St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums
- Sara Riscica
- Jan 14
- 14 min read
Everything you need to know before planning a visit
Here we are in Rome, a city of art and history, where every stone has a story to tell, and every street seems to lead to a timeless masterpiece.
If you’ve decided to visit Rome, there’s one thing I want you to be aware of: the ultimate test for any self-respecting tourist is surviving the deadly combo of St. Peter’s Basilica + the Vatican Museums.
Because visiting these iconic spots is an absolute must, but it also requires a good dose of patience, comfortable shoes, and ideally, a bit of planning.
But trust me, it will be absolutely worth it.
In this article, I’ll give you a few general tips and suggestions to help you navigate the chaos of the city, providing you with everything you need to survive.
And if, after all that, you’re in need of some rest, I’ve got a couple of recommended spots where you can unwind… 😉
In this article, we’ll talk about:
St. Peter’s Basilica: a journey through art, faith, and fascinating facts
What to see inside the Basilica
Michelangelo’s Dome: the best view of Rome
Curiosities and anecdotes
Opening hours, tickets, and useful information
Hidden spots to admire the Basilica that only Romans know
The Vatican Museums: a journey through art and the history of humanity
The must-see stops
Opening hours, tickets and useful information
Tips for a smart visit to the Vatican Museums
Happy reading!
St. Peter’s Basilica: a journey through art, faith, and fascinating facts
St. Peter’s Basilica, the undisputed symbol of Vatican City, is considered the heart of Christianity and one of the most extraordinary architectural wonders in the world. This isn’t just about visiting a church: it’s a journey through centuries of art, history, and that touch of mystery that only Rome can offer. So, if you’re in Rome — perhaps staying at one of our accommodations 🥰 — this visit is a must that will leave you speechless.
The construction of St. Peter’s Basilica began in 1506 and was completed in 1626. But beware: this isn’t the first church built here. The original basilica dates back to the 4th century, commissioned by Emperor Constantine right above the spot believed to be the burial site of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles and the first pope of the Catholic Church.
The current basilica is a monumental work that saw the collaboration of some of the greatest artists of the time: Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini, just to name a few. And here’s a fun fact for those who love historical details: Michelangelo, who was over seventy years old at the time, accepted the task of designing the dome more out of faith than for fame. And thank goodness he did, because today that dome is one of the most recognizable symbols in the world.
What to admire inside the basilica
As you step into St. Peter’s Basilica, get ready to be blown away. There’s just too much to see and discover, but I’ve carefully selected (just for you!) the 10 most important highlights:
Michelangelo’s Pietà
The first thing that catches your eye is the majestic Pietà by Michelangelo, one of the most famous and moving sculptures in the world. Fun fact: Michelangelo sculpted it when he was just 24 years old. And if you’re wondering why the masterpiece is protected by a glass case, well, that’s due to an act of vandalism that occurred in 1972.
St. Peter’s Baldachin
A little further ahead, you’ll find St. Peter’s Baldachin, an impressive bronze structure designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, standing above the Papal Altar. It is said that the bronze used to create it came from the Pantheon, a perfect example of how Rome seamlessly blends the sacred and the profane.
The Tomb of St. Peter
Located beneath the High Altar, it is traditionally believed to be the burial site of the Apostle Peter. This is a place of deep devotion and immense historical significance for Christianity.
The Chair of St. Peter
Another masterpiece by Bernini, it represents the symbolic throne of the Apostle Peter, supported by the statues of the four Doctors of the Church and illuminated by a stained-glass window depicting a dove, the symbol of the Holy Spirit.
The Dome
Designed by Michelangelo, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome. Climbing to the top allows you to admire the interior frescoes up close and enjoy a unique view of the Eternal City.
The Vatican Grottoes
Located beneath the basilica, they house the tombs of numerous popes and members of royal families, along with chapels and relics of great historical and religious significance.
The Statue of St. Peter
This bronze statue depicts the Apostle seated on a throne. It is a tradition for the faithful to touch or kiss the statue’s right foot as a sign of devotion, to the point that the foot is visibly worn down.
The Navicella Mosaic by Giotto
Located above the main entrance, it depicts a ship symbolizing the Church. Although the original mosaic has been lost, a 17th-century replica keeps its memory alive.
The Funeral Monument of Alexander VII
Created by Bernini, this monument depicts the pope in prayer, with a skeletal figure of Death lifting a drape, serving as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life.
