Did you know that the smallest independent country in the world is Vatican City? It is home to under one thousand Catholics, mostly clergy, official members of the Vatican, and the Swiss Guard. Comprised of several major sites, including the home to the current Pope Leo XIV – the Apostolic Palace, St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square, and the Vatican’s official museums. One can spend all day visiting the Vatican and not even scratch the surface of all it has to offer.
If you do visit the Vatican, please acquire tickets well in advance of your visit using a verified tour service. (It is ironic how many people will try to “rip you off” with fake tickets or pickpocket you within the walls of this holy establishment!)
First impressions of the Vatican
There is so much to take in when you enter the Vatican.
The grounds of the Vatican are huge. The buildings are mammoth in size! The skyline of domes takes your breath away! And the outstanding staff are very adept at receiving and watching carefully the 30,000 (or more) visitors they receive EACH DAY!
Tips for Traversing the Vatican
Visiting the Vatican may mean you are waiting and walking in very hot, humid, crowded, and noisy conditions. There are very few elevators, and air conditioning exists in only a few parts of this extensive campus. (I really can’t fathom the reasons for no AC in buildings where priceless works of art are housed!)
Also, opportunities to get drinks or use a restroom are pretty few, so come prepared. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes, but heed the warnings of the Vatican’s attire protocol – and dress modestly.
Photography is allowed and encouraged
Photography was encouraged by our tour guide. He explained that there is so much to see and digest during the tour that photographs will act as helpful souvenirs and reminders.
You can spend the day with Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, and Leonardo. These are infamous artists and not the Mutant Ninja Turtles!
Here is just a sample of some of the most magnificent art you will see during a standard tour. I understand there are some “behind the scenes” tours of more artwork that is just being housed in a “warehouse”, of sorts.
Here is a little trivia. The Mastiff Dog sculpture posted within this montage was broken by a tourist taking a “selfie”. It has been restored thanks to benevolent supporters from California.
TIPS:
1) Some tourists do not understand the concept of “personal space” – so be prepared for being “smushed”.
2) When you enter an exhibit, go to the back of the room and view the masterpieces from different angles.
3) The ceilings are full of art – don’t rush through the rooms without looking up!
Have you ever seen a ceiling like this?!
St. Peter’s Basilica
One of the largest Roman Catholic houses of worship in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica. It is beyond words to describe.
See the Vatican at Night!
The Vatican is stunning at night. St. Peter’s Basilica Square looks like it shimmers under the lights and moonlight.
General Vatican Ticket Information can be Found Here:
If your trip to the Vatican requires special accommodations, such as wheelchair access, please click here for detailed information.
Where to stay when visiting the Vatican?
There are many wonderful hotels and rental apartment companies (AirBnB and VRBO, for example). The reader may want to consider TripAdvisor, Expedia, or Booking.com for assistance with locating accomodations.
(FYI: We enjoyed staying in the Trastevere area of Rome.)
Do you have any recommendations about visiting the Vatican or other places within Rome? Feel free to comment below!
