- Vatican Museums
- Castel Gandolfo Papal Palace
- Vatican Gardens
- Vatican Necropolis
- Sistine Chapel
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Vatican City
- Vatican Archives
- Vatican Library
- Villa Barberini
- Castle Gondolfo
- Apostolic Palace
- Vatican Grottoes
- History
- Inside
- Papal Audience
- Christmas Tree
- Nativity Scene
- Secrets of Vatican
- Christmas
- Plan Your Visit
- Skip the Line Tours
- Guided Tours
- Night Tours
- Timings
- Directions
- Rules
- Entrances
- Facts
- Things to do in Vatican
- Dress Code
- Colosseum Tickets
- Castel Sant Angelo Tickets
- St. Peter's Basilica Tickets
- Roman Catacombs Tour
- Borghese Gallery Tickets
- Rome Pantheon Tickets
- Bioparco Rome Tickets
- Palazzo Barberini Tickets
- Musei Capitolini Tickets
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum Tickets
- Trevi Fountain Tours
- Roman Baths of Caracalla Tickets
- Palazzo Merulana Tickets
- Altare della Patria Tickets
Vatican Museum Tickets & Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Guided Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Make the most out of your visit and jump straight into the action. Skip the line with this guided tour, bypassing long queues at the Vatican Museums.
- Are you ready for the experience of a lifetime? The expert guides reveal the fascinating stories and hidden symbolism behind the artworks, adding a whole new dimension to your experience.
- With unforgettable masterpieces and exquisite art, explore a vast collection spanning centuries, from ancient artifacts to Renaissance marvels.
- Discover Michelangelo's awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel frescoes, including the iconic ceiling and Last Judgment, showcasing the genius of Italy's most renowned artist.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entrance to the Vatican Museums
- Entrance to the Sistine Chapel
- Expert & charismatic local guide
- Audio equipment to hear the guide clearly (making sure you don't miss a beat)
- Group size of 25 or less
- Tip: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- The Vatican Museums offer free tickets for visitors with mobility impairments (with certified invalidity exceeding 74%). In the case of visitors lacking in self-sufficiency, free entry is extended to their companions.
- Please note: All guests must pass through airport-style security. During high season and peak hours, the wait time at the security check may be up to 30 mins.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, or baby carriages.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Looking to go solo and explore the Vatican museums at your own pace? This option is for you. Meet up with a local host to redeem your ticket and enjoy fast-track entrance into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
- Admire the impressive works of Carravaggio, DaVinci, and Raphael that hang in the Pinacoteca.
- Discover the best of Renaissance sculpture in the Pio Clementino Museum. Walk in the footsteps of the Pope(s) as you explore the Gallery of Maps, Gallery of Tapestries, and Raphael Rooms at your own pace.
- Make your way to the crowning jewel of the Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and marvel at Michelangelo’s famed frescoes.
- Experience the Vatican Museums with less crowds when you book one of our early morning slots before 9am to get a head start. Alternatively, opt for a late-night entrance (only available on Fri & Sat between Apr and Oct).
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Exclusions
- St. Peter's Basilica tickets
- Audio guide
- Live guide
- Tip: Watch out for the only painting by Vincent Van Gogh that graces the Vatican Museums - his very own rendition of The Pieta.
- Pro Tip: Ask for a map of the Vatican Museums at the ticket office. This is free of charge.
- It is recommended to choose an early time slot to avoid the crowds.
- The entrance to the Museums is timed. Be sure to select your activity starting time when booking. Once inside the Museums, you will be free to explore at your own pace.
- Tickets need to be collected from our local operator, be sure to check the meeting point and redemption instructions on your confirmation voucher.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The use of mobile phones and photography is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
- Please note that the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are separate sites from St Peter’s Basilica.
- For guests with documentation of disabilities and visible disabilities the entry is free along with an additional ticket for 1 companion.
- Interested in exploring St Peter’s Basilica? Why not check out our other experiences here.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Guided Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
- From the world-famous Sistine Chapel and the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica to the extensive art collections of the Vatican Museums, we uncover it all on this unforgettable tour.
- Save time and bypass long queues with this guided tour, ensuring you make the most of your visit to these renowned sites.
- Journey through centuries of history as the expert guides will help you uncover the stories and secrets behind the art and architecture of these sacred places.
