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Visiting the Vatican is one of the most awesome experiences when visiting Rome. Sure it is a bit crowded but the experience is well worth it. But what do you need to look out for? There are so many things to see that before my visit I had to research what are the things I wanted to make sure I would be able to see. These are the top things that you should make sure that you get to see during your Vatican and St. Peter Basilica Visit
Best Time to Visit the Vatican
When planning your trip to the Vatican, the shoulder season—late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October)—is the ideal time to go. Here’s why:
Lower Prices
Traveling during the shoulder season often means lower costs. Flights, hotels, and even some tours are discounted, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the peak summer months.
Check out the flight prices or book a flight here:
Check out the hotel prices or book your hotel here:
Thinner Crowds
Fewer tourists during these periods mean shorter lines, better photo opportunities, and a more peaceful exploration of attractions like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. I still recommend that you book a tour because it helps you navigate the Vatican and of course skip the lines
Comfortable Weather
Spring and fall offer mild, pleasant weather, perfect for wandering through the Vatican Gardens and St. Peter’s Square without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Should I buy a tour of the Vatican?
Yes! Entrance to St. Peter's Basilica is free but there is a ticket fee for the Vatican Museum. I highly recommend booking a tour as the lines are long. Plus getting a tour guide provides you with the history of the things that you would be looking at. We liked the tour that we had booked with Viator.
If you want to climb up the St. Peter's Dome there is an extra ticket for that. If you want to climb the dome too I highly recommend booking them together because again, the line to get tickets to climb the dome is long and the wait is horrible. We made the mistake of not booking them together so here I am waiting in line for the tickets!
Must See Highlights for St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of the Vatican. This isn’t just any church; it’s the largest and arguably the most stunning in the world. As you walk through the massive doors, you’re immediately struck by the grandeur and intricate details that Michelangelo, Bernini, and other Renaissance geniuses poured into this masterpiece.
Michelangelo’s Pietà
Michelangelo Buonarroti, a young and relatively unknown artist at the time, was commissioned to create the Pietà in 1498 by Cardinal Jean de Bilhères-Lagraulas, a French envoy to the Vatican. The pietà captures the poignant moment of the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of her son, Jesus Christ, after the Crucifixion.
Tomb of Alexander VII
A striking example of Baroque art and a must-see for any discerning traveler. Created by the renowned sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is probably my favorite sculpture. I was drawn to the most striking element of the sculpture which is a skeletal figure of Death, which emerges from beneath a red marble drapery, holding an hourglass aloft. This symbolizes the inevitability of death and the passage of time, a memento mori that reminds viewers of life’s transience.
St. Peter's Basilica Ceiling
The ceiling of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is a stunning example of Renaissance and Baroque artistry, reflecting the grandeur and spiritual significance of one of Christianity's holiest sites. Adorned with intricate frescoes, gilded stucco, and ornate architectural details, the ceiling not only enhances the basilica’s aesthetic beauty but also serves as a visual narration of biblical stories and Christian doctrine.
St. Peter’s Throne
St. Peter’s Throne, also known as the Cathedra Petri or the Chair of St. Peter, is a religious artifact housed in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. This magnificent bronze throne is both a symbol of the authority of the Pope and a masterpiece of Baroque art created by the renowned Italian sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Commissioned by Pope Alexander VII, Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed and completed the current bronze encasement of the Chair of St. Peter between 1657 and 1666.
There was construction when we visited but if you visit and there is still construction you can go to the side to see the throne.
The Dome:
Climb to the top (or take the elevator partway) for a jaw-dropping panoramic view of Rome. Designed by Michelangelo Buonarroti, this majestic dome not only dominates the skyline of Rome but also symbolizes the grandeur and spiritual significance of St. Peter’s Basilica. The construction of St. Peter’s Basilica began in 1506 under the patronage of Pope Julius II. It continued for over a century, involving contributions from several renowned architects, including Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo. In 1547, Michelangelo took over as the chief architect, and his primary focus was the design and construction of the basilica’s dome.
La Porta Santa (Holy Door)
The tradition of the Holy Door dates back to the 15th century. Pope Martin V is believed to have opened the first Holy Door in 1423 at the Basilica of St. John Lateran. The practice soon extended to other major basilicas in Rome, including St. Peter’s Basilica. The Holy Door is sealed from the inside and only opened during Jubilee Years, which typically occur every 25 years or during extraordinary jubilees proclaimed by the Pope.
