We're visiting Vantican City in Room in Dec.Do we need to purchase tickets and book a time before we go? We plan to purchase Italy pass, what is the best way to do? thank you.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
If you plan on visiting the vatican museums, gardens or scavi you will need tickets. You can get them at:
biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/musei/tickets/do?weblang=en&do
You can buy entrance or tour tickets to the museums at this site. As said, the basilica is free. You will have to wait in a security line to see the basilica but it usually moves quickly. If you do the museums first you will be able to bypass the security lines for the basilica as you must go through them to enter the museums.
Remember, if you are visiting the basilica you will need to dress properly. No bare knees or shoulders, both for men and women.
Donna
Posted by
Orange, Ca
58 posts
If i were to buy the tickets ahead of time online... would I get them in the mail or print them?
For a student, does the student ID of their school count, or does it have to be some kind of special ID?
Also, do i get to skip the queue with advance purchase?
Is 3-4 hours enough time there?
Thanks!
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
Kevin,
Depending on the time of year you are coming, you may not need a "skip the line" option. I often go into the museum after 12 noon and there are NO LINES! It depends on the time of year and day of the week, etc.
If you buy the tickets online for €18, then yes, you are getting the "SKIP THE QUEUE" option. You will get a letter that you print out and bring with you. You show this to the guard at the entrance and then after you enter the museum and the X-RAY units, you head to the LEFT and there are counters where they will give you tickets once you present your letter.
I've never anyone with me have to show a school ID at the Vatican - they're not as "strict" about this. Anyone who looks college age or younger usually can get the reduced ticket which is €8. (I'd still bring any ID if I had one). The regular tickets are €14. And then, the "SKIP THE LINE" are €18.
DO NOTE, you cannot get the student discount online yet. If you buy slots to "Skip the Line," you will pay the full price (€18).
For some folks 3-4 hours is plenty... but I've been in there many, many times and there are still places I want to see - depends on you!
Good Luck,
Ron in Rome
Posted by
Orange, Ca
58 posts
Ron,
Thank you for all of the helpful info!
There will be four of there from Dec25-Dec30. I am figuring the more days after xmas, the better, so prob our last day there, the 29th.
Any experience with crazy lines xmas week?
Thanks!