Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Routine vaccinations like MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), and influenza are recommended for Vatican City. No special vaccines are required specifically for this tiny city-state. Check if you’re up-to-date with the usual travel vaccines for Italy, like Hepatitis A and B. Always consult your healthcare provider before traveling.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Vatican City, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for Vatican CityCulture & Customs
Dress modestly; shorts, sleeveless tops, or short skirts can get you turned away at St. Peter’s Basilica. Cover knees and shoulders. Keep noise levels down; it’s a place of worship, not a tourist attraction. Photography is allowed, but no flash inside the Sistine Chapel. Don’t interrupt ongoing masses or ceremonies. Be respectful in your behavior and language. Women and LGBTQ travelers generally won’t face specific issues, but always act respectfully. If in doubt, observe others and follow their lead.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Vatican City.There’s a bit of a catch here: the Vatican City is so tiny and its dining options are limited, so it doesn’t really have its own distinct national dishes. Most of the food you’ll find is actually Italian, as the Vatican is encircled by Rome. However, if you’re visiting the Vatican, here’s what you should try in the area:
- Carbonara: A classic Roman pasta dish made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. It’s rich, creamy, and a staple in local trattorias around the Vatican. Definitely a must-try to get a taste of Rome.
- Saltimbocca alla Romana: This dish features thin veal slices topped with prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine and butter. It’s a classic Roman specialty you’ll find in the restaurants nearby.
- Supplì: Similar to arancini, these are rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella. Perfect as a quick snack while exploring the Vatican area, they’re a street food favorite in Rome.
- Maritozzi: A sweet bun filled with whipped cream, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert. It’s a Roman pastry that’s great with a coffee after a long day of sightseeing.
Yes, the tap water in Vatican City State is safe to drink and locals do consume it. The water quality is generally good, so tourists can drink it as well without concerns. Bottled or filtered water isn’t necessary unless you prefer it for taste or convenience.
The main language in Vatican City State is
Latin. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Latin skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Vatican City includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
Get your local basic phrases 👉
Get the Travel Guide - is widely spoken in Vatican City State City, especially among those working in tourism-related services. Many staff members at museums, restaurants, and shops are proficient in English, catering to the large number of English-speaking visitors. Additionally, official Vatican City State documents, tours, and guides are often available in English, making it easier for travelers to navigate the area.
However, since Vatican City State City is an independent city-state and the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church, Italian is the primary language used in official communications and ceremonies. While most clergy and staff involved in religious services may speak some English, they may not be as fluent as those in the tourism sector.
In summary, English is generally well understood in tourist areas, but visitors may encounter varying levels of proficiency among locals, particularly outside of the main attractions. It is always appreciated when travelers make an effort to use basic Italian phrases, enhancing their experience and interactions.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Vatican City is EUR (€).
When you’re backpacking in the Vatican, having some cash on hand is a smart move. Euros are the only currency accepted, so leave the dollars at home. ATMs are available, but they can be scarce, so it’s good to withdraw enough cash beforehand if you’re planning a day-long exploration. Major credit cards are widely accepted in museums and shops, but some smaller vendors and cafes might still prefer cash. For currency exchange, steer clear of airport counters and opt for exchange services in Rome, as they offer better rates than those in or near the Vatican. Always carry a bit of extra cash stashed away for emergencies, but don’t go overboard—pickpockets are a thing!
Tipping in Vatican City follows the general Italian custom, where it’s not obligatory but appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leaving a few extra euros for exceptional service is common, while service charges might already be included in the bill. For guides or tours, a small tip is appreciated but not expected.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.