Vatican struggle

If you arrive at the Basilica at 9, there should be enough time to to see the Church before your 11:30 booking. Particularly since you indicate that the Duomo climb is not a priority. Even if you spend an hour in the tomb, you’ll still have time to get to the 2pm Vatican Museum reservation. If you’re concerned that it’s too much for one day, can you visit the Basilica another day?

Thank you Barbara for your reply. I think we can handle the sight seeing for that marvelous day :)

I think then 9:00 will be perfect. I was just trying to think how to coordinate it better, because the St Peter's tomb tour ends inside of the St. Peter's church, so technically that would skip the line to the church. I am not sure on the logistics. So, after the end of the tour inside the church, do I leave the church and go to the outside and towards the Vatican museum entry? is there a connection between the church and the Vatican museum. how long does the walk take?.

Also I read on the Rick Steves book about the shortcut from the Sistine chapel to the church, so even though it is not reliable I might think about it if I miss something and want to look back.

If you or anyone has ideas about this. I am all ears.

As long as you can leave the basilica for the walk to the museum by 1:00 pm, you should be able to fit in both visits. That allows for walking time plus time to pick up your museum tickets (if required). You'll likely only have time to grab a quick sandwich or slice of pizza along the way.

If you think you might try to use the exit in the Sistine Chapel, then visit the paintings gallery first during your visit to the museum. Otherwise you'll risk missing some of the best paintings in the Vatican Museum.

Go to the top of this page in the search box and type in Vatican or Vatican Scavi. I would then narrow down the search (upper left) to forum and then again for 2 years and newer. A few days ago I remember information that would be helpful for you but I can’t find it again. I think I was searching for Vatican Scavi. It talked about the museum entry being a 20 minute walk from the basilica entrance (might be wrong about time) it also talked about details on how to get to Scavi tour which is can be complicated if not knowing this info in advance. I hope this helps.

the museum entry being a 20 minute walk from the basilica entrance

The Excavation Office for the Scavi tour is a 20-30 minute walk from the exit of the Vatican Museum. From the entrance to St Peter's Basilica, its maybe a 5-7 minute walk across St Peter's Square