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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Apostolic Palace

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Vatican Museums

Discover art treasures from Michelangelo to Raphael.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Sistine Chapel

Witness Michelangelo's stunning ceiling frescoes.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Marvel at the grandeur of this iconic church.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Climb the Dome

Enjoy panoramic views over Vatican City.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk through the Vatican Gardens

Experience the serene beauty of landscaped gardens.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Apostolic Palace

Visit the official residence of the Pope.

Booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Hail Mary in St. Peter's Square

Experience the heart of Vatican City.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Papal Audience

See the Pope and receive blessings.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Vatican Gift Shop

Find unique religious souvenirs and gifts.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Vatican City State

Learn about the smallest independent state in the world.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Vatican Apostolic Library

Explore one of the oldest libraries in the world.

Booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Mass at St. Peter's

Experience a spiritual service in a historic setting.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a guided tour of Vatican

Gain insights with expert knowledge of history.

Booking required

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)