Vatican City
Overview
Vatican City: a unique independent city-state, home to the Pope and the Catholic Church. Marvel at the breathtaking St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo's iconic frescoes, and immerse yourself in centuries of art and history within the Vatican Museums.
Best Time to Travel
Best Months
April, May, September, and October
During the best months, the weather is generally mild and sunny, with pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring. Expect average temperatures between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F).
Months to Avoid
July and August - extreme heat and large crowds; November to March - cooler temperatures and occasional rain, although fewer crowds.
Consider visiting during other months
Peak Season
April (especially around Easter), May, June, July, August, and late December
Expect larger crowds and higher prices
Top Things to Do
Villa Abamelek
Recommended Hotels
Hotel Alimandi Vaticano
Prati
A budget-friendly option just steps from the Vatican Museums, offering simple comfort and convenience for exploring the area.
Hotel Colors
Vatican
A vibrant and youthful hostel-style hotel with private and dorm rooms, perfect for budget travelers looking for a social atmosphere near the Vatican.
Atlante Star Hotel
Prati
A charming mid-range hotel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning panoramic views of St. Peter's Basilica and the surrounding cityscape.
Starhotels Michelangelo Rome
Vatican
A sophisticated mid-range hotel known for its classic Italian design, comfortable rooms, and excellent location near Vatican City.
Gran Meliá Rome Villa Agrippina
Gianicolo
A luxurious urban resort offering opulent rooms, stunning gardens, a large outdoor pool, and exceptional service, a short walk from the Vatican.
Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Monte Mario
An exquisite luxury resort offering unparalleled views of Vatican City and Rome, multiple dining options, a grand spa, and extensive outdoor spaces.
Recommended Restaurants
Ristorante dei Musei
Italian
Vatican Museums
A convenient and surprisingly good option inside the Vatican Museums, offering pasta, pizza, and other Italian staples. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch during your visit.
Pizza Zizza Caffetteria Birreria D'asporto
Pizza
Borgo
A popular spot for takeaway pizza near the Vatican, known for its generous slices and affordable prices. Ideal for a quick and delicious bite on the go.
La Soffitta Renovatio
Italian
Borgo
Offering stunning rooftop views of St. Peter's Basilica, this restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with traditional Roman dishes. A great place for a special occasion.
Hostaria Romana Cesare
Roman
Borgo
A cozy trattoria serving classic Roman cuisine in a traditional setting. Enjoy authentic flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Old Bridge Gelateria
Dessert/Gelato
Borgo
While not a restaurant, Old Bridge Gelateria is a must-visit for the best gelato near the Vatican. A perfect sweet treat after a long day of sightseeing.
Il Sorpasso
Italian
Prati (Near Vatican)
A modern restaurant with a rustic feel, offers delicious pasta and meat dishes as well as an extensive wine list. Slightly further away, but worth the walk.
Interesting Facts
Fact 1 - Vatican City has its own army: the Pontifical Swiss Guard, founded in 1506. Their brightly colored Renaissance-era uniforms are said to be designed, at least in part, by Michelangelo.
Fact 2 - Before the Vatican became an independent state in 1929 with the Lateran Treaty, the Pope was effectively a prisoner in the Vatican after the Papal States were annexed by the Kingdom of Italy in 1870.
Fact 3 - Vatican City has the highest crime rate per capita in the world, largely due to petty theft from the millions of tourists who visit each year; however, most crimes are solved by Italian authorities.
Fact 4 - Vatican City's total population is around 800 people, but only about 450 hold Vatican citizenship. The citizenship isn't permanent; it's tied to their job and can be revoked.
Fact 5 - While Italian is the official language, Latin is still very much in use, serving as the official language for official documents, and the Vatican even has its own Latin-language newspaper, the *Acta Apostolicae Sedis*.
Fact 6 - Beneath St. Peter's Basilica lies the Vatican Necropolis, an ancient Roman burial ground where, according to tradition, St. Peter the Apostle is buried. Tours require special permission and are highly restricted.
Fact 7 - The Vatican Apostolic Library holds one of the world's oldest collections of historical texts, containing over 1.1 million printed books and 75,000 manuscripts, including early copies of the Bible and works by ancient Greek and Roman authors.
Fact 8 - Vatican City has its own Euro coins with unique Vatican designs, which are highly sought after by collectors, and are rarely seen in circulation outside the Vatican.