Vatican Museum Complete Guide: History, Highlights, and Reviews

The Vatican Museum is easily accessible from the center of Rome by metro. The most common way is to take Metro Line A (Orange Line) from Rome Termini Station and get off at 'Ottaviano-San Pietro' station. From there, it's about a 5-10 minute walk to the entrance of the Vatican Museum. If you prefer to take the bus, Bus 49 stops right in front of the museum entrance, and Buses 32, 81, and 982 also drop you off nearby. If you take a taxi, it takes about 10-15 minutes from the center of Rome, and the location is on 'Viale Vaticano'. The route is so straightforward that even first-time visitors won't have any trouble finding it! The Vatican Museum, established by Pope Julius II in the 16th century, houses some of the world's most important artworks and artifacts. The museum consists of 54 galleries, with the Sistine Chapel featuring Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes and Raphael's 'The School of Athens' being particularly famous. This place is not just for viewing art; it's a space where you can see the history and culture of the Roman Catholic Church and the masterpieces of the Renaissance era all in one place. It attracts millions of visitors every year and is considered one of the most beloved museums worldwide. The Vatican Museum exceeded my expectations! From the entrance, you can feel the grandeur, and once inside, it's an overwhelming feast of art. I was especially moved by the Sistine Chapel's ceiling frescoes; it was a breathtaking experience. Although it was a bit crowded due to its popularity, the lively energy was palpable. I highly recommend booking tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. If you're short on time, it's a good idea to plan your visit around the main galleries and the chapel.