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Capital City Vatican City
Government System Ecclesiastical state under the absolute monarchy of the Pope
Surface Area 0.49 square kilometres
Population Around 800 residents
Languages Spoken Italian, Latin (official), various languages within the clergy
Major Religions Roman Catholicism
Country Overview
Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, lies entirely within the city of Rome, Italy. Despite its tiny size, it holds enormous cultural, religious, and historical significance as the spiritual and administrative centre of the Roman Catholic Church. It is governed by the Pope, who serves as the head of both the state and the Catholic Church worldwide. For tourists, Vatican City is both a pilgrimage destination and a unique place to explore world-renowned art, architecture, and religious heritage.
The state is not only a religious centre but also a living museum, containing treasures such as St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. These sites draw millions of visitors each year, many of whom arrive to admire the artistic masterpieces of Michelangelo and Raphael or to experience the solemnity of Papal ceremonies. Its cultural heritage is unparalleled, and visitors often find themselves immersed in an atmosphere of reverence and awe.
Tourism, alongside the religious and administrative functions of the Holy See, forms a cornerstone of daily life. With its own postal service, banking system, and even a small railway line, Vatican City maintains a surprising degree of independence despite its geographical position inside Rome. For travellers, it offers an unforgettable experience where faith, history, and artistry converge within less than one square kilometre.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💶 Currency Overview
Vatican City does not have its own currency but uses the Euro (€), which it mints with its own distinctive designs that are legal tender throughout the Eurozone. These Vatican coins are often sought after by collectors due to their limited circulation. Notes are the same as those used across the Eurozone, issued by the European Central Bank. Tourists will find payments straightforward, as Euro cash and cards are universally accepted within Vatican City and Rome.
💵 Denominations
Euro banknotes are available in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500, while coins come in values of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as €1 and €2. Vatican-issued coins carry images such as the Pope or religious symbols, making them attractive keepsakes. However, in practice, you will receive ordinary Euro coins from change in shops and cafés. Small notes and coins are handy for entry fees, cafés, and souvenirs.
💱 Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are readily available in Rome, and Vatican City itself has a few facilities such as its own bank. For convenience, it is best to exchange money before visiting the Vatican, as exchange services are limited inside. Most visitors rely on cash machines in Rome before entering Vatican City. Exchange rates for the Euro vary depending on the provider, so it is often best to withdraw directly from an ATM rather than using currency exchange kiosks, which may charge higher fees.
💳 Credit Cards and ATMs
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Vatican museums, ticket offices, and official shops. ATMs are available, but most are located just outside Vatican City in Rome. Cash is still useful for small purchases, particularly in cafés or for donations at churches. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted, with American Express accepted less often. Contactless payments are also common.
Tipping
💁 Tipping in Restaurants
Tipping is not a strong custom in Vatican City or Rome, but leaving a small extra amount is appreciated. In restaurants, service charges are often already included in the bill. If not, rounding up the total or leaving a couple of Euros is a polite gesture for good service.
🏨 Tipping in Hotels
Hotels in Rome and near Vatican City do not expect large tips, but a Euro or two for the porter who carries your bags or for housekeeping staff is considered courteous. Larger hotels may already include a service charge.
🚕 Tipping for Taxis
Taxi drivers in Rome do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare to the nearest Euro is customary. Drivers appreciate the gesture, especially for short trips.
🚌 Tipping Guides and Drivers
Tour guides rely on tips more than restaurants or taxi drivers. A few Euros per person for a group tour is appropriate, while private guides may expect €10–€20 depending on the length and quality of the tour. Drivers of tourist buses can be given a couple of Euros at the end of a journey.
Communications
📶 Public WiFi
Public WiFi within Vatican City is extremely limited, and most tourists rely on connections in Rome. Outside, Rome offers hotspots in piazzas and tourist zones, though speeds may vary. It’s generally not recommended for sensitive transactions such as banking.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most hotels near Vatican City in Rome provide WiFi, usually free in public areas and sometimes in rooms. Premium connections may come at a cost. WiFi is the easiest way for tourists to stay connected during their visit.
📱 Mobile Networks and SIM Cards
Italy’s main providers—TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, and Iliad—cover Rome and Vatican City well. Purchasing an Italian SIM card in Rome is the most affordable way to use data and make local calls. EU roaming rules mean that if you have a SIM from another EU country, you can use it at no extra charge.
