Vatican City

The Vatican City is the smallest state in the world, hidden in the heart of Rome, and yet it abounds in immense spiritual and cultural wealth. Take a free tour of the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, which will amaze you not only with its size but also with its many works of art. For a small fee, you can also climb to its dome for a breathtaking view of the whole of Rome. It’s worth arriving as early in the morning as possible to avoid long queues, and remember to wear appropriate clothing – covered shoulders and knees are a requirement for entry.

The Vatican has its own flag, currency, postal system and radio station, and even a small railway station, but it serves a more symbolic purpose. The Pope’s security is provided by the Swiss Guard, a small but famous military force dressed in brightly coloured uniforms that legend has it were designed by Michelangelo himself.

If you’re in the mood for art, don’t miss the Vatican Museums. They house some of the most important collections in the world – from ancient sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces to the famous Sistine Chapel with its Michelangelo ceiling. There is a fee to visit the museums, but the experience is well worth it. It’s a good idea to book tickets online in advance, as demand is huge and queues can be endless. Just allow for the fact that it usually takes around three to four hours to get through the museums – ideally set aside half a day and comfortable shoes.

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Italy

Rome: Wandering through a city of history and taste