Vatican Early Entrance Tour

I took the excellent Walks of Italy "Pristine Sistine" Tour about 18 months ago, different company but similar tour, I'm quite sure. The group gathered at a coffee shop near the Vatican at about 7:30 am, walked together to the entrance of the Vatican Museum, waited in a short line while our guide gave some orientation using illustrations on an iPad and passed out headsets, then we entered the Museum at 8:00 am. We walked quickly through the Museum with limited viewing, in order to reach the Sistine Chapel, where there were very few other people, similar groups I assume. We could sit on the few benches, facilitating our viewing. We could see the beautiful floors, impossible later in the day when jammed with people. No talking, no photos allowed in the Sistine Chapel, strictly enforced. Our guide did not enter the Chapel with us. Then we went through the Museum again, as it filled with people after 9:00 am, passed by the Sistine Chapel again, crammed full of people, and went directly into St. Peter's Basilica, finishing the tour there about noon. I assume that the Through Eternity tour follows a similar routine, but maybe someone else or the company can verify.

Just did the early entrance tour last week with The Roman Guy and the timing was same as above response. It was worth every penny and our guide, Nina, was fantastic. I think it depends when you plan to go....If its in high season (like June) or off-season. Have a great trip!

Just did the early entrance tour last week with The Roman Guy and the timing was same as above response. It was worth every penny and our guide, Nina, was fantastic. I think it depends when you plan to go....If its in high season (like June) or off-season. Have a great trip!