With the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome, the spotlight returns to Vatican City, a remarkable destination celebrated not only for its spiritual importance, but also for its rich heritage, timeless art, and captivating history. From cultural curiosity and architectural marvels to a deep appreciation for world history, this tiny city-state offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveller.

If you’ve ever been intrigued by the inner workings of the papacy or simply love getting lost in stunning architecture, Vatican City should be high on your travel bucket list. Here’s what you can explore while soaking in the holy (and wholly fascinating) atmosphere.

You can’t visit Vatican City without stepping into the mighty St. Peter’s Basilica. One of the largest churches in the world, this awe-inspiring structure is built over what is believed to be the burial site of Saint Peter himself.

Visitors are welcome to enter (for free!), though you’ll want to dress modestly and be prepared for a security queue. Don't miss Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture, and if you’re feeling adventurous, climb up to the dome for panoramic views of Rome.

Fun fact: This is where the new pope will often lead mass and deliver public blessings from the balcony.

If you’re a fan of ancient sculptures or Renaissance masterpieces, the Vatican Museums have something to amaze everyone. It’s a labyrinth of galleries filled with artworks collected over centuries by popes.

You’ll find rooms decorated by Raphael, Greek and Roman statues, papal carriages, and entire halls dedicated to Egyptian mummies and tapestries. It’s an overwhelming collection, so guided tours or audio guides are highly recommended.

Tip: You can buy skip-the-line tickets through Traveloka to save time!

Arguably the highlight of the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel, where papal conclaves (the election of the pope) are held. Yes,the very place where recent Pope was just chosen!

The main draw? The ceiling and Last Judgement fresco by Michelangelo. It’s one of the most celebrated works of art in the world — and you’ll want to stand still for a good while just to take it all in. Silence is required, and photography is not allowed, so be present and soak it up.

If you’re wondering where the cardinals held the recent vote, this is it – the Sistine Chapel is a sacred space still used for major religious decisions.

If you're attending a Papal Audience or just people-watching, St. Peter’s Square is where everything comes together. Designed by Bernini, it’s a majestic open space flanked by colonnades and lined with statues of saints.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Pope himself during the weekly Angelus prayer on Sundays or the Wednesday General Audience.

This square is the gathering point for tens of thousands when a new pope is announced – just like last week!

Though not all of it is open to the public, the Vatican Apostolic Library is one of the oldest and most important research libraries in the world. Select areas and exhibits are sometimes accessible via special tours. Think ancient manuscripts, historical documents, and priceless maps.

If you're a history or literature geek, keep an eye out for limited-access exhibitions.

You can visit Vatican Gardens, this is a serene and green contrast to the city's stone structures. Entry only via guided tour. Next you can visit to Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, although public access is limited. Or you can visit Scala Regia, a grand staircase used by the pope for ceremonial purposes.

Best 4 Stars Hotels in Vatican City

If you’re visiting for spiritual reasons, cultural curiosity, or simply because you can’t resist Italian gelato served with a side of Renaissance beauty, Vatican City is truly a once-in-a-lifetime destination. One of the best ways to make the most of your Roman holiday, Vatican City included,is with the Go City: Rome Explorer Pass. This handy pass gives you access to some of the most iconic attractions in and around Rome, including options near the Vatican, without the hassle of separate tickets or long queues.

From the Colosseum and Roman Forum to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, you can curate your own adventure and explore at your own pace. Whether you're into ancient ruins, awe-inspiring religious sites, or world-class art collections, this pass lets you pick your top spots and save while you’re at it.

From flights to Hotels to skip-the-line attraction passes, Traveloka makes it easy to plan your Italian escape all in one place. Don’t forget to download or update the Traveloka app to get the latest travel deals, flexible booking options, and real-time travel alerts.