Is 5 hours sufficient time to see the Vatican including St. Peter's? I am planning to start about 1300, when I understand the crowds should be thinning. Allowing about 2 hours for the museum and Sistine Chapel, hoping for a Scavi Tour somewhere in the afternoon, and wrapping up with St. Peter's the last hour or so it is open. We are not prone to trying to see everything in the museum, prefering in situ art overall, but surely want to see the highlights. Also thinking we will hire a guide for this site. Thoughts? Suggestions? Thanks!
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Are you familiar with the required procedure for applying for a place on a Scavi tour?
Posted by
OP
Forest Grove, OR
11818 posts
Yes, thanks. Apply well in advance, they tell you when, etc. I will build the rest of the visit around the Scavi dictates.
Posted by
Charlotte
50 posts
Laurel, We just came back from Rome and normally we are very anti-tours (we like to explore on our own). Well after much research we decided to tour the Vatican with a company called Through Eternity and it was one of the best decisions. Our guide was Brandon Greene. He was fantastic. We took the 5 hour tour and were sad when it ended. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor.com
Posted by
Ottawa, Canada
696 posts
I think 5 hours is good, we really like the tour, it lasted around 2-2.5 hour, that leaves enough time for St-Peters and the scavi tour, might be a bit short on time if you decide to climb the Cupola.
Posted by
Caldwell, NJ, USA
24 posts
They have changed entrance to crypt...you go outside to right of Basilica entrance, line forms next to line for Cupola. I'm guessing this is due to John Paul's popularity & many come to pray at his tomb. You depart up the stairs & come out near altar in St Peters. We were there Nov21-28 & crowds were managable. Had timed tkts for Musuems, but got in early. You do need to be aware of closing times, some places it was 5pm & others 6pm (assuming you go in winter time). We arvd early for Scavi & you have to wait until exact time, even to get the tickets.Lines were longer on wk-ends, moved quickly during week.