The Majestic Piazza di San Pietro: Heart of Vatican City
Explore the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Piazza di San Pietro, the iconic heart of Vatican City, rich in art and history.
Piazza di San Pietro, the grand square of Vatican City, is a breathtaking masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Surrounded by monumental colonnades, it serves as a spiritual and cultural epicenter, attracting millions of visitors each year. Marvel at the stunning St. Peter's Basilica and the iconic obelisk at its center, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere filled with art, history, and spirituality.
A brief summary to Piazza di San Pietro
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere.
- Check the schedule for papal audiences or special events to make the most of your visit.
- Dress modestly if you plan to enter St. Peter's Basilica; shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Consider taking a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and significance of the square and basilica.
- Don't forget to look up at the stunning ceiling of the basilica; it’s a breathtaking sight not to be missed.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in St. Peter's Square, you are in the right place! To fully appreciate Piazza di San Pietro, take a moment to stand in the center of the square. Look towards the grand façade of St. Peter's Basilica directly in front of you. The square itself is an expansive area surrounded by a colonnade designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. You can walk around the square, taking in the views of the fountains and the impressive obelisk at its center. If you want to enter St. Peter's Basilica, head towards the entrance located on the right side of the square, marked by a large archway. Simply follow the crowd or look for signs indicating 'St. Peter's Basilica Entrance.'
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Walking
After enjoying the sights of the square, if you wish to visit the Vatican Museums, exit St. Peter's Square by walking back towards the main road (Via della Conciliazione). Turn left onto Via della Conciliazione and continue walking straight until you see the entrance to the Vatican Museums on your right. The entrance is clearly marked and usually has a line of visitors, so you should have no trouble finding it.
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Public Transport
If you are considering visiting other parts of Rome after exploring Piazza di San Pietro, you can walk to the nearest metro station, Ottaviano-San Pietro, located about a 10-minute walk from St. Peter's Square. Head out of the square via the same route you came in, turning left on Via della Conciliazione. Continue straight and take a right at the first intersection onto Via Ottaviano. The metro station will be on your right side. From there, you can take Metro Line A to reach various destinations across the city.
Discover more about Piazza di San Pietro
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vatican Bed And Breakfast
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Fontana di Porta Cavalleggeri
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Tourist Information Office
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Pietra d'inciampo in memoria di Renato De Santis
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La Pietà di Michelangelo
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The Pope's Window
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Unmissable attractions to see
Paul VI Hall
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Chapel of Saint Martha
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Teutonic Cemetery
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Church of Our Lady of Mercy in the German Cemetery
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Circus of Nero or Circus of Caligula
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Museo del tesoro di San Pietro
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Museo del tesoro de San Pietro
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St peter's peach
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Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani
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Largo di Porta Cavalleggeri
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Excavation Office
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Vatican Necropolis
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Palazzo San Carlo
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Church of St. Monica of the Augustinians
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Essential places to dine
Pausa Caffè-Lounge
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Ristorante La Pilotta
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Divine Bontà
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Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri
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Alberto's Pizza San Pietro
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PERDINCI Bistrò - Ristorante a San Pietro Roma
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Halal Vatican Food
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Ristrot San Pietro
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Bono Bottega Nostrana- San Pietro
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Feffo Caffe
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Wine Bar All Brothers
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Hostaria San Pietro
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Capitan Cono
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Pizza Zizza
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Ristorante Pizzeria Castello
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vatican Luggage storage
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Petit Cadeau
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Uffreducci Franca
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Centro Commerciale San Pietro
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Vatican Souvenir & Mini Market
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Vatican Souvenir (S.R.L.)
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Mini Market & Luggage Storeg
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MM ROMA STORE & LUGGAGE STORAGE
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McQueen Food&Drink
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Enoteca dei Desideri
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Caffè Leonina
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Al Mio Caffè
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Vatican Apostolic Library
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Vatican Apostolic Archive
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Cafe San Pietro
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Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri
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Gardens of Vatican City
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Ristorante Arlù
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Bar Delle Grazie
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Bar Latteria Giuliani
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American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
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Bottega Vittoria
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Anni 70
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