Vatican City

Travel tips for Vatican City: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Recent Reddit reports confirm Vatican City is virtually cashless, with cards universally accepted at souvenir shops, the Vatican post office, and even for small purchases like espresso or public restrooms, allowing visitors to go cashless.

Try the food

  • Carbonara (Spaghetti alla Carbonara): A rich pasta dish made with egg, hard cheese, cured pork, and black pepper.
  • Cacio e Pepe: A simple but flavorful pasta dish consisting of Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
  • Supplí: Deep-fried rice balls stuffed with tomato sauce and molten mozzarella cheese.

Say it in Italian

  • Hello: Salve
  • Thank you: Grazie
  • Please: Per favore
  • Excuse me: Mi scusi
  • How much is this?: Quanto costa?
  • The bill please: Il conto, per favore
  • Yes / No: Sì / No
  • Goodbye: Arrivederci

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Purchase an Italian SIM card or eSIM in Rome before your visit, as there are no commercial mobile shops inside Vatican City.

Etiquette

Strict dress codes apply when entering St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums; shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women.