- Behold the awe-inspiring frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, including the iconic ceiling and Last Judgment, showcasing the genius of one of history's greatest artists.
- Skip the line at St. Peter's Basilica, a sanctuary of faith and artistic beauty that has inspired generations of pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Skip-the-line entry to St. Peter's Basilica
- Expert local guide
- Audio equipment
- Group tour of 25 or less
- Tip: Avoid booking on Wednesdays! Did you know the Pope speaks in St Peter's Square Wednesday mornings? Sometimes this results in last-minute closures, plan for another day if possible.
- The Vatican Museums offer free tickets for visitors with mobility impairments (with certified invalidity exceeding 74%). In the case of visitors lacking in self-sufficiency, free entry is extended to their companions.
- Please note: All guests must pass through airport-style security. During high season and peak hours, the wait time at the security check may be up to 30 mins.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, or baby carriages.
- The Basilica may be subject to last-minute closures. In the event that it is closed, the tour will be extended inside the museums.
- The tour is available in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo: Colosseum + Vatican Museums Tickets
- Get access to multiple iconic Roman treasures with one pocket-friendly ticket! Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Vatican Museums.
- At the Vatican Museums, spend your time browsing through the epoch-defining masterpieces of Raphael, da Vinci, and Titian, amongst others.
- Gasp at the stunning frescoes by Michelangelo that adorn the walls of the world-famous Sistine Chapel.
- At the Colosseum, a landmark synonymous with Rome itself, learn of the ancient battles within its walls with a digital audio guide.
- Also get access to the Roman Forum, the hub of socio-economic life in Ancient Rome, and Palatine Hill, from where you can take in spectacular views of the city.
Inclusions
Colosseum
- Entry to the Colosseum floors 1 and 2
- Entry to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
- Physical audio-video device (redeemed at the venue)
Vatican Museums
- Entry to the Vatican Museums
- Access to the Sistine Chapel
Exclusions
Colosseum
- Access to the Colosseum underground, arena floor, or upper floors
- Live guide
Vatican Museums
- Entry to St. Peter's Basilica
- Audio guide
- Live guide
Colosseum
- Tip: At the Roman Forum, don't miss the Temple of Saturn, an iconic structure with 8 surviving columns which once housed the ancient Roman state archives and treasury.
- The audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Chinese.
- Please bring your own earphones for the best audio guide experience.
- For safety and security reasons, no large backpacks or pieces of luggage are allowed inside the Colosseum. No storage facility is available. You can, however, take a baby stroller into the Colosseum with you, should it be necessary.
Vatican Museums
- Tip: Don't miss the Gallery of Maps, a corridor adorned with 40 intricately detailed maps depicting Italian regions and territories. Take a closer look at the cartographic artistry of these centuries-old maps.
- For visitors with mobility impairment, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire from the cloakroom.
- Strict Dress Code: Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for all guests.
- Please carry a valid ID with you and present it at the time of entry if requested. Should you fail to do so, venue authorities may deny you entry and such instances are not liable for reschedules or refunds.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Early Morning or After-Hours Skip-the-Line Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Get priority access by skipping the line to the Vatican's top attractions and experiencing its renowned wonders such as central panels, last supper, firsthand.
- Make your way to the historical Sistine Chapel and marvel at the staggering collection of artworks by Renaissance artists like Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Ghirlandaio.
- Upgrade your experience to include breakfast, with a delicious spread of American-style breakfast in the Pinecone Courtyard. As an alternative option, upgrade and opt for a night tour of the museum.
- Choose between early morning guided tour, ideal for a walk, or after-hours guided tour where you enjoy the soft evening light and count on much smaller crowds than usual.
Inclusions
- Entry to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- After-hours guided tour of Vatican Museums (optional)
- Early morning guided tour of Vatican Museums (optional)
- 30-min breakfast in the Pinecone Courtyard (optional)
- Group of 20 people or less
- Reservation fees
- Tip: Located in the Vatican Museums' exit area, this unique double-helix staircase was designed by Donato Bramante. Its innovative design allows you to ascend and descend without intersecting each other, creating a visually captivating architectural marvel.
- It's recommended to wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: tripod, flash photography.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Premium Small Group Guided Tour of Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Elevate your Vatican experience with this exclusive, premium, small group tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Personalized attention and a fun-filled atmosphere await!
