The Majestic Apostolic Palace: Heart of the Vatican
Discover the awe-inspiring Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, a historical landmark brimming with rich art, architecture, and spiritual significance.
The Apostolic Palace, an iconic historical landmark in Vatican City, serves as the official residence of the Pope and is steeped in centuries of history and artistry. Visitors are captivated by its grandeur and the treasures it houses.
A brief summary to Apostolic Palace
- Vatican City, 00120, VA
- +390669883860
Local tips
- Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Dress modestly, as this is a sacred site and appropriate attire is required.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the palace's history and artworks.
- Don’t miss the chance to explore the Vatican Gardens, which offer a unique perspective of the palace.
- Be mindful of the opening hours, as they may vary, especially on religious holidays.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Vatican Pinacoteca, exit the building and head towards the main entrance of the Vatican Museums. Once outside, you will see a large open space. Walk straight ahead towards the imposing walls of the Vatican City. As you approach the walls, keep an eye out for the entrance to St. Peter's Basilica on your right. Continue walking straight until you reach the massive bronze doors of St. Peter's Basilica. Once you are in front of St. Peter's Basilica, you will have a clear view of the Apostolic Palace, which is located just to the right of the Basilica. To get to the Apostolic Palace, you can walk around the left side of the Basilica and follow the pathway that leads you towards the Vatican Gardens, where the Apostolic Palace is situated. Keep walking straight, and you will arrive at the entrance to the Apostolic Palace.
Discover more about Apostolic Palace
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vatican Secretariat of State
0.1 km
Discover the Vatican Secretariat of State, the pivotal hub of the Holy See's governance and diplomacy within Vatican City.
Istituto per le Opere di Religione
0.1 km
Explore the Istituto per le Opere di Religione, the Vatican's financial heart, intertwined with the rich tapestry of faith and history.
Porta San Pellegrino
0.1 km
Discover Porta San Pellegrino, a historic gateway in Vatican City showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Lapidary Gallery
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Lapidary Gallery in Vatican City, showcasing ancient inscriptions and sculptures that tell timeless stories of artistry and civilization.
Piazza della Città Leonina, 1
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Piazza della Città Leonina, a hidden gem in Rome offering rich history, stunning architecture, and peaceful charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cappella Niccolina
0.0 km
Explore the exquisite beauty of Cappella Niccolina, a hidden chapel in Vatican City, rich in Renaissance art and history.
Collection of Contemporary Art
0.0 km
Discover modern artistic expressions at the Collection of Contemporary Art in Vatican City, a unique blend of history and contemporary creativity.
Palace of the Belvedere
0.1 km
Explore the Palace of the Belvedere in Vatican City - a Renaissance gem filled with art, history, and breathtaking architecture.
Maderno Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Maderno Fountain in Vatican City, a stunning blend of history and art that captivates every visitor.
Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri in Vatican City, a peaceful retreat for reflection and exploration.
Chiesa di Sant'Egidio a Borgo
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Chiesa di Sant'Egidio, a hidden gem in Vatican City perfect for quiet reflection.
Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere dei Palazzi Vaticani
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of the Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere, a stunning fountain in Vatican City that captures the essence of Renaissance artistry.
Fontana delle Tiare
0.1 km
Discover the stunning Fontana delle Tiare in Vatican City, a beautiful fountain blending artistry, history, and tranquility.
Cortile del Belvedere
0.1 km
Explore Cortile del Belvedere, a stunning museum and historical landmark in Vatican City, showcasing Renaissance art and rich heritage.
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.
Saint Peter's Square
0.2 km
Experience the grandeur of Saint Peter's Square, a breathtaking plaza that welcomes millions to the heart of Vatican City, rich in history and spirituality.
Piazza San Pietro
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance of Piazza San Pietro, an iconic town square in the heart of Vatican City.
The Last Judgment
0.2 km
Explore The Last Judgment in Vatican City – Michelangelo's breathtaking fresco that embodies the theme of divine judgment and redemption.
Fountain of the Dolphins
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Fountain of the Dolphins in Vatican City, a stunning baroque masterpiece blending art, history, and tranquility.
Vatican Apostolic Library
0.2 km
Discover the majestic Vatican Apostolic Library, a treasure trove of manuscripts and art steeped in history and culture.
Essential places to dine
Borgo Nuovo
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Borgo Nuovo, where delicious pizza meets vibrant Roman culture just steps from the Vatican.
