St. Peter’s Square in Rome: Is It Worth Visiting?

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St. Peter’s Square in Rome: Is It Worth Visiting?

Published on 5 March 2025 Last updated on 12 October 2026

St. Peter’s Square in Rome, also known as Piazza San Pietro, is one of the most famous places in Vatican City. Every day, many tourists visit the square to admire its impressive architecture, visit St. Peter’s Basilica, or attend a papal audience or prayer gathering.

But is a visit to St. Peter’s Square really worth it? In this article, I share my experiences and explain what you can expect during a visit. You will also discover what there is to see in the square and learn more about tickets and practical information. This will help you decide for yourself whether St. Peter’s Square is worth visiting during your city trip to Rome.

What Is St. Peter’s Square?

St. Peter’s Square is the famous square in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. It is an important religious and architectural centre of the Catholic Church. The square is freely accessible, although security checks or temporary restrictions may apply on special occasions. Vatican City is an independent state entirely surrounded by the city of Rome.

The square was designed in the seventeenth century by the Italian architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The two semicircular colonnades are particularly striking. They resemble two arms welcoming visitors and pilgrims. This was precisely Bernini’s intention. The colonnades were designed to symbolically welcome the faithful into the arms of the Church.

St. Peter’s Square is an important gathering place during major Catholic events. Thousands of believers and pilgrims come together for special celebrations, such as canonisations and the Pope’s traditional Easter and Christmas messages, known as Urbi et Orbi. The square can also attract large numbers of visitors during significant events involving the Pope, such as the installation of a new pope.

However, St. Peter’s Square is not only important to believers. It is also a well-known attraction during a city trip to Rome. Visitors come to admire its remarkable architecture and see St. Peter’s Basilica up close.

Is St. Peter’s Square Worth Visiting? My Experience

Over the past ten years, I have visited Rome more than ten times. During those visits, I have also visited Vatican City several times to see St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica.

My most recent visit was in June 2025. It was a special time to be in Rome. It was a Holy Year, and Pope Francis had passed away shortly before, with Pope Leo XIV elected as his successor. The period surrounding Francis’s death brought many believers to Vatican City to pay their respects to the Pope. During my visit, I also noticed how special this period was. Believers from different countries had gathered at St. Peter’s Basilica. People were singing together, and the atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square was impressive. This made my visit even more memorable.

Personally, I definitely think St. Peter’s Square is worth visiting. Even if you are not religious or do not want to explore the interior of St. Peter’s Basilica, the square is impressive. The combination of architecture, history and the worldwide significance of this place makes it special. You do not have to be a believer to be impressed by the sheer size of the square and its colonnades.

My tip: if you want to visit both St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square, consider exploring the basilica first and then taking your time to discover the square.

During one of my earlier visits, I did things the other way around. After visiting the basilica, I went outside to take photos of the façade and the square. When I wanted to go back inside, I had to join the security queue again. By then, the queue had become considerably longer. I decided not to queue again, as doing so would have disrupted my plans for the rest of the day.

Keep in mind, therefore, that you must go through security checks again if you want to re-enter the basilica. This can take extra time, especially on busy days. By visiting the basilica first and exploring the square afterwards, you can avoid having to queue unnecessarily a second time.

If you only have one or two days in Rome and are not particularly interested in religious attractions or Baroque architecture, it is worth considering in advance how much time you want to spend in the Vatican. You could also use that time to explore the historic centre, including places such as the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain. If you are interested in history, art or religion, St. Peter’s Square could instead be one of the highlights of your city trip.

These are the most popular tickets and tours for visiting St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica

What Is There to See in St. Peter’s Square?

During your visit to St. Peter’s Square, you can take a leisurely walk around the square and explore its various sights. You can easily spend an hour here. If you are visiting the square for the first time, I believe there are several features you should not miss. Below, you can read about what to see and why these places are special.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is located directly on St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. Construction of the current basilica began in 1506 and was completed in 1626. The church is dedicated to the apostle Peter, who, according to Catholic tradition, was the first pope. According to the same tradition, his tomb lies beneath the basilica.

The basilica is one of the most important religious buildings in Catholicism and one of the best known attractions in Vatican City. Its architecture is also impressive. The large façade and dome play a major role in shaping the view from St. Peter’s Square.

Would you also like to explore the basilica’s interior? Inside, you will discover an impressive space featuring marble details, works of art and monuments. The sheer size of the church becomes immediately apparent as you walk inside. Keep in mind, however, that you must pass through a security check to enter the basilica. The square and the basilica are therefore two separate parts of your visit.

