Holy See-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Vatican City

Morning

  • Arrive at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in the Vatican City area
  • Visit the Vatican Information Office (open from 9:00 AM) to get an overview of the city and its attractions

Afternoon

  • Explore the Vatican Museums (open from 9:00 AM), home to some of the world’s most famous art and artifacts, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling
  • Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Christian church in the world, built on the site where Saint Peter is said to have been buried

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the Vatican City walls and enjoy the evening atmosphere

Things to Know

  • The Vatican City is an independent city-state within Rome, Italy, with its own government, currency, and postal system.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees.

Transportation

  • Taxis are readily available at the airport and around the city
  • The Vatican City is easily walkable, but buses and metro lines are also available

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries do not need a visa to enter Italy or the Vatican City for tourism or business stays up to 90 days. Check with your local embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Day 2: The Pope’s Residence and More

Morning

  • Visit the Pope’s Summer Residence, Castel Gandolfo, located about 30 minutes outside Rome (open from 9:00 AM)
  • Take a guided tour of the residence and its beautiful gardens

Afternoon

  • Return to the Vatican City and visit the Pontifical Villas, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city
  • Explore the Vatican Library, home to ancient manuscripts and rare books (advance booking required)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria, trying traditional Italian dishes like carbonara or amatriciana
  • Attend an evening mass or concert at St. Peter’s Basilica (check schedules in advance)

Day 3: Exploring Rome

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Rome, exploring the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World (open from 8:30 AM)
  • Visit the Roman Forum, once the heart of ancient Rome

Afternoon

  • Explore the Pantheon, a magnificently preserved ancient temple
  • Wander through the charming streets and piazzas of the Historic Center of Rome

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city
  • Take in a show or concert at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma (check schedules in advance)

Day 4: More Vatican Wonders

Morning

  • Visit the Vatican Gardens, a peaceful oasis with beautiful fountains and walking paths (open from 9:00 AM)
  • Explore the Ethnological Missionary Museum, showcasing artifacts from around the world

Afternoon

  • Attend a papal audience or ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica (check schedules in advance)
  • Visit the Vatican Grottoes, a network of underground burial chambers and chapels

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
  • Take a romantic evening stroll along the Tiber Island

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit the Vatican Post Office, where you can send postcards with Vatican City postage stamps

Afternoon

  • Depart for Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and your return journey home

Other Things to Know

  • The Vatican City has its own currency, the Vatican lira, although euros are widely accepted.
  • Be respectful of the local culture and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas; take necessary precautions to protect your belongings.

I hope you enjoy your trip to the Holy See!