The Holy Door
Opened only during Jubilee Years, it symbolizes penance and reconciliation. Passing through it during the Jubilee is a gesture of profound spiritual significance for the faithful.
Michelangelo's Dome: the best view of Rome
If you want to see Rome in all its splendor, then climbing the dome is an absolute must. A word of caution: it’s not an experience for those afraid of heights! The climb can be tiring — especially if you choose to take all 551 steps on foot — but the view waiting for you at the top is unmatched.
For those who prefer a less strenuous option, there is an elevator that takes you halfway up, but for the final steps, you’ll still have to rely on your legs. Once at the top, you’ll be able to admire the breathtaking panorama of Vatican City, Rome, and the surrounding hills. And trust me: the view is worth every single step.
Curiosities and Anecdotes...
Maybe not everyone knows that:
The Popes Buried in the Basilica
Among the most visited tombs is that of Pope John Paul II, which attracts thousands of faithful every day.
The Mysterious Angel on the Basilica’s Façade
If you take a close look at the façade of St. Peter’s Basilica, you’ll notice something a bit unusual: an angel with the features… of a demon. Don’t believe it? Look at the face of the angel to the left of the clock — its expression is decidedly eerie. Some say this detail was added as a warning against pride, while others believe it was simply a mistake by the sculptor. Who knows!
The Secret of the Missing Pigeons
Have you ever noticed that there are no pigeons in St. Peter’s Square, unlike in other Roman squares? This is no coincidence: the square is equipped with a sophisticated ultrasonic system to keep birds away. This measure helps preserve the cleanliness of the Basilica and its surrounding monuments. Even the Roman pigeons know there’s no messing around here!
The Incident with Bernini’s Bell Tower
Few people know that Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed two bell towers for St. Peter’s Basilica. However, the project was a complete disaster: one of the towers collapsed before it was even finished, causing a huge scandal. The failure damaged the artist’s reputation, and Bernini was removed from Vatican projects for several years. Despite this flop, the Pope eventually trusted him again, and Bernini made a triumphant comeback with the iconic baldachin and the colonnade of St. Peter’s Square.
The Spot in St. Peter’s Square Where the Columns Align
A hidden architectural secret awaits you in St. Peter’s Square: there’s a precise spot where Bernini’s majestic colonnade appears perfectly aligned, creating the illusion of a single row of columns. This magic spot is marked by a marble disc embedded in the square’s pavement, near the obelisk. Stand there and look towards the columns — what normally looks like four rows of columns will appear as one seamless row. An extraordinary optical trick, designed to symbolize the perfect harmony and the welcoming embrace of the Church towards its faithful.
Opening hours, tickets, and useful information
St. Peter’s Basilica is open every day, but the opening hours may vary depending on events and religious ceremonies. Entry to the basilica is free, but a ticket is required to climb the dome.
IEntrance to the Basilica: FreeDome Climb: €8 (stairs only) or €10 (elevator + stairs)For updated information on opening hours and tickets, we recommend visiting the official website of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Hidden spots to admire St. Peter’s Basilica that only Romans know
Via Nicolò Piccolomini
Looking for a true insider tip? Head to Via Nicolò Piccolomini.
This small street, slightly off the usual tourist routes, is definitely worth a visit. From here, you’ll experience an incredible optical illusion: St. Peter’s Dome appears to grow larger as you move away and shrink as you get closer. Don’t ask me how it works — let’s call it Roman magic!
But be careful: don’t go there by car, or you’ll spend most of your time hunting for a parking spot (spoiler: you won’t find one). It’s better to take a leisurely walk, perhaps after enjoying some delicious artisan gelato.
This is one of those places that Romans know well but rarely make it into tourist guides. A little secret I’m sharing with you.
Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta
Looking for an unusual and fascinating experience? Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta is a must-see. Located on the Aventine Hill, one of Rome’s seven hills, this square holds a curious and magical secret: through a simple keyhole, you can enjoy a perfect and enchanting view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The square was designed in the 18th century by Giovan Battista Piranesi, a renowned Italian architect and engraver. It is dominated by the façade of the Priory of the Knights of Malta, an ancient religious and chivalric order. The highlight of your visit? The famous keyhole of the Priory’s gate.
When you arrive at the square, you’ll see a large green gate. Slowly approach and look for the keyhole — it may seem like an insignificant detail, but it hides a surprising secret.
Through the keyhole, you’ll witness a unique sight: St. Peter’s Dome perfectly framed by a pathway of hedges. This incredible alignment isn’t accidental but the result of meticulous planning.
