Useful information
What's in the museums?
The museums contain the works of art collected by the various Popes over the centuries.
You can admire the frescoes by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps and the Pinecone Courtyard.
How can I book a visit to the Vatican Museums?
You can book your ticket online.
There are different types of tickets: skip the line, with audio guide, guided tour. It all depends on how much time you want to dedicate to discovering one of the most beautiful museums in the world.
How long does it take to visit the Vatican Museums?
A visit to the Vatican Museums takes a few hours. If you visit without an audio guide or guided tour it takes between 2 and 3 hours depending on when you stop to admire the works.
With an audio guide at least 3 hours, since you will stop in front of the works to listen to their secrets.
The guided tour is the one that lasts longer but it is definitely the one we recommend because it allows you to better appreciate the history and beauty preserved in the museums.
What is forbidden in the Vatican Museums?
Inside the Vatican Museums it is forbidden to smoke (including electronic cigarettes), eat or drink inside the halls and and to bring alcoholic and super-alcoholic drinks. Any kind of firearms and/or dangerous materials are forbidden.
It is absolutely forbidden to touch the works of art (except for the blind on special tours) and to use laser pointers.
What are the rules for visiting the Sistine Chapel?
Visitors to the Sistine Chapel are asked to observe absolute silence. It is absolutely forbidden photographs or film inside the Sistine Chapel and it is strictly forbidden to take photos and film inside the Sistine Chapel.
What to Wear to the Vatican Museums?
To visit the Vatican Museums, you must follow a dress code in line with the guidelines for sacred places. A respectful attire is required: shoulders and knees must be covered, so shorts, skirts above the knee, and sleeveless tops are not recommended. Hats and caps must also be removed inside. Failure to comply with these rules may result in denied entry.
What to Do if Vatican Museum Tickets Are Sold Out?
If skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums are sold out, you can check the availability of combo tickets that include other attractions. These tickets are often slightly more expensive but allow you to visit two or more sites at a discounted price. For example, the Roma Pass or the Vatican Pass provide access to multiple top attractions in Rome and the Vatican with a single ticket.
When Can You Enter the Vatican Museums for Free?
Entry to the Vatican Museums is free on the last Sunday of each month, except for certain exceptions. On this day, visitors can enter without paying from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (last entry at 12:30 PM). Since crowds are usually large, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid long waits.
What security measures are in place?
Access to the museums is subject to security checks via metal detectors. Wi-Fi is not available in the Vatican Museums for security reasons and the use of mobile phones is not recommended.
Is it possible to take photographs inside the Vatican Museums?
You can take photos without flash inside the Vatican Museums. It is forbidden to use the photo tripod with professional equipment and the selfie stick.
The only area where photography is not allowed is the Sistine Chapel.
Is there a cloakroom in the Museums?
A free cloakroom serviceis available inside the Vatican Museums. Visitors must check in suitcases, luggage, rucksacks and parcels before entering. Cameras, easels and umbrellas must also be deposited.
Knives, scissors and other metal tools can be deposited in the cloakroom.
In case of loss of personal belongings, it is possible to report it to the caretaker or by e-mail if you have already left the Museum.
Is it possible to stop in front of the works in order to reproduce them?
To reproduce or copy any of the works on display it is necessary to obtain authorisation from the Directorate of the Museums and Cultural Heritage.
Are pets allowed in the Vatican Museums?
It is forbidden for pets, even small ones, to enter the Museums. Guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired are an exception.
Are there any dining facilities?
To allow visitors to take a break, there are relaxation areas with seats along the museum route.