I've been to the Vatican and Vatican museums several times, but am intrigued by the after-hours visits they sometimes offer. I'll be in Italy again in June and am dreading the crowds (usually travel off-season, but am attending an event in Italy in late June). I'd welcome information about any of the after-hours opening of the museums. Has anyone does this? Thanks
Posted by
Como, Italy
81 posts
No I've never done it but if I were you I wouldn't go to the same place once again, giving that we're talking of a museum. There's so much to see and do in Rome!!
Posted by
Tilburg, Netherlands
2829 posts
Cristina, For many people, me included, certain museums always have a different thing to see in depth with additional visits. Especially a place like the Vatican Museums, where someone interested in specific artists or works could easily spend half a day in just a single of the many galleries/areas.
Posted by
Como, Italy
81 posts
YES BUT ROME IS FULL OF THINGS TO SEE AND I WOULDN'T STUCK MYSELF INSIDE A MUSEUM WHEN THERE'S A WHOLE MUSEUM WAITING OUTSIDE!
Posted by
OP
San Jose, CA
1994 posts
Christina, I appreciate your thoughts, but have been to Italy and Rome many times and know what is most important to me. I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with the Vatican Museums after hours. Thanks!
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
Sherry, are you talking about Friday nights at the Vatican? If you are, it tends to be less crowded than during the day. The only downside is that not all the rooms are open. Check the Vatican website to see what rooms will be open and if they appeal to you. Donna
Posted by
Toledo
653 posts
Sherry, can't offer advice about the after-hours tour, perhaps the vatican website can help. I've also been to the Vatican Museums many times, always find something wonderful about the place (but not the crowds at the Sistine Chapel). I think the traveler brings the possibility of seeing something familiar in a new way. I always love going back to places I've been to before - which is why my trips get longer!
Posted by
Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
123 posts
Sherry, Here is a link to a discussion on the Slow Travel Italy forum from last summer - all kinds of knowledge! It looks great. http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/862600685/m/832006644001?r=619009705001#619009705001 enjoy!
Posted by
Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada
3 posts
Hi Sherry
We took a fantastic semi private tour of the Vatican Museum which let us in an hour earlier than opening time. Well worth the extra cost. There were a few other small groups going around but was very relaxed and got to really see a lot. When the main doors were opened we were far enough ahead of everyone that it was still so nice, but you could feel the atmosphere in the building change. I know I would not have enjoyed it half as much if I was in among the great hoards of people jostling to see anything. Sorry I don't know anything about the after hours as you were asking, but thought I would let you know about getting up a little earlier. The Tour company we used was www.darkrome.com They were great!
Posted by
Portland, OR
282 posts
Sherry, we took a private after-hours tour last October. I really enjoyed being there without the crowds. If you can do it, I would highly recommend it.