Vatican Travel Advices

Here to help in any way possible …
We want to make planning your visit to Vatican City as easy and stress-free as possible. That is why we have compiled some useful travel tips worth knowing before going on your visit.

Passports
To enter the Vatican City, you must show a valid passport or national identity card if you are an EEA citizen. No personal document is required to access the Vatican Museums, the Vatican Gardens, the Grottoes, and St. Peter’s Basilica. If you are not an EU citizen, you must show additional documentation and declare that you need a visa. Please refer to the Vatican City website for more information.

Currency

The monetary unit of the Vatican City is the Euro.
Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, post offices, hotels, and kiosks of the Bureau de Change, which are located in international airports, central stations, and city centers. It pays to shop to get the best deal – compare exchange rates and remember to check the commission.

Credit cards
Credit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in Vatican City’s shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. Diners Club and American Express cards are less accepted. There are banc moltimat (also known asemat); most accept international cards with Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus, or Maestro symbols. Charges may apply for their use; it’s a good idea to check with your bank before traveling.

Free
The tipping culture in Vatican City is generally discretionary. It is up to you to decide if you think the service was good and you want to show appreciation. If you have lunch or dinner at a restaurant, meals sometimes include around 10-12% service charge. The tour tip is entirely your choice and can be paid to the driver on the same day.

Access disabled
Most of our tours have wheelchair access, although we would like you to check with us before booking to avoid disappointment. If any of your groups have difficulty walking and/or require an accessible wheelchair, if available. Please give us at least one week’s notice before your tour date if required.

Vatican Travel Advices

airport transfer
Whether it’s a transfer from the airport or to your next holiday destination, we can arrange for one of our drivers to take you to your chosen destination. Let us know in advance, and we will be waiting for you when you arrive! Our transfer prices are very difficult, starting from only Euro 100 (depending on the pick-up location).

Language
While understanding / speaking English would be helpful, it is not essential to your tour as many attractions are visual, and some even offer language translations. Our tour guide will do his best to help you and take care of you while you are with them.

Cell phones (cell phones).
If you want to use your mobile phone in Vatican City, check with your network operator before traveling; otherwise, your phone may not work. Being able to switch to an international rate that gives you cheaper calls. Alternatively, you may want to buy an Italian SIM or phone while you are here. Remember, our vehicles are equipped with 4G Wi-Fi so you can connect to the internet for free during your private tour.

To smoke
Smoking is prohibited in Vatican City in all indoor public places (including train station platforms). External airports of smoking areas designate at the entrance of the entrance/exit. Smoking is also prohibited in our tour vehicles. However, our drivers will be happy to provide breaks during your travels for any smoking needs.

Vatican Travel Advices

Electricity in the Vatican City
Vatican City power outlets use two-pole plugs with on / off switches. You will need a simple adapter for your electrical equipment, which can be purchased at airports and some retail and hardware stores. Our vehicles are also equipped with power adapters for most devices so that you can charge your phone, tablet, or while you are with us on your tour.

Holidays
Holidays, or “bank holidays,” as they are called, are standard throughout the year and mark religious, historical, and special events. On public holidays, many businesses and banks are closed. However, many shops and attractions remain open. This may affect their opening hours, and we will confirm if this is the case on your booking itinerary. Vatican Private Tours.

Emergencies

In an emergency that requires an ambulance, police, or fire department, dial 112 from any phone.

Vatican City Private Guided Tours