The Holy See, or Vatican City, is the smallest country on the globe by area and population both. But don’t be fooled by its diminutive size: The country is filled to the brim with places of amazing beauty, mind-blowing architecture, and rich historical and cultural sites. The Vatican is a must-see destination while on vacation in Europe.
Go gear up for a breathtaking trip to the Vatican on your vacation this year. And as you’re planning your trip, remember to purchase travel insurance to keep yourself covered in case of any unexpected mishaps.
Holy See Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
You just need to hop onto a bus to get to the Vatican. But you do need to take a flight to enter Italy, right? What do you do if that flight gets canceled?
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for the Holy See?
Flight cancellations are becoming increasingly frequent and unpredictable. So, if your flight into Rome is canceled, not only would you lose money on the booked tickets, but you would have to spend even more on last-minute bookings. Buy a travel insurance package for the Holy See that covers this scenario to save yourself that added expenditure. You’re eligible for trip cancellation benefits if you have to cancel your trip for a reason listed in your policy’s certificate wording.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for the Holy See?
Most cancellation insurance plans cover the case of ticket cancellations by the service providers. That is, you will receive compensation for your tickets if the airline cancels it from their end. There are also some packages that cover the cost if you cancel the ticket yourself. This can be a useful plan to have if you want some flexibility on your trip. Contact your travel insurance service provider for details about their policy on cancellations. Again, details differ from plan to plan.
Things to Do for Travelers in the Holy See
Depending on your interests, there are hundreds of small and large sites that you can visit in this little country. Here are some of the most popular destinations that you can start off with.
- St. Peter’s Basilica: St. Peter’s Basilica is recognized by the world over as the most enduring symbol of the Vatican. It is a magnificent church, full of artwork and sculptures by the greatest artists of the Renaissance like Michelangelo, Bernini, and Raphael. A trip to the Vatican is definitely incomplete without a visit to the church.
- Ponte Sant’Angelo: The Bridge of St. Angelo, leading the way to the Castle of St. Angelo, is an architectural marvel. With the ten angels lined along the length of the bridge, it will transport you to a time many centuries ago. The combination of the bridge, the castle, and the river in the background is a photo opportunity you certainly cannot miss.
- The Sistine Chapel: Adorned with Michelangelo’s masterpieces, the roof and the altar of the Sistine Chapel attract tourists from all over the globe. It was built in the 15th century and stands to this day as an icon of brilliant architecture, design, and art.
- Vatican Museums: If you are an art fiend or a history buff, the Vatican Museums will be your paradise. Hosting art and sculpture masterpieces by the most renowned artists of the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods, the museums are a place to spend a whole day immersed in the history and culture of Europe.
- See the Pope: Wednesdays are usually the audience days of the Pope. He steps out onto the balcony in St. Peter’s Square, greets the crowd, and says a prayer. The whole atmosphere is charged with piety and devotion, and is a beautiful feeling to participate in. So, if you can, be there on a Wednesday.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in the Holy See
Be well aware of these pointers about health and safety, and travel risks while planning your trip to the Holy See.
- Exertion and health risks: The most popular option to get around the city is by foot. This often leads to many tourists suffering from dehydration and over-exhaustion.
- Dress and act appropriately: The Vatican is a place of great religious sanctity, and the police take this extremely seriously. So, make sure to dress and behave respectively to avoid unnecessary trouble with the police.
- Tourist traps: You will find plenty of street vendors out and about who will try to sell you tickets or souvenirs at exorbitant prices. The best strategy is to ignore them and always make your bookings on the official ticket portals of the state.
Before You Travel to the Holy See: Do These
- Get your passports and documentation in order. Check if you will require a tourist visa to enter Italy, and travel restrictions there.
- Get vaccinated against diseases like hepatitis A, rabies, and influenza before you start your travel.
- Check if there are any major VIP visits planned during the period of your trip to the Holy See. You might have to prepare in advance for long waiting hours and security checks.
- Compare different travel insurance plans, and buy one that covers your risks adequately.