Question: do you need a visa for the vatican city

Answer: Yes, Although not a member of either the European Union or the European Economic Area, the Vatican maintains an open border with Italy and is treated as part of the Schengen Area. Since the Vatican City is only accessible via Italy entrance is not possible without entering the Schengen Area first and therefore Schengen visa rules apply de facto. Nevertheless, Vatican City doesn't have any tourist accommodation (hotels or rental apartments), it's therefore virtually impossible to actually stay overnight as a tourist.