The view is breathtaking, especially at sunset when Rome’s sky turns golden. The beauty of this experience lies in the contrast between anticipation and surprise: from a tiny detail like a keyhole, one of the city’s most iconic panoramas opens up before your eyes.
Rione XXII Apartment
In the heart of Prati, one of Rome’s most elegant and authentic districts, you’ll find Rione XXII Apartment — a cozy and ideal place for those looking to explore the Eternal City with comfort and style.
Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway or families ready to discover Rome’s wonders, this apartment has everything you need to feel at home while being immersed in the city’s millennia-old history.
The apartment is named after Rione Borgo, the 22nd historical district of Rome, located right next to the Vatican. This choice is no coincidence: its privileged location allows guests to reach St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums within minutes on foot, offering the unique experience of being close to one of the most sacred and iconic places in the world.
What truly makes this apartment special is its location. Rome is a city best explored on foot, and staying at Rione XXII Apartment allows you to do so in the most authentic way. Just a few steps away, you’ll find yourself in St. Peter’s Square. Or you can take an evening stroll along the Lungotevere, enjoying the romantic view of Castel Sant'Angelo illuminated at night.
Despite being in such a central location, the apartment offers peace and privacy. The Prati district is safe and refined, away from the tourist crowds, yet perfectly connected to the city’s main attractions. The nearby Ottaviano metro station allows you to easily reach iconic places like Piazza di Spagna, Trevi Fountain, or the Colosseum without long commutes.
Staying at Rione XXII Apartment means choosing an authentic experience. It’s not just accommodation but a privileged starting point to live Rome like a true local. Enjoy a peaceful breakfast in the neighborhood’s historic cafés, lose yourself in the Vatican’s streets, and return to your apartment for a refreshing break before continuing your journey through the city’s wonders.
Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica is more than just a tourist stop. It’s a journey through history, art, and spirituality that only Rome can offer. And, let’s be honest, after walking through these marvels, it’ll be the perfect time to treat yourself to a delicious carbonara in a nearby trattoria. Because Rome is also about culture, food, and a welcoming spirit that makes you feel right at home.
The Vatican Museums: a journey through art and the history of humanity
Visiting the Vatican Museums is a unique experience that will take you on a journey through one of the most important and fascinating museum complexes in the world. Located in the heart of Vatican City, these museums preserve artworks spanning centuries — from ancient times to the modern era — offering an extraordinary voyage through history, culture, and spirituality. If you're in Rome — perhaps staying at one of our accommodations near the Vatican — this is a must-see marvel you simply can’t miss.
Founded in the 16th century by the popes to preserve and showcase their immense artistic heritage, the Vatican Museums are now one of the most visited attractions in the world. Within their walls, you'll find masterpieces that have shaped the course of art history, created by the greatest artists of all time: Michelangelo, Raphael, Giotto, Caravaggio, and many more.
But what makes this visit so special? The Vatican Museums aren’t just a single museum — they’re a vast complex of rooms, galleries, and courtyards filled with priceless treasures, culminating in one of the world’s most famous and iconic sites: the Sistine Chapel.
The Must-See Stops
As soon as you enter the Vatican Museums, you'll be overwhelmed by the beauty and grandeur of the displayed works. The rooms unfold in a crescendo of wonder, but some stops are absolutely unmissable.
Cortile della Pigna
At the entrance, you'll find this charming courtyard dominated by the famous bronze sculpture of a pinecone almost four meters high. The Roman-era sculpture symbolizes fertility and renewal. You can also admire the modern "Sphere within Sphere" sculpture by Arnaldo Pomodoro in this courtyard.
Museo Pio-Clementino
This museum houses one of the most important collections of ancient sculptures in the world. Among its most famous masterpieces are the "Laocoön Group", depicting Laocoön's struggle with sea serpents, and the "Apollo Belvedere", a symbol of classical perfection.
Galleria dei Candelabri
A long gallery richly decorated with marble candelabra, statues, and frescoed ceilings. The gallery is divided into sections displaying artifacts from the Roman and medieval periods.
Galleria degli Arazzi
This gallery showcases magnificent tapestries made by Flemish craftsmen based on drawings from Raphael’s school. The tapestries depict episodes from the life of Christ and stories related to the popes.
Galleria delle Carte Geografiche
One of the most spectacular galleries in the Vatican Museums, featuring 40 frescoed maps showing various regions of Italy in the 16th century. Each map is incredibly detailed, representing the geographical knowledge of the time.
