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Apostolic Palace

Vatican City, Europe

The Apostolic Palace, the papal residence, stands as an opulent symbol of the Catholic Church's influence. Visitors can explore its extraordinary art collections, including masterpieces by Raphael and Michelangelo, and marvel at the breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling. With its stunning architecture and rich history, the palace offers a unique peek into the heart of Vatican City, making it a must-visit for those seeking cultural and spiritual enlightenment.

Quick facts

Target stay

1-2 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

History

Airport

Ciampino

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Apostolic Palace

1. Explore the Vatican Museums

Discover art treasures from Michelangelo to Raphael.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

2. Admire the Sistine Chapel

Witness Michelangelo's stunning ceiling frescoes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Marvel at the grandeur of this iconic church.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Climb the Dome

Enjoy panoramic views over Vatican City.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

5. Walk through the Vatican Gardens

Experience the serene beauty of landscaped gardens.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

6. Explore the Apostolic Palace

Visit the official residence of the Pope.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Hail Mary in St. Peter's Square

Experience the heart of Vatican City.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

8. Attend a Papal Audience

See the Pope and receive blessings.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

9. Shop at Vatican Gift Shop

Find unique religious souvenirs and gifts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

10. Explore Vatican City State

Learn about the smallest independent state in the world.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

11. Visit the Vatican Apostolic Library

Explore one of the oldest libraries in the world.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

1 hr

12. Attend a Mass at St. Peter's

Experience a spiritual service in a historic setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

13. Take a guided tour of Vatican

Gain insights with expert knowledge of history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

No data

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-8 (#127 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Italian

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Fettuccine

V

Flat pasta served with sauce. (National dish)

Saltimbocca alla Romana

Veal wrapped with prosciutto and sage.

Carciofi alla Romana

VE

Roman-style artichokes, braised and seasoned.

Spaghetti alla Carbonara

Pasta with eggs, cheese, and pancetta.

Gelato

V

Italian-style ice cream, creamy and sweet.

Phrases to learn

English

Italian

Hello

Ciao

(Chow)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Grazie

(Grah-tsee-eh)

Excuse me

Scusi

(Skoo-zee)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-toh)