Saint Peter's Square: The Heart of Vatican City
Explore the grandeur of Saint Peter's Square, a historic plaza that embodies the spiritual essence of Vatican City, surrounded by stunning architecture and rich history.
Saint Peter's Square, a grand and iconic plaza, serves as the central hub of Vatican City. Surrounded by stunning architecture, it is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in history, spirituality, and art.
A brief summary to Saint Peter's Square
- Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, 00120, VA
- +390669882350
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check the schedule for papal audiences or special events to witness the square filled with energy and excitement.
- Don't forget to look up at the impressive dome of St. Peter's Basilica for a breathtaking view.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will likely spend a lot of time walking and exploring the surrounding area.
- Bring a camera; the square offers countless photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Vatican Obelisk, which is located in the center of Saint Peter's Square, you are already at your destination. Simply take a moment to admire the beautiful fountains and the stunning architecture surrounding you. If you want to explore further, you can walk towards the Basilica di San Pietro, which is just a short stroll away.
-
Public Transportation
If you are coming from outside Vatican City, take the Metro Line A and get off at the Ottaviano-San Pietro station. From there, exit the station and walk towards Via Ottaviano. Follow the road until you reach the entrance to Vatican City at Piazza San Pietro. It is about a 10-15 minute walk from the metro station to Saint Peter's Square.
-
Car
If you are driving, use GPS and set your destination to 'Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano'. Note that parking within Vatican City is very limited and it is recommended to park in nearby areas, such as the Parcheggio Gianicolo or Parcheggio della Stazione di Trastevere, which are both a short distance away. From there, you can either walk or take public transportation to the square.
Discover more about Saint Peter's Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tourist Information Office
0.1 km
Discover the Tourist Information Office in Vatican City for maps, guides, and unique souvenirs to enhance your travel experience.
Porta San Pellegrino
0.1 km
Discover Porta San Pellegrino, a historic gateway in Vatican City showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Largo del Colonnato
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Largo del Colonnato, a charming square near St. Peter's Basilica, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Piazza Papa Pio XII
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Piazza Papa Pio XII, a tranquil square in Rome near the Vatican, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
La Pietà di Michelangelo
0.2 km
Discover the emotional power of La Pietà di Michelangelo, a timeless masterpiece in the heart of Vatican City, capturing the essence of Renaissance art.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piazza San Pietro
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Piazza San Pietro, an iconic town square in the heart of Vatican City.
St. Peter Square Obelisk
0.0 km
Discover the awe-inspiring St. Peter Square Obelisk, a historical emblem in Vatican City that links ancient Rome with modern spirituality.
Bernini Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Bernini Fountain in Vatican City, a masterpiece of Baroque art and a must-see tourist attraction in Piazza San Pietro.
Maderno Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Maderno Fountain in Vatican City, a stunning blend of history and art that captivates every visitor.
Cappella Niccolina
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite beauty of Cappella Niccolina, a hidden chapel in Vatican City, rich in Renaissance art and history.
Fontana delle Tiare
0.1 km
Discover the stunning Fontana delle Tiare in Vatican City, a beautiful fountain blending artistry, history, and tranquility.
Apostolic Palace
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, a historical landmark filled with art, culture, and spiritual heritage.
The Madonna della Pietà
0.2 km
Discover the emotional beauty of The Madonna della Pietà, Michelangelo's iconic sculpture in Vatican City, a masterpiece that transcends time.
Piazza della Città Leonina
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Piazza della Città Leonina, a stunning town square in Rome, rich in history and vibrant atmosphere.
Collection of Contemporary Art
0.2 km
Discover modern artistic expressions at the Collection of Contemporary Art in Vatican City, a unique blend of history and contemporary creativity.
Church of St. Monica of the Augustinians
0.2 km
Explore the serene Church of St. Monica in Rome, a hidden gem of tranquility, artistry, and rich Augustinian heritage.
Church of Our Lady of Mercy in the German Cemetery
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil Church of Our Lady of Mercy in Rome's German Cemetery, a hidden gem of history and architecture.
Palace of the Belvedere
0.2 km
Explore the Palace of the Belvedere in Vatican City - a Renaissance gem filled with art, history, and breathtaking architecture.
Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza dei Protomartiri Romani, where history meets culture in a picturesque town square.
Sistine Chapel
0.2 km
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo's masterpieces and a cornerstone of Vatican City's rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
Il Colonnato Srl
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Il Colonnato Srl – where tradition meets convenience in the heart of Rome.
Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella, just steps away from Vatican City.
Borgo Nuovo
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Borgo Nuovo, where delicious pizza meets vibrant Roman culture just steps from the Vatican.
Feffo Caffe
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Italian cuisine at Feffo Caffe, where every meal is an experience steeped in flavor and warmth.
