Vatican Museums FAQs

General visit

What are the Vatican Museums?

The Vatican Museums are a complex of art and history museums within the Vatican City State. They house a vast collection of art and artifacts amassed by the popes throughout the centuries, including Roman sculptures and Renaissance frescoes.

Is the Vatican Museum worth visiting?

Yes, the Vatican Museum is absolutely worth visiting. It is home to some of the world's most famous artworks, including the Sistine Chapel ceiling by Michelangelo, and a rich collection of historical artifacts.

How long does it take to tour the Vatican Museums?

A typical visit can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how much you want to see. If you want to see the highlights, including the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms, plan for at least 3 hours.

What is the best time to visit the Vatican Museums?

The best time to visit is early in the morning, right when they open, or later in the afternoon. Mid-day is generally the most crowded. Visiting on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays can also help you avoid the weekend crowds.

How do I get to the Vatican Museums?

The Vatican Museums are easily accessible by public transportation. The most common way is to take the Metro Line A to either the Ottaviano-San Pietro or Cipro stations, both of which are a short walk to the museum entrance.

Where are the Vatican museums located?

The Vatican Museums are located within Vatican City, which is an independent city-state within the city of Rome, Italy.

What do I need to know before visiting the Vatican Museums?

There is a set of rules that all visitors must adhere to in order to access the Vatican Museums:

Visitors must dress modestly, in line with the Vatican dress code. This means no shorts and skirts above the knee, bare shoulders or revealing clothing.
All visitors must go through a security check and any prohibited items (such as large bags, backpacks and tripods) must be checked in at the cloakroom, before entering the museum.
While photography is allowed in most museum areas, it is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
Eating and drinking is only allowed in the refreshment areas and visitors are requested to speak softly inside the museum.

For further details and information, you can consult our page about the Vatican Museums.

Tickets and entry

Do I need tickets to enter the Vatican Museums?

Yes, you need tickets to enter the Vatican Museums, and you can find them on our dedicated page.

How do I book Vatican Museum tickets online?

You can book tickets online through the official Vatican Museums website or through this website. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

How much do Vatican Museums tickets cost?

Vatican Museums general admission tickets bought online cost a total price of €22 (€17 plus a €5 service charge).

What is the best way to get Vatican Museum tickets?

The best way to get tickets is to book them online in advance. This allows you to skip the ticket lines.

What is a "skip-the-line" ticket for the Vatican Museums?

A "skip-the-line" ticket allows you to bypass the often-long ticket queues at the entrance. However, you will still need to go through security.

Are Vatican museum tickets refundable?

Reservations from the official website are non-refundable and cannot be modified, however refund policies from third-party vendors vary depending on where you purchase your tickets. Check the terms and conditions of the ticket vendor for specific details.

Can you buy tickets at the Vatican museum?

Yes, you can buy tickets at the Vatican Museum, but it's not recommended due to the long wait times.

Is it possible to visit the Vatican Museums for free?

Admission to the Vatican Museums is free on the last Sunday of the month (except for Easter Sunday), St. Peter and Paul Day, Christmas and St. Stephen Day. Keep in mind that skip-the-line tickets are not available on free admission days, so you will have to queue.

What do Vatican Museums tickets include?

Tickets allow admission to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Tickets to the Vatican Gardens, Pontifical Villas & Gardens and archeological sites are sold separately. Admission to St. Peter’s Basilica is free.

Do Vatican Museums tickets include guided tours?

No, tickets only allow access to the museums. Guided tours can be booked separately.

Sistine Chapel

Can you take photos in the Sistine Chapel?

No, photography and filming are strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.

What is the most famous piece in the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel?

The most famous piece is the Sistine Chapel ceiling, painted by Michelangelo. You can learn more about it on our dedicated page.

Can you just visit the Sistine Chapel?

No, you cannot visit the Sistine Chapel without entering the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is located at the end of the museum tour.

How can you see the Sistine Chapel without crowds?

The best way to see the Sistine Chapel with fewer crowds is to visit very early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Rules and dress code

What is the dress code for the Vatican Museums?

The dress code is modest. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Low-cut or sleeveless tops, shorts, and miniskirts are not permitted.

What to wear when visiting the Vatican?

Wear modest clothing: a t-shirt or blouse with sleeves, and pants, a skirt, or a dress that covers your knees.

Can you bring water into the Vatican museums?

