Holy See 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Traveling in the Holy See (Vatican City)

Day 1: Arrival and St. Peter’s Square & Basilica

  • Arrive at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino–Giovanni Battista Pastine International Airport.
  • Make your way to Vatican City (approximately a 30-minute train ride from Fiumicino).
  • Visit St. Peter’s Square, admire Bernini’s Baldachin and the beautiful colonnades designed by Bernini and Borromini.
  • Enter St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture with works by Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante. Don’t forget to climb up the dome for a breathtaking view!
  • Visit the Vatican Museums (closed on Sundays), housing an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, including the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s famous frescoes.

Day 2: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (revisit if Day 1 was closed)

  • Spend more time exploring the Vatican Museums, or visit the Raphael Rooms, Gallery of Maps, and the Pio-Clementino Museum.
  • Head to the Sistine Chapel for a closer look at Michelangelo’s famous frescoes.
  • In the afternoon, stroll through the beautiful Vatican Gardens (accessible with prior reservation).

Day 3: St. Peter’s Tomb, Vatican Library & Castel Sant’Angelo

  • Visit the tomb of St. Peter in the basilica and the Vatican Library, one of the oldest libraries in the world.
  • Take a short walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, an iconic landmark with a rich history. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Rome.

Day 4: Explore Roman Forum & Colosseum

  • Travel to ancient Rome (approximately a 10-minute metro ride).
  • Visit the Roman Forum, an archaeological site where many important ancient buildings and monuments stand.
  • Head to the Colosseum, an icon of Imperial Rome and a testament to the architectural genius of the Romans.

Day 5: Pantheon, Trevi Fountain & Spanish Steps

  • Start your day at the Pantheon, an ancient Roman temple turned church with a stunning dome.
  • Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, a symbolic act said to ensure a return to Rome.
  • Climb the Spanish Steps and enjoy the beautiful view over Rome from the top.

Day 6: Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori & Departure

  • Visit Piazza Navona, with its three stunning fountains by Bernini and Borromini.
  • Explore Campo de’ Fiori market, where you can buy fresh produce, souvenirs, and local food.
  • Bid farewell to Rome and depart from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino–Giovanni Battista Pastine International Airport.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Not required for most travelers with a valid Schengen visa, but check your country’s specific requirements before traveling.
  • Currency: Euro (EUR) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Vatican City.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.
  • Dress Code: Modest attire is required when entering churches (no shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops).
  • Transportation: Rome’s public transport system includes buses, trams, metro, and regional trains. Buy a Roma Pass for unlimited travel and discounted entry to attractions.