Unfortunately, since it was closed I did not get to see inside and I did not get to take a picture as we just passed by it quickly.
The Baldacchino
The Baldacchino, a stunning bronze canopy, stands proudly beneath the towering dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Designed by the renowned Italian sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini, this monumental structure is both an architectural marvel and a profound symbol of the Catholic faith.
Again unfortunately it was under construction and there was a bunch of scaffolding that was covering the Baldacchino
The Tomb of St. Peter the Apostle
Located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, is one of the most revered and historically significant sites in Christendom. As the burial place of St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles and the first Bishop of Rome, this tomb holds profound religious and historical importance for the Catholic Church and its followers worldwide.
St. Peter’s Square
St. Peter’s Square, or Piazza San Pietro, is one of the most recognizable and architecturally significant public spaces in the world. Located directly in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, this grand piazza serves as both a forecourt to the basilica and a monumental gathering place for pilgrims and visitors from around the globe. St. Peter’s Square was designed by the renowned Italian architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini and constructed between 1656 and 1667 under the direction of Pope Alexander VII. Bernini's vision for the square was to create a space that would accommodate large crowds, particularly for papal blessings and ceremonies, while also embodying the grandeur and spiritual significance of the Catholic Church.
The Obelisk
The obelisk, originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt, by an unknown pharaoh, dates back to around 2500 BC. It was later brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula in 37 AD to adorn the central spine of the Circus of Nero, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium. The obelisk witnessed the martyrdom of many Christians, including St. Peter himself, according to tradition.
The obelisk was then transported from Egypt to Rome and placed in the Circus of Nero, and in 1586, Pope Sixtus V ordered the obelisk to be moved to its current location in St. Peter’s Square. This monumental task was overseen by the architect Domenico Fontana and required the efforts of hundreds of men, animals, and complex engineering techniques.
The Colonnade
The colonnade of St. Peter’s Basilica, designed by the renowned Italian architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is a defining feature of St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. The colonnade was commissioned by Pope Alexander VII as part of Bernini’s larger project to redesign St. Peter’s Square. Construction began in 1656 and was completed in 1667. Bernini’s vision was to create a welcoming and grand entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica, enhancing the spiritual and visual impact of the approach to the basilica.
The St. Peters Basilica Fountains
St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City is adorned with two magnificent fountains. Designed by Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, these fountains are not only architectural marvels but also significant symbols of life and purity within the Catholic faith. Oddly enough the two fountains in St. Peter’s Square were constructed in different periods.
The first fountain was built by Carlo Maderno in 1613. Maderno, an influential architect of the early Baroque period, designed the fountain during the pontificate of Pope Paul V.
The second fountain was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and constructed between 1667 and 1677, during the papacy of Pope Clement X. Bernini, a master of the Baroque, who was also responsible for the overall design of St. Peter’s Square.
Angels Unawares
A life-sized bronze sculpture that vividly depicts a group of migrants and refugees from various cultures and historical periods standing on a crowded boat. Created by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, it has been a significant addition to the Vatican since its installation on September 29, 2019. This evocative piece serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and hopes of migrants and refugees around the world.
Bonus tip when visiting St. Peter's Basilica
Visiting at night time is an altogether unique experience. There are hardly any crowds and the lights give it a little bit more drama!
There you have it!
We hope you've enjoyed this in-depth look at the many marvels of St. Peter's Basilica, from the grand colonnade and historic obelisk to the elegant fountains of St. Peter's Square. St. Peter's Basilica is a site rich with art, history, and spirituality, making it a must-see destination for any traveler.
If you have plans to visit St. Peter's Basilica, we’d love to hear about your upcoming trip and what you’re most excited to experience. Your feedback is invaluable and helps us create more engaging and informative content for fellow travelers and adventure seekers like you. Please share your thoughts and travel plans in the comments below!
For those gearing up for their first visit, I hope that you find what you need to know before you visit St. Peter's Basilica: practical tips and essential information will ensure you have a memorable and well-prepared visit.
Thank you for joining us on this exploration of one of the world's most iconic landmarks. We look forward to hearing from you and wish you an unforgettable adventure at St. Peter's Basilica!
TTYL
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