Vatican Reservation system - how is it working?

Can you be more specific about what you heard is not working well?

We used it for our trip back in mid-November. The only downside was that there turned out to be no line so we didn't need to pay the extra reservation fee. As far as booking it online, it was a snap. Guard at the door just waved us in, then we went upstairs (all the way up!) to the ticket booth--I think you go to the one that accepts cash only, but it says on the ticket. They scanned it and gave us our tickets. Worked like a charm.

To clarify, we can now reserve tickets for ourselves directly through the Vatican, thereby eliminating the suggested get-a-tour-guide-and-skip-the-line????

That's great - and cheaper - news! You mentioned that there was no line when you got there... has anyone else noticed that the direct reservation system has shortened the lines in general?

Thanks

Lines have been shorter primarily due to the Vatican extending their hours in 2008. Previously they were frequently only open til 1:30 or 2 in the off-season, whereas last year they were open til 6pm. We arrived about 10:30 and people were walking right in. This was the third week of November, so I would expect some lines during the busier times of the year and especially the free Sundays.

I was excited to forgo the expensive tour and purchase tickets on-line with the 4 euro surcharge. Are the lines consistently short enough that I might save my family 20 euros and purchase them onsite in late May? In this economy, 20 euros adds up fast!!

Thanks

Merritt, Hopefully we will hear from someone with direct experience, but I was told that high season in Rome starts in April with Easter weekend, and to expect lines starting then.