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Do you have to wear black in the Vatican?

While there is a dress code in terms of what is not allowed, there are no set rules about what TO wear to the Vatican. (Unless you are a female diplomat about to meet the Pope, in which case you wear black.



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The Dress Code in the Vatican City Peter's Basilica. Its basic code is for both men and women both need to cover their knees and upper arms. They prohibit wearing shorts or skirts above the knee, sleeveless tops, and low-cut shirts. Men must take their hats off before entering whereas women may continue wearing theirs.

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The Vatican has a dress code that some travellers might not be aware of when visiting. Luckily if you're planning on wearing jeans to the Vatican, you definitely can! When you plan to visit, it's best to keep your knees and shoulders covered. And for footwear, you will need flat shoes, not flip-flops or casual sandals.

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Finally, any skirt, dress, or pair of shorts you opt for must be knee-length. Even if you are wearing tights, short shorts or mini skirts are not permitted.

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It is preferable to wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts. Hats, low-cut or sleeveless dresses, shorts, miniskirts are not allowed. Torn trousers and T-shirts are not recommended. You can buy plastic capes to wrap around to cover your knees and shoulders.

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Can I bring a bag with me to the Vatican Museums? Yes, you can bring a small bag with you on your tour. Bags, backpacks or luggage measuring more than 40·35·15 centimeters are, however, not allowed into the Vatican Museums and must be checked at the cloakroom.

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Unlike the holy sites you might visit in Rome, there is no set dress code for visiting the Colosseum. Wear comfortable clothes - no heels or stiff shirts - as you will be doing a lot of walking around on your visit.

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As with many other churches throughout Italy, there is a dress code that must be adhered to upon entry, and the Vatican is no different. The absolute minimum requirement for both males and females visiting the Vatican City is to cover both your knees and shoulders.

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Men must take their hats off before entering whereas women may continue wearing theirs. Although this is sometimes harder to follow during the summer months, without following these guidelines, you will either be turned away or suggested to buy a shawl to cover up (which is bumped up in price.)

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The Colosseum doesn't have a dress code, but in exploring it you'll be climbing a lot of stairs so make sure to wear comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes. The same can be said of Rome as a whole. Shorts, leggings, hoodies… all are fine.

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There is a security check as you enter into the Vatican museums so it is important that you only bring a plastic bottle. Glass bottles will be taken from you or you will be forced to leave them in the locker room.

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Can I bring a bag with me to the Vatican Museums? Yes, you can bring a small bag with you on your tour. Bags, backpacks or luggage measuring more than 40·35·15 centimeters are, however, not allowed into the Vatican Museums and must be checked at the cloakroom.

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It's fine to wear casual clothes such as khakis, jeans, tennis shoes, and sandals to many restaurants in Rome. But remember that in Italy, modesty is key. You won't find Romans dining in shorts and tank tops, so keep this in mind for going out to eat, and again, for visiting the sites.

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