Verified Facts
Getting around in Vatican City is relatively easy due to its small size, with most attractions within walking distance, and various transportation options available in the surrounding city of Rome.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Vatican City is an independent city-state located within Rome, Italy, and as such, it does not have its own international airport. The closest airports are Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (CIA), both of which are located in Rome and offer connections to major cities around the world. Fiumicino Airport is a major hub with direct flights to many destinations, while Ciampino Airport is primarily used for charter and low-cost flights. To get to Vatican City from either airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train, with the journey taking around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
The most convenient way to get to Vatican City is by taking a taxi or ride-hailing service from the airport, which will take you directly to your destination. Alternatively, you can take the Leonardo Express train from Fiumicino Airport to Rome's Termini station, and then take a taxi or bus to Vatican City. There are also several bus companies that operate from the airport to Vatican City, including the SIT Bus Shuttle and the Terravision bus service. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from the airport and drive to Vatican City, but be aware that parking can be limited and traffic in Rome can be heavy.
Domestic Flights
Since Vatican City does not have its own airport, domestic flights are not an option. However, you can take domestic flights within Italy to get to Rome, and then take a taxi, bus, or train to get to Vatican City. The main domestic airlines in Italy are Alitalia, Ryanair, and EasyJet, which offer flights to Rome from various cities around the country. You can book domestic flights online through the airlines' websites or through a travel agency, and prices vary depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Vatican City does not have its own rail network, but you can take trains to Rome from other cities in Italy. The main train station in Rome is Termini, which is a major hub with connections to cities all over Italy. From Termini, you can take a taxi or bus to get to Vatican City. The rail network in Italy is extensive and well-developed, with high-speed trains such as the Frecciarossa and Italo that can take you to Rome from other major cities. You can book train tickets online through the Trenitalia website or at the train station, and prices vary depending on the route and time of year.
Buses & Coaches
There are several bus companies that operate from Rome to other cities in Italy, including FlixBus, Eurolines, and MarinoBus. These buses can be a convenient and affordable way to get to Vatican City, especially if you are traveling on a budget. The bus journey from Rome to Vatican City takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and buses run frequently throughout the day. You can book bus tickets online through the bus companies' websites or at the bus station, and prices vary depending on the route and time of year.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Rome | $1.50 | The metro is a convenient way to get around Rome, with several lines that connect to Vatican City |
| City Bus | Rome | $1.50 | City buses are a good option for getting around Rome, with many routes that connect to Vatican City |
| Taxi | Rome, Vatican City | $10-$20 | Taxis are widely available in Rome and Vatican City, but can be more expensive than public transport |
| Ride-Hailing | Rome, Vatican City | $10-$20 | Ride-hailing services such as Uber and MyTaxi are available in Rome and Vatican City |
| Walking | Vatican City | free | Walking is a great way to get around Vatican City, with most attractions within a short distance of each other |
Driving
- To drive in Vatican City, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as car insurance that covers you in Italy.
- The road quality in Rome and Vatican City is generally good, but traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.
- Fuel costs in Italy are relatively high, with petrol prices averaging around $1.50 per liter.
- If you plan to rent a car, it's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Be aware that parking in Rome and Vatican City can be limited, and you may need to pay for parking in certain areas.
- When driving in Rome, be aware of the limited traffic zones (ZTL) in the city center, which are restricted to certain times of the day and require a special permit.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, and keep a close eye on your belongings.
- Use a money belt or a secure bag to carry your valuables, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Download the Rome2rio app to help you navigate public transport in Rome and Vatican City.
- Use a prepaid SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected and access maps and information on the go.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting the Vatican, and dress modestly when entering churches or other places of worship.
- Learn some basic Italian phrases, such as grazie (thank you) and per favore (please), to help you communicate with locals.
- Be aware of the Vatican City dress code, which requires visitors to cover their shoulders and knees when entering the Vatican.