Vatican City Hop-On Hop-Off Stop Guide

The "Vatican" stop can be confusing for first-timers because the buses cannot drive into Vatican City itself (it's a sovereign country!). The buses usually stop along the river (Lungotevere) or specifically near Castel Sant'Angelo.

The Landmark: Castel Sant'Angelo

Most buses drop you right in front of this circular fortress.

• What is it? Originally built as the Mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, it was converted into a fortress for the Popes.
• Why visit? The roof terrace offers one of the best views of St. Peter's Dome in the city, and the bridge in front (Ponte Sant'Angelo) is lined with Bernini's angels.

Walking to St. Peter's Square

From the bus stop, it is a grand, straight walk down the wide street called Via della Conciliazione.

• Distance: Approx 500 meters (5-7 minutes walk).
• The Experience: As you walk, the Basilica gets bigger and bigger. It was designed this way for dramatic effect.
• The Basilica: Entry is Free! However, the security line can be 45-90 minutes long. Go early (8:00 AM) or late (5:00 PM) to beat the crowds.

Reaching the Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel)

This is the most common mistake tourists make. The entrance to the Vatican Museums is NOT in St. Peter's Square.

1. From the Square, you must walk around the Vatican walls to the north side.
2. It is about a 15-20 minute walk from the bus stop/Square to the Museum entrance on Viale Vaticano.
3. Ignore the Touts: You will be approached by dozens of people saying "The Museums are closed," "You need a special ticket," or "Follow me for skip-the-line." Ignore them all. Keep walking to the official entrance.

Strategy: Timing your Bus Ride

The Vatican is a time-sink.

• Museums: 3 hours minimum.
• Basilica: 1-2 hours.
• Dome Climb: 1 hour.

Recommendation: Get off the bus here first thing in the morning. Spend 4-6 hours exploring the Vatican. Then, when you are thoroughly exhausted, hop back on the bus at Castel Sant'Angelo to sit down and be driven to lunch or your hotel.