Planning a visit to the iconic Vatican Museums? Great choice! Knowing the Vatican museum hours is key to a stress-free and enriching experience.
The Vatican Museum hours from Monday to Thursday are between 8 AM to 7 PM and extend their hours from 8 AM to 8 PM on Friday and Saturday, with the last entry at 5 PM, giving you ample time to explore.
Remember, the museums are closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
But there’s more to consider than just the Vatican Museum hours.
In this article, we’ll talk about what’s best times to visit, taking into account the ebb and flow of crowds and the special Vatican Museum hours for tourist attractions within the museum, such as the mesmerizing Scala Elicoidale Momo or the renowned Vatican Apostolic Library.
Understanding Vatican Mass timings is also crucial, as they can influence museum access and ambiance.
Plus, we’ll give you a heads-up on the what should be the average duration of your visit so you can plan your day perfectly, ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-see exhibits or experiences.
Let’s dive into the details!
Regular Vatican Museum Hours
Here are the Vatican Museum hours for this week:
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS | Last Entry |
| MONDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00 AM | 8:00 PM | 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00 AM | 8:00 PM | 6:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | CLOSED | – | – |
Note: On the last Sunday of every month, the Vatican Museum hours are from 9 AM to 2 PM, with the last entry at 12:30 PM. And the best part? It's free to enter!
Vatican Museum Hours on Holidays
When the holidays come around, the Vatican Museum adjusts its timings to partake in the festive spirit.
Be mindful that the museum closes its doors on December 25 (Christmas Day) and January 1 (New Year’s Day).
For detailed information on the Vatican Museum hours on holiday, please refer to our PDF document available HERE.
Best time to visit Vatican Museum
Deciding on the best time to visit the Vatican Museum can significantly enhance your experience, whether you’re seeking the vibrant energy of the peak season or the quiet place of the off-peak months.
Let’s delve into the details to help you choose the perfect timing for your visit.
Vatican Museum Peak and Off-Peak Seasons:
The peak season at the Vatican Museum spans from April to October.
This period is a busy time in Rome with tourists arriving from all over the world.
If you’re someone who loves feeling energetic and lively, and if being around lots of people sounds fun to you, then this is the perfect time for you to visit.
The museum and its surroundings are a vibrant hub of activity, filled with art and history.
Explore the thoughtfully curated exhibits and immerse yourself in the rich and fascinating history of the area.
In contrast, the off-peak season from November to March presents a more subdued environment, ideal for those who prefer quiet contemplation of the museum’s offerings.
The reduced number of visitors allows for a more personal experience, where you can take your time with each exhibit without feeling rushed.
If you prefer a peaceful and musing visit, we recommend planning your trip during these months.
Vatican Museum Peak Hours and Off-Peak Hours:
Peak hours at the museum typically fall between late morning and early afternoon.
This is when you’ll find the highest number of visitors, creating an energetic and bustling atmosphere.
If you like being around lots of people and prefer the lively atmosphere, visiting the Vatican Museum between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM is a great idea.
This time is when the museum is most crowded, offering a fun and energetic environment.
You’ll get the experience of excitement and buzz of the crowd as you explore the museum’s amazing exhibits.
On the other hand, off-peak hours are in the early mornings and later afternoons, especially just after opening or before closing.
These hours attract fewer visitors, offering a more peaceful and private setting.
If your goal is to have a more peaceful and reflective visit, where you can stay before the artwork without feeling hurried, consider visiting at 9:00 AM or after 3:00 PM.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Keep in mind the museum’s extended hours on certain nights, which might offer a quieter experience.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season or hours if you wish to avoid crowds and experience the museum at a more leisurely pace.
- Stay updated with the museum’s schedule as there might be changes or special events that could affect crowd sizes.
- Understanding these aspects of the Vatican Museum hours can profoundly impact your visit, allowing you to tailor your experience based on your personal preferences.
Whether you choose the vibrant ambiance of the peak season or the tranquil setting of the off-peak months, each visit will be a unique journey through history and art.
Up next, we’ll explore how Vatican Mass timings can influence your museum itinerary.
Vatican Mass Schedule (2024):
Understanding the specific Mass timings can assist you in planning your visit to the Vatican Museum, particularly if you wish to experience the solemnity of a Mass or prefer a quieter museum experience.
Papal Basilica of Saint Peter
Weekday Masses are at 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, and 5 PM.
Visiting the museum in the early morning before these Masses or in the late afternoon after can be strategic.
On Sundays and Holidays, Masses are more frequent, which can influence the flow of visitors throughout the day.
Planning your museum visit on a weekday might be more convenient since the museum is closed on Sundays.
Basilica of Saint John Lateran, Basilica of Saint Mary Major, and Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
These basilicas also host various Masses throughout the week and on weekends.
While these locations might not directly impact your Vatican Museum visit, they indicate the general flow of worshippers and tourists in the Vatican area, which could influence overall crowd levels.
Basilica of Saint John Lateran
Winter: Masses are held at 7 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, and 5 PM.
Sunday: Evening services at 5 PM and 6 PM.
Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Sundays offer services at 7 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM.
