Holy See 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in the Holy See (Vatican City)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Arrival: Arrive at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Take a taxi or bus to your accommodation.
  • Vatican Walls: Start your journey by walking along the Vatican walls, which offer stunning views of the city.
  • St. Peter’s Square: Visit St. Peter’s Square, one of the largest squares in the world, and admire Bernini’s beautiful fountain.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel or B&B and freshen up.

Day 2: Vatican City Highlights

  • Vatican Museums: Spend the morning exploring the Vatican Museums, home to some of the world’s most famous artworks, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. (Book tickets in advance)
  • Sistine Chapel: Marvel at Michelangelo’s frescoes and the stunning architecture of the Sistine Chapel.
  • St. Peter’s Basilica: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Christian church in the world, and admire its beautiful interior.

Day 3: More Vatican Wonders

  • Vatican Gardens: Take a stroll through the peaceful Vatican Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Papal Audience: Attend a Papal Audience (if scheduled) to see the Pope and receive his blessing. (Book tickets in advance)
  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch at one of the many restaurants near the Vatican.

Day 4: Exploring Rome

  • Colosseum: Take a short trip to Rome’s iconic Colosseum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Roman Forum: Explore the ancient Roman Forum, once the heart of ancient Rome.
  • Pantheon: Visit the magnificent Pantheon, one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Day 5: More of Rome

  • Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin into the beautiful Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to Rome.
  • Spanish Steps: Admire the grand Spanish Steps, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.
  • Shopping: Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or indulging in Italian fashion.

Day 6: Castel Gandolfo and Lake Albano

  • Castel Gandolfo: Take a day trip to Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, located about an hour from Rome.
  • Lake Albano: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Albano or simply stroll along its shores.

Day 7: Departure

  • Departure: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Airport Transfer: Take a taxi or bus back to Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Italy. Check with the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
  • Dress Code: Modest dress is required when visiting churches and religious sites.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency of Vatican City and Italy.
  • Language: Italian, Latin, French, German, English, Spanish, Arabic, and Portuguese are all recognized languages in Vatican City.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available at airports, train stations, and around the city.
  • Bus: The Vatican City has an efficient bus system, including the popular Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the Vatican City and Rome.

Other Tips

  • Book Tickets in Advance: Book tickets for popular attractions like the Vatican Museums and Papal Audience to avoid long queues.
  • Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your trip, especially during the summer months.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments.
  • B&Bs: Experience authentic Italian hospitality at one of the many B&Bs in Rome and Vatican City.
  • Hostels: Affordable hostel options are available for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

Food and Drink

  • Italian Cuisine: Indulge in delicious Italian food, including pizza, pasta, gelato, and espresso.
  • Wine: Sample some of Italy’s famous wines, such as Chianti and Prosecco.
  • Water Fountains: Take advantage of the free water fountains throughout Rome and Vatican City.

I hope you enjoy your trip to the Holy See!