Visiting the Vatican: A Complete Guide to St Peter’s and Rome

Nave of St Peter's Basilica — Source: Pixabay

Vatican City – home of St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the pope – is the spiritual capital of the Catholic world and one of the most extraordinary destinations in Europe. This complete guide brings together our articles on the basilica, the square, the museums and the history of the papacy, along with where to stay, and sets out the practical basics for planning your visit.

In This Series

Who Comes Here

Catholic pilgrims from every continent come to pray at the tomb of Saint Peter and to see the pope, while millions of travellers of all backgrounds visit for the art and history of the basilica and the Vatican Museums. The Vatican is a highlight of almost every trip to Rome.

When to Visit

Spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather and crowds. Easter, Christmas and Holy Years are the most meaningful but most crowded times. Whatever the season, arrive early: the basilica is calmest soon after it opens, and the museums are best entered with a pre-booked timed ticket. A modest dress code – covered shoulders and knees – applies throughout.

Getting There

The Vatican sits on the west bank of the Tiber in Rome. The nearest metro stop is Ottaviano–San Pietro on line A, a few minutes’ walk from St Peter’s Square; many buses and trams also serve the area. From Rome’s Fiumicino and Ciampino airports, trains and buses run to the city centre, from which the Vatican is easily reached. Once there, everything – basilica, square and museums – is explored on foot.