- Skip the crowds and embrace VIP treatment on this small group tour. Say goodbye to long lines and the hustle of larger groups.
- Dive deeper into history with expert storytellers. They bring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel to life with captivating stories and intriguing anecdotes.
- Maximize your time and minimize the wait! This smaller group size allows for efficient navigation, giving you more time to soak in the masterpieces and create lasting memories.
- Beauty awaits you at every turn! With the help of a local expert, unveil the Vatican's best-kept secrets, and get ready to step into the world of Michelangelo.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entrance to the Vatican Museums
- Entrance to the Sistine Chapel
- Expert & charismatic local guide
- Intimate group size of 10 or less
- Tip: This tour ends inside the museums…so, why not make the most out of your visit and enjoy a coffee in the courtyard before leaving the site?
- The Vatican Museums offer free tickets for visitors with mobility impairments (with certified invalidity exceeding 74%). In the case of visitors lacking in self-sufficiency, free entry is extended to their companions.
- Please note: All guests must pass through airport-style security. During high season and peak hours, the wait time at the security check may be up to 30 mins.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, or baby carriages.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reserved Entry Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Vatican Gardens Open Bus Tour
- Enjoy guaranteed access to the greatest of Vatican City attractions, spend less time waiting in ticket queues and more time gazing at the natural and man-made treasures.
- Settle in a comfortable open-top bus and bask in the charming scenery of the Vatican Gardens which occupy roughly half the size of Vatican City.
- Capture the beauty of the Vatican Gardens with your best selfies.
- Enjoy the views of different landscaped gardens designed in Italian, French, and English styles.
- Tune into a multilingual audio guide to learn more about the beauty surrounding you.
- Later, immerse yourself into the immense collection of Renaissance masterpieces at the Vatican Museums.
- Gape at Michelangelo's incredible work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling, along with other breathtaking frescoes.
Inclusions
- Vatican Gardens tour by open bus
- Multilingual audio guide onboard
- Free Wi-fi at the meeting point
- Entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Exclusions
- Audio guide for Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Live guide
- Tip: Start your visit with the Vatican Gardens aboard an open bus with an audio guide, then continue by visiting the Vatican Museums at your own pace.
- Please note the chosen time must be respected and latecomers will not be accommodated.
- The onboard audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese.
- Strict Dress Code: Guests must wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Guided Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Climb
- Commence your tour by climbing to the terrace of St. Peter’s Basilica, where you will uncover unmatched panoramic views of Rome from atop Michelangelo’s Cupola.
- Immerse yourself in the genius of the Renaissance on VIP Vatican tour, guided by experts with skip-the-line access.
- Discover the Basilica's Barocco charm and Michelangelo's Pieta. Then, witness Bernini and Michelangelo's Renaissance masterpieces at the Papal Sarcophagi.
- Pay a visit to the beguiling Sistine Chapel, and marvel at the cherished murals here, such as the painted ceiling and The Last Judgement by Michelangelo.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line VIP access to Vatican Museums
- Admission to the Sistine Chapel
- Admission to the St. Peter’s Basilica
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Dome climb and visit to the Papal Sarcophagi
- Headsets (for groups of six or more)
- Reservation fees
Exclusions
- Transportation
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Visit to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi
- Tips: Don't forget to look down as you ascend the dome. Through special windows, you can catch glimpses of the basilica's interior below, offering a unique perspective.
- It's recommended to wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: tripod, flash photography, knives, weapons, or sharp objects.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo: Vatican Museums + Borghese Gallery Tickets
- This money-saving combo ticket offers a convenient way to admire two of the greatest art collections in the world at the Vatican Museums and Borghese Gallery.
- Get priority access to Vatican Museums and see priceless works of art from the Papal collections by Michelangelo, Raphael, da Vinci, and Titian, amongst others.
- Sprawled across 54 galleries, the museums include the Gallery of Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, and more.
- The biggest highlight is the breathtaking frescoes that adorn the walls of the legendary Sistine Chapel.
- Enjoy an escorted entry to the Borghese Gallery in Rome and avoid the winding queues.
- Gasp at the amazing art collections curated by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Scipione Cardinal Borghese.
