A trip to the Vatican City is an absolute must for those planning a holiday in Rome. It is the smallest state in the world, and it is truly a sight to behold. From the stunning St Peter’s Basilica to the majestic Vatican Gardens, there is a wealth of beauty to be seen and appreciated. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are particularly noteworthy as they are both renowned for their art and history. Furthermore, there are archaeological sites that are sure to excite history buffs. With its unparalleled beauty, art, and history, the Vatican City is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
How to get to the Vatican City
Taking a taxi to the Vatican
If you’re looking for a faster way to get to the Vatican, you can take a taxi. Taxis can be found all around Rome and it should take no more than 10 minutes to get to the Vatican from the city center. However, it will cost you a bit more than taking the train or the metro, but it is certainly a convenient and time-saving way to get to the Vatican.
Taking a walk to the Vatican
If you’re already in the area and feeling adventurous, you can take a stroll to the Vatican. It’s a pleasant walk from Piazza Navona, taking around 20 minutes, and it will take you through some of Rome’s most iconic sites, such as the Pantheon and St. Peter’s Square. You’ll be able to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the Eternal City while making your way to the Vatican.
Taking a metro to the Vatican
Visiting the Vatican can be easily achieved by taking the Metro A line, with stops Ottaviano and Cipro located approximately a 5-minute walk from the Vatican Museum entrance. Tickets can be purchased in advance at either corner shops or metro stations, but not from the driver.
Taking a bus to the Vatican
Alternatively, one can choose to take the bus #64 from the Termini train station, with the journey taking around 20 minutes to Piazza Stazione S. Pietro, and then a 15-minute walk to reach the Vatican Museum. For those beginning their journey from the Colosseum area, bus #81 is the recommended option, with the end of the bus route located only a 5-minute walk away from the Museum entrance.
What to see in Vatican City
Vatican Museums and Gardens
Visiting the Vatican Museums and Gardens is an experience like no other. Home to some of the world’s most famous artworks, including the Sistine Chapel, it’s an awe-inspiring place to explore. With this full guide from Rome on Foot, you can make the most of this incredible destination.
St. Peter’s Basilica
This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting St. Peter’s Basilica. You can find detailed information about the basilica’s history, its architecture, and the best ways to explore the building.
Top Attractions in the Vatican City: Opening Hours & Costs
| Saint Peter’s Basilica | 1st October-31st March: 7:00 – 18:30 1st April – 30th September: 7:00 – 19:00 | Free |
| Dome of St Peter’s Basilica | 1st October-31st March:7:30 – 17:00 (closing ascent on foot around 16:00) 1st April – 30th September: 7:30 – 18:00 (closing ascent on foot around 17) | Lift up to the terrace level and continue on foot (320 steps) Ticket € 10.00 Climb 551 steps on footTicket €8.00 |
| The tomb of St. Peter under the Vatican Basilica | Mon – Fri: 9.00 – 15.30Saturday: 9.00 – 12.30 | Ticket €13.00 |
| Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel | Mon – Sat:09.00 – 18.00 (final entry 16:00) | Ticket €22.00But there are other options available on their website: https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home |
| Vatican Gardens | Mon – Sat:09.00 – 18.00 (final entry 16:00) | Ticket €40.00 But there are other options available on their website: https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home |
Where to buy Vatican tickets
For those looking to visit the Vatican, the best place to start is by purchasing tickets on their website at https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home. There are a variety of tickets available for visitors to choose from, such as single tickets for individual attractions, including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, or combined tickets for multiple attractions. In addition to the tickets, visitors can also purchase audio guides, which provide detailed information about the various sites.
The Vatican has a strict entry policy, and tickets are only valid for the specified date and time. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the tickets purchased are for the correct date and time before visiting the Vatican.