The Apostolic Palace and the Pope’s Window

The Apostolic Palace is a large complex of buildings in Vatican City that includes the papal apartments and various offices. One of its best-known features is the window where the Pope appears on certain Sundays for the traditional Angelus prayer. This is also known as the Angelus window.

From St. Peter’s Square, you can identify the window by looking towards St. Peter’s Basilica and then shifting your gaze to the Apostolic Palace on the right. It is located on the third floor, at the second-to-last window. On Sundays when the Pope leads the Angelus prayer, many people gather in the square to listen to his address and prayer.

It is worth knowing that the Pope does not appear at the window every Sunday. Papal activities and special events can also change the usual schedule. If you want to attend the Angelus prayer, check the Vatican’s current schedule in advance.

The Egyptian Obelisk

In the centre of St. Peter’s Square stands the Vatican Obelisk, an ancient Egyptian monument that was brought to Rome centuries before the square was built. The obelisk is made of red granite, stands just over 25 metres tall and weighs approximately 330 tonnes. One striking feature is that it has no hieroglyphs.

Emperor Caligula had the obelisk brought from Egypt to Rome in AD 37. It was placed in the circus that stood on Vatican Hill at the time. According to Christian tradition, the apostle Peter was crucified in this area. The obelisk was therefore already there before St. Peter’s Basilica and the present square were built.

In 1586, Pope Sixtus V ordered the obelisk to be moved to the centre of St. Peter’s Square. It was an impressive undertaking that required 907 men, 75 horses and 44 winches. The operation was led by the architect Domenico Fontana.

Originally, a bronze sphere stood on top of the obelisk. According to an old legend, it contained the ashes of Julius Caesar. When the sphere was removed during the relocation, it turned out to be empty. Today, the sphere is kept in the Capitoline Museums. A cross now stands at the top of the obelisk. According to Catholic tradition, it contains a relic of the cross on which Jesus was crucified.

Fountains by Bernini and Maderno

There are two monumental fountains in St. Peter’s Square, on either side of the Egyptian obelisk. They look very similar and, together with the obelisk, create a symmetrical composition. However, they were designed by different architects and built at different times.

The older fountain was modified in 1614 by Carlo Maderno, who was also responsible for the façade of St. Peter’s Basilica. The fountain is located to the right of the obelisk when you are facing the basilica. Maderno reused elements from an older fountain and gave the design a new form. One striking detail is the upper basin, over which the water flows downwards, creating a veil of water droplets.

More than fifty years later, Gian Lorenzo Bernini was commissioned to design a second fountain. The construction of the colonnades had changed the shape and layout of the square. To restore balance to the overall composition, the existing fountain was moved and a second, very similar fountain was added. It was put into use in 1677.

If you look closely, you will notice small differences between the two fountains. Among other details, Bernini’s fountain features decorative dolphins on its octagonal base. The fountains are therefore not only a practical feature of the square but also a fine example of the Baroque emphasis on symmetry and detail.

The Colonnades in St. Peter’s Square

The colonnades designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini are the monumental rows of columns that enclose St. Peter’s Square on both sides. The curved rows of columns resemble two arms embracing the square. Bernini intended them to symbolically welcome the faithful into the arms of the Church.

The colonnades consist of four rows of columns. One remarkable detail is the optical illusion Bernini incorporated into his design. Two circular marble discs bearing the inscription Centro del Colonnato are set into the square. You can find them on either side of the central obelisk, along the imaginary line between the obelisk and the two fountains. Stand on one of these discs and look at the columns. The four rows appear to line up perfectly behind one another, making it seem as though there is only one row. It is a remarkable example of the geometric knowledge Bernini applied to his design.

The colonnades give the square its characteristic shape and draw the eye towards the façade of St. Peter’s Basilica. Together with the obelisk and the fountains, they form one of Rome’s most recognisable architectural ensembles.

Standing on top of the colonnades are 140 statues of saints. They are approximately 3.1 metres tall and were created in several phases between the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. The statues form a striking part of the square’s silhouette. In the next section, you can read more about whom they represent and why they are there.

The 140 Statues of Saints

Standing on top of the colonnades surrounding St. Peter’s Square are 140 statues of saints. Together, they form an impressive row of figures looking out over the square from the balustrade. The statues were commissioned by Pope Alexander VII in the seventeenth century as part of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s design. Several sculptors contributed to their creation.

The statues represent saints from different periods of Catholic history. Among them are well-known figures such as Francis of Assisi and Ignatius of Loyola. Together, they reflect the long history of the Catholic Church and the people who played an important role in it.

