Another big question I always get: can I visit the Vatican on Sundays?
Well, like most things in life, the answer to visiting the Vatican on Sunday is yes and no.
Let’s figure out whether it’s possible to visit the Vatican on Sundays or not.
Before starting, I would also like to suggest some passes with their main differences for visiting the city of Rome
Can I Visit the Vatican on Sunday?
If you’re planning a trip to Rome and hoping to visit the Vatican and the Vatican Museums, you might be wondering whether it’s possible to visit on Sundays.
As we know, Sundays are significant days for Catholics, with special religious observances taking place at the Vatican, including the Angelus prayer and the Papal Mass.
Furthermore, this unique world attraction it has its own set of unique rules to follow.
That said, I assume when you mean ‘Vatican’ you’re talking about the Vatican Museums.
This is home to most of the best things to see at the Vatican including an extensive collection of art and artifacts and the famous Sistine Chapel.
The Vatican Museums are closed to the public on Sundays except the last Sunday of every month (9:00 am to 2:00 pm).
This is to allow for the Papal Mass and other religious observances.
I strongly suggest visiting another day as the last Sunday of the month has enormous lines – it’s also strongly recommended to book online in advance to avoid lines.
If you don’t do it you could end up spending an hour in line.
While the Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, St. Peter’s Basilica, the iconic and breathtaking church within the Vatican City, remains open to the public.
Visitors can still access St. Peter’s Basilica on Sundays and attend the Papal Mass held in the basilica’s main square, St. Peter’s Square.
The Papal Mass is a significant event for Catholics and draws crowds of devout worshippers and tourists alike.
Attending the Papal Mass on Sundays can be a unique and memorable experience for visitors to Rome. However, it’s important to plan ahead and follow the dress code guidelines of the Vatican.
🎟️ Looking to buy? Read my post: Where to Buy Tickets for the Vatican
In addition to St. Peter’s Basilica, visitors can also explore the stunning Vatican Gardens on Sundays. The Vatican Gardens are a lush and peaceful oasis within the Vatican City, with beautifully landscaped lawns, colorful flowers, and ancient statues.
Guided tours of the Vatican Gardens are available on non-Sundays, offering visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of this hidden gem.
👍 Pro tip: Best Days to Visit the Vatican
Still Wanting to Visit the Vatican on a Sunday?
I’m only going to suggest you visit the Vatican on a Sunday if it’s the only day you can do it, or if you’re there for religious purposes – I mean, how can you beat seeing the Pope?
At any rate, make sure you book your smart phone tickets in advance or you could end up lining up for hours.
Anything else about the Vatican on Sundays? Write me in the comments below.
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15 November 2023 at 13:26Hi! Do you have to book tickets to access the Vatican (assuming you don't want to visit the museums or do a tour), or can you just enter and wander around self-guided?
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21 November 2023 at 12:09Team MemberSimoneHi Nina, Only the visit at St. Peter Basilica is free, for the others attractions you have to make a resevation. I suggest you to see our section tickets
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5 November 2023 at 22:59Hi. Is it still possible to climb the dome on a Sunday or is that only as part of a guided tour? Thanks
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6 November 2023 at 11:26Team MemberSimoneHi Paul, there is the possibility of climbing up the dome by purchasing the ticket there, however we do not recommend it, especially in high season periods where the queues to visit the attractions can make you wait several hours. We suggest this tickets
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6 September 2023 at 21:06Hello if St Peter's Basilica is open on Sundays, is there a fee to get in and tour on our own and do you know what the hours of that tour would be? thank you in advance.
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7 September 2023 at 10:09Team MemberSimoneHi Tim, Thank you for your question, Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is always free when you visit on your own, even on Sundays(there is no fee). The hours of the tours for St.Peter Basilica are different, in this link you can find the disponibility: St. Peter tour You have to select the "Book Now" -> choose language of tour and date of the tour -> then will appear the disponibility and the hours of the tour.
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7 October 2023 at 03:30Thanks Simone...what about the dome at St Peter's is that accessible on Sundays?
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6 November 2023 at 11:19Team MemberSimoneYes, the dome is accessible on Sundays. Opening hours are from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. However, there may be some restrictions on access during religious services, such as the Papal Mass. Read our article to know all.
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