Located in the middle of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest state in the world and is home to the Roman Catholic Church. It is a historical place, with many artistic and religious attractions and is highly recommended to be included in any tour of Italy.
Here are some tips on what to do and things to see in Vatican City, and how to have the best one-day trip to Vatican City.
Vatican City Facts
Before we dive into the itinerary, let's explore some fascinating Vatican City facts:
Vatican City is the smallest country in the world with the size of only 0.44 square kilometres.
It has been an independent state since 1929 after signing Lateran Treaty with Italy.
The Vatican has its own post office which is said to be more efficient than the Italian one.
It occupies the last place in terms of population size, with the population of approximately 825 people.
Vatican City has its own euro coins, stamps and even license plates.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Vatican City depends on your preferences:
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October): Perfect weather and less people around.
Summer (June-August): High traffic and high temperatures during the day and most visitors arrive during this time.
Winter (November-March): Lower temperatures and less crowds but some of the places may be closed earlier.
Tip: Do not go on Sundays because most attractions are closed and avoid Wednesday because of the Papal Audience in St. Peter’s Square.
Day Trip Itinerary: Things to See in Vatican
1. St. Peter's Square (8:00 AM)
Begin your day at St Peter’s Square, the largest public square in Vatican City. Look at the colonnades created by Bernini and the Egyptian obelisk in the middle.
2. St. Peter's Basilica (8:30 AM)
Visit the Basilica of St. Peter and stroll through the largest church in the world admiring the beauty of its construction and artworks such as the masterpiece of Michelangelo – Pietà.
Tip: Go to the top of the dome for the great view of Rome (extra charge).
3. Vatican Museums (11:00 AM)
The Vatican Museums are one of the biggest and most famous museums in the world which contain an impressive collection of art.
Key areas to explore:
· Raphael Rooms
Gallery of Maps
Pinacoteca (Art Gallery)
4. Sistine Chapel (1:00 PM)
One of the most famous museums in the world, and home to the Sistine Chapel, with its incredible ceiling painted by Michelangelo and The Last Judgment.
Tip: Do not take any pictures, and keep quiet as a sign of respect.
5. Vatican Gardens (3:00 PM)
If time allows, it is recommended to go for a guided tour of the stunning Vatican Gardens. Advance booking is required.
6. Castel Sant'Angelo (5:00 PM)
Located just beyond the city’s boundaries, this fortress provides a good view of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Tiber River.
Basic Information and Guidelines for Vatican City Tour
1. Book tickets in advance:
Pre-booked tickets with priority access are justified in terms of cost during the period of high demand.
2. Dress code:
Modest attire is required. No short pants, sleeveless shirts or blouses, short skirts or shorts.
3. Guided tours:
For historical and artistic information one can take a guided tour of the museum.
4. Timing:
Try to get there early in the day to avoid the crowds and especially if you are going to visit St. Peter’s Basilica.
5. Photography:
Permitted in most areas, but not in the Sistine Chapel.
6. Language:
Even though the official language is Italian, most of the employees will understand English.
7. Currency:
Euro is used and all the major credit cards are accepted.
8. Accessibility:
Almost all zones are accessible by wheelchairs, and lifts are also available.
9. Papal Audience:
If visiting on a Wednesday, one can attend the Papal Audience which is free but one has to book for it.
Dining Options
There are no restaurants within Vatican City but there are cafes and restaurants in the museums. For a more local experience, try Prati, which is a district that is nearby and offers traditional Roman food.
Planning Your Italy Trip and Including Vatican City
The Vatican should be given at least one full day on your Italy itinerary. If you are short of time you should focus on St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the critical areas of the Vatican Museums.
Consider pairing your Vatican visit with other nearby Rome attractions:
· Castel Sant'Angelo
· Piazza Navona
· Pantheon
These can easily be packed into a 2–3-day Rome tour.
Conclusion
A day trip to Vatican City offers a unique blend of art, history, and spirituality. By understanding the key Vatican City facts, planning your visit during the best time to visit, and prioritizing the essential things to see in Vatican, you can make the most of your experience.
Remember, while it's possible to see the highlights in a day, Vatican City's treasures can be overwhelming. Don't rush through – take time to absorb the beauty and significance of each site. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Vatican City promises an unforgettable experience that will be a highlight of your Italy itinerary.
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