I was just looking at the Vatican website and see that they have tours with their guide for individuals. It is double the cost of the regular admission - 32 vs 16 euro. I am wondering if it would be worth it. It doesn't say how many people in the group but it is in English. Any advice appreciated. Barb
Posted by
Knoxville, TN, USA
7209 posts
If you want to know anything at all about what you're seeing then go with the guide. There's so much stuff inside it's overwhelming and would probably tempt you to just walk through and stare at all of the gold frames and priceless paintings without having the foggiest notion about what it is you're admiring.
Posted by
Cleveland, USA
61 posts
I would agree with Tim. It is overwhelming with a guide. I can't imagine touring it without one.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15798 posts
It depends on your preference. I've never taken a tour there because: 1. I like to go at my own pace, lingering over a piece, or skipping an entire room. 2. Over time, I've found that knowing more about a piece doesn't usually make it more beautiful or interesting to me. 3. The "Guide to the Vatican" that you can buy there has tons of information. I found one in a used book store, and though it was about 6 years old the last time I used it, it was still at least 98% accurate. I guess they don't move things around much.