Vatican Visitors Guide

1) Monday to Saturday

The Vatican is open every day from Monday to Saturday from 9am until 6pm with last entry at 4pm.

2) Last Sunday of the Month

Additionally, the Vatican is open on the last Sunday of every month from 9am until 2pm with last entry at 12:30pm.  On this special (and very busy) day, admission is free.

For many people, the Vatican is a must see which means there are massive crowds and lineups every day.  The summer, with tourism is at its peak, is the busiest time of the year for the Vatican so you're better off visiting in the offseason if you can.

The best time to visit the Vatican is either early in the morning when it opens or late afternoon right before last entry.  Keep in mind last entry is at 4pm and you'll need a good two hours to get around the Vatican.

Weekends are always a notoriously bad time to visit any tourist attraction and the Vatican is no exception.  If you can, try to visit the Vatican during the weekdays.

1) Clothing

Dress smart and respectful for the Vatican.  No sleeveless clothing, shorts, skirts not covering the knee or hats are permitted inside the Vatican.  Even if you get past security, you'll be turned away by the door attendants.

2) Don't Touch

It goes without saying that you are not allowed to touch any of the collections inside the Vatican.

3) Food

While there is a cafeteria in the Vatican for you to have lunch, it is forbidden to consume any food or drink inside the exhibition halls.

4) Photography

While you can take photos inside the Vatican Museums, the use of a flashbulb is forbidden.  No photography of any kind is allowed in the Sistine Chapel.

5) Phones

You are also not allowed to use your mobile phone inside the exhibition halls or the Sistine Chapel.