Gardens of Vatican City

★ 4.7 (2,695)$$$ · Expensive

The Vatican Gardens have been cultivated since medieval times, first laid out under Pope Nicholas III, and today combine formal Italian parterres, fountains, and wooded areas across some 23 hectares behind St Peter's Basilica. Because they remain the Pope's private grounds, access is tightly controlled and only possible through official guided tours booked well ahead. The combination of manicured landscaping, papal history, and restricted access makes this one of the more exclusive garden visits in Rome.

✨ Reasons to go

1The gardens were first laid out in the 13th century under Pope Nicholas III.
2They cover about 23 hectares, nearly half of Vatican City's total area.
3Access is restricted to official guided tours only, with no general public entry.

💡 Good to know

1Booking is required well in advance, as access is only via official guided tour
2expect a premium price reflecting the exclusive access
3combine with a Vatican Museums or St Peter's Basilica visit on the same day.

⏱️ Typical visit

1h30

🕰️ Best time

morning, lunchtime, afternoon or early evening

🚶 Walking intensity

Moderate walking

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Address

Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy · Città del VaticanoGoogle Apple

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Booking

Booking required

What people say

"June 2026 As part of our Roma Turbopass tickets we visited St. Peter's Basilica & Square as well as the Vatican City with beautiful gardens. These gardens (Giardini Vaticani) cover 23 hectares (nearly 2/3rd of Vatican City) & feature a unique English Garden sector alongside formal Italian & French landscapes. As we wanted to escape the crowds & heat, we went outside in the gardens. It had nice benches in the shade where we had our packed lunch."

— Petra (Pitch)

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