Ever dreamed of a place where the words “tax season” are as foreign as left-hand traffic in Rome? 

Let’s go to the Vatican! This, the smallest sovereign state in the world, is distinct and unique in more ways than just its economic system. 

With Trainline as your faithful travel buddy, you’re hopping aboard a hassle-free ride to a land where the only thing massive is the cultural and historical heritage (and not your tax burden). 

Learn how to get to Vatican City by train, the cost of entry tickets to its museums, and the secrets this tiny country still holds. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Rome, Italy

Why the Vatican? Is Vatican City worth visiting? 

It’s not every day you find a whole country wrapped within a city. Vatican City might be pocket-sized, but it’s bursting at the seams with spiritual significance, artistic treasures, and a history that could rival any epic novel. 

Whether you’re here to marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpieces or to absorb the tranquil ambiance of the Vatican Gardens, this little gem offers a big punch. 

How to get to the Vatican by train 

Your travel to Vatican City can be smoother than the pope’s ride in the popemobile. Hop on a train from anywhere in Europe and glide through picturesque landscapes straight to the heart of Rome. With a few savvy clicks on Trainline, you’ll find yourself a stone’s throw from Vatican City, ready to dive into an ocean of culture. 

Train stations for the Vatican 

Your ultimate Vatican day trip itinerary 

Start at St. Peter’s Basilica. Your journey begins at the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. Did you know that it took over a century to complete its construction? Ascend to the dome for panoramic views of Vatican City. Pro tip: beat the crowds by booking your tickets in advance and skipping those painfully long lines. 

Explore the Vatican Museums. Next stop, the Vatican Museums. These museums house one of the most extensive art collections in the world, spanning centuries of history. Opt for “skip-the-line” tickets to breeze past queues and immerse yourself in a world of art and history. Be sure to gaze up at the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling, a masterpiece painted by Michelangelo. And don’t miss Raphael’s Rooms, a series of chambers adorned with his brilliant frescoes. 

End with a garden retreat. Conclude your day with a peaceful guided tour stroll through the Vatican Gardens, a lush oasis spanning nearly half of Vatican City’s territory. These gardens are not only a botanical wonder but also home to ancient sculptures and fountains. It’s the perfect place for capturing Insta-worthy snaps against a backdrop of green tranquility. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Owen Franken. Image Location: St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, Rome, Italy

10 quick facts about the Vatican 

  1. Size doesn’t define charm. Despite being the world’s smallest country, Vatican City is overflowing with charisma. 
  2. Economy of envy. Unlike most nations, the Vatican doesn’t rely on a standard tax system. It thrives on contributions from Roman Catholics worldwide (known as Peter’s Pence), earnings from the Vatican Bank, and revenue from the sale of publications, stamps, and souvenirs. 
  3. Swiss Guards. More than just stylish uniforms, the Swiss Guards are a centuries-old institution dedicated to protecting the Vatican. 
  4. No borders, no worries. There’s no need for a passport; you can simply walk right into Vatican City. 
  5. Heavenly broadcasts. Vatican Radio has been spreading the pope’s messages since 1931, connecting the Vatican with the world. 
  6. Stargazing Vatican style. At the Vatican Observatory, the worlds of the church and the cosmos come together. 
  7. Exclusive club. Vatican citizenship is job-based, and it comes with unique perks for those lucky enough to belong. 
  8. Underground secrets. Delve into the fascinating Vatican Necropolis, a hidden treasure trove beneath the earth’s surface. 
  9. Artistry beyond measure. The Vatican likely boasts the highest concentration of artworks per square foot in the world.
  10. Green fingers. Even in the tiniest of countries, there’s space for agriculture and greenery, showcasing the Vatican’s commitment to sustainability. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Vladislav Zolotov. Image Location: St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Rome, Italy

Everything you need to know about Vatican City: FAQs 

What is Vatican City? 

Vatican City is an independent city-state and the spiritual headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. It’s home to the pope and features iconic religious and historical sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. 

In which country is Vatican City located? 

Vatican City is a country within a city, uniquely nestled entirely within the city of Rome in Italy. It’s located on the Vatican Hill, on the west bank of the Tiber River. It’s the smallest independent state in the world, both in terms of area and population. 

