How early do you need to go to the Vatican?


How early do you need to go to the Vatican? Arriving at mid-day With ticket lines often snaking around the walls, it's best to get there early. The Vatican Museums opening times are 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and we recommend getting there when the doors open – if not a bit earlier to allow for delays.


Can you just turn up to the Sistine Chapel?

So in order to visit it you need to buy a ticket to the Vatican Museums. As we said, given the large turnout that the museum has, it is recommended to book a skip-the-line ticket for the entrance. In order to avoid the lines there are many solutions.


Do you need a full day at the Vatican?

I personally recommend planning a full day for a Vatican visit if you are interested in seeing the museums and a half day (a full morning or full afternoon) if you are planning on seeing the square and basilica only.


How long does it take to get through Vatican security?

In general, the security check at the Vatican can take anywhere from 5 minutes to 20 minutes, depending on the size of your group, and whether or not the security guards find an issue with any of your belongings, attire, or bags.


What is not allowed in Vatican?

The Vatican decrees that “low cut or sleeveless clothing, shorts, miniskirts and hats are not allowed“, but as some of this is open to interpretation depending on your perspective, it's worth examining the rules in a little more detail!


Is it better to go to the Vatican in the morning or Evening?

Most tourist groups show up in the morning in hopes to beat the crowds, but it usually works against them. In fact, you can find the Vatican Museums a bit less crowded during the afternoon hours.


What is the dress code for the Vatican?

The dress code for the Vatican Museums is strict but easy to respect. Low-cut or sleeveless dresses, miniskirts, shorts and hats are not allowed. To cover knees and shoulders you can buy plastic cloaks to wrap around. Inside it is preferable to wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.


Can you wear jeans at the Vatican?

The Vatican has a dress code that some travellers might not be aware of when visiting. Luckily if you're planning on wearing jeans to the Vatican, you definitely can! When you plan to visit, it's best to keep your knees and shoulders covered. And for footwear, you will need flat shoes, not flip-flops or casual sandals.


How do I avoid queues at Vatican City?

The best ways to skip the lines at the Vatican
  1. Buy a skip-the-lines ticket with audio guide. ...
  2. Book a group guided tour. ...
  3. Use a Discount Card / Tourist Pass. ...
  4. Get a VIP early entrance and breakfast ticket. ...
  5. Buy a basic ticket online ahead of time.


Can you bring water into the Vatican?

However you are not allowed to drink anything among the galleries, there are courtyards where you can fill up your water bottles at the fountains where the water is fresh and where you can quench your thirst. You can bring water from a plastic bottle.


Can I wear sneakers to the Vatican?

What shoes to wear at the Vatican. There are no special rules about shoes at the Vatican and you can wear closed shoes or sandals. While there is no specific rule about wearing flip flops at the Vatican, it is good practice not to. Flip flopr are impractical for the location, often noisy and considered too casual.


What is the busiest day at the Vatican?

The Vatican Museum is closed Sundays, except for the last Sunday of every month, when they are free. This is the most crowded day you can imagine for visiting the Vatican Museums. On Wednesdays (except for July, when the pope takes a break), the pope holds an audience at St Peter's Basilica.


Can I bring a backpack into the Vatican?

Can I bring a bag with me to the Vatican Museums? Yes, you can bring a small bag with you on your tour. Bags, backpacks or luggage measuring more than 40·35·15 centimeters are, however, not allowed into the Vatican Museums and must be checked at the cloakroom.