Top Tips for Visiting the Vatican with Kids by MomAboard

If you are visiting Rome, you will most certainly want to plan a trip to the Vatican, officially its own country but only a 15 minute drive from the historical center of Rome. The grounds are extensive, the crowds relentless and the art collection boundless, so a trip to the Vatican definitely requires some planning, particularly if you are with children.

Top Tips for Visiting the Vatican with Kids:

There are a number of steps in the Vatican so it’s imperative to use a baby carrier instead of a stroller. Strollers are not even permitted inside St. Peter’s Basilica but you will be directed to where they can be left for free.
Only small bags are permitted so take the absolute minimum you need in your diaper bag.
Baby change facilities are located near the coat check outside the Basilica.
I don’t recommend doing a tour with kids under 4 as the tours are long (at least 2.5 hours) and unless you are going after hours (these are new, and very expensive tours), very crowded. The only advantage of a tour is that you can skip the line which at peak times can be 2 hours long. If you do decide on a tour, make sure that your meeting point is in Vatican city itself rather than a pickup at the hotel. This way you can ensure you use your time well, and don’t spend it making stops to pick up other tourists.
If you see one thing inside the Vatican, make sure it’s the Sistine Chapel.
There are a ton of restaurants around the Vatican but you can expect them to be very touristy.
St. Peter’s Basilica to me is the most beautiful church I have ever seen (it’s also free) so don’t be too encumbered by the logistics. Remember to acknowledge its beauty and history.