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Vatican Museums
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Vatican Museums

10
4.6/5
1.7k reviews
The Vatican Museums are one of the world's oldest museums, housing ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts as well as Renaissance art treasures. They are a museum containing priceless gems. Although the Vatican Museums are not large in area, their collections are numerous and truly masterpieces. For example, Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam" is housed here and is well worth seeing. At the same time, for archaeology enthusiasts, the museum's collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts is also worthy of study. Of course, in addition to the collections, the museum's architecture is also noteworthy. The ancient, wall-like exterior walls, the spiral ramp at the exit, and the sculpture "The Broken Earth" in the Pinecone Courtyard are all worth appreciating. The Vatican Museums, located in Vatican City, are a world-renowned comprehensive museum complex whose collections span from ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman civilizations to Renaissance art. Its origins can be traced back to the early 16th century when Pope Julius II brought the unearthed Laocoön sculpture to the palace for public display. It expanded continuously over the centuries and now comprises numerous galleries and art installations. The visitor flow is generally one-way: entering from the Pinecone Courtyard, one passes through the sculpture gallery, tapestry gallery, and map gallery, ending at the Sistine Chapel. Classical sculptures are widely recognized as the museum's highlight. The Laocoön and Apollo in the Octagonal Courtyard have been classics repeatedly copied and interpreted since their excavation; the Broken Body in the Hall of Muses, though only the torso remains, still evokes a vibrant life force that profoundly influenced Michelangelo's work. The Egyptian collection contains mummies and stone carvings from thousands of years ago, while the Etruscan collection gathers artifacts from early Italian civilizations. Upon entering, the first place you arrive at is the Pinecone Courtyard, where Arnaldo Pomodoro's bronze sculpture "The Broken Earth," next to a 4-meter-high bronze pine cone, is a popular first photo opportunity for many visitors. The Renaissance section is equally dazzling. The Raphael Room, originally the papal bedroom, features frescoes in four interconnected halls. The "School of Athens" in the Signature Hall, which brings together philosophers like Plato and Aristotle in a single scene, is considered one of the masterpieces of the High Renaissance. The Tapestry Gallery boasts nearly 20 tapestries woven by Brussels artisans based on Raphael's sketches, while the Map Gallery features walls covered with massive maps of Italy and a magnificent ceiling—all worthy of careful observation. Finally, the Sistine Chapel, the grand finale, features Michelangelo's "The Creation of Adam" ceiling fresco above, and the "Last Judgment" behind the altar is equally breathtaking. Photography is prohibited inside the chapel, allowing for peaceful contemplation. A few tips: It usually takes more than half a day to complete the entire tour, so when it's crowded, it's recommended to prioritize your energy and time for the Sistine Chapel; the painting gallery next to the entrance courtyard is not on the main tour route, but Raphael's "Transfiguration" and Leonardo da Vinci's unfinished "Saint Jerome" are housed here, so it's easy to miss them when you're in a hurry; at the exit before leaving the museum, the double helix ramp designed by Momo is itself an architectural work, and taking photos from the top of the ramp is a very popular spot for taking pictures of this museum.Vatican · Vatican
Saint Peter’s Basilica
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Vatican

Saint Peter’s Basilica

9.5
4.7/5
1.3k reviews
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
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Vatican

Sistine Chapel

7.6
4.8/5
330 reviews
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

Experiences you can't miss in Vatican

Featured Culture & history in Vatican

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Complete Vatican: Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peters Basilica
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4.6/5
· 354 reviews· 49 booked
Duration: 3–4 hrs
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Skip the Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & St. Peter's
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4.7/5
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St. Peter's Basilica: Reserved Entry + Dome Access + Audio Guide
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Omnia Vatican and Rome Pass: Top Attractions and Travelcard
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4.1/5
· 162 reviews
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Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
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5.0/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 2.5–3 hrs
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St. Peter's Basilica: Audio Guide + Dome Access via Elevator
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3.0/5
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Featured Day tours in Vatican

