Some say that the Vatican is a country, some say that it is only a state, the Vatican is located north of Rome and there are three great programs to do there. The first and must-see is to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the second is to visit the Vatican Museum and the third is a secret visit. This secret visit must be booked in advance with the vatican’s excavation office and only 200 people per day in groups of 12 make the visit.
In relation to the basilica of St. Peter it is a great and important construction, since it is the place where the Pope realizes the main masses of the world. Queues are scary, but if you book online before, you can get away from them. I did not want to face the queue, but many people say that although very large, the standby time is about 30 minutes to an hour.
The Vatican museum is not included in the Rome Pass (pass free access and discount on some activities in Rome) and the entry is 16 euros. On the day I did not enter, but after researching I saw that I missed a great spot. The museum gives access to the Sistine Chapel, a place full of art, gold and history. In addition the museum has a lot of religious history, for those who have interest. Below is a photo of the entrance.
In relation with the secret tour, you make reservation directly in the Vatican Excavation Office website here or send an e-mail to scavi@fsp.va with the following informations of visitors: name, age, nationality, language of the tour, dates you are interested to make the scavi tour, address/contacts and wait for a response. After confirmation you must pay the fee that is 13 euros.
Detailed information also available in this website.
Enjoy the trip!