When you look up from the square, you will notice the different poses and the folds of the robes. The figures are not all depicted in the same way. This variety gives the long row of statues a lively character and enhances the monumental appearance of the colonnades.

Monument to Migrants

In St. Peter’s Square stands a modern work of art that tells a different story from the historic buildings and statues surrounding it. It is called Angels Unawares and was created by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz. Pope Francis unveiled the sculpture on 29 September 2019, during the World Day of Migrants and Refugees.

The bronze sculpture depicts 140 migrants and refugees from different countries, cultures and periods in history. They stand close together on a boat, carrying their belongings with them. In the middle of the group, two large angel wings rise above the figures. The artwork refers to the Bible verse Hebrews 13:2, which encourages people to welcome strangers, as some have unknowingly welcomed angels in doing so.

The sculpture’s location makes its message even more striking. While the 140 statues of saints stand high above on the colonnades, the migrants are positioned at eye level with visitors. In this way, the artwork draws attention to people who have left their countries and highlights the importance of hospitality. It is a modern addition to St. Peter’s Square that reveals a very different aspect of the Vatican’s history and significance.

Tickets for St. Peter’s Square

You do not need tickets to visit St. Peter’s Square. The square is a public space and is free to enter for everyone. However, you must pass through a security check at the entrance, similar to those at an airport. Your bag will go through a scanner. Queues can form as a result, especially during busy periods.

If you only want to visit St. Peter’s Square, I recommend exploring it independently, without a tour guide. The square is easy to navigate, and you can comfortably admire the architecture and various sights at your own pace. In addition, guides are not always allowed to stop for extended periods to address their groups in the square. This is to ensure a smooth flow of visitors and maintain safety.

A guided tour can be interesting, however, if you combine your visit to St. Peter’s Square with nearby attractions. A guide can then provide additional information about the history of the Vatican and the significance of the buildings you encounter along the way.

How Long Does a Visit to St. Peter’s Square Take?

For a visit to St. Peter’s Square itself, 30 to 45 minutes is more than enough. During this time, you can take a leisurely walk around the square, admire the colonnades, discover the remarkable optical illusion at the Centro del Colonnato and see the Monument to Migrants.

Personally, I sometimes stay a little longer. When you leave St. Peter’s Basilica, you can sit on the steps beneath the colonnades on the right-hand side. I often bring my own water bottle and use this moment to rest, have a drink and take in my surroundings before continuing my visit to Rome.

How Long Does a Visit to St. Peter’s Square Take?

Personally, I prefer visiting St. Peter’s Square early in the morning, between 7:00 and 8:30 a.m. The square is often still wonderfully quiet at this time, allowing you to admire the architecture at your leisure and take beautiful photos without large groups of tourists around you.

Would you also like to visit St. Peter’s Basilica? Then arriving early is especially convenient. The basilica generally opens at 7:00 a.m. During quieter periods, you may be able to get through the security check more quickly, while queues can become considerably longer later in the day. Keep in mind, however, that crowd levels and waiting times vary from day to day.

What Are the Opening Hours of St. Peter’s Square?

St. Peter’s Square is free to enter. According to the usual opening hours, the square is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Around closing time, security staff clear the square and close it. Please note that access may be restricted during special events.

Opening Hours During Papal Events

Wednesdays and Sundays can be busier than usual. The Pope’s General Audience usually takes place on Wednesday mornings. You need a free ticket to attend. Check in advance where the audience will be held and which access rules apply. Other papal activities may also take place on certain days.

On Sundays, the Pope usually leads the Angelus prayer at 12:00 noon. Many believers gather in St. Peter’s Square for this occasion. As a result, security checks can be busy and you may have to wait longer.

Opening Hours of St. Peter’s Basilica

Would you like to combine your visit to St. Peter’s Square with a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica? Since 1 June 2026, the basilica has been open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The last entry is generally at 7:15 p.m., depending on visitor numbers and security checks. Opening hours may vary during papal activities and special celebrations.

Therefore, check the latest information on the official St. Peter’s Basilica website before your visit.

Where Is St. Peter’s Square in Rome Located?

St. Peter’s Square is officially located in Vatican City, an independent city-state in the heart of Rome, just west of the River Tiber.

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City.

On a map of Rome, you will find the square at the end of Via della Conciliazione. This wide boulevard runs directly from Castel Sant’Angelo towards St. Peter’s Square. Thanks to its location, you can easily combine a visit to the square with a walk past Castel Sant’Angelo and along the River Tiber.

How Do You Get to St. Peter’s Square?

The best way to get to St. Peter’s Square depends mainly on where you are staying in Rome. Personally, I often use the Rome Metro to get around the city. St. Peter’s Square is also easily accessible by public transport.

