As the world's smallest country, located within Rome, it can be seen in about half a day. To visit St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, the key is planning around peak crowd times.
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Vatican City currency guide — today's rate & payment tips
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Top sights in Vatican City
Temples & religious sites
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is the iconic church of Vatican City and is regarded as one of the grandest churches in the world. It is said to stand over the tomb of the Apostle Peter, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike.
Temples & religious sites
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is the pope's chapel within the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, filled with frescoes by Renaissance masters such as Michelangelo and Raphael. The ceiling painted by Michelangelo is the chapel's most famous highlight.
Museums & galleries
Pantheon
An ancient Roman temple still standing in Rome, used as a Catholic church since the 7th century. True to its name, meaning "temple of all gods," it offers a glimpse of magnificent ancient architecture.
Parks & gardens
Roman Forum
This ancient Roman site remains at the heart of Rome's historic center, once surrounded by government buildings around a central square. Walking through it, visitors can sense the traces of what was once the heart of ancient Rome.
Parks & gardens
Saint Peter's Square
A square spread out in front of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Its grand scale, able to hold up to 300,000 people, draws large crowds of pilgrims and travelers.
Museums & galleries
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums, located in Vatican City, are among the largest museums in the world, housing artworks the Roman Catholic Church has gathered over centuries. It's a wonderful place to take a leisurely stroll through vast galleries and enjoy an artistic journey.
Museums & galleries
Palatine Hill
One of the seven hills of Rome, this historic site once held the palaces of Emperor Augustus and his successors. Its charm lies in the sweeping view over the Roman Forum.
Temples & religious sites
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
It serves as the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and is regarded as the oldest and most prestigious basilica in the city. For Catholics, it holds special significance as the "mother church" of all churches.
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Local data
Get an eSIM for Vatican City before you go
Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.