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Top 10 attractions in Vatican
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums is one of the earliest museums in the world, consisting of 12 exhibition halls and 5 art galleries. It brings together ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as the artistic essence of the Renaissance, making it a museum housing priceless treasures. Museum collection Although the Vatican Museums cover a small area, their collection of masterpieces is countless. For instance, Michelangelo's ceiling painting "The Creation of Adam" is housed here and is well worth seeing. At the same time, for friends who love archaeology, some ancient Greek and Roman artifacts collected in the Vatican Museums are also worth studying. Of course, besides the collections inside, the architectural style of the Vatican Museums itself is also highly commendable. The ancient, fortress-like outer walls, the spiral ramp at the exit, and the sculpture "Sphere Within a Sphere" in the Pinecone Courtyard are all worth savoring in detail. The Vatican Museums is located in Vatican City, a world-renowned comprehensive museum complex with collections spanning from ancient Egypt and Greco-Roman civilizations to Renaissance art. Its origins can be traced back to the early 16th century when Pope Julius II publicly displayed the excavated statue of Laocoön in the papal palace. Over the centuries, it has continuously expanded and now consists of multiple exhibition halls and art galleries connected in series. The visiting route is generally one-way: entering from the Pinecone Courtyard side, passing through the sculpture gallery, tapestry gallery, and map gallery, and ending at the Sistine Chapel. Classical sculptures are widely recognized as the highlight of the museum. The "Laocoön" and "Apollo Belvedere" in the Octagonal Courtyard have been classic works repeatedly copied and interpreted since their excavation. Although the "Belvedere Torso" in the Hall of the Muses only remains as a torso, the vitality bursting from its muscles profoundly influenced Michelangelo's creations. The Egyptian Gallery houses mummies and stone artifacts from thousands of years ago, while the Etruscan Gallery gathers excavated artifacts from Italy's early civilizations. In the Pinecone Courtyard, the first area visitors encounter upon entering, Arnaldo Pomodoro's bronze sculpture "Sphere Within a Sphere" stands beside a bronze pinecone approx. 4 m tall, serving as the first photo spot for many travelers. The Renaissance section is equally dazzling. The Raphael Rooms, originally the papal apartments, feature interconnected frescoes across four chambers. Among them, The School of Athens in the Stanza della Segnatura, which brings together philosophers like Plato and Aristotle in a single composition, is regarded as one of the masterpieces of the High Renaissance. The Gallery of Tapestries displays nearly 20 wall hangings woven by Brussels artisans based on Raphael's designs, while the Gallery of Maps boasts floor-to-ceiling grand maps of Italy and an ornate ceiling, all worthy of a slow, attentive viewing. The crowning Sistine Chapel showcases Michelangelo's ceiling fresco The Creation of Adam, with the equally awe-inspiring The Last Judgment behind the altar. Photography is prohibited inside the chapel, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in quiet contemplation. A few tips: The full tour usually takes half a day or more. During peak hours, it's advisable to prioritize your energy and time for the Sistine Chapel. The picture gallery near the entrance atrium isn't on the main route – Raphael's The Transfiguration and Leonardo da Vinci's unfinished Saint Jerome are housed here and easily missed when rushing. Before exiting, the double helix ramp designed by Momo at the museum's exit is an architectural masterpiece in itself. A top-down shot from the ramp's peak is one of the museum's most photographed angles.Vatican · Vatican
Saint Peter’s Basilica
Saint Peter's Basilica is located in the Vatican and serves as the central sanctuary of the Catholic world, traditionally believed to be built on the burial site of Saint Peter. The current church was constructed in the early 16th century, taking over a hundred years to complete, with Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Raphael contributing to its design. It can accommodate tens of thousands of worshippers simultaneously. The central dome, designed by Michelangelo, spans over 40 m in diameter and stands more than 130 m tall, towering as one of Rome's most recognizable landmarks. The expansive square in front is encircled by a colonnade topped with statues of saints, creating a majestic atmosphere. The facade features five gates, from right to left: the Holy Door, the Door