Planning your trip
The Canonisation will be a ticket only event. Tickets are free and can be found on the Newman Canonisation event website along with the programme of public events. Visit the Vatican website for more information on timings and security when entering St Peter’s Square.
Remember your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) but also take out travel insurance. It could save you a lot of money if you get into difficulties. In addition to this advice, check out our Travel Advice for Italy before you set off.
Passports and visas
You do not need a visa to travel to Italy but you must hold a valid passport for the proposed duration of your stay. In Italy you must carry ID with you at all times. If you have alternative forms of photo ID, like a driving licence, it might be worth taking it with you and leave your passport safe in your room. Alternatively, carry a photocopy of the personal details pages of your passport.
Lost or stolen passports
If your passport is stolen report the loss to the local police as soon as possible and obtain a copy of the police report. Please be aware that you cannot travel back to the UK without a valid travel document. You will need to apply online for an Emergency Travel Document.
The cost of an Emergency Travel Document is £100 and you can pay online as part of your application. After you’ve submitted your application, you’ll be told if you need to attend an interview at the British Embassy in Rome. You’ll need to give a contact telephone number and email address as part of your application. Your emergency travel document will normally be ready within 2 working days. You will be advised when it is ready for collection.
Lost or stolen purses and wallets
If you lose your purse or wallet, cancel your credit cards as soon as possible. British consular officials cannot give you money to help you return home. You can transfer money from relatives or friends in the UK using many of the reputable commercial money transfer agencies in Italy including Western Union and MoneyGram. You can also use most major credit cards (and debit cards carrying the Maestro and EC logos) to obtain money from Italian cash machines if you have your PIN.
Transport tips
As in any other city, beware of pickpockets and bag snatchers at airports, railway stations, around the town centre and Vatican, and when using public transport. Only carry what you need, leave spare cash and valuables in hotel safety deposits.
If you travel by bus, tram or metro your ticket must be validated in one of the machines on the railway platform or on board the bus/tram. Failure to do so will result in a substantial fine.
Only use taxis from the official rank at the airport who are obliged to charge the set fare if you are staying within the city walls. If you need a taxi, use an official white one. Taxi apps such as Free Now and itTaxi are very useful.
British Embassy Rome and British Embassy Holy See
Via XX Settembre 80a
00187 Rome
Telephone: +39 06 4220 0001 (also for out of hours emergencies)
Office hours: Monday to Friday: 9am to 12am and 2pm to 3pm
Local emergency services
- (+39) 118 medical services
- (+39) 112 carabinieri (police and emergency services)
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