Alice Pizza Via delle Grazie
0.2 km
Experience authentic Roman pizza at Alice Pizza Via delle Grazie, just steps from Vatican City - where flavor meets tradition in every slice.
Pastasciutta
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pastasciutta in Rome, where fresh pasta meets affordability in a cozy atmosphere.
Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella, just steps away from Vatican City.
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.
St. Peter's Basilica
0.2 km
Explore St. Peter's Basilica: A breathtaking fusion of art, faith, and history nestled in the heart of Vatican City.
Ristorante Da Marcello
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Da Marcello in Rome—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Ristorante Krugh
0.3 km
Experience authentic Roman flavors at Ristorante Krugh, where traditional dishes meet warm hospitality in the heart of Rome.
Ristorante Arlù
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Arlù near Vatican City—where every meal is a taste of tradition.
Da Benito e Gilberto
0.3 km
Discover the finest seafood dining experience in Rome at Da Benito e Gilberto - where flavors meet tradition near Vatican City.
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.
KUNGFU EXPRESS
0.3 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Kungfu Express in Rome – where culinary 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.
Cafe Risorgimento
0.3 km
Discover authentic Roman flavors at Cafe Risorgimento, where exquisite coffee meets delightful Italian cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Annona Vatican City
0.1 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Vatican City at Annona, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and local delicacies.
La Caffeteria
0.1 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delightful coffee selection at La Caffeteria, a must-visit coffee shop in the heart of Rome.
Vatican Pharmacy
0.1 km
Discover the Vatican Pharmacy, a historic destination for health products in the heart of Vatican City, blending tradition and wellness.
Bookshop Benedetto XVI
0.2 km
Explore Bookshop Benedetto XVI: A serene Christian book store in Vatican City, offering a rich selection of spiritual literature and unique religious artifacts.
Galleria Mariana
0.2 km
Discover unique religious artifacts and local craftsmanship at Galleria Mariana, a charming store in the heart of Rome.
Italian Style
0.2 km
Discover exquisite Italian jewelry that embodies elegance and craftsmanship at Italian Style in the heart of Rome.
Massi Souvenir
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian souvenirs at Massi Souvenir, the ultimate destination for unique gifts in the heart of Rome.
Serpilli Snc
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian crafts at Serpilli Snc, a charming souvenir store in the heart of Rome, perfect for unique gifts and keepsakes.
Porta Angelica Srl
0.2 km
Discover Porta Angelica Srl, your go-to shop for authentic religious goods near the Vatican, where spirituality meets unique craftsmanship.
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.
Tourist Information Office
0.2 km
Discover the Tourist Information Office in Vatican City for unique souvenirs, insightful books, and essential travel tips to enhance your visit.
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.
Mango Arredi Sacri
0.2 km
Explore Mango Arredi Sacri, a gem in Rome's jewelry scene, offering handcrafted pieces that reflect Italy's rich cultural heritage.
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.
Bar Delle Grazie
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Roman culture at Bar Delle Grazie, where delightful flavors and local charm come together in a cozy setting.
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.
Vatican Necropolis
0.3 km
Discover the Vatican Necropolis, a historical landmark revealing ancient Christian burial practices beneath St. Peter's Basilica.
American bar - Vecchio Borgo S.r.l.
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Rome at Vecchio Borgo, where delightful cocktails and sundaes await in a charming atmosphere.
Anni 70
0.3 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.
Bar L'Ottagona
0.3 km
Experience authentic Roman hospitality and exquisite Italian cuisine at Bar L'Ottagona, situated in the heart of Piazza del Risorgimento.
Be.Re. + Trapizzino
0.3 km
Discover the taste of Rome at Be.Re. + Trapizzino, a gastropub offering innovative Italian street food and a cozy atmosphere near the Vatican.
Cafe San Pietro
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian café culture at Cafe San Pietro, where rich coffees and delectable pastries await in the heart of Rome.
Morrison's Risorgimento
0.4 km
Discover Morrison's Risorgimento: A vibrant Irish pub in Rome blending traditional hospitality with delicious culinary delights.
Vatican Museums
0.4 km
Discover the artistic legacy and cultural treasures of the Vatican Museums, a must-visit destination for all art and history lovers.
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.
Wine Bar All Brothers
0.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Wine Bar All Brothers, featuring exquisite wines, delicious pizzas, and delightful ice creams in the heart of Rome.
Hostaria San Pietro
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Hostaria San Pietro, just minutes from the Vatican, offering a delightful menu and an inviting atmosphere.