BorgoPio92 Bistrò Caffè
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at BorgoPio92 Bistrò Caffè near Vatican City—delicious meals, cozy ambiance, and delightful treats await!
Cibofficina
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Cibofficina, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a charming Roman setting.
Halal Vatican Food
0.2 km
Discover delicious halal cuisine at Halal Vatican Food, perfectly located near the historic Vatican City in Rome.
Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of American breakfast at Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri in Rome – where every meal feels like a warm hug.
Divine Bontà
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Divine Bontà in Rome - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Ristorante La Pilotta
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine near Vatican City at Ristorante La Pilotta - famous for delicious pasta and pizza at great prices.
Wine Bar All Brothers
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Wine Bar All Brothers in Rome – where great wine meets delicious pizza and homemade ice cream.
Ristorante Da Marcello
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Da Marcello in Rome—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Scialla The Original Street Food
0.3 km
Experience authentic Roman street food at Scialla - where traditional flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere just steps from Vatican City.
Hostaria San Pietro
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hostaria San Pietro near Vatican City - where tradition meets modern dining.
EGG Pasta Fresca
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at EGG Pasta Fresca - fresh pasta and fast food in the heart of Rome.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Savelli Religious (Savelli Art and Tradition)
0.1 km
Explore Savelli Religious in Rome for unique religious artifacts, exquisite jewelry, and thoughtful gifts that capture the essence of Italian spirituality.
Vatican Souvenir (S.R.L.)
0.2 km
Discover unique religious souvenirs at Vatican Souvenir, a charming store near the Vatican in Rome offering a variety of authentic items.
Roma Eterna S.R.L.
0.2 km
Explore Roma Eterna S.R.L., a serene religious goods store in Rome, offering unique spiritual items and a glimpse into Italy's rich religious heritage.
Emporio Vaticano
0.2 km
Discover a spiritual haven at Emporio Vaticano, offering exquisite religious goods and a unique shopping experience in the heart of Rome.
St. Peter's Gallery
0.2 km
Explore St. Peter's Gallery for unique souvenirs and authentic Italian coffee, right in the heart of Vatican City.
Mondo Cattolico
0.2 km
Explore Mondo Cattolico for unique religious artifacts and souvenirs in the heart of Vatican City, a must-visit for every traveler.
La Caffeteria
0.2 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delightful coffee selection at La Caffeteria, a must-visit coffee shop in the heart of Rome.
Arte Religiosa S.R.L.
0.2 km
Explore Arte Religiosa S.R.L. in Rome for unique religious artifacts, souvenirs, and a deep connection to the city's spiritual heritage.
Libreria Ancora Store - Roma
0.2 km
Explore Libreria Ancora Store, a unique bookstore in Rome specializing in religious literature, where spirituality meets the charm of Italian culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Caffè Leonina
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Roman café culture at Caffè Leonina, where every sip transports you to the heart of Italy.
Al Mio Caffè
0.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Al Mio Caffè, a charming bar in the heart of Rome offering exquisite coffee and pastries.
Tomb of Saint Peter
0.3 km
Explore the Tomb of Saint Peter, a sacred burial site of the first pope, surrounded by breathtaking architecture and rich history in Vatican City.
Cafe San Pietro
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian café culture at Cafe San Pietro, where rich coffees and delectable pastries await in the heart of Rome.
Bar Delle Grazie
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Roman culture at Bar Delle Grazie, where delightful flavors and local charm come together in a cozy setting.
Vatican Apostolic Library
0.3 km
Explore the Vatican Apostolic Library, a historic repository of knowledge, art, and culture in the heart of Vatican City.
Vatican Apostolic Archive
0.3 km
Explore the Vatican Apostolic Archive, a historical treasure trove housing centuries of documents from the Catholic Church and beyond.
Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Italian wine culture at Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri, where every sip tells a story of tradition and passion.
Bar Latteria Giuliani
0.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Bar Latteria Giuliani, a cozy bar in Rome's Borgo Pio, perfect for coffee lovers and pastry enthusiasts.
American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Rome at Vecchio Borgo, where delightful cocktails and sundaes await in a charming atmosphere.
Bottega Vittoria
0.4 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Italy at Bottega Vittoria in the heart of Rome, where culinary delights meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Anni 70
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Anni 70 in Rome, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere in a perfect blend of bar and restaurant experiences.
Bukowski's Bar
0.5 km
Discover Bukowski's Bar: A vibrant bistro in Rome serving delightful dishes and an extensive drink menu, perfect for an authentic Italian experience.
Bar L'Ottagona
0.5 km
Experience authentic Roman hospitality and exquisite Italian cuisine at Bar L'Ottagona, situated in the heart of Piazza del Risorgimento.
