Vatican City
The world's smallest country
October 27, 2026
The world's smallest country, with a long list of art and architecture.
You should go if:
You want to see the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's in person
You love Renaissance art and architecture
You are in Rome and can spare half a day
It's worth it to pay to skip the line
Must-visit places:
St. Peter's Basilica: Michelangelo's Pietà and the climb to the dome
Vatican Museums: The Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel
St. Peter's Square: Bernini's colonnade
Vatican Gardens: Guided tours only
Must-try foods:
Eat in the nearby Prati neighborhood in Rome:
Supplì (fried rice balls) and pizza al taglio
Cacio e pepe and carbonara
Gelato to finish
Fun facts:
At about 0.17 square miles, it is the smallest country in the world.
The Swiss Guard has protected the Pope since 1506.
It has its own post office, radio station, and pharmacy.
I am pretty sure if you sell like 1/10 of the stuff in the Vatican, it'd probably solve world hunger for a while.
Logistics:
Best time: Early mornings; October to April for smaller crowds
Currency: Euro
Getting there: Metro to Ottaviano or Cipro, or a tram or bus from central Rome
Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
Booking: Reserve museum tickets online; the museums close most Sundays but open on the last Sunday of the month
Must-learn phrases:
Hello: Buongiorno
Please: Per favore
Thank you: Grazie
Excuse me: Scusi
Where is the restroom?: Dov'è il bagno?