With a landmass of less than half a square kilometer, the majority of which is encircled by the Vatican walls, the Vatican is the smallest independent state in the world. St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican palace and gardens, and St. Peter’s Square are all located inside. The Pope, who is the head of the Roman Catholic Church, rules over these locations. Between its museums and the enormous church itself, this small area has a lot to see.

Pieta, a work of art by Michelangelo, as well as altars and statues by Bernini and others, may be found inside St. Peter’s Basilica. The Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s beautiful frescoed ceiling, is without a doubt the showpiece of the Vatican museums.

You may view collections of anything from papal carriages to 20th-century art in these.

You may spend several hours waiting in line for tickets to the greatest attractions at the Vatican. A Skip the Line: Vatican Museums with St. Peter’s, Sistine Chapel, and Small-Group Upgrade trip can be purchased in advance to save time. With a professional guide, you can skip the lengthy lines and enter the museums right away during this three-hour tour. You can select from a number of departure times, upgrade to an evening tour, or sign up for a small-group tour. Headsets are also available.