By Metro

Metro line A, the orange line, is a convenient option. You can get off at Ottaviano or Lepanto. From Ottaviano Metro Station, it is about a 10-minute walk to St. Peter’s Square. Keep in mind that you may need to walk a little further from the square to reach the entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica.

On Foot from the Historic Centre

If you are staying in Rome’s historic centre, I recommend walking to St. Peter’s Square. From places such as Piazza Navona or the Pantheon, the walk takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your starting point and walking pace.

Along the way, you will cross the River Tiber via the beautiful Ponte Sant’Angelo (Bridge of Angels). This makes the walk an enjoyable route past one of Rome’s well-known attractions.

Practical Tips for Visiting St. Peter’s Square

Pay Attention to the Dress Code

Although St. Peter’s Square is a public space, you must follow the dress code if you want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Your shoulders and knees must be covered. This applies to both men and women. Sleeveless shirts, tank tops, short skirts and shorts may prevent you from entering the basilica.

Personally, I get the impression that the rules are not always enforced equally strictly. However, I would not rely on that. You cannot know in advance how strict the checks will be, and it would be a shame if you were unable to visit the basilica as a result. My advice is therefore to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Bring a Refillable Water Bottle

When I am in Rome, I almost always bring a refillable water bottle. This is particularly useful in spring and summer, when temperatures can rise considerably. You can find public drinking fountains at various locations throughout Rome where you can fill your bottle with free drinking water.

There are also drinking fountains at St. Peter’s Square and near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. You can refill your bottle along the way, so you do not have to keep buying bottled water.

My tip: Take a filled water bottle with you when you head out. It is particularly useful on hot days when you are walking a lot and visiting several attractions.

Make Use of the Toilets

Public toilets are not always easy to find in Rome. It is therefore useful to make use of the toilets in the surrounding area before or during your visit to St. Peter’s Square. You can find toilet facilities beneath the colonnades near the square, on the left-hand side when you are facing St. Peter’s Basilica.

This is particularly worth keeping in mind if you are visiting several attractions one after another. That way, you will not have to waste time looking for a toilet along the way.

Combine Your Visit with Other Attractions

You can easily combine a visit to St. Peter’s Square with other attractions in Vatican City and the surrounding area. Depending on how much you want to see, you can easily spend a large part of your day here.

I regularly combine my visit to the square with Castel Sant’Angelo, which is about a ten-minute walk away. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are also excellent additions to your visit. However, keep in mind that you need to allow enough time for these attractions and that you need a separate admission ticket for the museums.

Would you like to see more of St. Peter’s Basilica? You can also visit the Vatican Grottoes, where several popes are buried, or climb the dome. From the dome, you can enjoy beautiful views of St. Peter’s Square and the rest of Rome. You need a separate ticket to climb the dome.

My tip is to decide in advance which attractions you want to visit. This will help you manage your time effectively and avoid trying to fit too much into a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting St. Peter’s Square

Is St. Peter’s Square Free to Enter?

Yes, St. Peter’s Square is free to enter. You do not need a ticket to walk around the square and admire the architecture. However, you should be aware of security checks and possible restrictions during papal events.

How Much Time Do You Need for St. Peter’s Square?

For St. Peter’s Square alone, 30 to 45 minutes is sufficient. This gives you time to walk around the square, admire the colonnades and see the Monument to Migrants. If you also want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica or climb the dome, allow extra time.

Can You Visit St. Peter’s Square with Children?

Yes, St. Peter’s Square is a great place to visit with children. The impressive colonnades, obelisk and fountains make the square interesting to explore together. However, keep in mind that it can get very busy, especially during papal events. Long queues at the security checkpoint can be tiring for young children. Bring plenty of water and consider planning a rest break during your visit.

Do You Need to Book Tickets for St. Peter’s Square?

No, you do not need to book anything for the square itself. If you also want to visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, it is advisable to book tickets in advance. You also need a separate ticket to climb the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Additional entry rules may apply during papal events.

What Is the Best Time to Visit St. Peter’s Square?

I prefer visiting early in the morning, between 7:00 and 8:30 a.m. It is often quieter at this time, allowing you to admire the architecture at your leisure. If you also want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, arriving early is especially convenient. Keep in mind that visitor numbers vary from day to day and that different entry rules may apply during papal events.

Can You Visit St. Peter’s Square Without Going Inside the Basilica?

Yes, absolutely. St. Peter’s Square is worth visiting even if you do not enter the basilica. You can admire the colonnades, obelisk, fountains and statues while learning more about the history of the Vatican. You can decide for yourself how much time to spend in the square.