Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

I've heard the Vatican has a strict dress code. What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

It does, but it isn't anything too formal. The big rule is to make sure your shoulders and knees are covered - that applies to both men and women. Also remember that shorts of any length are not allowed at all in St. Peter's Basilica so if you are visiting both the Vatican Museums and the Basilica, wear trousers or a long skirt. Occasionally visitors get away with wearing a bit less but it’s best not to risk it. Hats are also not allowed.

WalksDevour cannot be held responsible for guests who are refused entrance due to inappropriate dress so please remember to cover up.

Question 2

What's the difference between early access and skip the line tours at the Vatican?

Accepted Answer

While both options save you hours of waiting in the general public queue, they offer very different experiences. Skip-the-line tours allow you to bypass the ticket line and enter during standard opening hours. Early access tours (a signature of the WalksDevour tours) grant you entry before the general public. This means you can experience the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums with a fraction of the usual crowds, providing a much more intimate atmosphere for viewing Michelangelo’s frescoes.

Question 3

Can I bring a bag or backpack into the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica?

Accepted Answer

You can bring a small personal bag or backpack, but the Vatican has strict security limits. Any bag larger than 40x35x15cms must be checked at the free cloakroom. 
*Pro-tip*: The cloakroom is located at the Museum entrance, which is quite far from the exit at St. Peter's Basilica. To avoid a long walk back at the end of your tour, we highly recommend traveling light and leaving large backpacks at your hotel.

Question 4

Can I take photos on WalksDevour's Vatican tours?

Accepted Answer

Photography is allowed (without flash) in most areas of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. However, photography and filming are strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel. This rule is strictly enforced by the Vatican guards to preserve the integrity of the frescoes and maintain a respectful environment. Your guide will ensure you have plenty of time to take photos in the permitted galleries and the stunning Pinecone Courtyard.

Question 5

Are WalksDevour Vatican tours accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, or those with mobility impairments?

Accepted Answer

Due to the specific routes and fast-paced nature of group travel, our standard small group tours are generally not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. However, we believe the Vatican should be accessible to everyone. We offer private accessible Vatican tours specifically designed with routes that utilize elevators and ramps. If you are traveling with a stroller, we recommend a compact model or a carrier, as some areas of St. Peter’s Basilica may require you to check larger items.

Question 6

What is the cancellation policy for WalksDevour Vatican tours?

Accepted Answer

We understand that travel plans can change. At WalksDevour, we offer a flexible cancellation policy to give you peace of mind when booking your Vatican experience:

- Small Group Tours: You can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour departure time for a full refund.

- Private Tours: Because these tours involve dedicated staffing and specific scheduling, we typically require 7 days' notice for a full refund.

To cancel or reschedule, simply access Manage my Booking on our website or through your confirmation email. You can also contact our customer support team.

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