Vatican city is one of the holiest places in the world. It is the smallest country in the whole world. And hence, that reason was enough for me to visit The Vatican. I mean how cool is it to cover the whole country in a day right?! Also for all the history buffs out there, I in no way am claiming that you should complete the whole Vatican Tour in just a day, but I just feel that a day is enough to explore the major attractions in Vatican if you are a normal tourist.
If you are visiting Rome, then make sure to stop by this beautiful place for it’s rich cultural history.
Where To Stay?
It’s always better to stay in Rome while visiting Vatican City because they are well connected and just about 15 to 20min metro ride away from Roma Termini station. You can also chose to walk or any other mode of transport.
How To Explore?
If you decide to go by Metro, get on a metro going towards Battistini from Roma Termini and get off at either Ottaviano or Cipro stations. The Vatican musuems entrance is just about 5-10 min walk away from either of these stations. Make sure that you reach atleast half an hour before if you have a scheduled tour, this way you have enough time in your hands to navigate in case you are lost or just roam around a bit. Once you are in Vatican, the best way to explore is by walking around.
What To Eat?
Obviously Pizza. One of the best pizzas I had in my life was at Vatican at Bonci Pizzarium. It was so delicious.
What To Wear?
Vatican City being a holy place, it’s necessary that you respect it and wear appropriate dress while exploring. Make sure you wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees and is decent for both men and women. Avoid wearing Sleeveless Tops or Tees, Shorts or Short Skirts. Carry a stole with you, in case you need to cover up.
Where To Buy Tickets?
Not everything in Vatican City requires ticket, but it’s obvious if you are visiting, you would visit Vatican Museums at least. So the best way to get the tickets is book them online. Not only does this save your time from waiting in long queues and schedule your trip but would also save you from getting scammed by the numerous fake guides making promises in getting you a VIP entry for a few extra bucks. Believe me, do not listen to them. Booking online does cost you an extra 4 euros per ticket but totally worth it. And also you can book your own private guides online if required. For booking your official tickets or checking on different available tours, click here. The ticket prices vary based on the tour selected by your. The normal Vatican Museums tour starts from 17 euros per person. You can chose to add audio-guide at the booking time to your ticket or also buy separately on the day of your visit.
Places To Explore?
Vatican Museums
It is one of the largest museums in the world. It has around 70000 artworks out of which only 20000 are up for public display. It’s a really magnificent place to visit. It has several rooms depicting different artworks and sculptures from several artists across different eras. Also the Spiral staircase of the museum is a really famous photo-worthy spot. The terrace with view overlooking Vatican gardens along with the Basilica is also another photogenic spot along with numerous others in the Vatican Museums.
The Sistine Chapels
It is situated at the end of Vatican Museums, and is beyond amazing. It’s ceiling is painted by Michelangelo and is definitely one of his finest works. No pictures are allowed inside. And expect it to be jam packed with people marveling at it’s beauty.
St. Peters Basilica
It is one of the most beautiful churches in the whole world. It’s so marvelous. The details inside are bound to leave you awestruck. It is free to enter the basilica but if you want to climb up the dome for an amazing view of the city, you are required to buy the ticket. There are two options to go up- through stairs and through elevator. If you are one of those who love the rooftop views, then it’s totally worth it.
St. Peters Square
It is the piazza outside of the St. Peters Basilica. After you are done exploring all the spots. it’s best to chill around the square. It has numerous photo-worthy spots and is really huge to just chill and relax after a day of walking around. This is where most of the gatherings and Pope’s speeches happens.
After you are done exploring these major spots, I suggest you to explore the rest of the city by walking and having a gelato. If possible walk your way towards Rome or you can also grab a Metro or Bus to go back. And that’s how you travel across the smallest country in a day! 🙂 Hope it helps.