What’s the Best Day to Visit the Vatican?

There’s no doubt that Vatican City is a top destination for tourists and pilgrims: but what’s the best day to visit the Vatican?

As one of the most iconic and historically significant places in Rome, planning your visit perfectly can make or break a holiday – especially given the long lines.

In this blog post, I’ll discuss the best day to visit the Vatican, taking into consideration factors such as crowd levels, special events, and visiting hours.

What Day is Best to Visit the Vatican?

The best day to visit the Vatican largely depends on your preferences and priorities.

Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:

1. Avoid Sundays and Wednesdays: Sundays and Wednesdays are popular days for tourists to visit the Vatican, as they often coincide with the Papal Angelus and Papal Audience, respectively. These events attract large crowds, which can result in long lines and wait times. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, it’s best to avoid Sundays and Wednesdays.
2. Weekdays are generally less crowded: If you have flexibility in your travel schedule, visiting the Vatican on a weekday, such as Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday, can be a good option. Weekdays tend to have fewer tourists compared to weekends, making it a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
3. Consider the time of year: The Vatican can be more crowded during peak tourist seasons, such as spring and summer, when Rome sees an influx of visitors. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of fall or winter, when tourist numbers tend to be lower.
4. Take advantage of extended evening hours: During the summer months, the Vatican Museums offer extended evening hours on Fridays, allowing visitors to explore the attractions after regular closing time. This can be a great option to beat the crowds and have a more serene and intimate experience.
5. Check for special events: The Vatican City often hosts special events and exhibitions, such as concerts, art exhibits, and liturgical celebrations. These events can attract additional visitors and impact the crowd levels. Before planning your visit, be sure to check the Vatican’s official website or contact the Vatican directly to inquire about any upcoming events.
6. Reserve tickets in advance: Regardless of the day you choose to visit, it’s highly recommended to reserve Vatican tickets in advance to skip the long lines and ensure entry. Vatican Museums offer timed entry tickets, and St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter but requires a security check. Booking Vatican tickets online beforehand saves you time and ensures a smooth entry.
7. Consider a guided tour: To make the most of your visit, consider taking a guided tour of the Vatican. A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable insights, help you navigate the complex, and offer a more immersive experience. Guided tours can also help you skip the lines and access restricted areas, such as the Vatican Gardens or the Sistine Chapel’s secret rooms.

⌛ Pro tip: How Long to Visit the Vatican?

🌚 Can You Visit the Vatican at Night?

Still wondering What Day to Visit the Vatican?

It’s not rocket science: the best day to visit the Vatican largely depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prefer a less crowded experience, weekdays and the shoulder seasons may be ideal.

Avoiding Sundays and Wednesdays, checking for special events, and reserving tickets in advance are also important considerations.

I’ll leave you with skip the line booking links below:

And the other for guided tours:

👕 Pro tip: What is the Dress Code at the Vatican?

📜 Pro tip: 10 Rules for Visiting the Vatican