From Monday to Saturday, Masses are at 7 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM, 10 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM.
Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
Weekday Winter Timings: Masses commence at 6:45 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM, 10:30 AM, and 5 PM.
Summer and Public Holidays: Services are at 7 AM, 8 AM, 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM.
Saturdays and Eve of Public Holidays: An evening Mass at 6 PM.
Plan Your Visit with Vatican Mass Schedule in Mind:
Attending Mass at one of these esteemed basilicas can be a profound and memorable part of your Vatican experience.
To seamlessly integrate this with your museum visit:
- Plan your museum tour around the Mass you wish to attend, perhaps visiting the museum in the morning and attending an afternoon Mass, or vice versa.
- Consider the proximity of the basilica to the Vatican Museum and allocate sufficient time to travel between these sacred sites without rushing.
- Remember that the spiritual atmosphere surrounding these Masses is a significant part of the Vatican’s essence, offering a different perspective on your visit.
Whether you’re attending Mass as a part of your faith journey or to experience the Vatican’s spiritual heritage, these timings can help you create a visit that’s both culturally rich and spiritually fulfilling.
Next, we’ll explore the optimal duration for your museum visit to ensure you experience its art and history to the fullest.
How long does it take to visit the Vatican Museum?
Now that you’ve got a good handle on the Mass timings and the best times to visit, let’s talk about how long you should spend at the Vatican Museum.
It’s like planning the perfect day out — you want to ensure you’ve got enough time to soak it all in without feeling rushed.
How Long to Stay?
The average visit to the Vatican Museum typically takes about 3 to 4 hours.
But hey, “average” doesn’t have to mean “your visit,” right?
Depending on your interest level, stamina, and the depth of your curiosity, you might decide to spend less time or perhaps much more.
If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a brisk walkthrough, you could cover the highlights in about 2 hours.
This sprint would include the must-sees like the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms, ensuring you hit the iconic spots.
For art lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to dive deep into the museum’s offerings, allocating 4 hours or more allows you to engage more fully with the exhibits.
You’ll have time to linger, read descriptions, and perhaps catch some lesser-known gems that many rush past.
Also Read: Best Vatican Tickets, Best Ways To Get To Vatican City, & Vatican Dress Code.
Vatican Museum Hours for Tourist Attraction:
Let’s move on to the Vatican Museum hours for various tourist attractions within the Vatican City.
Each attraction, from the awe-inspiring Scala Elicoidale Momo to the scholarly Vatican Apostolic Library, has its timings, offering glimpses into distinct facets of Vatican life and history.
Scala Elicoidale Momo Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for Scala Elicoidale Momo for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | 24 Hours Open | 24 Hours Open |
Vatican Apostolic Library Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for the Vatican Apostolic Library for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 9:00 AM | 5:20 PM |
| TUESDAY | 9:00 AM | 5:20 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 9:00 AM | 5:20 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 9:00 AM | 5:20 PM |
| FRIDAY | 9:00 AM | 1:30 PM |
| SATURDAY | Closed | Closed |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
Sistine Chapel Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for the Sistine Chapel for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
Vatican Gardens Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for Vatican Gardens for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
St. Peter’s Dome Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for St. Peter’s Dome for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | Closed | Closed |
| THRUSDAY | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
Vatican Necropolis Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for Vatican Necropolis for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 9:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
Pio-Clementine Museum Hours
Here are the Vatican City hours for the Pio-Clementine Museum for this week –
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
Raphael Rooms Hours
| WEEKDAYS | OPENING HOURS | CLOSING HOURS |
| MONDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| THRUSDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 8:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| SUNDAY | Closed | Closed |
This table gives you a broad overview of when you might visit these iconic spots within the Vatican.
Whether you’re planning to gaze up at Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel, wander through the lush Vatican Gardens, or marvel at the ancient beauty of the Vatican Necropolis, organizing your day around these timings can help ensure you don’t miss anything on your list.
Also Read: Park Güell Tickets, Hotels In Vatican City, & Restaurants In Vatican City.
Frequently Asked Questions On Vatican Museum Hours
Q. What are the regular opening hours of the Vatican Museum?
The Vatican Museums open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Monday to Thursday and extend their hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, with the last entry at 5:00 PM.
Q. Are there extended hours for the Vatican Museum?
Yes, from April to October, on Fridays and Saturdays, the museum extends its hours until 10:30 PM, with the last entry at 8:30 PM.
Q. How do Vatican Museum hours vary on holidays?
The museum’s hours can vary during holidays like Christmas and Easter, often resulting in different opening times or closures. It’s best to check the official website for specific holiday hours.
Q. When is the Vatican Museum closed?
The Vatican Museum is closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month. It’s also closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
Q. Is the Vatican Museum open on Sundays?
The Vatican Museum is closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month when it offers free entry from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with the last entry at 12:30 PM.
Q. What is the best time to visit the Vatican Museum to avoid crowds?
The best times to avoid crowds are during the off-peak months (November to February), early mornings, late afternoons, and during the extended hours on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Q. Is there a time when entrance to the Vatican Museum is free?
Yes, the Vatican Museum offers free entry on the last Sunday of each month.