I was just notified that I have tickets for the Saint Peter's Tomb and Necropolis Tour at the Vatican at 9:30am in September. I am trying to figure out from the Italy guidebook whether I should also make reservations online and pay for the Vatican Museum if we also want to see the Sistine Chapel? If so, would we need to exit St. Peter's Basilica where the necropolis tour ends and walk all the way around to the museum entrance in order to see the Sistine Chapel? Thanks for any advice on the logistics!
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
You'll end up right under the basilica at the end of the Scavi Tour. Best idea is to take that opportunity to tour the basilica, which is HUUUUGE. Then go get some lunch, and hit the Vatican Museum around 1:30 or 2 when there will be virtually no line. Then you can go through the Museum, ending up at the Sistine Chapel. (There is no shortcut from the end of the Scavi Tour to the entrance to the museum. Sorry.) Be sure to read Ron in Rome's 20 Tips on Visiting the Vatican Museum. You'll be glad you did.
Posted by
OP
Raleigh, NC, United States
5 posts
Thanks so much! That is just what I needed to know. Sounds like it will be a very full day, but worthwhile all the same. Thanks.
Posted by
Portland, OR
282 posts
Cathy, a great place for lunch near the Vatican is Pizzarium. Fantastic pizza by the slice - thicker crust and very interesting toppings. If you google it, I am sure you can find lots of reviews. We ate there before our night tour of the Vatican last year. There are only a couple of benches outside, but if you don't mind standing it is WELL worth it!!
Posted by
OP
Raleigh, NC, United States
5 posts
Awesome! Thanks for the tip. Sounds perfect to fit into the jam packed day! :)