St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

Incredible architecture. Such an amazing place to visit. Definitely worth checking out whilst visiting the city of Rome, Italy. A great place to take pictures of this hidden gem. Don’t forget to go inside the Basilica for more stunning views of the art inside. Not to busy in the morning or late afternoon.

A visit to Rome will not be complete without a visit to Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica is the most important place to visit in Vatican. It is the largest church in the world. There is a stunning view of Rome and St. Peter’s Square from the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. The two semi circular colonnades by Bernini with the Egyptian Obelisk in the middle look impressive from the dome. But there is no elevator to this part of the structure.

Absolutely worth to queue. It took us less than an hour to enter without booking in advance. The ceilings are painted fabulously and I needed time to stop and plonk around. So many sculptures and angels in the Basilica. St.Peters tomb and Saint John Paul II tomb were my priority to pray by. You are allowed to take photos but behind the barrier only. The crypts with the past Popes are underground and free of charge. The only fee you pay to walk up the cupola (top of the Basilica) €8 lift is €10. Mind that the very few last steps to the top are very narrow. It’s 608 steps in total.

Holy Holy Holy The whole earth is full of his glory. I was blessed to be able to stay near the Vatican and St Peters Square for three weeks of prayer, reflection and masses Dec 8 to the Epiphany. Papa Francesco is wonderful and inviting. What the church was always meant to be. I would love to move here permanently and I am an Italian citizen.

Just as the title suggests...Be sure to arrive early. We went twice on an anniversary trip to Rome. We would get there around 9am in February and had a very short line. Once inside it will take your breath away. Be sure to climb the dome for an unforgettable experience and panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican City. A visit to the Vatican treasury gift shop inside the basilica is well worth some souvenirs for loved ones back home.