A World of Art and History
The Vatican Museums are home to one of the most extensive and renowned art collections in the world.
Founded in the early 16th century, the museums house classical sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and modern works.
Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps.
A visit offers insight into centuries of papal patronage and human creativity..
Vatican Museums Visiting timetable
See full schedule below (varies by season)
Vatican Museums Closing Days
Sundays (except last Sunday of the month, free entry) and December 25th–26th, January 1st, and May 1st
Where is Located
Viale Vaticano, 00165 Rome, Italy
How to Get to the Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums are easily reachable by public transport or on foot from central Rome.
By Train
Take a train to Roma Termini station and transfer to Metro Line A to Ottaviano–San Pietro station. From there, it’s a 5–10 minute walk to the museum entrance.
By Car
Driving is not recommended due to limited parking. Use public transport or nearby paid parking.
By Bus
Bus lines 49, 32, and 982 stop near the Vatican Museums.
On Foot
If staying near St. Peter’s Square or Borgo, the museums are within walking distance.
Highlights of the Vatican Museums
Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces, classical sculptures, intricate frescoes, and the world-famous Sistine Chapel ceiling.
The Vatican Museums: A Journey Through Centuries of Art and Faith
Explore the origins and evolution of the Vatican Museums — a treasure trove of art, history, and spirituality that spans over five centuries.
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Vatican Museums Dress Code: What to Wear for a Respectful Visit
Learn everything you need to know about the Vatican Museums dress code to ensure a smooth, respectful, and comfortable visit to this sacred cultural treasure.
Learn More →Architectural Wonders of the Vatican Museums
Discover the architectural brilliance behind the Vatican Museums — a complex that unites Renaissance vision with timeless beauty.
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Symbolism in the Vatican Museums: Art as Divine Language
Unveil the rich symbolism hidden within the Vatican Museums, where every sculpture and fresco tells a story of faith, knowledge, and human destiny.
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Morning at the Vatican Museums: When Light Awakens Art
Experience the serene magic of early morning at the Vatican Museums, when sunlight transforms the galleries into living cathedrals of color.
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A Romantic Walk Through the Vatican Museums
Explore the Vatican Museums as a journey of love — between art and soul, beauty and devotion, humanity and the divine.
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Family Adventures in the Vatican Museums: Art for All Ages
Bring history to life for children at the Vatican Museums, where art, myth, and discovery make learning a joyous adventure.
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Best Viewpoints Around the Vatican Museums
Find the best spots to admire the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Dome, from hidden terraces to panoramic courtyards.
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Sistine Chapel
Admire Michelangelo’s world-famous ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel, a pinnacle of Renaissance art.
Raphael Rooms
Discover Raphael’s stunning frescoes, including The School of Athens, showcasing Renaissance ideals of art, philosophy, and humanism.
Gallery of Maps
Walk along 40 detailed topographical maps of Italy, created in the late 16th century, reflecting both artistic and geographical mastery.
Curiosities about the Vatican Museums
Find answers to questions about visiting one of the world’s most famous museums.
Buy a ticket for the Vatican Museums
Visit the museums to explore art, history, and the Vatican’s incredible cultural heritage.
We recommend booking online to ensure entry and avoid queues.