Plizio Visual Lab

Upper Belvedere Terrace

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

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The Upper Belvedere Terrace is a significant architectural and topographical feature in the northern sector of the Vatican. It forms the highest part of the Belvedere Courtyard, designed by Donato Bramante in 1506 to link the Apostolic Palace with the Villa Belvedere. The terrace was engineered to level the natural slope of the hill, creating a monumental visual axis. Geologically, it rests on stabilized soil layers of the Vatican Hill, secured by massive retaining walls. During the Renaissance, it served as a venue for festivals and the display of ancient sculptures, highlighting its cultural importance. Today, it is part of the Vatican Museums, providing an impressive view of the gardens and St. Peter's Dome. The architecture integrates classical orders and fountain systems that utilize the Vatican's hydrological relief. The terrace remains a masterpiece of landscape design, harmoniously blending natural topography with structural artistry.

Location: Vatican
Top sights: Galleria degli Arazzi · Galleria delle Carte Geografiche · Tower of the Winds

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	8	10	14	18	23	26	26	21	17	12	8
Rain mm	73	77	69	56	57	34	26	26	70	82	114	92

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Upper Belvedere Terrace is part of the Vatican Museums and accessible only with an entry ticket. From here you get an excellent view over the Belvedere Courtyard and surrounding buildings.

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Typical hours

The terrace is accessible during Vatican Museums opening hours, typically 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (last entry 4:00 pm). On Sundays the museum is usually closed, except the last Sunday of the month.

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Photography

Photography on the terrace is allowed, but without flash to avoid disturbing other visitors. Tripods may not be permitted - ask the staff.

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Time needed

Time on the terrace is typically 10-15 minutes, enough for photos and the view. Combined with the Belvedere Courtyard and surrounding galleries, allow about an hour.

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Combine with

The terrace is part of the Belvedere complex, which includes the Belvedere Courtyard and Museo Pio-Clementino. It combines perfectly with a tour of the Vatican Museums.

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Getting there

You reach the terrace by following the main route through the Vatican Museums and following signs to the Belvedere Courtyard. Access is via stairs or an elevator.

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Insider tip

Visit the terrace in the late morning when the light is best for photos. The terrace is less crowded than the main attractions, so enjoy the calm atmosphere.