Viewing the Sistine Chapel

I did it the old fashioned way, walked up and bought my tickets. Choosing the right time is the most important, if you ask me.

We used "Walks of Italy" for the Pristine Sistine tour and feel it was money well spent and a good use of our limited time. We did get in before the doors opened to the public and saw the Sistine Chapel without having wall to wall people. The tour was about 4 hours and we really learned a lot. I would highly recommend them.

You can use the official website to book regular entry tickets, early entry tickets or Friday night tickets. Both the early and Friday night tickets will allow you to visit with less crowds.

Donna

I use a company called Walks inside Rome which has small group or private tours. They are an excellent small company based in Rome, also offer the golf cart tours good for people with mobility issues.

I also did Walks of Italy, Pristine Sistine. It was so nice to have access before the crowds. All the stories behind the paintings, and understanding what you are seeing, is worth every penny. I got so much much more out of the Vatican visit because of this. I would not have appreciated nearly as much.

For example, in the Sistine Chapel, I would have looked up and thought, oh isn't it lovely. But now I know stories behind many of the panels painted, and other tidbits.

You also get 10% Rick Steve's discount.

Every WOI tour we've taken has been great, in both Rome and Florence. Highly recommend them.

I booked Walks of Italy as well considering everyone speaks so highly of them. Our time is precious and short and I think this will maximize our time there.