the Vatican

You can only see the Sistine Chapel with a museum entry ticket. It is not necessary to have a timed entry ticket, but you will stand in line if you do not. The line should be shorter by late afternoon, but watch the closing time! You will have to exit the museum and walk around the museums to re-enter the Basilica. It's about a 15 minute walk. Again, watch the closing time so you are not disappointed.

It really depends on when you go. The afternoons usually have less of a line up to get inside but it's not guaranteed. You may find yourself without a line or you may find yourself with a long line. It's hard to predict. If you are going in high season, which include September and October the odds are higher that you'll still find lines outside the museums even in the afternoon. Donna

If I remember correctly, you can't go directly to the Sistine Chapel and bypass everything you are not interested in seeing. You have to go through a "maze" of other rooms first, often with crowds of people. There is no other alternative than to "go with the flow" and slowly work your way there. Plan at least a couple of hours total or you may not make it to both.

If you are going during peak season definitely get the tickets ahead of time. The only way to get to the Sistine Chapel is to enter the museum through the same line as everyone else and walk through the entire museum and the lines to get in can be very long without advance reservations. The entrance to the Basilica is separate from the museum and a short walk around to the other side of the building.

Thank you...we did get a 12 person tour....a friend, who just returned, used Walks of Italy....she said she could hear and understand everything because of the small group....and she highly recommended this company.

I used Walks of Italy for the colosseum/forum tour. They were great!

Thanks...I am sure the Vatican tour will be excellent also.....