Vatican post office

The Vatican post office has two locations in St Peter's Square:  as one faces the Basilica, one post office is just outside the middle of the right-hand colonnade; the other is on the left-hand side, but adjacent to the steps going up to the Basilica.  The main post office is within Vatican City itself, and tourists can go there in this way:  go to Porta Sant'Anna (St Anne's Gate), which is at the street intersection that enters Vatican City as one walks alongside the wall that eventually leads to the Vatican Museums (Via Porta Angelica).  Turn left at Porta Sant' Anna --- there is a small church on the right (Sant'Anna), which is also nice to visit.  Tell the Swiss Guard who is standing in front of the church that you want to go to the Post Office (just say 'Post Office') and he will wave you on through.  Continue walking past the church and its adjacent presbytery (priests' house), and as you cross the street you will come to the guard box of the Vatican Police.   An officer will stop you, but again, tell him you want to go to the Post Office, and he will let you pass.  Walk on a few metres, and on your right is one of only 3 ATM's in Vatican City -- it's interesting, because Latin is one of the language choices!  Right after the ATM is the main post office -- built in the classical style, with a flight of steps and a columned porch. 

The Vatican issues many beautiful stamps each year, most of which become collector's items.   Blocks of stamps and covers (stamped commemorative envelopes) are available, as well as individual stamps and post cards.  They also sell sets of Vatican coins.  The stamps, covers and coins make great gifts, and are easy to pack and carry on your journey.