of the Sacraments, the Central Door, the Door of Good and Evil, and the Door of Death, each adorned with reliefs of biblical figures and stories. The Holy Door opens only during Jubilee years, typically every 25 years, and remains closed otherwise. Inside the nave, massive pillars divide the central aisle from the side passages, with arches between them covered in sculptures and decorations so lavish they take one's breath away. The interior is an artistic treasure trove, with three masterpieces not to be missed: Michelangelo's "Pietà," housed in a small chapel to the right of the entrance, depicts the Virgin Mary cradling Christ's body with solemn restraint—now viewable only behind protective glass; the bronze baldachin above the main altar, crafted by Bernini, features four spiral columns approx. 20 m tall supporting a nearly 30 m-high structure, adorned with a white dove at its center and guardian angels at the corners, surrounded by eternal lamps; and Bernini's "Chair of Saint Peter" at the far end of the nave, where a gilded bronze throne is crowned by cherubs encircling a stained-glass window with a white dove, radiating light. Additionally, the bronze statue of Saint Peter inside has had its right foot polished shiny by generations of visitors, making it a bustling spot. To reach the top, follow the passage marked "Cupola" to the right of the entrance: the full climb involves over 500 narrow spiral steps, though an elevator can take you partway, leaving about 300 steps to ascend. The dome's interior is adorned with exquisitely detailed mosaic panels arranged in petal-like layers. From the circular platform inside the dome, you can overlook the entire nave, then climb a narrow staircase to the outdoor terrace for panoramic views of Rome, including a close-up look at the 13 statues on the facade's cornice, with Christ holding the cross at the center. If visiting on a Sunday, you might witness the Pope leading prayers in the square, adding a special memory to this itinerary.Vatican · Vatican
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is located in the Vatican. It serves as the chapel for the Catholic pope and the venue for the secret election of new popes—when white smoke rises from the chimney on the roof during an election, it signifies the birth of a new pope. The chapel was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV in the 1470s and consecrated in 1483. It measures over forty m in length and approx. thirteen m in width, with no supporting columns inside. Six semicircular arched windows are set high on each side wall, while a towering vaulted dome spans overhead. Light pours in from above, perfectly illuminating the frescoes on the walls and ceiling. What made it world-famous are the two sets of frescoes Michelangelo left here. Commissioned by Pope Julius II at just 33 years old, he spent over four years painting the Genesis-inspired ceiling on the high vault, with nine scenes arranged in reverse narrative order, surrounded by figures of prophets and sibyls. More than two decades later, now in his sixties, he returned to the chapel and spent approx. five years painting The Last Judgment on the entire wall behind the altar. These frescoes are hailed as "the divine comedy of painting history." Standing in the chapel and looking up, the densely packed figures and dynamic compositions create a powerful impact. During your visit, note these details: The ceiling is about 20 m above the ground, making brushstrokes hard to discern with the naked eye—bringing a small telescope will reveal finer details. To protect the frescoes, photography and videography are prohibited inside the chapel, and silence is required, so allocate ample time for quiet contemplation. The side walls are equally noteworthy, featuring Botticelli's The Trials of Moses, Rosselli's The Crossing of the Red Sea, and Perugino's depiction of Moses' departure. Together with the ceiling fresco and The Last Judgment, they form a comprehensive collection of Renaissance murals.Vatican · Vatican
Saint Peter's Square
Saint Peter's Square is the central square and an important site for Catholic pilgrimages and religious activities. It was primarily constructed in the 17th century and is situated directly in front of the basilica. The area is spacious, and the overall layout is solemn and symmetrical, echoing the magnificent facade of the basilica and reflecting the artistic characteristics of Baroque architecture that seeks grandeur, spatial depth, and visual impact. Today, it is the main venue for the Pope's public audiences, important religious ceremonies, and festive events. Tourists and pilgrims from all over the world gather here to admire the square's architecture, sculptures, and the magnificent exterior of the basilica.Vatican · Vatican
