25 Best Photography Spots in Vatican City – Photo Guide

Have you ever wanted to visit Vatican City? It is one of the most visited places in the world, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the world’s most beautiful architecture and art. If you’re a photographer, this is definitely a place you need to visit. But with so much to see, it can take time to figure out where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best photography spots in Vatican City. So whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming about it, make sure to check out these spots!

BEST GEAR TO PHOTOGRAPHY VATICAN CITY

The holy trinity cam will take your trip to the next level. Wide-angle lenses with Telephoto capabilities are the best for this. They can be as wide as 24mm to 70mm, depending on your distance and how long you want to shoot.

It’s important to have a sturdy tripod because it’s not unusual to photograph from far away but also close up in small areas that can be angled. This will make every detail stand out better.

HERE IS THE LIST OF THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN VATICAN CITY

1. St. Peter’s Basilica

If you find yourself in Vatican City, make sure to swing by St. Peter’s Basilica. Not only is it one of the most iconic churches in the world, but it’s also one of the best photography spots in the city. The basilica is massive, and its gleaming white façade is simply stunning. Inside, the church is equally impressive, with incredibly detailed architecture and artwork throughout. Even if you’re not a devout Catholic, you can’t help but be awestruck by this incredible place. So whether you’re a photographer or just looking to see one of the world’s most famous landmarks, be sure to add St. Peter’s Basilica to your list.

2. Vatican Museums

One of the best photography spots in Vatican City is definitely the Vatican Museums. The museums are located in the heart of Vatican City and they offer a great view of St. Peter’s Basilica. The museums are also home to some of the most famous artworks in the world, including the Sistine Chapel. If you’re a photography enthusiast, then you’ll definitely want to check out the Vatican Museums.

3. Sistine Chapel

One of the most popular places for tourists to visit in Vatican City is the Sistine Chapel. Located in the Apostolic Palace, the chapel is best known for its incredible frescoes by Michelangelo. However, it is also one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. The ornate ceiling and walls provide a stunning backdrop for photos, and the chapel’s central location makes it easy to get to. Visitors can also take advantage of the many photo opportunities outside the chapel, including the nearby Bramante Staircase and Vatican Gardens. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder the Sistine Chapel is one of Vatican City’s most popular attractions.

4. Saint Peter`s Square

Saint Peter`s Square is one of Vatican City`s most iconic landmarks. The massive square is home to the famous Saint Peter`s Basilica, as well as a number of other important buildings. But it`s not just the architecture that makes Saint Peter`s Square so special – it`s also one of the best photography spots in the city. The square is incredibly photogenic, with its beautiful Fountain of Four Rivers and distinctive colonnades. And on a clear day, you can even get a glimpse of the Papal Palace in the distance. Whether you`re a professional photographer or just an amateur with a camera, Saint Peter`s Square is definitely worth a visit.

5. Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the most popular photography spots in Vatican City. The imposing structure was originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian, but it has since been used as a fortress, a palace, and a prison. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved rooms and corridors, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the rooftop terrace. With its fascinating history and incredible views, Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the must-see sights in Vatican City.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN VATICAN CITY

6. Gardens of Vatican City

The Gardens of Vatican City are one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. The Gardens feature well-manicured lawns, topiary, fountains, and sculptures. Visitors can also find a number of ponds and greenhouses. The Gardens are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and photography is allowed for personal use only.

7. Raphael Rooms

The Raphael Rooms are one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. Located in the Apostolic Palace, the rooms were painted by Raphael between 1508 and 1511. Today, they are open to the public and offer a stunning glimpse of Renaissance art. The rooms are named after their creator, and each one features a different theme. The first room, known as the Stanza Della Segnatura, is themed around wisdom and features various scenes from the Bible. The second room, known as the Stanza d’Eliodoro, is themed around theology and includes a number of paintings depicting Biblical stories. The third room, known as the Sala di Costantino, is themed around Early Christian art and includes a number of Roman mosaics. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just looking to admire some beautiful artwork, the Raphael Rooms are well worth a visit.

8. Apostolic Palace

The Apostolic Palace is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. It is the official residence of the Pope, and it is where he receives visitors from all over the world. The Apostolic Palace is also home to the Sistine Chapel, which is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Vatican City. The Sistine Chapel is decorated with a number of iconic paintings, including Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment.” If you are visiting Vatican City, be sure to take a few minutes to explore the Apostolic Palace and snap some pictures!

9. Vatican Apostolic Library

The Vatican Apostolic Library is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious libraries. It is also one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. The Library is home to an incredible collection of books, manuscripts, and other artifacts. The architecture and atmosphere of the Library are truly unique, and it’s a great place to take photos. If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of the Pope himself!

10. Museo Pio Clementino

A perfect place to see a variety of the most important works of art. The Pio-Clementino Museum, which is known as the Vatican Museum, has a numerous collection of antique statues, frescoes, and sculptures from ancient Rome and Greece. Museo Pio Clementino is one of the best photography spots in Brescia. With its stunning collection and beautiful architecture, it is a perfect place to enjoy and learn about art. The museum offers you a unique experience, that makes you dream, wonder, and feel connected with the world.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN VATICAN CITY

11. Scala Elicoidale Momo

The Scala Elicoidale Momo (Momo’s Spiral Staircase) is one of the many secret passages within Vatican City, located high above the Main Hall and overlooking Saint Peter’s Square. This magnificent yet small and mysterious passageway was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini for Pope Gregory XV. Scala Elicoidale Momo is a beautiful and magical venue that you must not miss when you visit the city. The architecture, from the inside, will make your experience even more special.

