Must See Places and Best Things to Do in Vatican City

Step into a world where art, faith, and history converge in the heart of Rome. Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, packs an awe-inspiring punch that belies its tiny size. Every corner reveals masterpieces by geniuses like Michelangelo and Bernini, and the sheer scale of its architecture is enough to make your jaw drop. Whether you're here for a spiritual pilgrimage or to soak in millennia of human creativity, a visit to the Vatican is an unforgettable experience. Planning your 2026 trip is about to get a whole lot easier with our guide to its most incredible sights.

St. Peter's Square: The Grand Embrace

Your Vatican journey almost always begins here, in the magnificent St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro). Designed by Bernini, this vast, elliptical space is framed by two sweeping colonnades, meant to symbolise the "maternal arms of the Mother Church." It’s a place of immense scale and perfect symmetry, with an ancient Egyptian obelisk at its centre. It’s here that crowds gather for papal addresses, so take a moment to stand in the middle and absorb the palpable atmosphere of history and devotion.

Best foodie finds

While there are no restaurants inside the square itself, the surrounding streets of the Prati district are full of gems. For a quick, delicious bite, look for a "pizza al taglio" (pizza by the slice) spot. Our favourite is Alice Pizza, just a short walk away. For a proper sit-down meal, try Hostaria Dino e Toni for authentic, no-fuss Roman pasta dishes that will refuel you after a morning of walking.

Getting around

The square is a pedestrian-only zone, so comfortable shoes are your best friend. The nearest metro stop is Ottaviano (Line A), about a 10-minute walk away. Numerous buses also stop along the nearby Via della Conciliazione.

St. Peter's Basilica: A Testament to Genius

Prepare to be humbled as you step inside St. Peter's Basilica. It is, simply put, one of the most breathtaking buildings on earth. From Michelangelo’s soaring dome to his poignant Pietà sculpture near the entrance, every detail is a masterpiece. The sheer scale is difficult to comprehend until you're standing beneath the gilded ceilings, dwarfed by Bernini's bronze Baldacchino over the main altar.

Culture & landmarks

The absolute must-do experience is climbing to the top of the dome. You can take an elevator part-way, but the final ascent is a narrow, winding staircase that follows the curve of the dome itself. The reward? The most spectacular 360-degree view over Vatican City and Rome. Also, don't miss the Vatican Grottoes beneath the basilica, where many popes are buried.

What to eat

After climbing all those stairs, you’ve earned a treat. Head towards Borgo Pio, a charming street nearby, for some artisanal gelato. Gelateria del Monte is a local favourite, serving classic flavours made with high-quality ingredients. It’s the perfect way to cool down and reflect on the incredible sights.

The Vatican Museums: A Treasure Trove of Art

Home to one of the greatest art collections in the world, the Vatican Museums are a labyrinth of artistic wonders spanning centuries. You could spend days here and not see everything, so it’s wise to have a plan. The journey takes you through remarkable spaces like the Gallery of Maps and the Raphael Rooms, each more stunning than the last. Of course, the entire experience culminates in the Sistine Chapel.

Street food + must-do experiences

The main event here is undoubtedly the Sistine Chapel. No photos are allowed, which forces you to be fully present and crane your neck to take in Michelangelo's incredible frescoes, from the Creation of Adam to the Last Judgement. Book your tickets online well in advance to skip the notoriously long queues. For a quick and satisfying bite before or after your visit, grab a trapizzino from the nearby Trapizzino shop – a delicious triangular pocket of pizza bread stuffed with classic Roman fillings like chicken cacciatore.

Cultural Etiquette and Smart Travel Tips

The Vatican is a religious site, and a dress code is strictly enforced for entry into St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered. This means no shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops. It’s a good idea to carry a light scarf or shawl with you to cover up if needed. Be mindful of your noise level, especially inside the basilica, and remember that photography is forbidden in the Sistine Chapel.

What to Pack

Aside from appropriate clothing, the most important item you can pack is a pair of comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be on your feet for hours! A refillable water bottle is also a great idea; there are free water fountains (*nasoni*) scattered around Rome, including near St. Peter's Square. Pack a portable charger for your phone, as you’ll be using it for photos, maps, and booking tickets.

Staying Connected

Navigating the crowds and looking up opening times on the go is so much easier with data on your phone. Rather than getting stung with high international roaming fees from your Aussie provider, consider an E.Tel Travel eSIM. You can get it set up on your phone before you even leave home. It’s a far more affordable way to stay connected, allowing you to upload those incredible photos, use Google Maps, and book last-minute tours without worrying about the cost advantages over traditional roaming. Check out the simple plans at https://apply.etel.com.au/travelesim/vatican-city.

Final Thoughts

Vatican City is more than just a place; it's an experience that resonates long after you've left. The sheer concentration of art, history, and culture is astounding. With a little planning, you can navigate its incredible sights with ease, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So get ready to be amazed – the heart of the Catholic world awaits.