Vatican City

Vatican City Travel Guide

Welcome to the Vatican City travel guide! This tiny city-state is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, including the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit places, activities, restaurants, hotels, and tips for making the most of your trip.

Places to Visit

1. The Vatican Museums

  • Address: Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm; Sunday from 4 pm to 7 pm
  • Tickets: €21 (adult), €13 (reduced rate); free for children under 18

The Vatican Museums house some of the world’s most famous art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Raphael. Don’t miss the Sistine Chapel, with its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica

  • Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 6:30 pm; Sunday from 5:30 pm to 8 pm
  • Tickets: Free admission (donations welcome)

The largest Christian church in the world is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and beautiful artwork. Be sure to climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views.

3. The Sistine Chapel

  • Address: Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy (inside the Vatican Museums)
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm; Sunday from 4 pm to 7 pm
  • Tickets: Included in the Vatican Museum ticket price

One of the most famous chapels in the world, the Sistine Chapel is known for its stunning ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Don’t miss the intricate details and beautiful artwork throughout.

4. Castel Sant’Angelo

  • Address: Lungotevere Castello, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 7 pm; closed on Mondays
  • Tickets: €14 (adult), €12 (reduced rate); free for children under 18

This ancient fortress has been used as a prison, a hospital, and even a summer residence for the Pope. Enjoy stunning views of the city from its rooftop.

Activities

1. Guided Tours

  • Cost: Prices vary depending on the tour operator; expect to pay around €50-€100 per person
  • Duration: Most tours last around 2 hours

Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, or the Sistine Chapel to get the most out of your visit.

2. Art and Architecture Tours

  • Cost: Prices vary depending on the tour operator; expect to pay around €50-€100 per person
  • Duration: Most tours last around 2 hours

Explore the intricate details and beautiful artwork throughout the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.

3. Vespers at St. Peter’s Basilica

  • Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Sunday from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm (vespers)
  • Tickets: Free admission

Experience the beauty of Catholic tradition with a vesper service at St. Peter’s Basilica.

4. Vatican Gardens Tour

  • Address: Viale Vaticano, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm; closed on Mondays
  • Tickets: €32 (adult), €29 (reduced rate); free for children under 18

Take a guided tour of the beautiful Vatican Gardens, which cover an area of over 23 hectares.

Where to Eat

1. La Gensola

  • Address: Piazza della Gensola, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm; Sunday closed
  • Price Range: €€€
  • Cuisine: Italian

Enjoy delicious traditional Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

2. Il Pagliaccio

  • Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 21, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm; Saturday closed
  • Price Range: €€€
  • Cuisine: Italian

Savor exquisite Italian cuisine in a sophisticated atmosphere.

3. Roscioli

  • Address: Via dei Giubbonari, 21, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm; Sunday closed
  • Price Range: €€€
  • Cuisine: Italian

Indulge in delicious Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Art

  • Address: Via Giulia, 52, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: 24 hours reception
  • Price Range: €€€
  • Cuisine: Italian

Enjoy luxurious accommodations in a beautiful hotel.

2. Hotel Villa Borghese

  • Address: Via di Salvetat, 8, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: 24 hours reception
  • Price Range: €€€
  • Cuisine: Italian

Relax in a peaceful atmosphere with comfortable accommodations.

3. Hotel Piazza del Popolo

  • Address: Via del Corso, 18, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
  • Opening Hours: 24 hours reception
  • Price Range: €€€
  • Cuisine: Italian

Stay in the heart of Rome with comfortable accommodations.

Things to Know

1. Language

  • English is widely spoken throughout Vatican City.
  • However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Italian phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.

2. Currency

  • The official currency of Vatican City is the Euro (€).

3. Dress Code

  • Be respectful of the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel by dressing modestly.
  • Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting churches or attending a vesper service.

4. Safety

  • Vatican City is generally a very safe place to visit.
  • However, as with any tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

5. Photography

  • Non-flash photography is allowed in the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.
  • Be respectful of other visitors and avoid taking photos during vesper services or other religious events.

Transportation

1. Airport

  • The closest airport to Vatican City is Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO).
  • From the airport, take a taxi or bus to reach your destination in Vatican City.

2. Metro

  • The nearest metro station to Vatican City is Ottaviano-San Pietro.
  • Take the metro from other parts of Rome to reach the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

3. Bus

  • Several bus lines connect Vatican City to other parts of Rome.
  • Use the ATAC website or ask a local for information on which bus lines to take.

4. Taxi

  • Taxis are widely available in Rome, but be aware that they can be expensive.
  • Make sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey.

Tips and Tricks

1. Buy tickets online

  • Save time by buying your Vatican Museum ticket online.
  • Avoid long lines and make the most of your visit.

2. Bring a backpack

  • Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen to keep yourself energized throughout the day.
  • Bring a small bag or backpack to carry your essentials while exploring the city.

3. Stay hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
  • Avoid drinking too much coffee or other caffeinated beverages.

4. Be respectful

  • Remember that you’re visiting sacred places, such as churches and the Vatican Museums.
  • Dress modestly and be respectful of other visitors and locals.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable trip to Vatican City. Enjoy your visit!