Vatican Gardens Tour – My Experience

The Vatican Gardens are a private oasis located within Vatican City, a sovereign city-state in the heart of Rome. These gardens cover approximately 57 acres and contain a variety of plants, sculptures, and fountains. They also offer stunning views of St. Peter’s Basilica and the surrounding Vatican City.

In this article, I will describe my experience with the group tour to the Vatican Gardens.

Why is it Worth Visiting the Vatican Gardens Group Tour?

A Vatican Gardens tour is a guided tour that allows visitors to explore the gardens and learn about their history and significance. During the tour, visitors will walk along tree-lined paths and see various gardens, including the Rose Garden, the Italian Garden, and the Garden of the Mater Ecclesiae monastery. Visitors will also see numerous fountains and sculptures, including the famous Fontana dell’Aquilone, or “Fountain of the Eagle.” I recommend taking this tour option because it is a unique possibility to visit the territory of the smallest government in the world.

The tour typically lasts around 90 minutes and is conducted in small groups. Visitors must dress appropriately, cover their shoulders and knees, and adhere to the Vatican’s strict dress code. The tour includes access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

I think the part with the gardens is more convenient to visit because there is a group of a maximum of 30 people and a nice walk in the fresh air. The situation with the Vatican museums is different because there are always crowds. However, if it is your first time in the Vatican, you should definitely choose the option of a visit to the museums and the Sistine Chapel.

Read also: how to purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel?

Overall, a Vatican Gardens tour is an excellent way to experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique, peaceful retreat within the bustling city of Rome.

Types of Vatican Gardens Tours

Visitors can choose from several types of tours to the Vatican Gardens. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Guided Vatican Gardens Tour: This is the most common type of tour, and it involves a guided walk through the gardens, during which visitors will learn about the history, architecture, and significance of the gardens.
2. Vatican Gardens and Museums Tour: This type of tour includes a visit to the Vatican Gardens and the Vatican Museums, which house an extensive collection of art and artifacts from ancient times to the present day.
   
3. Vatican Gardens and St. Peter’s Basilica Tour: This tour includes visiting the Vatican Gardens and St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s most renowned religious landmarks.
4. Private Vatican Gardens Tour: For a more exclusive experience, visitors can book a private Vatican Gardens tour, which allows them to explore the gardens at their own pace and with a dedicated guide.
   
5. Early Morning Gardens Tour: This tour is designed for early risers who want to enjoy the gardens in the early morning light before the crowds arrive.
6. Vatican Gardens Night Tour: This tour is a unique and memorable way to experience the gardens. Visitors can explore them after dark when they are beautifully illuminated, and the atmosphere is peaceful and quiet.

Overall, visitors can choose from various Vatican Gardens tours to suit their interests, schedules, and preferences. Be prepared that some of these tour options are available during particular seasons of the year.

How to Buy Tickets to the Vatican Gardens

Tickets for the Vatican Gardens can be purchased online and only a few weeks in advance. Here’s how to buy tickets:

• Online: The easiest and most convenient way to purchase tickets for the Vatican Gardens is online. You can visit the official Vatican Museums website to purchase tickets in advance.
• In-person: If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, you can do so at the Vatican Museums ticket office. However, be aware that lines can be long, especially during peak tourist season, and there is a risk that tickets may be sold out for your desired time slot.

When you purchase online, select the date and time of your visit, choose the type of tour you want to take, and complete the checkout process.

You will receive a confirmation email with your ticket that you can print out or show on your mobile device when you arrive at the Vatican.

It’s important to note that tickets for the Gardens are separate from tickets for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. If you want to visit these other attractions, purchase separate tickets or choose a tour that includes them. The entrance to Saint Peter’s Basilica is free of charge. However, I recommend visiting the basilica no later than 8:30 am because there are always long queues.

Here’s the official website of the Vatican Museums: www.museivaticani.va

If tickets for the desired date are over, then I recommend buying them on the website of a trusted partner. The price is slightly higher, but there is a chance to buy tickets at the last moment and with a simpler booking system.

If you are interested in visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica and climbing to the highest dome in the Eternal City, I recommend you book a private guided tour to the Vatican at sunrise.

How to Get to the Vatican Gardens

Here are some ways to get to the Vatican Gardens for a tour:

• Walking: If you are already in the city center of Rome, you can walk to the Vatican City and the entrance to the Vatican Gardens. The entry is located near the Vatican Museums on Viale Vaticano.
• Public Transportation: Rome’s public transportation system includes buses, trams, and metro lines. The closest metro station to the Vatican Gardens is Ottaviano-San Pietro, which is on Line A. From there, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the entrance of the Vatican Gardens. Several bus lines also stop near the Vatican, including bus numbers 40, 62, 81, and 492.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Rome and can be a convenient way to get to the Vatican Gardens. However, be aware that traffic in Rome can be congested, especially during peak tourist season, and taxi fares can be expensive.
• Private Transportation: Visitors can also arrange for private transportation to the Vatican Gardens, either through their hotel or by booking a private car or shuttle service in advance.

Once you arrive at the Gardens, follow the signs to the entrance and present your ticket to enter. Be sure to arrive early for your tour, as long lines and wait times can be significant, especially during peak tourist season.

Author: Kate Zusmann

I have lived in the Eternal City for the past 12 years. They say every angle of Rome has its history, and I'm here to tell you about the most intriguing historical facts and city legends. :)