Located within Vatican City, this is one of the world's largest museum complexes, following a set route through the vast collections of ancient sculpture, painting and tapestry amassed by the popes. The route culminates in the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's ceiling ('The Creation of Adam') and altar-wall fresco ('The Last Judgment'). The Raphael Rooms, Gallery of Maps and the Laocoön Group are among the other unmissable highlights.
Sistine Chapel – Michelangelo's ceiling (1508–1512) and 'The Last Judgment' on the altar wall (1536–1541), plus wall frescoes by Botticelli, Perugino and others
Raphael Rooms – four rooms frescoed by Raphael and his pupils, above all the 'Room of the Signatura' with 'The School of Athens'
Gallery of Maps – a roughly 120-metre corridor lined with about 40 painted maps of Italy's regions
Laocoön Group and the Apollo Belvedere in the Octagonal Court – ancient sculptures at the origin of the collection
The Pinacoteca (painting gallery) and the Egyptian and Etruscan collections among the enormous holdings
Good to know
RulesBecause this is a sacred site, the dress code is strictly enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered, and sleeveless tops, miniskirts and short shorts can result in refused entry. Carry a light cardigan or scarf to cover up.
RulesPhotography and video are completely banned inside the Sistine Chapel, and absolute silence is expected. Talking loudly or using a phone will draw a warning from the guards; keep your phone on silent inside the chapel.
CautionBeware of street sellers offering 'skip-the-line' tickets outside the museum; they often add a big markup or bundle you into an unwanted tour. Check the current official booking site (tickets.museivaticani.va) before you buy.
SafetyThe halls get extremely crowded and visitors are often distracted looking up at the art, making it easy for pickpockets. Wear your bag in front and keep wallet, passport and phone close to your body.
RulesBags, rucksacks and suitcases larger than roughly 40×35×15 cm, plus knives and scissors, must be left in the free cloakroom. Arriving with large luggage makes the visit more cumbersome.
SeasonIn the summer peak, tickets often sell out two to three months ahead and the interior gets very hot and crowded. Aim for the early morning right after opening or late afternoon for a calmer visit.
Practical info
Timed-entry reservations are effectively essential in peak season and on weekends; confirm current prices, opening hours and closing days (generally closed Sundays, with free entry on the last Sunday of the month) on the official site. Even with a booking you still queue for security screening, and the full route is long, so wear comfortable shoes.
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