Vatican City is packed full of museums and sights, as well as long queues, making it best to visit on a day when you don’t have any flights eating into your holiday time.
Make sure to head there early and don’t visit on a Sunday as the museums are closed (unless it’s the last Sunday of the month when entry is free - but be prepared for large queues!)
Upon arriving in Vatican City, head to St Peter’s Square where you take in the enchanting view before joining the queue to enter one of the largest churches in the world, St Peter’s Basilica. Inside you can view the awe-inspiring interior architecture as well as several pieces of art. Don’t miss out on more impressive views of Rome and climb to the top of the Basilica Dome before leaving.
Following this, head to the Vatican Museums and view one of the largest collections of art and artifacts in the world. Admire statues from Ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome, as well as medieval ceramics and mosaics.
Once you’ve taken in the sights of the Vatican Museums, you can enter the Sistine Chapel and take in works from legendary artists such as Michelangelo. Inside, you can see the famous mural paintings that cover the walls and ceiling, including ‘The Creation of Adam’.
We then recommend making a stop for lunch at one of the delicious eateries around Vatican City to enjoy a peaceful moment away from the crowds.
Continuing your discovery of Michelangelo’s works, journey to Piazza del Campidoglio which was designed by the artist. Take pictures of the Capitoline Wolf sculpture which depicts Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome. If you’re still in the mood for museums after your Vatican trip, head to the Capitoline Museums where you can view more ancient art.
To end the day, travel to Campo dei Fiori where you can find a mouth-watering restaurant for dinner and indulge in some holiday drinks.