12. Tomb of Saint Peter

If you love architectural photography in Vatican City, then this is the place to go. The Tomb of Saint Peter is one of the top spots in pop culture, it’s the most visited site in the world, and it’s also one of the most photographed. So whether you want to see where he was buried or just take a picture, then be sure to visit The Scala Santa when you come to Rome!

13. The tomb of Gregorio XIII

The tomb of Pope Gregory XIII, also known as Umberto Pasolini, is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. Located in the Basilica of Saint Peter and designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the marble sculpture depicts the Pope sitting in a chair with his legs crossed and holding a book. He is resting after being dug up from the Catacombs beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, so you can consider yourself luckiest if you encounter him while he’s awake.=

14. Chiaramonti Museum

The Chiaramonti Museum is one of the most beautiful museums in Vatican City and a photography enthusiast’s delight. The museum offers insights into the history of Rome, with its artifacts of art, weapons, and other historical documents that create a unique experience.

15. Ancient Egyptian Obelisk

The obelisk is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. Standing tall next to the church of Saint John Lateran, this Egyptian obelisk was actually brought over from Egypt by the order of Pope Sixtus V in the late 1500s. We love its unique look and think it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in Rome.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN VATICAN CITY

16. Pigna Courtyard

Stroll through the charming courtyards and gardens of this Pigna. Typical courtyard features include a central fountain, doorways leading to interior rooms, carved stone reliefs, and a roof covered with ornamental tiles. Located in the center of Vatican City, the Pigna Courtyard is just a few minutes’ walks from St. Peter’s Basilica, which houses Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture. If you’re looking for one of the best photography spots in Vatican City, Pigna Courtyard is your destination. Located at the center of St. Peter’s Basilica and next door to one of Rome’s most famous landmarks – The Cupola – Pigna Courtyard attracts visitors from all over the world.

17. Paul VI Audience Hall

The Paul VI Audience Hall is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. This is where Pope Francis and other Popes hold their weekly public audiences as they greet visitors from all over the world. The interior design of the building was designed by Paride Lanciani, an Italian architect who also designed the Church of Santa Maria Della Vittoria in Rome.

18. Braccio Nuovo

There is no doubt that Braccio Nuovo is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. If you don’t have a ticket to see the Sistine Chapel, you can always take a few shots from this viewpoint. Braccio Nuovo is one of the most famous and popular photography spots in Vatican City. It consists of two bronze statues and is located in the center of Piazza del Campidoglio in Rome, Italy.

19. Pius-Christian Museum

The Pius-Christian Museum serves as a gallery for the Vatican collection of Christian artifacts, including works of art. It is one of the best photography spots in the Vatican City area. Its displays are arranged by theme rather than chronologically or geographically. The collection is divided between three floors, one devoted to sculpture, another to painting, and a third to decorative arts such as carpets, tapestries, and furniture. The museum was designed by the late American architect James Wines who won the commission in 2009. It opened to the public in 2013 with an exhibition devoted to 20th-century Italian masterpieces.

20. Chiesa di Sant’Anna dei Palafrenieri

Walk down the Piazza Dei Cavalieri di Malta and on to Via dei Penitenzieri, where the Chiesa di Sant’Anna dei Palafrenieri stands. A photographer’s dream, it’s one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. The church, which was constructed in 1668 by Pope Alexander VII, once housed the Palafrenieri who worked in service to the Holy See. The magnificent dome can be seen from all over Rome and makes for an interesting portrait background with its ornate design

BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN VATICAN CITY

21. Pinacoteca

The Pinacoteca is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. It is a multifunctional space and invites visitors to enjoy both ancient and contemporary art as much as an informal setting where they can also chat with volunteers. Visitors can stop by any time to view the gallery’s most current exhibitions or take advantage of free guided tours organized on a daily basis.

22. Michelangelo`s Vatican Pieta

Michelangelo’s Pieta is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. The sculpture was a typecast for the Virgin and Christ and is housed in a marble container below St. Peter’s Basilica. It dates back to 1498 when Michelangelo carved it out of white Carrara marble. This attraction and historical site is just one of many things to see while visiting Rome.

23. Altar of The Fatherland

While you can take a beautiful photograph anywhere in Vatican City, the Altar of The Fatherland is one of the best photography spots in one of the most fascinating cities in Europe. Approaching St Peter’s Basilica from Piazza San Pietro on its left side, this altar is dedicated to Italy’s wars and the martyrs who died for the homeland.

24. Torre di San Giovanni

Torre di San Giovanni is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City. It’s a little out of the way so you won’t be bothered by too many people, and there are some cool buildings/gardens behind it that makes a beautiful backdrop as well. If you want to take photos of st. peter’s square and the Vatican Museum, this is the place to go. I came here at sunset and it was beautiful with all the yellow lights going on. There are a lot of steps so be prepared for that but you get an amazing view!

25. Bronze Pigna

Bronze Pigna is one of the best photography spots in Vatican City and the ideal place to take a break during your visit. It’s here that you can relax and enjoy a beautiful view overlooking St. Peter’s Square and the Basilica. If you want to take a break, shop at the Vatican Museum gift shop nearby. This iconic bronze sculpture of a pinecone is said to represent fertility, renewal, and eternity. And one thing that’s for sure: it’s an amazing photo backdrop for your next vacation in Rome.

THESE ARE THE LIST OF THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN VATICAN CITY

Have you had a chance to check out any of these spots? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. If you have other favorite spots in Vatican City, be sure to share them with us—we can always add more great places to our list! In the meantime, happy snapping, and thanks for reading.