Stanze di Raffaello
A group of four rooms frescoed by Raphael and his students. One of the most famous works is "The School of Athens", depicting the greatest philosophers of antiquity, including Plato and Aristotle.
Cappella Sistina
The most famous attraction in the Vatican Museums. Michelangelo’s frescoes, such as "The Creation of Adam" on the ceiling and "The Last Judgment" on the altar wall, are considered among the greatest masterpieces of world art.
Museo Gregoriano Egizio
This museum features artifacts from ancient Egypt, including statues, sarcophagi, mummies, and amulets. It offers an overview of Egyptian culture and religion, with a particular focus on funerary rites.
Pinacoteca Vaticana
The Vatican Art Gallery houses works by some of the greatest artists in history, including Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Giotto. Notable masterpieces include Raphael’s "Transfiguration" and Caravaggio’s "Deposition".
Scala Elicoidale
At the end of your visit, you’ll find the famous spiral staircase designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932. Its double helix structure is a masterpiece of architectural design and one of the most photographed spots in the museum.
Opening hours, tickets, and useful information
Planning your visit to the Vatican Museums in advance will allow you to enjoy a more relaxed experience and avoid long waits. Here’s everything you need to know about opening hours, tickets, and booking options to make the most of this cultural and artistic wonder.
Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
Last sunday of the month: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (last entry at 12:30 PM), with free admission
Closed: Sundays (except the last of the month) and religious holidaysTickets
Full price: €20,00
Reduced price: €8.00 (for children aged 6 to 18 and students up to 25 years old with valid ID)
Online reservation "Skip the Line" fee: €5,00
Free admission: Last Sunday of the month⚠️ Tip: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. The online booking option allows you to skip the line at the entrance.
You can purchase your tickets directly on the official Vatican Museums website: Buy Your Tickets Here.
Tips for a smart visit to the Vatican Museums
Visiting the Vatican Museums can often become an exhausting experience that not everyone is prepared for. However, by following these practical tips, your visit can be much more enjoyable and stress-free:
👟 Comfortable Shoes: the museum route covers about 7 kilometers, so wearing comfortable footwear is essential to get through the visit without tiring yourself out.
👗 Dress Code: access to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Gardens is only allowed for visitors dressed appropriately. Sleeveless or low-cut clothing, shorts that don’t cover the knees, miniskirts, and hats are not permitted.
⏰ Ideal Times: to avoid crowds, it's best to visit the museums early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Additionally, winter months away from the holiday season tend to be less crowded.
📅 Days to Avoid: saturdays and days close to weekends are usually busier due to an influx of visitors. Also, the last Sunday of the month, when admission is free, tends to attract large crowds.
🕒 Time Needed: given the vast collections, it’s advisable to dedicate at least 3-4 hours for a thorough visit. This will allow you to appreciate the main artworks without rushing.
👩🏫 Guided Tours: joining a guided tour can enhance your experience, providing insights into the artworks and the history of the museums. Licensed guides offer details you might not catch on your own.
☕ Refreshment Points: there are cafés and restaurants inside the museums where you can take a break and recharge. However, prices can be high, so consider bringing a snack with you.
🎧 Audioguides: audioguides in various languages are available and can be helpful in understanding the exhibits better. You can rent them at the entrance or book them in advance online.
🧳 Cloakroom: before accessing the exhibition spaces, visitors must deposit luggage, suitcases, backpacks, parcels, and containers deemed unsuitable by the staff in the cloakroom. The cloakroom service is free of charge.
💻 Advance Booking: booking tickets online allows you to avoid long lines at the entrance. The "skip the line" booking fee is €5.00 — a small investment to save time.
🎟️ Combined Tickets: some ticket options include access to St. Peter’s Basilica or the Vatican Gardens. Consider these offers if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
Ready to Explore?
Are you ready to feel like an art explorer and a true Roman insider? Great, because now you have all the information you need to experience St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums like a local! From ancient statues and breathtaking frescoes to the majestic Sistine Chapel, it’s sure to be a day you’ll never forget (and yes, your Instagram feed will thank you).
For an even more comfortable and enjoyable experience, stay at Rione XXII Apartment, located in the heart of Prati. It’s the perfect base to rest after miles of art, enjoy a good coffee, and truly feel like a Roman.
So, comfortable shoes on, map in hand, and… off you go! Rome and its treasures await you. And remember: beauty is best enjoyed slowly, with a smile on your face.
Happy exploring! ❤️
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