Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15, is one of Italy's most significant holidays, marking the Assumption of Mary. In Rome, this religious occasion is observed with solemn ceremonies, including masses and processions held at major churches such as St. Peter’s Basilica and Santa Maria Maggiore. The city's pace noticeably slows as many Romans take vacations, leaving the streets quieter than usual. While some tourist attractions may be closed or have limited hours, the festive atmosphere continues with public events, concerts, and fireworks in select locations. Ferragosto is a time when locals honor tradition and spend quality time with family and friends. Visitors during this period have a chance to witness authentic Italian holiday customs and the city’s more relaxed summer vibe. Planning ahead is essential due to changes in public transportation schedules and business closures. Overall, Ferragosto in Rome combines deep-rooted religious significance with a cultural celebration embedded in the heart of the city’s summertime rhythms.
Tips for Attending
•Check ahead for closures of museums and shops on August 15.
•Attend religious services early to avoid crowds.
•Use public transport before peak holiday travel times.
•Bring a light jacket for evening events and outdoor gatherings.
•Reserve accommodation well in advance as many locals leave the city.
Practical Information
Budget: Costs vary; expect average prices similar to summer rates, but some services may be more expensive due to holiday demand.. Duration: Events mostly occur on August 15, but related festivities may last several days around this date.. Food Drink: Many restaurants may close or operate on limited hours; however, some traditional eateries open to serve holiday meals.. What To Wear: Light, breathable clothing is recommended for daytime, with a modest outfit suitable for services in churches.. Getting There: Rome is accessible by train, plane, and car. Note that public transport may run on a holiday schedule, so plan accordingly.. Booking Advice: Book accommodation and any desired events several weeks in advance to avoid limited availability.
Best For
religious travelersculture enthusiastssummer holiday visitors
See Vatican City's history and art in Rome with a tour that fits your schedule. Choose from early access, daytime, or evening tours to visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. See history and masterpieces with experts in art and religion. Admire the Vatican's artistic legacy, from statues to maps, and Michelangelo's iconic frescoes. Gaze at the celestial beauty of the Sistine Chapel and its profound symbolism.
With this transfer ticket, you get to enjoy the ultimate convenience of a speedy transfer between Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Vatican City without the hassle of navigating public transport. Upon arrival at Fiumicino Airport, proceed to the Bus Station outside Terminal 3 (Platform 12-14). Present your mobile ticket to the staff and board the next available shuttle. All you have to do is stow your luggage, connect to the free Wi-Fi, and relax on the direct 40-minute drive into the city on a comfy, air-conditioned bus. You'll be dropped off at the Vatican City bus stop on Via Crescenzio, just a short walk from Piazza Cavour, Castel Sant'Angelo, and other popular landmarks. Schedule From Vatican City to Fiumicino Airport First bus: 4:20am Last bus: 8:20pm Frequency: Every 20 to 40 minutes Duration: 40 minutes approx. From Fiumicino Airport to Vatican City First bus: 6:30am Last bus: 9:15pm Frequency: Every 20 to 40 minutes Duration: 40 minutes approx. NOTE: It is recommended to arrive at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before your desired departure time.
Begin or end your trip to the Eternal City by hopping on this one-way bus transfer between Vatican City and Rome Fiumicino Airport. This high-frequency service, arriving every 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, is a speedy and budget-friendly way to shuttle between the airport and the iconic sights of the Vatican. Climb aboard and spend your 40-minute journey relaxing in comfy coaches with air-conditioning and free high-speed Wi-Fi to help you stay connected. The coach also has plenty of space for you to store your luggage, so you don’t have to worry about any baggage getting left behind. Schedule From Vatican City to Rome Fiumicino Airport First bus: 4:20am Last bus: 8:20pm Frequency: 40 minutes to 1.5 hours Duration: 40 minutes From Rome Fiumicino Airport to Vatican City First bus: 6:30am Last bus: 9:15pm Frequency: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours Duration: 40 minutes
Just footsteps away from the awe-inspiring Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano - the head of all Roman and world churches - stands the magnificent Lateran Palace. This resplendent palace served as the Pope's residence for centuries. Despite being damaged by earthquakes, raids, invasions, and even decimated by a fire in 1308, the palace has always been meticulously restored. When the papacy returned to Rome in 1377, they chose Vatican as their residence. However, the Lateran Palace, although no longer inhabited, has continued to retain its unique status as the Patriarchium or the "Seat of the Bishop of Rome" over the centuries. Indeed, all newly elected Popes have always celebrated their inauguration at the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano.
An Exclusive Private & Customizable tour (we do not combine groups) with licensed Tour Guide & Chauffeur, with MERCEDES VAN or GOLF CART. Your guide will hop-off the vehicle with you at each stop and walk you through the attractions to provide the most complete insights of every attraction. Meet your guide at your hotel, Airbnb, Train station, Airpot or Port of Civitavecchia. The tour includes a visit to the most important artistic and archaeological attractions of Rome. You can customize your tour by contacting our office or on the same day of the tour by speaking with your private guide. The Vatican Museums can only be included in 8/10-hour tours. Tour from Civitavecchia can be only 10-hour. The 5 or 8-hour tour is not possible from the port of Civitavecchia. Upon request, our office can purchase your tickets (NOT INCLUDED): Colosseum (Eur 40 cash per person) Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (Eur 55 cash per person) Pantheon (Eur 7 cash per person)
Experience the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line entry, expert guide, and a curated route. This tour allows you to upgrade and include St. Peter’s Basilica and even add a visit to the Dome for views. With a duration of 2. 5 to 4 hours, you can check availability for starting times and enjoy the convenience of cancelling for free up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is led by a live guide who speaks multiple languages including German, French, English, Spanish, and Italian. The small group format ensures you receive personalized attention while enjoying the significance of the Vatican. Highlights include the Gallery of Maps and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's masterpieces, deepening your experience through expert storytelling. If you choose the comprehensive tour, you'll also receive direct access to St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. Finally, the opportunity to ascend the Dome afterwards provides a finish to your visit—an ideal way to culminate your day in Vatican City.
See Rome with an exclusive package featuring a fast-track ticket to Bioparco, a zoo that combines conservation and education, and a 1-Day Rome Bus Tour that lets you hop on and off at iconic landmarks around the city. Bioparco: Fast Track Ticket Visit Rome's historic Bioparco Zoo, a conservation haven for endangered species, perfect for family-friendly exploration of diverse wildlife. 1-Day Rome Bus Tour See Rome at your leisure with a flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour, stopping at iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City.
Visit the Three Papal Basilicas and sacred pilgrimage sites Start at the Vatican Museums and board an air-conditioned coach to the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. See the cloisters and learn its history related to Saint Paul's burial site. Next, go to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, the Pope’s official seat. Outside, see the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), linked to Jesus. Finally, see the mosaics, gold ceilings, and relics at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. This tour provides a comprehensive look at important religious and historical sites in Rome, spanning centuries of art and spirituality.
