Vatican City Travel Guide: 10 Must-See Attractions and Ticket Purchases

9. Visit the Vatican Necropolis

The Scavi tour takes you underneath the crypt, known as the Vatican Necropolis (not to be confused with the Holy Grotto), which is said to be the site of St. Peter’s tomb. However, if you want to visit the Vatican Necropolis, you need to make a reservation in advance (sometimes months in advance) as only 200 people are allowed in each day. To make a reservation, please send an email and stating the number of people in your group, each person’s name (the organizer must provide their own address), the language you speak (for the guide), the date or time you wish to visit (give an approximate time period), and your address in Rome (name and phone number). Visiting hours are from 9am to 5pm every day, except Sundays and public holidays.

10. Vatican Gardens

The Vatican Gardens cover more than half of the Vatican City and are located behind St. Peter’s Basilica. The only way to visit the gardens is with a Vatican Guided Tour, as you can’t walk around the gardens unsupervised. The tour costs 31 euros and includes a guided tour of the gardens, an unguided visit to the Vatican Museums, and the rental of an audio guide.