St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

Sistine Chapel, this way. No cameras

Entire books have been written about St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, the center of Catholic religion and the home of the Pope. So, I won't give you too much info about visiting. But, when we were there, I took lots of pictures that I can share.

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

If you go: Here's my number one tip. Buy your ticket for the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel in advance! There's no better feeling than skipping a long line of sunburned and frustrated tourists as you waltz right in.

Alter of the Chair of St. Peter by Bernini, St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

Saint Veronica by Francesco Mochi, St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

The Vatican Museum is massive. Plan to spend a full day if you want to see it, more if you want to see everything. 

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

Always crowded, even the nuns are in a hurry

The Sistine Chapel is a can't miss sight. Of all the busy tourists sights in Europe, this is my top one. Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling of the chapel "The Creation of Adam" is breathtaking, even for the nonreligious. But, the chapel is extremely crowded and, because of this, can be rather claustrophobic. Try to ignore the people pushing and shoving and enjoy. Pro tip: there's a group exit at the back of the chapel that makes for an easy passageway out. Just act like you're part of a group and slip out.

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

Helpful Swiss Guard, St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

There's also a tour of the catacombs below Vatican. I've never taken it, but I've heard it's fantastic. 

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

Saint Helena by Andrea Bolgi, St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

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