International Travel Guide to Vatican City (Holy See) in 2024
Everything you need to know before visiting Vatican City (Holy See) in 2024
Vatican City
Vatican City (Holy See) Travel Details 🇻🇦
Vatican City, with an approximate population of around 800, is the smallest independent state in the world by both area and population. It serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. The city is renowned for its religious and cultural significance, featuring landmarks such as St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. The official language is Italian, with Latin also commonly used. Vatican City offers rich historical, religious, and artistic experiences, drawing millions of visitors and pilgrims each year.
Country
Vatican City (Holy See) 🇻🇦
Capital
Vatican City
Country code
VA
Region
Europe (Southern Europe)
Population
~800 people
Calling code
+379
Currencies
Euro (€)
Timezones
UTC+01:00, UTC+02:00
Check if need a visa to visit Vatican City (Holy See)
Essential Details to Know Before Visiting Vatican City (Holy See) in 2024
Electrical Plugs
Vatican City uses Type F (Schuko) and Type L plugs with a standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz.
Languages
The official language is Italian, with Latin commonly used for official documents and ceremonies.
Currency
The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
Payment Methods
Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and major establishments. Cash is still commonly used.
Internet Connectivity
Vatican City has excellent internet connectivity with widespread availability of Wi-Fi.
International Calling
The international calling code for Vatican City is +379.
SIM Cards for Travelers
SIM cards can be purchased in nearby locations such as Rome. Popular providers include TIM, Vodafone, and Wind.
Telecom Providers
Since Vatican City shares telecom infrastructure with Italy, the primary providers are TIM, Vodafone, and Wind.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Generally, rounding up the bill or adding a few Euros is customary.
ATM Availability
ATMs are available within Vatican City, especially near the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica.
Public Transport
Vatican City itself does not have public transport, but it is easily accessible via Rome's extensive public transport system.
Vatican City (Holy See) Visa
Vatican City, also known as the Holy See, generally follows the visa policies of Italy since it does not issue its own separate visas. Visitors to Vatican City typically enter through Rome, and therefore, must obtain a Schengen visa if required for entering Italy. Common types of visas applicable include short-stay (Schengen Type C) for tourism, family visits, or business trips, and long-stay (Schengen Type D) for stays longer than 90 days involving work, study, or other extended purposes. Generally, travelers from the European Union, the United States, Canada, and several other countries are visa-exempt for short stays. It's crucial to check the specific entry requirements and visa regulations pertaining to one's nationality before planning a visit.
The best time to visit Vatican City is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively smaller compared to the busy summer months. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for exploring to avoid peak tourist times. Visiting on weekdays can also help you dodge the weekend crowd.
How Much Time Should I Spend in Vatican City (Holy See)?
Spending one full day in Vatican City is enough to cover the major attractions, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Gardens. However, if you are an art enthusiast or want to explore more leisurely, you might consider allocating two days to fully absorb the rich history and art without feeling rushed.
How Much Money Do I Need For Vatican City (Holy See)?
A day trip to Vatican City can vary in cost based on your preferences. On average, budget travelers might spend around €50-€100, covering entrance fees, basic meals, and transportation. Entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but visiting the dome costs around €8-10. Tickets for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are approximately €17, with discounts available for children and students. Guided tours or skip-the-line tickets can add to the cost but might enhance your experience.
What Should I Pack For My Trip to Vatican City (Holy See)?
When packing for Vatican City, consider bringing comfortable walking shoes since you will be on your feet most of the day. Modest clothing is required for entry into the religious sites; ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are advisable for sunny days, and a small reusable water bottle can keep you hydrated. If you plan to visit in cooler months, include a light jacket. Don't forget your camera to capture the iconic landmarks, and having a guidebook or an app about Vatican City can enhance your visit.
How to Stay Safe During Your Trip to Vatican City (Holy See)
While the Vatican City may be the world's smallest sovereign state, it's a major destination teeming with cultural and spiritual significance. Understanding and following specific health and safety tips can make your visit much more enjoyable. By knowing what to expect and adhering to some general principles, you can safely navigate the Vatican and focus on soaking in its rich history and breathtaking art.
