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Vatican

Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s

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Practicalities

Plan your visit

Tickets

Vatican Museum hours vary:

Mon–Thu (9 AM–6 PM), Fri (until 10:30 PM), Sat (until 8 PM), and last Sunday monthly (until 2 PM)Closed Sundays (except the last), major Catholic holidays, and selected datesBest time to visit: The ideal period to visit the Vatican Museums is between November to March due to fewer crowds. The peak season is from April to September.

Opening hours

For men:

The Vatican has a dress code because it's a religious state, and they take it quite seriously. If you don’t follow the rules, you might not be allowed in. So, here’s what you need to know:For men: It’s best to wear a shirt, but a T-shirt is fine too—just make sure it doesn’t have any offensive slogans or images. Sleeveless shirts or vests are off-limits, and shorts should reach your knees.For women: Sleeveless tops, low-cut clothing, and crop tops aren’t allowed. The general guideline is to keep

Questions?

Frequently asked questions

Can I get skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums?

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Absolutely! You can purchase Vatican Museums skip-the-line tickets, allowing you to bypass the long queues and enter with priority access.

What does a skip-the-line ticket include?

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A typical skip the line Vatican ticket includes entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Some options also provide guided tours, St. Peter's Basilica access, or entry to the Vatican Gardens.

Can I bring a backpack into the Vatican Museums?

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Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be stored in the cloakroom, which is available free of charge.

Are restrooms available inside the Vatican Museums?

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Yes. Clean restrooms and drinking fountains are available throughout the museum complex.

Can I visit the Vatican Museums at night?

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Yes. Vatican night tours are available that offer a quieter experience with fewer crowds and a unique evening atmosphere.

How much is a ticket to the Vatican Museums?

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Official Vatican tickets are available for just €29! This usually gives you skip-the-line access to both the Vatican Museums and the stunning Sistine Chapel.

Can I cancel tickets to the Vatican Museums?

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Most tickets are non-refundable once confirmed. Some providers do offer free cancellation up to 24–72 hours in advance.

Can I visit the Sistine Chapel with a regular museum ticket?

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Yes. Entry to the Sistine Chapel is included with all Vatican Museum tickets.

Do tickets include entry to St. Peter's Basilica?

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No. Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free but not included in the Vatican Museum ticket. Some guided tours may offer combined access.

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