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Official name: Vatican City State
Capital city: Vatican City (entire territory)
Languages spoken: Italian, Latin for official church documents
Population: Around 800
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: GMT+1
Driving side: Right
Climate: Mediterranean - hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters
Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent state, sitting entirely within Rome, Italy. It’s the centre of the Catholic Church and home to some of the most famous cultural treasures on earth, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Despite its tiny size, it attracts millions of visitors each year.
Vatican City covers less than half a square kilometre and is completely landlocked by Rome. The territory includes the Vatican Gardens, Apostolic Palace, and several important religious and administrative buildings. Its small size makes it easily explored on foot in a day.
There’s no airport in Vatican City - most visitors fly into Rome’s Fiumicino or Ciampino airports, then continue into the city. Entry is usually on foot from Rome, and security checks are in place at major attractions. The highlights are St. Peter’s Basilica, with its dome climb offering sweeping views of Rome, and the Vatican Museums, home to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Early mornings or guided tours can help avoid long queues.
There are no border checks when entering Vatican City from Italy. Entry requirements are the same as for Italy and the wider Schengen Area. The UK has an embassy to the Holy See located in Rome.
The euro (EUR) is the official currency. There are no banks or ATMs inside Vatican City itself, but services in nearby Rome are easily accessible. Souvenir shops and ticket offices accept cards as well as cash.
There are no hospitals or clinics in Vatican City, but emergency care is available in nearby Rome. Travel insurance should cover medical care in Italy. Visitors should also be prepared for long periods of standing or walking when exploring the Vatican Museums or attending Papal audiences.
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