Health Tips
When traveling to Vatican City, make sure you're up to date with routine vaccinations such as MMR, DTP, and influenza. Although no specific vaccines are required, having comprehensive travel insurance that includes health coverage will provide peace of mind in case of medical emergencies.
Precautions About Diseases
COVID Precautions
Vaccinations Needed
Water Safety
Food Safety
Hygiene
Security Awareness
Regional Instability
Political Unrest
Medical Facilities
Disease Prevention
Legal and Cultural Considerations
General Travel Tips
Tourist Traps
Areas to Avoid
Useful Vatican City (Holy See) Travel Safety Resources
For emergencies within Vatican City, contact the Vatican Gendarmerie.
Discovering and Getting Around Vatican City (Holy See)
Exploring Vatican City (Holy See) is straightforward thanks to its efficient and varied transportation system. Though Vatican City is the world's smallest sovereign state and is compact enough to navigate on foot, its strategic location within Rome means tourists can also take advantage of Rome's extensive public transit network to get there comfortably. This guide covers crucial information on public transportation options available to tourists, ensuring you can plan your visit with ease and efficiency.
Walking in Vatican City
Vatican City itself is very small, spanning roughly 44 hectares (110 acres), making it quite easy to navigate by foot. Major attractions like St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel are within close proximity. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding area in Rome.
Accessing Vatican City via Metro
The Rome Metro system is a convenient way to get close to Vatican City. The closest metro stop is 'Ottaviano-San Pietro' on Line A (Orange Line). From there, it’s just a short walk to St. Peter's Square. The metro runs frequently, and tickets can be bought at stations, newsstands, or through mobile apps.
Using Buses to Reach Vatican City
Rome's extensive bus network also serves areas around Vatican City. Bus lines such as 40 and 64 offer direct routes from major hubs like Termini Train Station to Vatican City. Buses can sometimes be crowded, so plan your trip during off-peak hours if possible. Tickets must be validated upon boarding.
Arriving by Train
Roma San Pietro is the closest train station to the Vatican and is serviced by regional trains (Trenitalia). This station is about a 10-minute walk from St. Peter's Basilica. Look for trains labeled 'Regionale' and be sure to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines.
Parking Near Vatican City
If you’re driving, parking around Vatican City can be challenging due to the limited space. Public parking garages are available in the surrounding area, but they can be expensive. It's generally easier to use public transit or taxis to get to the Vatican.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis are widely available in Rome and can be a convenient way to reach Vatican City, especially if you have heavy luggage or are traveling in a group. Apps like Uber are also operational in Rome, offering another alternative for a comfortable ride to the gates of Vatican City.
Bicycling in and Around Vatican City
While Vatican City itself does not have dedicated bike lanes, you can use shared bikes and bike rental services to explore the surrounding area of Rome. Keep in mind the cobbled streets and high pedestrian traffic, which may make biking a bit challenging.
Useful Vatican City (Holy See) Transporation Resources
Vatican City itself does not have a road network suitable for regular driving. Most travel within the city is done on foot or by official vehicles.
Road Side
In Italy, vehicles drive on the right side of the road. This applies to the streets surrounding Vatican City.
Driver's License
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for non-EU licenses to drive in Italy.
Speed Limits
Standard Italian speed limits apply near Vatican City: 50 km/h in urban areas.
Seat Belts
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in vehicles.
Mobile Phone Use
It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. Hands-free devices are permitted.
Alcohol Limit
The legal blood alcohol limit in Italy is 0.05%.
Vatican City (Holy See) Timezones
Vatican City operates on Central European Time (CET) during the winter (UTC+01:00) and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the summer (UTC+02:00).
Vatican City (Holy See) Borders
Vatican City is entirely surrounded by Rome, Italy.
Vatican City (Holy See)'s Border with Italy
Vatican City is an enclave within the city of Rome, Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vatican City (Holy See) Passport Details and Ranking 2024