Getting Around?
🚶 Walking
The Vatican is best explored on foot, as the entire city is under 1 km². Walking is safe and straightforward, though queues at attractions can be long.
🚌 Public Transport
There is no public transport within Vatican City itself, but Rome’s extensive bus and metro system surrounds it. Visitors can arrive at Ottaviano or Cipro metro stations and walk into the Vatican.
🚕 Taxis
Taxis cannot enter Vatican City freely, but they can drop you near the entrances. It is best to use licensed Roman taxis, which are white with a “TAXI” sign.
🚗 Driving
Driving within Vatican City is restricted to official vehicles, residents, and staff. Tourists are not permitted to drive in Vatican territory. In Rome, however, driving can be challenging due to traffic, restricted zones (ZTL), and limited parking. Car hire is generally unnecessary for Vatican visits.
Health advice
💉 Diseases
There are no major disease risks specific to Vatican City. However, as it is within Italy, routine vaccinations should be up to date. Travellers should follow standard European health precautions.
🧪 Suggested Vaccines
| Vaccine | Recommended For |
|---|---|
| MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) | All travellers |
| DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio) | All travellers |
| Influenza | Seasonal recommendation |
| COVID-19 | All travellers |
| Hepatitis A | Some travellers, depending on exposure risk |
🤒 Potential Health Issues
The main risks for tourists are dehydration in summer, exhaustion from long queues, and occasional respiratory issues due to crowds. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are essential for long visits.
🏥 Healthcare Standards
Vatican City has basic medical facilities primarily for staff and residents. Tourists will be directed to hospitals in Rome for treatment. Healthcare in Rome is of high European standards, both public and private.
🛡️ Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended, covering health, accidents, theft, and cancellation. Ensure policies cover care in Italy, as Vatican City refers patients there.
Safety
🚨 Crime
Vatican City itself has very low crime, but pickpocketing is common just outside its walls, especially in crowded queues for the museums or St Peter’s Square. Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
⚠️ General Safety Issues
The main safety concern is large crowds, particularly during Papal audiences or special religious events. Tourists should be mindful of personal space and belongings.
📜 Local Laws
Visitors are expected to dress modestly when entering religious sites, covering shoulders and knees. Photography restrictions apply in certain areas such as the Sistine Chapel. Disrespectful behaviour in holy places can lead to removal.
☎️ Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 112 |
| Ambulance | 118 |
| Fire | 115 |
Climate
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the most pleasant times to visit, with mild weather, fewer crowds compared to summer, and blooming gardens in Rome. A light jacket and comfortable shoes are sufficient.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Summer is hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Queues are long, and crowds peak. Light clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water are essential.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is mild, with fewer tourists after September. It’s ideal for sightseeing with comfortable temperatures. Layered clothing is best as evenings can be cool.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Winters are cool and less crowded. Temperatures range from 3°C to 12°C. Warm clothing is necessary, and Christmas at the Vatican is a major attraction.
🎒 Packing Tips
Pack modest clothing for entering churches, including scarves or shawls. Comfortable walking shoes are vital. A refillable water bottle and lightweight daypack are useful.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn are the overall best times due to manageable weather and crowds. Winter appeals to those who want fewer tourists and festive atmosphere.
📊 Climate Summary
| Season | Temperature Range | Crowds | Packing Essentials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 12–22°C | Moderate | Light jacket, walking shoes |
| Summer | 20–32°C | High | Light clothing, sunscreen, water |
| Autumn | 14–24°C | Moderate-low | Layers, comfortable shoes |
| Winter | 3–12°C | Low | Warm clothing, scarf, gloves |
Visa requirements
🛂 Visa Information
Vatican City does not issue its own visas. Entry is through Italy, which means visitors must comply with Italian and Schengen visa requirements. Tourists from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many others can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
📄 Visa Types
Short-stay Schengen visas cover tourism, while long-stay visas are not relevant as there are no residency options in Vatican City.
🌐 Useful Websites
Electrical
In the United Arab Emirates, the power plug sockets are of type C, D and G. The standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Which power plugs and sockets in the United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, the most common of power plug sockets are of type G.
- Type G: this type is of British origin. This socket only works with plug G.
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