Papal audience in Rome

If you’re heading to Rome and want to tick off all the quintessential city experiences, then you’ll want to consider booking some Papal audience tickets.

This weekly event is the highlight of a visit to Vatican City. There’s nothing else like it in the world, so don’t miss your chance to take part. Even if you’re not Catholic, it’s pretty cool to be able to say you’ve been blessed by the Pope!

Here's everything you need to know about Papal audience, one of the most unforgettable sightseeing experiences in Rome.

What is the Papal audience about?

The Papal audience is one of the most unique sightseeing experiences in Rome you can have. It’s popular with curious visitors of all religious beliefs as well as Catholics – everyone is welcome.

Pilgrims and tourists with Papal audience tickets convene in St. Peter’s Square to receive a blessing from the Pope. It’s a moving ceremony, and a rare chance to see the man himself up on the famous balcony.

During the audience, the Pope will perform some short readings and lessons, with greetings in multiple languages. The event finishes with the “Our Father” prayer in Latin.

What is the cost of Papal audience tickets?

Papal audience tickets are free, but an advance reservation is advised if you want to secure a seat.

To make the most out of your visit, you can book a local guide who will explain what happens during the audience. Tours start at €28 per person and often include premium seats. The guide will also collect your tickets so there is no need to stand in long queues.

Should Papal audience tickets be booked online?

It’s wise to book your Papal audience tickets online if you want to reserve a prime spot. Remember that you will still need to arrive early to choose your seat.

What is the cancelation policy?

As tickets for the Papal audience are free, there is no cancellation policy in place.

However, if you have booked a Papal audience tour with a guide, fees may apply if you cancel less than 24 hours before your visit. Check with your operator for further details.

When is the best time to attend the Papal audience?

The Papal audience is held every Wednesday when the Pope is in Rome. Check the official website to see the papal audience schedule ahead of your visit.

It’s a good idea to arrive early if you want a seat, otherwise standing room is always available at the back of the square.

The Pope also appears from his apartment window at noon on Sundays when he is in the city. He gives a speech and a blessing – you do not need a Papal audience ticket for this short event.

Where is the Papal audience held?

During summer, the Papal audience is held outside in St. Peter’s Square, beside St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. In winter the event takes place in the Audience Hall, just left of the basilica.

To reach Vatican City by metro, take the red line from Termini and jump off at the Ottaviano-San Pietro stop. It’s then just a 10-minute walk to the square.

If you’d rather not walk, then you can arrive by taxi instead. Don’t forget your papal audience tickets which you’ll need to get in!

What time does the Papal audience start?

The Wednesday Papal audience schedule begins at 9:30 AM, but in practice, many people arrive before that as seating is limited. Seats are on a first-come first-served basis.

Queues will be long so make sure you leave yourself plenty of time. You can start passing through security at 7:30 AM.

What is the dress code for attending the Papal audience?

The dress code for the Papal audience is casual. Modest attire should be worn to respect the occasion, which means no bare shoulders.

Ladies can wear skirts or dresses, but they must cover the knees. Men are not permitted to wear shorts although short-sleeved t-shirts are allowed.

If you are visiting in summer, remember to take sunscreen, hats and water to avoid getting sunburned. There is no shade out there in St. Peter’s Square!

Are children allowed?

Everyone is welcome at the Papal audience, children included!

Just be aware that you will be sitting – or standing – in the square for around 2 hours. This may not be appropriate for all youngsters.

Are there any tours including a Papal audience with Vatican City?

• Papal audience plus St. Peter’s Basilica: These guided tours combine the audience with a visit to the famous St. Peter’s Basilica that dominates the square.
• Papal audience plus St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Gardens: This excursion includes the above, plus an audio tour of the Vatican Gardens in an open-top bus.
• Papal audience plus the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel: The ultimate experience combines the Papal audience with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the iconic Sistine Chapel.

The Papal audience ticket price for these combination tours includes a guide as well as reserved places in the square for the blessing.

Tops tips for attending the Papal audience

• The Papal audience lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours.
• Reserve your Papal audience tickets in advance to guarantee entry into the square.
• Get there early if you want a seat – some visitors arrive 3 hours before the official start time to bag a prime spot.
• If attending the papal audience isn’t an absolute must, then this is a great time to visit the Vatican Museums. The galleries will be much quieter while the address is taking place.