Vatican Necropolis
The Vatican Necropolis is an underground cemetery of great historical and religious significance located in Vatican City, beneath the foundations of St. Peter's Basilica. Dating back to the 1st century AD, the cemetery was an important burial site during the Roman Empire, providing valuable archaeological evidence for the study of early Christian and Roman history. The most famous part of the cemetery is the area associated with St. Peter, who is said to be buried here. The cemetery contains exquisite frescoes and carvings that showcase the artistic style and religious symbolism of ancient Rome. Visitors can take a guided tour to gain an in-depth understanding of these historical sites and feel their religious and cultural importance. Due to its special historical and religious value, the Vatican Necropolis attracts many tourists and scholars. Visits need to be booked in advance to protect these precious sites.Vatican · Vatican
Pinecone Courtyard
Located in the Pinecone Courtyard within the Vatican Museums, the Pinecone Fountain is a striking ancient work of art that combines multiple meanings of history, religion and art. The Pinecone Fountain dates back to the 1st century AD and was probably originally part of the Pantheon in Rome before being moved to the Vatican. The pine cone symbolizes life and rebirth and has important symbolic significance in both Christianity and ancient Roman culture. The base of the fountain is guarded by two peacock sculptures, which were decorations of ancient Roman mausoleums and symbolized immortality and eternity. The Pinecone Fountain is not only an artistic masterpiece, but also a testimony to the rich history of the Vatican. It attracts tourists from all over the world and has become a popular attraction for people to explore the intersection of religion and art. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a cultural experience that interweaves ancient and modern times and feel the unique charm of local culture.Vatican · Vatican
Bernini Fountain
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Giardino Quadrato (o giardino segreto)
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Octagonal Courtyard
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Sphere Within Sphere
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Free things to do in Vatican
Vatican Museums
Vatican · VaticanSaint Peter’s Basilica
Vatican · VaticanSistine Chapel
Vatican · VaticanSaint Peter's Square
Vatican · VaticanVatican Necropolis
Vatican · VaticanPinecone Courtyard
Vatican · VaticanBernini Fountain
Vatican · VaticanGiardino Quadrato (o giardino segreto)
Vatican · VaticanOctagonal Courtyard
Vatican · VaticanSphere Within Sphere
Vatican · Vatican
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What travellers say about Vatican
_ZF***809 October 2026
5.0
Today's tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica with our guide, Mr. Chen, was a fantastic experience! The Vatican's exhibits are vast, and the crowds are huge; it's easy to rush through things on your own. However, Mr. Chen's clear and efficient route planning saved us a lot of time queuing and getting lost.
His explanations were exceptionally thorough. From Raphael's Studio to Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, he not only broke down the artistic techniques clearly and understandably, but also connected the historical background and anecdotes about the masters in a lively and engaging way. He maintained a good pace throughout the tour and was patient and responsible towards the group members. A highly professional and excellent guide, I highly recommend him!
Vatican Museums
cathyjy23 September 2026
5.0
Director Lu's explanations were professional and engaging. He explained the background and stories behind the important works in great detail, which was very rewarding. It was definitely worthwhile to follow my fellow Shanghainese, Director Lu, to appreciate the precious collection.
Saint Peter’s Basilica
淡定求不得29 May 2025
5.0
It is very convenient to make an appointment and buy tickets, which can reduce uncertainty. We went there at the appointment time and were quickly inside. This place is definitely worth a visit, as it houses a wide variety of collections from successive popes, as well as murals.
Sistine Chapel
poohwubear7 June 2023
5.0
Wow, wow, wow! St. Peter’s Square is stunning and larger than I imagined. The fountains, the architecture is all so grand!
Saint Peter's Square
GLS***1618 August 2012
3.0
Once you have navigated the queue for tickets and made your way into the Vatican museum, the Pine cone courtyard is a good place to gather your breath and plan how to see the many treasures. It is also worth looking around to appreciate both old and modern art in the courtyard.
Pinecone Courtyard
