Attire

Where? When? How short?

Church--No

Warm weather-- just about anywhere

Dress as you like, you'll be the zillionth guy of the day wearing shorts to anyone working in tourism. Those not working in tourism won't even see you.

Nobody cares, as long as male tourists are not walking around bare-chested or trying to enter a church dressed like Borat.

You also shouldn't wear a sleeveless shirt if you plan to go into a church. I know bare midriffs aren't OK for women; I'm not sure about men.

I've recently become aware that some church dress codes (including the one for St. Peter's and the Vatican Museums in Rome) forbid sandals. That seems very odd to me, and I have never heard of someone being turned away for wearing them.

You should remove your hat, but that's an easy thing to do.

Are shorts appropriate for men?

Yes, depending on what you what to sightsee in them. Churches or other religious institutions? Nope. Cover your knees and shoulders, please, and remove your hat if you are wearing one.

This rule does not apply to Adam and host of other figures wearing their birthday suits on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. :O)

The "Borat" link in Dario's post should NOT be viewed within one hour ( before/after) eating

That seems very odd to me

I bet Franciscan monks find it odd, too. Where did you learn it?

It's on either the St. Peter's or Vatican Museum website (maybe both) in a section on the dress code. I saw it within the last two weeks.

Thanks! I think I have my answer
Gail