Yes, you can bring water, but you may be asked to store it in the cloakroom.

Is photography allowed inside the Vatican Museums?

Photography is allowed in most places in the Vatican, however the use of flash, selfie sticks, stands, tripods or other professional equipment is not permitted.

Photography at the Sistine Chapel is not allowed under any circumstances.

What is the policy on taking photographs at the Sistine Chapel?

Photography and videography are strictly forbidden inside the Sistine Chapel to preserve the art and the atmosphere of reverence.

What am I allowed to take with me inside the Vatican Museums?

Visitors to the Vatican Museums are generally allowed to bring personal items such as cameras, plastic water bottles, small bags and folding umbrellas. However, large backpacks and bags (over 40x35x15cm in size), non-folding umbrellas and banners must be checked at the cloakroom before entering the museum.

Additional items banned from the museums include laser pointers, professional camera and video equipment (such as tripods), sharp or dangerous objects and metal tools. Use of the cloakroom is free, but keep in mind that the Vatican Museums are not responsible for your items.

Can you show skin in the Vatican Museums?

Visitors should avoid showing too much skin; dressing modestly is expected within the Vatican City and the Museums. Exposure of shoulders, midriffs, or excessive leg skin is not permitted.

Can you show cleavage at the Vatican?

Displaying cleavage is not considered appropriate attire when entering the Vatican Museums. Modest clothing should be worn to respect the sacred nature of the site.

Can you wear jeans at the Vatican?

Jeans are acceptable for the Vatican Museums provided they are not ragged or revealing. Visitors should ensure they pair jeans with a modest top that covers shoulders and chest.

Can you take a backpack into the Vatican Museums?

Small backpacks and handbags are allowed in the Vatican Museums, but they may be subject to a security check. Large bags and suitcases must be checked at the cloakroom.

What are the prohibited items in the Vatican Museums?

Sharp objects, weapons, umbrellas, glass containers, and alcohol are not permitted inside. For a complete list, it is advisable to review the guidelines.

Do you go through customs in the Vatican City?

While you do not pass through formal customs when entering Vatican City, security screening akin to an airport's will be conducted upon entry to the Vatican Museums.

Accessibility

Are the Vatican Museums wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Vatican Museums are wheelchair accessible. You can find out more on our dedicated page.

Are there wheelchairs for rent at the Vatican Museums?

Yes, the Vatican Museums provide free wheelchair rental from the cloakroom, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors need to present a valid identity document to rent one and pay a security deposit.

How does one obtain a ticket for a visitor with a disability to the Vatican Museums?

Visitors with disabilities are entitled to free entry to the Vatican Museums. Free admission tickets cannot be reserved online; they are given upon showing a disability certificate at either the Special Permits or Reception desks located in the museum's entrance hall.

Is the Sistine Chapel accessible to visitors using wheelchairs?

Wheelchair users can access the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican Museums have ensured that visitors on mobility scooters and with electric wheelchairs can navigate the path to the chapel.

What facilities are available to wheelchair users at the Vatican Museums?

The Vatican Museums are equipped with elevators and accessible restrooms to cater to wheelchair users. Assistance is also available for easier museum navigation.

Does the Vatican Museums offer any special map or guide for visitors with mobility issues?

Visitors with mobility needs can request a special map that highlights the accessible routes throughout the Vatican Museums, featuring elevators and barrier-free paths.

Are visitors in wheelchairs able to access all areas of the Vatican Museums?

Most areas of the Vatican Museums are accessible to wheelchair users, although some historic sections may have accessibility limits. Visitors are advised to check the museum's accessible guide for detailed information.

Tours and guides

Are guided tours available at the Vatican Museums?

Yes, guided tours are available and can enhance your visit. You can book them through the official Vatican Museums website or through tour companies.

What is the maximum group size allowed for guided tours?

Group sizes vary, but there are often restrictions in place to manage crowds. Check with the tour provider for the most up-to-date information.

Are the Vatican garden tours worth it?

Yes, the Vatican Garden tours are worth it. They offer a unique perspective and a peaceful break from the crowds.

In what languages are guided tours offered?

Guided tours to the Vatican Museums are generally in English, however many tour providers offer guides in additional languages, such as French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

Is it possible to book a guided tour online?

Yes! You can book a guided tour to the Vatican Museums online ahead of time. This will guarantee entry and allow you to skip the long waiting lines at the ticket office. Advance booking may also result in a better price, compared to purchasing tickets on the day of the visit.

