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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?