What is the population of Vatican City? 

As of 2023, there are 618 citizens who call the Vatican their home. The total inhabitants of the state, including citizens and non-citizens, number 764. This includes clergy, members of the Swiss Guard, and other staff who work within the Vatican. The annual average of births is just one (usually the child of a Swiss Guard member), and there are currently no pets reported within the state. Considering how our cats and dogs usually behave at home, it’s no wonder their furry buddies didn’t make it to these holy grounds… 

When was Vatican City built? 

Although the Vatican’s history dates back to early Christianity, Vatican City was officially established as an independent state on Feb. 11, 1929, through the Lateran Treaty between the Holy See and Italy. 

Talking about St. Peter’s Basilica specifically, it all started in the 15th century with Pope Nicholas V and later Pope Julius II. They planned to replace the aging Old St. Peter’s Basilica, originally built by Emperor Constantine the Great in the fourth century. The construction of the current basilica began on April 18, 1506, and was completed on Nov. 18, 1626. Quite the renovation project, huh? 

How much are the tickets to the Vatican? 

Entry fees to Vatican City vary based on the sites you wish to visit. For the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, tickets start around $22 for adults (+$5.43 for “skip-the-line” tickets). St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter, although there may be fees for accessing certain parts, like the dome or the treasury. It’s best to check the official Vatican website for the most current pricing and to book in advance. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Coto Elizondo. Image Location: Vatican Museum, Vatican City, Rome, Italy

When can I visit the Vatican Museums for free? 

You can score a free visit to the Vatican Museums on the last Sunday of the month (check the museum’s schedule). Kids under 6, people involved in heritage protection, and disabled visitors with over 74% disability (plus a buddy if needed) also get in free, any day. Holders of certain cards and university teachers in certain fields might get lucky too, but there are some conditions. Just remember, it’s not an all-access pass, so check the details. 

What is the best time to visit the Vatican? 

The best time to travel to Vatican City really comes down to what you’re after—fewer people, comfier weather, or maybe you want to catch a special event. Here’s the lowdown: 

  • Springtime (March to May): Pretty sweet weather and the gardens look amazing. But heads up, it starts getting busier around Easter. 
  • Summer (June to Aug.): You’ve got tons of daylight to check things out, but it’s also super crowded and can get really hot. So, bring a hat and some water! 
  • Fall (Sept. to Nov.): The heat chills out, and so do the crowds, especially later in the season. Just a heads-up, it gets darker earlier, and you might need an umbrella. 
  • Winter (Dec. to Feb.): Fewer folks around, so you can explore more freely. It’s cooler, and places might close earlier, but December’s got that magical Christmas vibe. 

All things considered, late spring (think late April to May) and early fall (like Sept. to Oct.) are often the sweet spots—not too crowded, not too hot, just right. 

3 all-year-round tips for visiting the Vatican 

  • Early birds and late-afternoon visitors dodge the biggest crowds, no matter the season. 
  • The last Sunday of the month means free entry to the Vatican Museums, but it’s also super busy. 
  • Definitely peek at the Vatican’s official site for any special happenings or papal events that could switch things up. 

Rome and beyond: more bang for your buck 

Vatican City is just the appetizer in Rome’s buffet of wonders. The Colosseum’s ancient grandeur, the Trevi Fountain’s baroque splendor, and not to mention, the mouth-watering pizza spots near Rome’s famous attractions are all part of the Eternal City’s allure. 

After all that exploring, you’ll want a cozy spot to crash. Don’t sweat it; we’ve got the lowdown on the coolest neighborhoods in Rome to bed down for the night. 

Mastering Italy’s trains and Rome’s metro is like learning to say “ciao”—super simple with a bit of practice. And Trainline is always right there in your pocket, making hopping from one spot to the next smoother than a scoop of gelato. 

So pack your bags and your sense of adventure. In Italy, all rails lead to Rome (and every other spot you’ve got scribbled on your Italian bucket list).  

Let’s Rome & roll! 

Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Jupiterimages. Image Location: St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Rome, Italy

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