Is there a quick way to see the Sistine Chapel in Rome without waiting in line?

Question

I would prefer not to have to wait in a long line and go through the entire Vatican Museum.

Answer 1

Actually, I recommend giving yourself a few hours to take your time to visit the entire Vatican Museum.  The art in there is breathtaking.  

I did the quick tromp through the museum to get to the Sistine Chapel and felt like I cheated myself out of a real treat.  Especially since they really hurry you through the Sistine Chapel once you reach it.  (bring binoculars to see detail on the ceiling.)

Answer 2

We just got back from Rome 2 weeks ago and I agree, if you go in the afternoon, closer to closing time the lines are shorter.  They do offer the tour service for an extra fee if you want, 20-25 euros.

Answer 3

Odd, as I just showed up late in the afternoon and there was no line at all. It was the month of May and I just walked in. Just be sure that you are properly attired. They are VERY STRICT about being covered.

Answer 4

www.eistours.com

We did the private tour. It took 2 hours, ask for Antonio to be your guide.

It was amazing and we weren't herded in like cattle.

Another cool thing is we stood outside and waited for all the "tourists" to leave and then they took us in the private back entrance.

Very awesome experience and worth every penny!!!!!!

Answer 5

By googling I've found this web-site and they're promising the visit of the Sistine Chapel (subject to particular conditions) without waiting in line. I have not experienced this service but it looks to me possible. Read carefully and contact them for more info.

http://selectitaly.com/museums.php?produ...

good luck

Answer 6

I just returned from rome after living there for the past four months.  From my experience and the others I studied with, after 1 pm the lines are the shortest.  Average wait is 20 minutes.  If you do not want to wait in line, book a tour with a guide, in which you get to skip the line and enter with the tour group.  These tickets are usually 23 euros or so (when normal admission is 13 euros).  But its well worth it if you have limited time and would like to get an in depth understanding of the Sistine chapel and Vatican museums.  If you want to skip the Vatican museums all together... go in the afternoon, wait in line and then walk through the museums directly to the Sistine chapel.

Answer 7

Go in Jan-Mar.  I was there one winter and didn't wait in any lines at any historical sight.

Answer 8

Sure, call the Pope.  :)

Answer 9

YES, there is a way to avoid the line: is to go with a guided tour.

They enter without waiting, becouse the guide cannot wait and lose money, they need to go in and out with new groups.

Answer 10

unfortunately, no.  Get there early and the lines will be shorter. Oh and dont go on a wednesday. The pope usually gives a service on Wednesday mornings which delays the opening and so many more people go.

Also do not take any pictures in there. They are very very strict

Answer 11

When I went to the Sistine Chapel, I arrived about 1.5 hours before closing and there was no line! And this was during Easter Weekend, one of the busiest times of the year for Rome. I suggest go early in the morning or little bit before closing.