What places are usually visited on a guided tour?

On a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, visitors will typically explore some of the most famous and significant parts of the museums.

A typical tour usually also includes a visit to the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's ceiling fresco, as well as the Raphael Rooms, where Raphael painted several important works. Additionally, guided combo tours often include visits to other important parts of the Vatican, such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Gardens. There are also tours that combine the Vatican and other attractions in Rome, such as the Colosseum.

What is the cancelation policy for tours?

Most guided tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance of the guided tour and receive a full refund. If your tour is canceled due to poor weather conditions, you will be offered a different date or a refund.

Are there any wheelchair-friendly tours?

Yes, there are wheelchair-friendly tours available to visit the Vatican Museums. These tours provide special access and accommodations for visitors with mobility issues.

Planning

Which should you visit first, the Vatican Museums or St. Peter's Basilica?

It depends on your preference and time. Many people visit the Vatican Museums first, as they require a ticket, and then visit St. Peter's Basilica, which is free to enter.

How to plan all your Vatican visits for your trip?

Plan ahead! Book your Vatican Museums tickets in advance, decide which areas you want to prioritize, and allow enough time for security checks and walking between different sites.

Where to eat near the Vatican?

There are many restaurants and cafes near the Vatican.

How do you visit the Vatican Gardens?

The Vatican Gardens can only be visited as part of a guided tour.

How do you visit St Peter's tomb?

To visit St. Peter's tomb (the Scavi), you need to book a special tour in advance through the Vatican Excavations Office.

What are the best months to visit to the Vatican Museums?

The best months to visit the Vatican Museums is during the low tourist season, which includes the months from November to February. During these months, the crowds are generally smaller, offering a more intimate experience.

What days of the week are less crowded at the Vatican Museums?

Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends, and Papal audience days are the ideal day to visit – mostly occurring on Wednesdays – since the crowds are diverted away from the Museums.

What’s the best time of day to visit to the Vatican Museums?

For those who prefer to start their day early, arriving to line up at 7:30 AM can provide an advantage, as it's before the majority of tourists arrive. The Vatican Museums are usually quieter in the afternoons, especially after 2 PM, as many visitors aim to arrive early.

What are the peak hours to avoid visiting the Sistine Chapel?

The Sistine Chapel is busiest at midday. To avoid the peak hours and enjoy a quieter visit, one should aim to visit either early in the morning or later in the afternoon after 4 PM.

How far in advance should I purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums?

To ensure entry, especially during high tourist season, it's recommended to purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums at least two weeks in advance.

Practical questions

Are there bathrooms located within the Vatican Museum?

Yes, there are restrooms located throughout the Vatican Museums.

Is there a coat check/luggage storage at the Vatican Museums?

Yes, there is a free cloakroom where you can store bags, umbrellas, and other items.

What items are prohibited in the Vatican Museums?

Prohibited items include large bags, backpacks, umbrellas, knives, scissors, weapons, and alcoholic beverages.

Are there security checks at the Vatican Museums?

Yes, all visitors must go through security checks, including metal detectors.

Can I bring a backpack into the Vatican Museums?

Small backpacks are generally allowed, but large backpacks and luggage must be checked in the cloakroom.

Can I bring food and drink into the Vatican Museum?

It is generally not permitted to consume food and drink inside the museum galleries, though you can store them in the cloakroom.

Is there Wi-Fi available in the Vatican Museums?

No, there is no public Wi-Fi available in the Vatican Museums.

Are there places to sit and rest within the Vatican Museum?

Yes, there are rest areas with seating located throughout the museum complex.

Are strollers allowed in the Vatican Museums?

Yes, strollers are allowed, but they may be difficult to maneuver in crowded areas.

Where are the first aid stations located?

First aid stations are located throughout the Vatican Museums.

What are the opening hours of the Vatican Museums?

The Vatican Museums are generally open Monday to Saturday, with varying hours depending on the season. It's best to check the official website for the most current information.

What is the best day of the week to visit the Vatican Museums to avoid crowds?

Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday are generally less crowded than weekends (especially Saturday) and Mondays.

How do I get from the Vatican Museums to St. Peter's Basilica?

There is a direct route from the Vatican Museums to St. Peter's Basilica, but it's only available if you're on a guided tour. Otherwise, you'll have to exit the museums and walk around the Vatican walls to reach the Basilica.

