network of mausoleums and tombs—including what’s said to be the original burial site of St. Peter himself.

4. The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house and maintain artworks and items collected by the Catholic Church and popes over the centuries. Their collections include classical sculptures, contemporary art, Renaissance-era paintings, and archaeological ruins.

5. The Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel was built in the 15th century and is part of the Vatican Museums—and is known for the frescoes that Michelangelo spent several years painting on its walls and ceiling. Commit them to your memory, as cameras aren’t allowed.

6. The Vatican Gardens

This tranquil expanse dates from medieval times and includes orchards, parks, wooded areas, and Italian-, English-, and French-style gardens. While strolling through the gardens alongside an accredited guide, visitors can marvel at monuments, sculptures, water features, and plenty more.

Ready to see the Vatican for yourself? Check out our Rome tours.