Churches are open from early morning until 1 pm and then again in the afternoon. Major cathedrals and basilicas are open all day. Special hours apply during particularly significant religious periods such as Christmas, Easter, Lent, etc.
To visit churches a suitable “dress code” is required and visits are not allowed during religious services.

PAPAL AUDIENCES, VATICAN GARDENS AND MUSEUMS
Papal Audiences and the Vatican City
General audiences with His Holiness are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 10.30 am) in the Vatican City. They may be held inside the basilica itself or in the hall of Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter’s Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo.
To participate in a general audience, one must apply to the office of the Prefetto della Casa Pontificia, 00120, Citta’ del Vaticano Tel. +39 06 69884857 at least two weeks in advance. For tickets you must send a Fax. +39 06 69885863.
Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. Also bring your passport with you, it might be required by the Swiss Guard when entering. For this audience, women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dark or subdued colours are requested. Men are asked to wear a tie and jacket and dark colours are suitable.
To visit the Vatican Gardens apply by a Fax. (+39 06 69884019 or +39 06 69885100 for groups) at the Information Office for Pilgrims and Tourists in St. Peter’s Square.
Allow a minimum of two weeks advance notice. For up-to-date information on times of opening, please consult the following website: www.vatican.va
Ticket price: 13 Euros. Information Vatican Museums Tel. +39 06 6988 4947 www.vatican.va www.radiovaticano.org