Where can I find currency exchange near the Vatican museum?

Currency exchange services are available in the Vatican City, though it's often easier to exchange currency at a bank or exchange bureau in Rome.

What form of payment is accepted at the Vatican museum?

The Vatican Museums accept Euros. Major credit cards are also typically accepted for ticket purchases and in the gift shop.

Where are the information desks located within the museums?

Information desks are located near the entrance and in various key points throughout the Museums.

What are the rules regarding flash photography inside the Vatican museum?

Flash photography is prohibited in many areas of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel.

How much time should I allocate for a visit to the Vatican Museums?

Allocate at least 3-4 hours to see the main highlights.

What is the best way to navigate the Vatican Museums?

Get a map at the entrance, decide what you want to see most, and follow the signs.

Where can I find maps of the Vatican Museums?

Maps are available at the entrance to the Vatican Museums.

Food and Drinks

Can you bring your own food and beverages into the Vatican Museums?

Personal food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the Vatican Museums, to preserve the cleanliness and integrity of the spaces.

What are the restrictions on eating and drinking within the museum areas?

Eating and drinking are restricted to designated areas within the Vatican Museums to protect the art and maintain a proper environment for all visitors.

Can I bring water into the exhibit halls of the Vatican Museums?

Visitors are allowed to carry bottled water into the exhibit halls, but it should be kept closed and not consumed in the immediate vicinity of the artworks.

Where are the designated areas for consuming food inside the Vatican Museums?

Visitors can consume food in the restaurant courtyard and other clearly marked designated areas within the Vatican Museums.

Does the Vatican Museums offer options for visitors with dietary restrictions?

The dining facilities within the Vatican Museums offer a range of options to cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices.

Are there eating facilities available within the Vatican Museums?

Yes, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options at the Vatican Museums, including a self-service area, a café, and a restaurant offering meals and light refreshments.

How to get there

What are the entrance requirements for the Vatican City?

None, the Vatican City just simply be walked into! Tickets are only required for specific attractions or events.

What public transportation options are available for traveling to the Vatican Museums from central Rome?

Public transportation options to the Vatican Museums include taking the Metro Line A to Ottaviano-S. Pietro Station, and several bus lines such as 49, 32, and 81 connect central Rome to the vicinity of the Vatican.

Is it possible to walk to the Vatican City from central Rome?

Walking to Vatican City from central Rome is feasible and takes approximately 30 minutes from locations such as Piazza Navona or Campo de' Fiori, depending on your pace and the specific route taken.

Can visitors take a taxi directly into Vatican City?

While taxis cannot enter Vatican City itself, they can drop off passengers close to the museums' entrance.

Does the metro go to the Vatican? Where is the nearest drop-off point for taxis at the Vatican Museums?

Yes, the Ottaviano metro station isjust outside the Vatican City, and close to the Vatican Museums.

Does the metro go to the Vatican?

For getting to the Vatican Museums by metro, you should aim to exit at Ottaviano.

Shops and Souvenirs

Where can I find souvenirs in the Vatican Museums?

Souvenirs are available at various shops located within the Vatican. These include the official Vatican Museums gift shop which offers a wide range of items reflecting the art and culture of the Vatican.

What are some unique souvenirs to buy from the Vatican?

Unique souvenirs include rosaries blessed by the Pope, replicas of Vatican art, and limited-edition Vatican stamps. Other special items are medals and crucifixes which often hold religious significance for buyers.

Is it possible to purchase Vatican Museum souvenirs online?

Yes, Vatican Museum souvenirs can be purchased online through the official Vatican Museums shop website, allowing those who cannot visit in person to acquire items from the Museums' collection.

Are there any gift shops inside St. Peter's Basilica?

While St. Peter's Basilica itself does not have gift shops within its walls, souvenir shops are located nearby. The St. Peter's Basilica gift shop is accessible from the outer premises of the Basilica.

Can visitors access the Vatican gift shop without an entry ticket to the museums?

Access to the main Vatican Museums gift shop typically requires an entrance ticket. However, there are additional shops in the surrounding areas that do not require museum entry, offering similar religious souvenirs and artifacts.

What are the operating hours of the souvenir shops in the Vatican?

The operating hours for the Vatican Museums and their shops coincide, often opening from Monday to Saturday, with the last entry in the late afternoon. Specific opening times can vary, and it is recommended to check ahead for the most updated schedule.