What are Vatican Museums opening hours?

Vatican Mass Timings

Papal Basilica of Saint Peter

• Weekdays Mass schedule: 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 5pm
  
• Sundays and Holiday Mass schedule: 9am, 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:15pm, 1pm, 4pm, 5:30pm

Basilica of Saint John Lateran

• Winter schedule: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 5pm
  Sunday: 5pm, 6pm
  
• Summer schedule: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 6pm

Basilica of Saint Mary Major

• Sunday: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 6pm
  
• Monday-Saturday: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 12pm, 6pm

Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

• Weekday Winter schedule: 6:45am, 8am, 9am, 10:30am, 5pm
  
• Summer schedule:
  Public holidays: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10:30am, 12pm, 6pm
  Saturday and before public holidays: 6pm

Benedictine Abbey of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

• Monday-Saturday: 8:30am, 12:30pm, 4pm, 7pm

​Attend Vatican Mass

How much time do I need to explore the Vatican Museums?

To thoroughly explore the Vatican Museums, which is a vast and intricate attraction, you should allocate at least 4 hours. This duration allows you to appreciate the major galleries, including the Raphael Rooms, the Sistine Chapel, and the various art, sculpture, and historical collections, without feeling rushed.

Given the extensive range of art and historical artifacts on display, covering everything in one visit can be challenging. If you have a strong interest in art or history, you might even consider spending a full day to delve deeper into the collections and enjoy the details.

For a more focused visit, targeting specific areas of interest like the Sistine Chapel and the Pinacoteca, 2 to 3 hours could suffice. However, keep in mind that the museums are vast, and there's a considerable amount of walking involved, so it’s wise to allow some extra time for rest and contemplation of the artworks.

​Plan your visit