Popular Art & Museums in Vatican Gardens

The skip the line ticket was a great recommendation from friends. We saved so much time and hassle by using this option. Even though it costs a little extra, I highly recommend it. If you don't like crowds then I highly suggest you don't go round these museums or go to the Sistine chapel. We did not go during peak season, but even so it was so busy that we were basically just pushed along the whole time. We somehow managed to get a few of the seats around the edge of the Sistine chapel and were glad of it so we could actually appreciate what we were seeing. You are otherwise made to stand in silence in the centre of the room, or ushered straight out. There was of course an overwhelming amount to see and it was a great (if claustrophobic) experience.

The timed entrance ticket worked well. Security check and obtaining ticket from my online voucher straightforward. It was very busy as I'd expected, but there were far too many tour groups. It was hard to get past them as a solo traveller, and when I did pass I got dirty looks and comments from people on the tours thinking I was jumping ahead of them. This happened alot and I didn't like it. Also it was extremely hot and humid inside. Of course the ceilings and tapestries were stunning, and the Sistine Chapel amazing, but I was very glad to get out into the fresh air, even though it was hot outside

We are glad we pre booked the beat the line tickets because it was REALLY busy in mid July. This saved waiting in line outside, however the huge crowd of people all wanting to see the Sistine Chapel was too much! It was very hot and very claustrophobic. You just get swept along with crowd and there is not really the time to appreciate it. However the grounds are beautiful which is welcome after being jostled along in the queue. Don’t expect any smiles from the Vatican staff or security they are all very surly and rather unfriendly.

Glad we booked the fast track for the Vatican museum. It’s well worth a visit, but be warned, you are on a one way treadmill with hoards if people. It’s a bit like going through ikea..., The Basilica was not included in this ticket, but it is free, and the queue we joined seemed long, but went down really quickly, so I wouldn’t pay to jump the queue for the church. I’ve been to the museum twice now, so most likely will not go again. The basilica is amazing though, and well worth repeat visits.

The Sistine Chapel was amazing but we needed more time for the Vatican Museum. The ticket was brilliant as we entered straight away, there was a huge queue of people waiting in the heat to get in. We got the audio guide which really helped us understand what we were seeing. Guided tours need to be booked in advance so it would be worthwhile booking if you wanted one. Great ticket and well worth the money.