- Admire Caravaggio's iconic masterpieces like David with the Head of Goliath and Boy with a Basket of Fruit.
- Marvel at Raphael's The Deposition and sculptures like David and Apollo and Daphne.
- Stroll through the Villa Borghese and explore the gardens dotted with vibrant flowers in bloom.
Inclusions
Vatican Museums
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Sistine Chapel
Borghese Gallery
- Escorted entry to the Borghese Gallery
Exclusions
- Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica
- Audio guide for Borghese Gallery (purchasable on-site for 5 Euros)
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
All Vatican Ticket Options Explained
Skip the lines
All Vatican tickets include skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass long queues. Your ticket includes access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Depending on what you opt for, your ticket may also include a guided tour or a multilingual audioguide.
How to Skip The Line at Vatican?
Guided Tours
The best way to explore all major and minor aspects of the Vatican is by opting for a guided tour. While a standard Vatican ticket might not include a guided tour, you can opt for one that does include the services of a professional tour guide. A Vatican tour will guide you past the priority entrance into the different landmarks in Vatican City, and enlighten you with interesting trivia and facts. The alternative option is opting for a ticket that includes an audio guide, which you can carry along while you tour the Vatican.
Book Vatican Guided Tours
Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica
A standard Vatican ticket does not include entry to St. Peter’s Basilica. You can opt for tours that specifically provide access to this landmark. Your professional tour guide will accompany you while you explore the historic church. If you would like to avoid long lines outside St. Peter’s Basilica, opt for a guided tour of the Vatican; this allows you to use the entrance that goes directly from within the Sistine Chapel into the basilica. Only with a tour guide can you access this entrance.
Book Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica
Early Morning Tour of Vatican
Visiting the Vatican is an experience in itself, but what if you could explore this popular attraction outside the opening hours? Go on a VIP tour where you can explore the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel without having to deal with the huge crowds. You will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide, who will fill you in with all the information about the history of the Vatican, the Popes, and artists whose works have been showcased here.
Explore Vatican at Night
Necropolis Tours
Enjoy an extremely unique experience by going on the Vatican Necropolis tour. Under the Vatican City, or more accurately, between 5 and 12 meters below St. Peter's Basilica, is a former burial ground, which is also believed to be the resting place of St. Peter. On this tour, which only allows a maximum of 250 people each day, you will be accompanied an expert guide (English, Spanish, French, or Italian) who will fill you in with interesting information about the Vatican Necropolis.
More About the Vatican Necropolis
Beyond the Vatican
There’s plenty more to see outside of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. If you would like to further explore, opt for Vatican tickets that provide access to the Apostolic Palace, Villa Barberini, and the pontifical gardens, all located in Castel Gandolfo, less than 30 km from Vatican city. The Palace served as the summer residence of Popes throughout history, making it a must-visit away from the crowds of Rome.
Castel Gandolfo ToursDiscounted Vatican Tickets
Visitors between the age of 18-25 enjoy reduced pricing on their tickets.
Vatican audioguides
Guests can rent audio guides at the Vatican Museums directly. Alternatively, they can book audio guides with their online reservations.
Explore the Vatican
Yes. All your Vatican tickets include skip-the-line entry, allowing you to bypass the long lines.
The best way to explore all the attractions in Vatican City is by opting for a guided Vatican tour. Not only do you get skip-the-line access with your Vatican tour, but you also get early bird access to the museums in the morning, before the general crowd fills in.
A standard Vatican ticket gives you skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Not all Vatican tickets include entry to St. Peter’s Basilica. You would have to purchase tickets that specifically offer admission into the basilica.
Yes. Your Vatican ticket includes skip-the-line entry into the Sistine Chapel as well.
Yes, only if you opt for a guided Vatican tour; your ticket will also include a guided tour of the Sistine Chapel as well. Please note that all visitors are expected to observe absolute silence while inside the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will provide you with all the information that you would need before you enter the chapel.
Since the Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums, it can only be accessed by going through the Museums and not via a separate entry.
No, you do not need an additional ticket to enter the Sistine Chapel. Your Vatican ticket includes entry into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Entry into St. Peter’s Basilica is free and does not require a ticket. However, if you would like to skip-the-lines and opt for a guided tour, a Vatican ticket with entry into St. Peter’s Basilica allows you to do so. If you opt for a Vatican tour, you can enter St. Peter’s Basilica directly from within the Sistine Chapel.
