A guide to the St. Peter’s Basilica dress code

Consider leaving the ripped jeans and sweatpants at home. You can't even wear a baseball cap or any other type of hat inside, so don't carry one. Trousers and shirts are good examples of complete clothing that cover the majority of your body.

Getting around Rome during the summer months can be difficult. During summer, men are allowed to wear shorts, as long as the knee-length is observed. Linen trousers and t-shirts are also acceptable.

Vatican City adheres to the same modesty standards for both men and women. However, there are some occasions when women must adhere to a specific dress code. According to the St. Peter's Basilica Dress Code, women are not permitted to wear sleeveless tops, crop tops, or tight shirts. Shoulders should be covered, and if wearing a skirt or dress, it must cover the knees.

It is usually a good idea for women to bring a shawl and a pair of leggings when visiting during the colder months, as well as a light jacket that can be rolled up into a pleasingly tiny bag.

Children have no formal dress code, but in the summer, you may want to cover their arms to protect them from the sun. A decent pair of trousers with a t-shirt for boys and a knee-covering summer dress for girls would be ideal during the summer months.

In the winter, make sure they have something warm to wear. St. Peter's Basilica can be particularly chilly in the winter.

Shirts or blouses that cover your shoulders: Plain t-shirts, formal shirts, or full-sleeved blouses or tops are permitted.

Trousers or skirts that cover your knees: Pants that cover your knees and long skirts or dresses can be worn inside the Basilica.

Flat shoes: Go for flat shoes or sneakers. Don’t wear heels, open sandals, or flip-flops, as it is a sacred area.

Loose clothing: Visitors are encouraged to wear clothes that are casual and loose-fitting.

Weather-appropriate clothes: In summer, loose linens will work, however, sweaters & jackets are a good choice for winters.

Sleeveless shirts or tops: Avoid wearing anything sleeveless or with straps or anything too tight.

Low-cut tops: Low-cut tops or crop tops that expose your chest or stomach are strictly forbidden.

Shorts or skirts that are above the knee: Do not wear mini-skirts or shorts that don’t cover your knees.

Obscene or offensive tattoos: If you have any offensive tattoos, make sure you cover them up before you head into the Church.

Hats: Hats are allowed for women but men have to take them off before entering the Basilica.