Vatican City uses the Euro, type F and L plugs and 112 for emergencies. Vatican City is generally very safe, though visitors should remain vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas like St.
Emergency Numbers
How safe is Vatican City?
- Very Safe
- Generally Safe
- Exercise Caution
- High Risk
- Dangerous
Vatican City is generally very safe, though visitors should remain vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas like St. Peter's Square and the Vatican Museums. Official Vatican security (Gendarmerie Corps) and Swiss Guard maintain order.
Advisories (3)
Scams
- Pickpocketing is common in large crowds, particularly near major attractions and on public transport connecting to Vatican City.
- Be wary of individuals offering unsolicited tours or selling tickets outside official vendors.
Warnings
- No specific travel warnings for Vatican City itself, but general advisories for Rome and Italy regarding petty crime should be noted.
Practical Info
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Power Plug
Type F and L
Type F, Type L
See the sockets
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for tour guides. Often, a small amount (e.g., rounding up the bill) is sufficient. Service charges may sometimes be included in restaurant bills.
SIM / Data
Vatican City does not have its own mobile network. It is best to purchase an Italian SIM card (e.g., TIM, Vodafone, WindTre) from a provider in Rome for reliable data and calls.
Visa
Vatican City has an open border with Italy. Entry requirements are the same as for Italy and the Schengen Area. Visitors from visa-exempt countries can enter freely, while others may require a Schengen visa.
Driving Side
Right
How do you get around Vatican City?
Public Transport
Vatican City is entirely walkable. To reach Vatican City, visitors typically use Rome's public transport system (Metro Line A to Ottaviano-S. Pietro or Cipro stations, or various bus lines).
Ride-hailing
- Uber
- Free Now
Intercity
Intercity travel is not applicable within Vatican City itself due to its small size. Travel to and from Vatican City is integrated with Rome's extensive transportation network (trains, buses, flights from Rome's airports).
Culture and customs
Customs
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women.
- Maintain respectful quietness, especially inside St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
- Do not touch artwork or historical artifacts.
- Photography is generally allowed without flash, but may be prohibited in certain areas like the Sistine Chapel.
Dress Code
Strict dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. No sleeveless tops, short skirts, or shorts are allowed in St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, or the Vatican Grottoes. Hats should be removed inside religious buildings.
Religious Etiquette
Visitors should be mindful of the Vatican's status as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. Respect religious ceremonies, avoid loud conversations, and refrain from disruptive behavior.
Common Phrases
- BuongiornoGood morning / Good day
- GrazieThank you
- ScusiExcuse me
- Dov'è...?Where is...?
- PregoYou're welcome / Please
Highlights
Sports & Recreation
Due to its unique status and small size, Vatican City does not have public sports recreation for tourists. Its focus is on religious and cultural activities.
While the Vatican does have its own sports associations for its residents (e.g., a football team, a running club), these are not part of the visitor experience. The culture for visitors is centered on spiritual and artistic appreciation.
National Festivals
- December 25th
Christmas
A major celebration featuring the Papal Midnight Mass in St. Peter's Basilica and the Pope's 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing from the central balcony of St. Peter's Square.
- Variable (March/April)
Easter
The most important liturgical season, including numerous ceremonies during Holy Week, culminating in the Papal Easter Mass and the 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing.
- June 29th
Feast of Saints Peter and Paul
A public holiday and significant religious observance in Rome and Vatican City, honoring its patron saints. Features special Papal Masses and ceremonies.
Cities in Vatican City
Planning Vatican City?
Try a ready-made trip first.
Open the demo trip with no sign-up: Barcelona on your own, or Rome, Florence and Venice as a group. Then plan Vatican City your way.