Behind the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica, the Gardens of Vatican City cover about 23 hectares, more than half the city-state. Their paths pass through Italian, French and English garden designs, with fountains, sculptures, grottoes, lawns and historic buildings among the greenery. Look for the Fontana della Galera, shaped like a ship, and views of St Peter’s dome. Visits are by guided tour, with options on foot or by open bus. Book ahead, since the number of visitors is limited.
From orchards to papal gardens
The gardens began in the medieval period as orchards and vineyards north of the Papal Apostolic Palace. In 1279, Pope Nicholas III moved his residence from the Lateran Palace to the Vatican, enclosed the area with walls and established an orchard, meadow and garden.
The grounds developed over centuries. In the early 16th century, Pope Julius II commissioned Donato Bramante to redesign parts of the landscape. The work included three courtyards: the Cortile del Belvedere, the Library Courtyard and the Cortile della Pigna. A rectangular boxwood labyrinth, framed by pinewood and Lebanon cedar, formed part of the Renaissance layout.
Fountains, monuments and buildings
The gardens bring together landscaped lawns, wooded areas, flower beds, sculptures, grottoes and water features. The Fontana della Galera is shaped like a galleon, with water jets arranged like cannon fire. The Eagle Fountain is another landmark to look for along the route.
Among the sites within the grounds are the Lourdes Grotto, the Papal Coat of Arms and the Casina of Pius IV. The gardens also contain sections of the Leonine Walls, medieval fortifications and buildings from different periods. Vatican Radio and the Governor’s Palace stand within the grounds, alongside monuments and other structures that remain part of the working city-state.
Planting ranges from formal garden layouts to exotic plants and small succulent displays. The grounds also include images of the Virgin Mary in depictions from different parts of the world. From several points, trees and garden paths frame views of St Peter’s dome.
Choosing a tour
The gardens are not open for independent wandering. Visitors enter on a guided tour, which can be taken on foot or by open bus. A walking tour takes about two hours; an open-bus circuit takes about 45 minutes. Both let you see the grounds, but the walking option gives you time to explore on foot, while the bus covers more of the route seated.
Book through the official Vatican Museums website and arrange the visit in advance, as tour places are limited. Some garden tours are combined with access to the Vatican Museums, so check what your chosen ticket includes before booking. If you plan to see the museums as well, allow time for that visit separately.
Häufige Fragen
Can you visit the Vatican Gardens without a tour?
No. Access is by guided tour, and visitors cannot explore the gardens independently.
How long does a Vatican Gardens tour take?
A walking tour takes about two hours. An open-bus tour takes about 45 minutes.
Do you need to book the Vatican Gardens in advance?
Yes. Tour places are limited, so arrange your visit ahead of time through the official Vatican Museums website.
What can you see in the Vatican Gardens?
The grounds include Italian, French and English garden styles, fountains, sculptures, grottoes, historic buildings and views of St Peter’s dome.
