Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world, but despite its size, it is also among the most visited places across the globe due to its many attractions. The city is home to thousands of attractions, and this has brought tourists from all parts of the world to visit it. The city has continuously enjoyed millions of tourist visits every year, with even more expected to visit it in the future.

Once in the Vatican, you will be at the heart of endless attractions. You will have a lot to see and do at all times; whether you love climbing mountains, relaxing at parks, visiting libraries, taking photographs, praying, enjoying delicious foods in world’s top hotels, etc. all these activities can be accomplished within Vatican territory and in the surrounding city of Rome.

There are numerous sites and scenes to be witnessed within the Vatican. Among them are:

Vatican museums: these are some of the largest museums in the world, with spectacular collections that cannot be found anywhere else. The museums are organized in sections including the Pio-Clementino, Egyptian and Gregorian Etruscan museums, gallery of the Candelabra, the Raphael rooms, gallery of Tapestries, gallery of maps and the Sistine Chapel. The galleries contain exclusive pictures and artwork made by renowned artists from Rome and from across the world.

St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica: this is the main entrance to the Vatican. Here is where you can easily enjoy the opportunity of seeing the Pope. All you need to do is to get a ticket, and on Wednesday morning, you can join the Papal audience at the St. Peter’s Square.
The St. Peter’s Basilica is also located on St. Peter’s Square. This is a top religious and tourist attraction, and it contains several famous pieces of art by renowned artists, including Michelangelo (Pieta). You will also have a chance to see the Pope’s tombs in the St. Peter’s Basilica.

Swiss Guard: this is a renowned guard that has guarded Vatican City since 1506. You will see the guards smartly dressed in the Swiss Guard uniforms, and they will check you upon entrance to ensure the safety of all visitors. The guards will also provide directions and answer questions.

Sistine Chapel: this is where the elections for a new Pope are held. It is a sacred place with spectacular structures, including the Michelangelo ceiling paintings, decorated altar walls, images describing bible stories, (The Creation of Adam and The Last Judgement) and more.

Vatican Gardens: walk through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the beautiful fountains, paths and exotic plants. The gardens facilitate a refreshing atmosphere within the Vatican, and bring about the sense of nature. The gardens’ paths are outstandingly planned and are among the most visited sites by tourists in Vatican City.

There are organized private tours that can take you through all these attractions to give you in depth information about every site, item, structure and place. Therefore, if you are a new visitor or want to learn more about these attractions, the tour guides will walk you through and answer any questions.

At Vatican City, there is no lack of things to see or do; it is a city full of attractions and activities; both natural and man-made.