Vatican City 5 Day Itinerary

Vatican City 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Heart of Vatican City

  • Morning: Arrive in Rome and take a taxi or metro (Line A) to Vatican City. Check-in at Hotel AlPontificio or similar.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Vatican Museums (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, ticket required) and explore the Sistine Chapel, Pio-Clementino Museum, and other galleries.
    • Stop by St. Peter’s Square to admire Bernini’s colonnade and the imposing Basilica.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Veranda, a cozy restaurant serving Italian cuisine.

Day 2: Discovering Vatican City’s Hidden Gems

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Vatican Library (guided tours only, book in advance) to see ancient manuscripts and rare books.
    • Explore the tranquil Ethnological Missionary Museum, featuring artifacts from around the world.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Vatican Walls, offering breathtaking views of the city.
  • Evening: Savor traditional Italian dishes at Il Pagliaccio, a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 3: Exploring Rome’s Surroundings

  • Morning:
    • Take a day trip to Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence (train from Roma Termini, approx. 30 minutes).
    • Visit the Papal Palace and enjoy lunch at one of the local trattorias.
  • Afternoon: Return to Vatican City and explore the charming Vatican Hill neighborhood.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at La Zagara, serving Mediterranean cuisine.

Day 4: Uncovering Vatican City’s History

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Vatican Necropolis, a underground burial site from ancient times (guided tours only, book in advance).
    • Explore the Pio Cristiano Museum, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations.
  • Afternoon: Attend a Papal Audience (Wednesdays, ticket required) or explore the Vatican Gardens (guided tours only, book in advance).
  • Evening: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Ristorante La Campana, serving contemporary Italian cuisine.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Check-out from your hotel and depart for Rome’s airport or continue your journey.

Things to Know

  • Vatican City is a sovereign city-state, with its own government, currency (though euros are widely accepted), and postal system.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Be prepared for security checks at popular attractions.
  • Italian is the official language, but many locals speak English.

Transportation

  • From Rome’s airport, take a taxi or bus (Leonardo Express) to Vatican City.
  • Metro Line A connects Vatican City to Rome’s city center.
  • Walking and biking are excellent ways to explore Vatican City.

Tips

  • Book tickets and guided tours in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
  • Be respectful of religious sites and traditions.
  • Don’t forget your camera and sunscreen!

Other Interests

  • Visit the Vatican Post Office to send a postcard from the world’s smallest country.
  • Take a stroll along the Tiber Island, offering scenic views of Rome.
  • Explore the nearby Trastevere neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and lively nightlife.