5St. Peter’s Basilica – The Heart of the Vatican
St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City, is one of the largest and most magnificent churches in the world. It is not only a religious landmark but also a marvel of Renaissance architecture, housing iconic works such as Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. Visitors come from all over the world to admire the basilica’s beauty and to climb the dome for a panoramic view of Rome.
Tips: Arriving early in the morning, ideally before 8:00 AM, can help you beat the crowds. Admission to the basilica is free, but there’s a fee to access the dome, which you can avoid by purchasing skip-the-line tickets. Wednesdays and Sundays are especially busy due to the Pope’s general audiences and Angelus prayers, so plan accordingly.