We are going to Italy - should we purchase tickets for the Vatican before leaving? Value?

Question

We are going to Italy - should we purchase tickets for the Vatican before leaving? Value?

Answer 1

that isnt necessary, i have lived in italy for the past four years you should be fine

Answer 2

I just got back from my Italy trip and did not book any tours buy any tickets in advance.

I just showed up and stood on line like everyone else.

Even the tour groups have to stand on line so nothing will save you from the lines (just show up as early as possible!). I saw tour groups on line so I don't know what the previous answer is talking about.

And don't worry about missing anything!

The Vatican museum is like any other museum where everything is marked with arrows. You could also rent the audio guide that will help you understand what you are seeing (you can rent it at the ticket box). I would 100% recommend this! This especially helps with the Sistine Chapel because its just so visually overwhelming!

For Saint Peter's Basilica I also just showed up and waited on line. I also went up to the Cupola. Entrance to the chapel is free.

I did the Museum and the Basilica on 2 seperate days. I would suggest this as the lines as very long and you really want time to see everything and just soak everything in.

Plus, they are far from one another.

Answer 3

It was free for me to go into the church and the catacombs in March.  I wanted to go to the cupola, but since it closed at 6:00 we weren't able to.  I am not sure about the line, it wasn't long there.

Answer 4

You won't save money, but you will certainly save queueing time, especially if visiting the Vatican Museums / Sistine Chapel on a Weekend ...

Try to book a full tour of St Peters Basilica, Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel - that way you will get the most out of it!

Philip

Answer 5

ABSOLUTELY! I don't know if it costs any more or less, but I do know that depending on which day you go, you may have to wait in line for 3 hours or more! I have been there twice, and one time we got in after an hour and a half, but the other time it took 3 hours and it was raining! (Gotta love the temperamental Italy weather!)

Answer 6

are you referring to the vatican museum which includes the Sistine Chapel?  It was 13 euros last week when I was there.  I would suggest you go with a group because you do not have to wait in the long line with the guided group tours.