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St. Peter's Basilica

Vatican City, Europe

St. Peter's Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world, showcases stunning Renaissance architecture and is famed for Michelangelo's Pieta and Bernini's magnificent altar. This iconic site draws millions with its spiritual significance and breathtaking artistry. Visitors can climb the dome for panoramic views of Vatican City, explore the Vatican Museums nearby, and immerse themselves in rich history. A visit grants a glimpse into the heart of Roman Catholicism within a deeply cultural setting, making it a must-see for travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

History

Airport

Ciampino

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in St. Peter's Basilica

1. Explore the Basilica

Marvel at the stunning architecture and art inside.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Climb to the Dome

Enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from the top.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1 hr

3. Visit the Pietà

See Michelangelo's iconic sculpture up close.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

4. Attend a Mass

Experience a spiritual service in a historic setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

5. Visit the Vatican Grottoes

Explore the burial site of popes and saints.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Admire the Baldachin

Behold Bernini's magnificent Baroque altar canopy.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

7. Take a Guided Tour

Learn the history and secrets from a local guide.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

8. Explore the Vatican Museums

Discover priceless art and history before the Basilica.

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)