Vatican City Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Vatican City
- Currency
- Euro (EUR €)
- Best time to visit
- Spring (April–May) and autumn (October) bring comfortable weather and slightly thinner crowds; book museum tickets well ahead year-round.
Visa requirements
Entered freely from Rome with no border controls, Vatican City is accessed through Italy and the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free entry for many nationalities for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Getting around
The entire state is explored on foot, with Rome's metro (Ottaviano station) and buses providing the closest public transport access.
Safety
Vatican City is heavily monitored and very safe, but its dense crowds make it a prime spot for pickpockets around St. Peter's Square and the museums. Keep valuables secure and beware of unofficial 'skip-the-line' touts.
Tipping customs
As in Italy, tipping is modest; rounding up or small change for good service is customary, and tour guides appreciate a few euros.
Travel tips
Reserve timed entry for the Vatican Museums online to skip long lines. A strict dress code requires covered shoulders and knees to enter the basilica and chapel. Cards are accepted, and the site is reached easily via Rome's metro and buses.