The Vatican follows a strict dress code for both men and women across all its attractions, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Gardens. 

This is because the city is not only a major tourist attraction but also a holy site for Christianity, particularly among Roman Catholics.

As a rule, you shouldn’t expose your shoulders and knees. This is displayed on colorful boards and flexes at all entrances to the Museums and the Vatican attractions.

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Since Vatican Museum tickets sell out well in advance, it is best to book them as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.

For Men

• Shirts are preferred, but wearing a plain T-shirt is acceptable as long as it doesn’t display any offensive images or words.
• Shoulders must be covered, so sleeveless shirts or vests are not allowed.
• If it’s hot and you want to wear shorts, make sure they reach your knees.
• Ripped jeans are not permitted; clothing should be neat, modest, and respectful.

For Women

• Sleeveless tops, low-cut clothes that expose the midriff, and crop tops are not allowed.
• Shoulders must be covered.
• If you’re wearing a skirt, dress, or shorts, they must be at least knee-length.
• Miniskirts and any clothing that is too revealing are not permitted.

For Kids

• There’s no specific dress code for kids, but they should follow the same rules as adults.
• Shorts shouldn’t be too short, and shoulders must be covered.

Avoid wearing or displaying anything that could offend Catholic values or general decency, including Tattoos, which must be covered. The same rule applies to clothing, jewelry, or accessories with inappropriate symbols or slogans.

Hats must be removed before entering the Vatican Museums, as wearing them indoors is considered impolite.

Planning a visit to the Museums? Here’s all you need to know about the attraction’s dress code, its three entrance lines, opening and closing hours, the amenities within the Museums, how to reach the Vatican, and special tours like the Vatican Museums early morning and late evening tickets, Castle Gandolfo, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Gardens, and Vatican Grottoes & Necropolis tickets.

What happens if you break Vatican City’s dress code?

So what happens if you reach the Museums in clothes that break the Vatican City’s dress code? 

All you have to do is purchase plastic cloaks (ponchos) that cover your shoulders and knees from the entrance counter. Under no circumstances will you be allowed to enter the Museums if you refuse to comply with the Vatican dress code.

If you have booked an early morning or late evening Vatican Museums ticket, dress appropriately for the occasion. For instance, you can carry an overcoat or a shawl to keep you warm.

Footwear

When inside the Museums, you need to walk a lot. If you were to cover the entire length and breadth of the Vatican Museums on foot, you would have walked no less than 7 km! (4.3 miles).

Thus, it’s best to wear comfortable footwear. You can wear sandals, loafers, or sports shoes, but avoid flip-flops.

Temperature within the Vatican Museums

The reverse is true when you’re visiting the Museums during their regular opening hours. It’s tough to find the Vatican without crowds at any point of the day. In a place like the Museums, things can get pretty hot as most of the galleries have no air conditioning to safeguard the artifacts, tapestries, and frescoes from moisture and wear and tear.

We, thus, suggest you wear loose cotton or linen clothes to keep you naturally cool. 

It’s best to avoid plastic ponchos, as they cling to your skin due to the humidity inside the Museums. So make sure you follow the Vatican dress code for a wholesome experience.

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