Vatican City 2 Day Itinerary

Vatican City 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Vatican City’s Iconic Landmarks

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Start at St. Peter’s Square: Begin your day by visiting the iconic St. Peter’s Square, one of the largest squares in the world. Admire Bernini’s magnificent colonnade and take a stroll around the square.
  • Vatican Museums: Head to the Vatican Museums, home to some of the world’s most famous art and artifacts, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Afternoon (1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Lunch Break: Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area. Try some traditional Italian cuisine like pasta or pizza.
  • St. Peter’s Basilica: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Christian church in the world. Be sure to dress modestly and arrive early to avoid long lines.

Evening (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Vatican Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Vatican Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some of the delicious Italian cuisine.

Day 2: Discover Hidden Gems and History

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Vatican Library: Visit the Vatican Library, home to ancient manuscripts and books. Be sure to book your tickets in advance.
  • Castel Sant’Angelo: Explore Castel Sant’Angelo, a former fortress with stunning views of the city.

Afternoon (1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Lunch Break: Take another break for lunch and try some local specialties like supplì or carbonara.
  • Pio-Clementino Museum: Visit the Pio-Clementino Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman art.

Evening (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Sunset at St. Peter’s Square: End your day with a stunning sunset view from St. Peter’s Square.
  • Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the incredible experiences you’ve had in Vatican City.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: No visa is required for U.S. citizens or EU nationals for stays up to 90 days.
  • Language: Italian is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency.
  • Dress Code: Modest dress is required when visiting churches and basilicas.

Transportation

  • Getting There: The closest airport is Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). From there, take a taxi or bus to Vatican City.
  • Getting Around: Walking is the best way to explore Vatican City. Alternatively, you can take public transportation like buses or taxis.

Other Tips and Insights

  • Book Tickets in Advance: Book tickets for popular attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica to avoid long lines.
  • Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches and basilicas.
  • Learn Some Italian Phrases: Learn basic Italian phrases like “grazie” (thank you) and “per favore” (please) to show appreciation for the local culture.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels in Vatican City, from budget-friendly options to luxury stays.
  • B&Bs: Consider staying at a bed and breakfast, offering a more personalized experience.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to exploring Vatican City’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and rich history. With this plan, you’ll be able to make the most of your 2-day trip to this incredible city-state.