Located in the center of Rome, Vatican City is a city-state ruled by the Pope. It is not only the Pope’s residence but also the center of the Catholic faith. With only a total area of 0.44 sq. km., the Vatican is the smallest state in Europe. Inside its small area are the Vatican palace, including its gardens, and the famous St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s square, both of which are must-see places in their own right. The city-state is open to visitors but it’s expected to have long lines in place for its top attractions. To save time, booking online or buying tickets in advance is recommended.