Rome is a magical city, and no first-time trip is complete without at least one day exploring Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual heart of Catholicism.
Located within the confines of Rome, Vatican City is home to some of the most revered art, history, and religious treasures. The city-state encompasses iconic landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, each holding centuries of cultural and artistic significance.
As you embark on this journey, consider these four tips to enhance your experience and make the most of your time in the Vatican. From navigating the vast collections of the Vatican Museums to understanding the etiquette of St. Peter’s Basilica, these insights will help you unlock the secrets of this extraordinary destination.
1. Taking Photos
Vatican City is a location full of spiritual essence and tradition. The architecture is magnificent; the murals, tapestries, and sculptures are highly detailed; and the expansive views from atop of the city are remarkable.
You are allowed to take photos inside the Vatican Museums, with restrictions in the Sistine Chapel.
Sistine Chapel Restrictions
Photography (and video) inside of the Sistine Chapel is prohibited and taken quite seriously. You will hear security guards reminding visitors and addressing any guests not adhering to the rules while in the chapel.
The chapel is a massive art filled scene that truly invites contemplation, appreciation, and true wonder. The collection of stories and biblical events are illustrated and arranged to walk you through history (from Christ’s Baptism to Resurrection). You will be amazed by this visual depiction.
Note there are no seats in the chapel, nor do they allow you to sit on the floor. The surrounding gift shops sell professional photographs and postcards of the ornate paintings that cover the walls and ceiling of the chapel as a way to remember your visit.
Vatican at Dusk
Sticking around the Vatican until dusk is time well spent.
Photographing the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square as the sun goes down allows for beautiful images of St. Peter’s Church, specifically the dome and the fountains coming to life with dazzling lights and playful excitement.
—> Read More: Rome Travel Tips For First-Timers: Top Things To See and Do
2. Get On A Guided Tour
The Vatican Museum offers tours directly with their own guides. You can book a third party guide as well. Both have their advantages, but booking directly with the Vatican Museum can unique as they offer several different experiences.
Less time waiting in lines
Spending two or more hours in the ticketing line during the peak season of summer is common. To minimize your time waiting, purchase a tour from a reputable external tour guide company.
This way you will gain more information than visiting on your own plus you get to skip the line.
You can purchase tickets directly for the Vatican Museums HERE
Additional Tips
- Planning your activities and purchasing your tickets several weeks in advance is recommended.
- You may think visiting the Vatican on a Monday is a good idea, however, since the museums are closed on Sundays, Mondays can be rather busy. Tuesdays or Wednesday might be best for lesser crowds, but there were always be a throng of people.
- Visiting after 3 p.m. does provide some reprieve from the crowds with the final entry at 4 p.m., however, limits your overall time spent.
- Try a private morning tour before the doors open offered directly through the Vatican Museums.
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3. Be Mindful of the Seasons
It’s important to investigate public holidays prior to your trip; major attractions will be affected by religious and secular holidays. Europe observes holidays that Americans may not be aware of and with Italy being predominately Catholic, educate your self on their celebrated dates.
Visiting the Vatican during December can be a lovely experience. In general, the crowds are less, the grounds and piazza are wonderfully decorated with tall white-lit Christmas trees and a life-sized nativity scene with the spirit of Christmas.
A few example holidays
Religious: Immaculate Conception, Christmas, Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter, and Easter Monday.
Secular: New Year’s Eve, Rome’s Birthday, Labor Day.
The U.S. Embassy for Italy website is a good resource to use for a holiday calendar.
4. Spend Extra Time
Reserving extra time in your day to visit the multiple museums, gardens, galleries, and designated rooms will not disappoint. The artworks and displays are extensive, and it’s a privilege to view the many halls of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
Museums
The Vatican City hosts a variety of styles from Egyptian, Jewish, Christian, and Contemporary, and is one of the largest museums in the world. There are more than 50 galleries onsite, and multiple famous Renaissance pieces that the Popes aided in collecting.
Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is a massive structure, known as the largest church in the world. Your camera is welcome in this magnificently adorned space, stop off to offer a prayer in the side chapels, admire the marble statues and altar, and learn about construction and reconstruction of this inspiring space.
Shopping
Trinket and souvenir shops surround the piazza with plenty of options for mementos of your visit. You will find stores selling ceremonial robes, rosaries, and other Catholic centered items.
Don’t forget to stop by a local shop at the end of your day to grab a postcard/ photograph of the Sistine Chapel paintings as a way to remember Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
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