I did a search and couldn't find any recent posts on this topic. We are a family of 5 and would like to book a tour of the museum and St. Peter's. My husband and I visited back in 2009 and took an impromptu tour and we were really glad we did. My question is there a reason to go with a private tour versus a tour sponsored by the Vatican other than the price?
Thanks!
We were there recently and booked through our hotel. There are loads of scam artists near the Vatican so be careful. Enjoy.
Michelle, if your trip is during high or shoulder season, there's a reason to book an EARLY ENTRANCE tour to miss the worst of the mob in the Sistine and some other parts of the museums. Unless I planned to visit only parts of the museums that fewer tourists go to, there's no way I'd book a tour that didn't get me into the Sistine/ some sections of the museums before the doors open to the general public and into the basilica through the tours-only passage. Whether that's through the Vatican's site or a reputable 3rd party (Walks of Italy, The Roman Guy, Context, etc) is up to you.
Thank you both for your suggestions. Unfortunately we are going during high season because it was the only time that worked for our family. I wouldn't think of doing it again without a tour. I love the idea of the morning tours before it opens. I'm just looking at cost. Anything times 5 can get a bit pricey and the Vatican tours are less expenseive. I have a reservation for the Scavi tour. I was thinking of trying to book the museum tour after that but I think doing tours on two separate days may be the way to go.
Hello- we used the tour guides from the Vatican Museums on two different occasions and they were wonderful! You can also get into the VM early using the official website, as they offer breakfast and early am tours.
Thank you Marie. That's exactly what I wanted to know. I didn't see any recent comments regarding the Vatican tours and thank you for letting me know that you enjoyed yours.
I've enjoyed using the audio tours. you should try and add the Scavi tour under the Vatican.
If you're there on a Friday, look at the Vaticans evening tour. An advantage is that it frees up the day for another site.
Thank you Jim and Gerri. I have already booked the Scavi tour and I'm really looking forward to it. I have RS audio guides and looking into using them on this trip.
I'd love to do the Vatican night tour but unfortunately we will not be in Rome on a Friday, great suggestion though.
