The Majestic Saint Peter's Square: A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Vatican City
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Saint Peter's Square, a historical plaza in Vatican City that embodies spirituality and architectural grandeur.
Saint Peter's Square, an architectural marvel in Vatican City, offers visitors a breathtaking experience. Surrounded by magnificent colonnades designed by Bernini, the square serves as a grand entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and is a focal point for pilgrims and tourists alike. The atmosphere is vibrant, filled with the sounds of conversation, the fluttering of doves, and the distant echoes of history. Whether you're here for spiritual reflection or to simply admire the stunning Baroque architecture, this iconic space is a must-visit.
A brief summary to Saint Peter's Square
- Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, 00120, VA
- +390669882350
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere.
- Don't forget to look up at the stunning façade of St. Peter's Basilica and the intricate details of the colonnades.
- Check the schedule for papal events to witness a unique experience if you happen to be in the square during one.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the square, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Take time to enjoy a gelato from a nearby vendor while people-watching in the square.
Getting There
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Walking
From Vatican Radio, head south on Via di Porta Angelica towards the Vatican Museums. After about 300 meters, continue straight onto Via della Conciliazione. You will see the majestic St. Peter's Basilica and the square directly ahead. The walk should take approximately 10 minutes.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transport, walk from Vatican Radio to the nearest bus stop at Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano (approximately 15 minutes on foot). Take bus number 64 towards Stazione Termini and get off at the stop 'Piazza San Pietro'. You'll then walk directly into Saint Peter's Square, which is just a few steps away. The bus ticket costs around €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes.
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Taxi
For a more comfortable option, you can take a taxi from Vatican Radio to Saint Peter's Square. Simply call a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. The journey will take around 5 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost approximately €10-€15.
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Car
If you are driving, note that there is limited parking near Saint Peter's Square. You can park at the 'Aventino' area or at parking garages nearby, but be prepared for potential fees of around €2-€3 per hour. Once parked, it's a short walk to the square, following signs towards 'Piazza San Pietro'.
Discover more about Saint Peter's Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piazza San Pietro
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Bernini Fountain
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Maderno Fountain
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Tourist Information Office
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Porta San Pellegrino
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Largo del Colonnato
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Cappella Niccolina
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Piazza Papa Pio XII
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Fontana delle Tiare
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La Pietà di Michelangelo
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Unmissable attractions to see
St. Peter Square Obelisk
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Apostolic Palace
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Collection of Contemporary Art
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Palace of the Belvedere
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Sistine Chapel
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Chiesa di Sant'Anna dei Palafrenieri
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Excavation Office
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St. Peter's Basilica
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Vatican Necropolis
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Circus of Nero or Circus of Caligula
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St peter's peach
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Museo del tesoro de San Pietro
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Fontana del Cortile del Belvedere dei Palazzi Vaticani
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St. Peter's Baldachin
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Tomb of Saint Peter
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Essential places to dine
Il Colonnato Srl
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Ristorante Trattoria Da Marcella
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Borgo Nuovo
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Feffo Caffe
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BorgoPio92 Bistrò Caffè
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Cibofficina
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Halal Vatican Food
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Homebaked Porta Cavalleggeri
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Divine Bontà
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Ristorante La Pilotta
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Wine Bar All Brothers
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Ristorante Da Marcello
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Scialla The Original Street Food
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Hostaria San Pietro
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EGG Pasta Fresca
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Savelli Religious (Savelli Art and Tradition)
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Vatican Souvenir (S.R.L.)
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Roma Eterna S.R.L.
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Emporio Vaticano
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St. Peter's Gallery
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Mondo Cattolico
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La Caffeteria
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Arte Religiosa S.R.L.
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Libreria Ancora Store - Roma
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Caffè Leonina
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Al Mio Caffè
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Cafe San Pietro
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Bar Delle Grazie
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Wine Bar De' Penitenzieri
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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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Bukowski's Bar
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Bar L'Ottagona
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
NEW KING CLUB
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Kukac
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Un'estate torrida
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Duecento gradi
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La Zanzara
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Roof Garden & Bar
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Terrazza Les Étoiles Roma
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Emerald's Independent Bar
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Vatican Museums
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Vatican Hill
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Gardens of Vatican City
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Radio Vaticana - Museo ed Uffici Amministrativi
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Saxophone Live Pub
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The Basement - Pub. Cocktail Bar. Events
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Caffè Vaticano
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