Not all Vatican tickets include entry into St. Peter’s Basilica. You will have to purchase specific tickets that offer entry into the basilica.
If you opt for Vatican tickets that provide entry into St. Peter’s Basilica, you are by default eligible for skip-the-line access into the attractions.
Not all Vatican tickets include guided tours into St. Peter’s Basilica. Ensure that you book tickets that specifically offer entry and guided tours of St. Peter’s Basilica.
You can view some parts of the Apostolic Palace’s stunning rooms, such as the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and Borgia Apartments.
Yes, your Vatican tickets include skip-the-line entry, allowing you to bypass the long lines.
Going on a guided tour of the Apostolic Palace will allow you to gain a deeper insight into the purpose and history attached to each room.
Yes, the rooms of the Apostolic Palace that visitors are allowed to view are a part of the Vatican Museums tour.
Yes, your Vatican Gardens tour includes skip-the-line access.
No. Not all Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Gardens. You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Gardens.
The availability of Vatican Gardens Guided tours is often limited. You can opt for an audio guide, instead.
Yes, your Vatican Necropolis tour includes skip-the-line access.
No, not all Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Necropolis. You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Necropolis.
Yes, the Scavi institution provides a licensed guide to accompany visitors on their Necropolis tours. It is best to go on a guided tour of the Necropolis to understand the historical significance of Necropolis.
No, You do not need separate tickets. Once you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you can make your way below towards the Vatican Grottoes.
You have to choose tickets that offer skip the line access to St. Peter's Basilica, to enjoy skip the line entry to the Vatican Grottoes.
You can plan your visit to the Vatican Grottoes as part of your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Just head to Grottoes towards the end of your tour.
Beyond the Vatican
Castel Gandolfo
Located about 29 kilometers away from Vatican City is a quaint little town called Castel Gandolfo that looks like it was taken right out of a postcard. Situated on a rocky perch above Lake Albano, Castel Gandolfo is home to the Pope’s summer palace, the Barberini Gardens, Church of St. Thomas of Villanova and world's first postbox! You can also enjoy a quiet picnic by the beautiful lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the lush countryside.
Know MoreApostolic Palace
A visit to the Apostolic Palace — located in the charming little town of Castel Gandolfo — is the day trip from Vatican City you never knew you needed. Dating back to the 13th Century, the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo was the summer palace of the Pope. The beautiful palace overlooks Lake Albano. On a tour of the Apostolic Palace, visitors get a glimpse of papal history through time; from religious attire, furniture, and art dating back centuries to black-and-white photographs and a beautiful landscape adorned with lush greenery.
Know More
Villa Barberini
Prepare for a landscape unlike anything seen before: umbrella-shaped pines, patches of fresh fruits and vegetables, brightly-colored flowers, sculptures and more await you at Villa Barberini. First built during Emperor Domitian’s reign, the serene Villa Barberini and its gardens are the perfect escape from the crowds and sweltering heat of Rome and Vatican City. Opt for a guided tour of Villa Barberini and the pontifical gardens to soak in its architecture, rich history and a delightful variety of immaculately-maintained foliage.
Know MorePlan Your Visit to Vatican Museums
Timings: From Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Every last Sunday of the month, 9 AM to 2 PM.
Extended opening hours: From 5 May to 28 October, on Fridays, the museum will be open until 10:30 PM and until 8 PM on Saturdays.
Last admission: 2 hours before closing time.
Closed: Sundays (except the last Sunday of each month), 1 and 6 January, 11 February, 10 April, 1 May, 29 June, 15 and 16 August, 1 November,
8, 25, 26, and 31 December.
Best time to visit: You can expect the lowest crowd between November to March, making it the best time to visit the Vatican Museums. April to September is considered to be the busiest time of the year.
Getting to the Vatican is easy with multiple transport options available. You can take the Metro, a train, bus, or simply walk to Vatican City.
Yes. The Ottaviano-S. Pietro metro station is located right outside Vatican City. You can take Line A of Rome Metro to reach this station; from there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Square.
Yes. You can take buses 40, 64, 62 and 81 to reach Vatican City. Buses 40 and 64 can be taken directly from Roma Termini.
