Clothing Rules for Vatican City before you Visit
Planning a trip to Vatican City? As someone who has visited Rome multiple times, including Vatican City, I know how important it is to respect the local customs, especially when it comes to dressing appropriately for religious sites. If you’re not familiar with visiting religious sites, I’ve got you covered. This guide covers everything you need to know about the clothing rules for Vatican City to ensure you have a smooth and respectful visit. You don’t want to get rejected (this happened to me when I was younger, unfortunately).
If you’re planning a one-day itinerary, be sure to check out my detailed guide here.
⏰ Short on time? Here's our top recommendation for Vatican City
🗺️ Here are the top 3 tickets we recommend purchasing before visiting Vatican City as they tend to sell out
- Castel Sant’Angelo Skip-the-Line Ticket
- St Peter’s Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Dome Climb
- Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip The Line Ticket
💸 Save Money: Use the Rome Pass includes attraction and public transport. Check it out here.
🏨 Best area to stay near Vatican City: Vatican / Prati
👉 Read Next: Vatican City 1 Day Itinerary
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Why a Dress Code for the Vatican?
The dress code at Vatican City is in place to maintain the sanctity and respect of one of the most significant religious sites in the world. The Vatican is not just a popular tourist destination; it’s the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. Adhering to the clothing rules for Vatican City shows respect for its religious and cultural significance. It’s essential to remember that you’re entering a place of worship, where modesty is highly valued.
What is the Dress Code for the Vatican?
When visiting the Vatican, it’s essential to adhere to a specific dress code out of respect for this religious site. Here’s a quick guide on what to avoid and what you can wear to ensure a comfortable and respectful visit.
What to Avoid:
- Sleeveless tops: Make sure your shoulders are covered.
- Short skirts or shorts: Skirts and shorts should be knee-length or longer.
- Low-cut tops: Avoid anything too revealing.
- See-through clothing: Ensure your clothing is not transparent.
- Hats inside basilicas: Remove hats when entering any church or basilica. This mostly applies to men, but everyone should be mindful. During my winter visit, men had to remove their beanies, while women were allowed to keep theirs on.
What to Wear:
- Tops with sleeves: T-shirts, blouses, or shirts that cover the shoulders.
- Long pants or skirts: Lightweight pants or skirts that reach at least to your knees.
- Dresses that cover the shoulders and knees: Opt for modest dresses.
- Layering: If visiting during the hot summer months, consider bringing a light scarf or shawl to cover up as needed. This allows you to dress comfortably for the weather while still respecting the clothing rules for Vatican City. This tip also applies to any other religious sites you want to visit while on holiday in Rome.
Dress Code for Specific Sites
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. This site is particularly strict about the dress code. Consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the basilica’s history and artwork while ensuring you adhere to the dress code. I did it and loved it. It was paired with the dome climb. This was the tour I did.
- Sistine Chapel: Follow the general dress code to avoid being turned away. The Sistine Chapel is one of the highlights of the Vatican Museums, so make sure you’re dressed appropriately to fully enjoy Michelangelo’s masterpiece. This is really amazing to see!
- Vatican Museums: Similar rules apply, but the enforcement may be slightly more relaxed. Purchasing a skip-the-line ticket can save you time and hassle, allowing you to explore the extensive collections without worrying about dress code violations.
Where to Stay in Rome?
Hotel Eden Rome ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.2 rating
Hotel Artemide ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.4 rating
Hotel Indigo Rome – St. George ⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.1 rating
👉 If you are looking for more tips about visiting Rome? Make sure to check out What to pack for a trip to Italy – Packing List for Summer and Winter
What Shoes to Wear at the Vatican
Firstly, I hope wearing shoes is a given, but comfort is key!
- Comfortable walking shoes: Sneakers or flats are ideal for the cobblestone streets.
- Avoid flip-flops: While not strictly banned, they are not recommended due to the amount of walking. Plus, flip-flops can be considered too casual for a religious site.
How Strict is the Vatican Dress Code and is it Enforced?
Yes, the dress code is strictly enforced. If you’re not dressed appropriately, you may be denied entry. This happened to me once. The Vatican guards at the entrances will check your attire, and if it doesn’t meet the standards, you will be asked to change or cover up.
To avoid any inconvenience, consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket, which often includes detailed information on the dress code and can provide access through faster security checks.
Is There a Dress Code for Kids?
Yes, children are also expected to follow the dress code. Make sure they wear tops that cover their shoulders and shorts or skirts that reach their knees. While the enforcement might be slightly more lenient with kids, it’s best to adhere to the guidelines to avoid any potential issues.
👉 You can’t go past climbing the Dome and St. Peter’s Basilica. Watch my experiences.
Quick Dress Code Summary and FAQs
- Can You Wear Jeans to the Vatican? Yes, jeans are generally acceptable as long as they are not ripped or overly tight. Comfortable jeans can be a practical choice for exploring the Vatican.
- Can You Wear Shorts to the Vatican? Shorts are allowed if they reach your knees. For men and women alike, knee-length shorts are a great option, especially in the summer heat.
- Can You Wear Flip-Flops to the Vatican? While not prohibited, flip-flops are not recommended due to the extensive walking involved. They can also be considered too casual. Opt for comfortable walking shoes instead.
- Can You Bring a Backpack or a Bag to the Vatican? Yes, you can bring a backpack, but it may need to be checked at the entrance of certain sites. Consider a small, secure daypack to carry essentials like water, a guidebook, and a scarf.
- Do Children Have to Follow the Vatican Dress Code? Yes, children must adhere to the same dress code rules as adults. Dressing children appropriately ensures that the whole family can enjoy the visit without any issues.
What to See in Vatican City
When visiting Vatican City, don’t miss these main attractions:
- St. Peter’s Basilica: The centrepiece of the Vatican, a must-see for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.
- Vatican Museums: Home to the Sistine Chapel and countless other treasures. Booking a guided tour can enhance your experience by providing in-depth knowledge and skipping the long lines.
For more detailed itineraries and tips, don’t forget to read my post on Vatican City 1-day itinerary here.
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