We will be in Rome mid-October, arriving by train from Florence on Thursday morning, flying out Monday morning. A few people have suggested booking a Friday night guided tour of the Vatican, starting at 7:30pm, 20 people per group. Any feedback on this idea? This is our first time to Italy. We've visited major museums/churches/sites in London, Amsterdam, Paris, Athens and other smaller cities, never having taken guided tours of any sort. Sometimes we'll do audio guide sticks, but those can be information overload in large venues, even with a plan of attack. Frankly, we're feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of propelling ourselves through everything on offer at the Vatican and having managing to appreciate the experience. What say you? Night tour? Any other tour? No tour?
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
We visited the Vatican museums at night, without a tour, and really enjoyed it. The crowds were much less and the rooms were cooled down compared to the day time. We were able to sit in the Sistine Chapel for a half hour or more and admire the ceiling without thousands of others being crammed in like sardines. I would say book the tour if you want the extra information but the night at the museums is the way to go. donna
Posted by
Kansas
1175 posts
The Friday night tours seem to be a nice way to avoid crowds and for 16 Euros plus a 4 Euro "booking fee" a real bargain. October 11 is open for booking but it will be a week or more maybe before Oct 18 is open. We chose the 1900 (7PM) tour since it's the first one and we plan to stay as long as we want since closing time is 2300 (11PM). Tours are scheduled every 30 minutes until 2130. Once booked you will get an email and print the vouchers out at home. Cost for two is 40 Euros. We VERY rarely take guided tours either but this one was too enticing to pass up -- low cost, no lines, no crowds, and a Vatican expert leading the 90 minute tour and it's all open until 11PM so we can wander about on our own.
Posted by
OP
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
3 posts
George, through which company are you booking?