Vatican Library

Vatican City, Europe

The Vatican Library, one of the oldest and most significant libraries in the world, houses a staggering collection of manuscripts, rare books, and historical documents. With over 1.1 million printed books and 75,000 manuscripts, it’s a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and researchers alike. Visitors can marvel at the exquisite architecture and serene reading rooms while occasionally enjoying guided tours that reveal the library's secrets, making it a must-see for culture lovers visiting Vatican City.

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

8 Best Things to Do in Vatican Library

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Vatican Library's rare manuscripts

Discover ancient texts and priceless manuscripts within.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sistine Chapel

Marvel at Michelangelo's iconic ceiling frescoes.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Vatican Museums

Explore an extensive collection of art and artifacts.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

See the Raphael Rooms

Experience stunning frescoes by Raphael.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Borgia Apartments

Explore the lavish rooms decorated by Pinturicchio.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Papal Audience

Witness a unique gathering with the Pope.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore St. Peter's Basilica

Visit one of the world's largest churches.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Vatican Gardens

Enjoy serene landscapes and historic monuments.

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)