Vatican City Traveler Essentials

Safety rating
8.8/10
Best time to visit
April to June and September to October for milder weather and lighter crowds.
Population
0.0M

Overview

The world's smallest sovereign state and the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, Vatican City is an unparalleled treasury of art and architecture. St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel's ceiling, and the vast Vatican Museums draw millions of pilgrims and visitors.

Getting around

The entire enclave is explored on foot, with Rome's Ottaviano metro station nearby.

Local etiquette

Strict dress codes apply: cover shoulders and knees, and maintain silence in the Sistine Chapel.

Safety

Vatican City is very safe, but St. Peter's Square is a hotspot for pickpockets, so guard valuables closely.

Practical guides