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Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour
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4.8/5
· 3.2k reviews· 27 booked
Duration: 2–4 hrs
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Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Skip-the-Line Tour
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4.7/5
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Duration: 3 hrs
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Rome: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour
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4.4/5
· 8 reviews
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Rome: St. Peter's Basilica Tour, Exclusive Underground Access
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Rome: St. Peter's Basilica, Tombs & Dome Guided Tour
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Featured Food & drink in Vatican

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Rome: Vatican Food Tours, Cooking classes & Free Tours
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
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Rome: Breakfast & Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
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Vatican: Fun Treasure Hunt for Kids and Families with Gelato
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Highlights of Rome: E-bike Tour of the City with Gelato
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Italian Food Tastings & Pottery Workshop
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Rome: Chocolate Tour Artisans Specialities Gourmet Tastings
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Rome: VIP Golf Cart Food Tour
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Fettuccine & Tiramisu Masterclass: Pasta & Dessert
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Featured City sightseeing in Vatican

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Rome Vespa Tour: Hidden Gems and Iconic Landmarks
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Vespa Sidecar Tour In Rome with Pickup, Drop-off, Gelato included
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Skip-the-Line Vatican Entry & Panoramic Open Bus Tour
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Vatican City: St. Peter's Basilica Walking Tour
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Rome: Vespa Tour with Professional Photoshoot as a Passenger
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5.0/5
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Rome: Fun Golf Cart Giro with Music and Gelato
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Rome by Night: St. Peter's, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon
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4.4/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
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What travellers say about Vatican

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hol***jwOctober 26, 2026
5.0
It exceeded expectations, especially our tour guide, a Taiwanese woman surnamed Zhou. Despite her small stature, she possessed immense energy, delivering a captivating and passionate explanation that completely enthralled everyone. The three-plus hours allowed us to appreciate the highlights of the museum and cathedral—truly excellent value for money.

Vatican Museums

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cathyjySeptember 23, 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

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淡定求不得May 29, 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

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SUNSHINE ONUSApril 30, 2025
5.0
The world's largest Catholic church is highly recommended. It is majestic, luxurious and meaningful. St. Peter's Basilica is known for its magnificent architecture, exquisite art and profound religious significance. Countless art treasures are displayed inside the church. The most famous ones include Michelangelo's sculpture "Pietà" and Bernini's "Throne of St. Peter". These works of art not only show the artists' superb skills, but also convey deep religious emotions. The walls and domes of the church are decorated with a large number of mosaics and murals. These works are based on religious stories, with bright colors and rich details, showing the artistic styles of the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Cupola di San Pietro

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poohwubearJune 7, 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

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GeorgezouOctober 10, 2019
5.0
The Raphael Rooms contain four rooms where Raphael worked. Here are displayed 16 murals created by Raphael and his students over a period of 10 years. The most famous is the Academy of Athens, which is magnificent and a place worth lingering.

Raphael Rooms

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漂鸟WandervogeMay 25, 2020
5.0
From the top circular walkway inside St. Peter's Basilica, you can overlook the entire interior of the cathedral. It is an absolutely stunning visual experience. You are so close to the dome and the masters of the Renaissance, yet so far away from the world...

St. Peter's Baldachin

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漫天狂舞的飞雪August 9, 2023
5.0
The smallest country in the world, with a small population, but a high international status

St. Peter Square Obelisk

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Vatican?

Don't miss these attractions in Vatican: Vatican Museums, Saint Peter’s Basilica, and Sistine Chapel. If you like Culture & history, try Complete Vatican: Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peters Basilica. If you enjoy Day tours, try Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour.

You can give Rome: Vatican Food Tours, Cooking classes & Free Tours and Rome: Breakfast & Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Rome: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour, Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Skip-the-Line Tour, and Rome: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 4, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Vatican is around DKK 166.14 – DKK 816.5. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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