No, you do not have to pay to enter Vatican City; however, you do have to purchase a ticket to enter landmarks like the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
There are two entrances to the Vatican City: Via Della Conciliazione and Via Vaticano.
If you’re planning on starting your tour at St. Peter’s Basilica, then you should enter Vatican from Via Della Conciliazione.
If you plan to start your trip of Vatican with the Vatican Museums, then enter from Viale Vaticano.
No, you don't need a passport or Visa to enter Vatican City. However, if you wish to enter the attractions inside, such as the Vatican Museums or the Sistine Chapel, you would need to buy tickets.
Your Vatican ticket includes skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, allowing you to bypass the long waiting lines. You should also consider visiting during the early hours, when the crowds are lesser.
Not all Vatican tickets include guided tours. You will have to opt for tickets that specifically provided a guided Vatican tour.
Your Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Not all skip-the-line Vatican tickets include access to St. Peter’s Basilica. You will have to purchase tickets that specifically provide entry into St. Peter’s Basilica.
Vatican rules and regulations state that visitors must dress modestly during their visit. Low cut clothing, shorts, skirts, etc., are not permitted.
Mobile phone usage is allowed on the premises of Vatican City. However, Vatican rules and regulations state that it is discouraged in the Vatican Museums and completely restricted in the Sistine Chapel.
No. Outside food and drinks is strictly prohibited inside the Vatican Museums. If you are carrying any edible items, you can check it into the cloakrooms.
Yes, Vatican has a dress code, as it is a religious state and is quite stringent about it. Failure to adhere to the dress code can lead to you being denied entry. Clothes that expose your knees, including shorts, skirts, and dresses, are not allowed, as are offensive tattoos.
Shirts are preferred, however, men can sport a T-shirt as long as it doesn’t feature any offensive slogans or imagery. Sleeveless t-shirts or vests are not allowed. Shorts must level with your knees.
Women are not permitted to wear sleeveless, low-cut clothing or crop tops. The rule of thumb to follow is that the midriff and shoulders must be covered. Skirt, dress, as well as shorts, must be at least knee-length.
There’s no specific Vatican dress code for kids. However, the same rules as adults apply to them; shoulder and midriff should be covered. Shorts/Skirts should level with the knees.
Celebrating Christmas at Vatican is a magical affair. The city decks itself in pretty lights, a Christmas tree, and a Nativity scene. The mass at St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most viewed masses around the world. However, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel is closed on December 25 and 26.
To book the Papal Audience tickets, you have to fill out a form and fax it to +39 06 698 85863 at least 2 months in advance. You’ll receive a letter that confirms that the church has received your request. However, this is not a ticket confirmation. You will have to go to the Preffetura Office 4-5 days before the mass, between 8 AM to 6 PM, to get the ticket.
The Christmas mass at Vatican takes place on December 24, at 9.30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vatican Tickets
Yes. The Vatican Museum is only accepting online reservations now. You can book your Vatican tickets online.
It depends on the ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 48-72 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancelation. Please check before you make your reservation.
While the Vatican is accepting reservations for guided tours, it has placed a cap on the maximum number of visitors in a group. Each guided tour group can comprise up to 30 visitors.
The opening hours are now open from 9 AM to 6 PM from Monday to Saturday. The last entry into the museums will be at 4 PM. Every last Sunday of the month provided that Easter Sunday, 29 June, 25 December, 26 December, and 31 December, don't coincide, the museum will be open from 9 AM to 2 PM, with the final entry at 12:30 PM.
Entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel requires you to purchase tickets. On the other hand, entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free. However, if you wish to skip the long lines at St. Peter’s Basilica, it is advised that you purchase a skip the line ticket as the queue can easily be up to 60 minutes long.
Yes, your Vatican tickets do include skip-the-line-access. With this, you get fast-track access to Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel without having to wait in long lines.
Yes, guided Vatican tours do include skip-the-line access. Your professional tour guide will escort you pass the long lines.
Not all Vatican tickets include access to St. Peter's Basilica. You will have to purchase tickets that specifically include access to the basilica.
Yes, the Vatican Museums are wheelchair accessible. In fact, the Vatican offers free entry to all disabled visitors with certified invalidity of more than 74%.
