Small-group guided tours and skip-the-line tickets help guarantee hassle-free access to this popular attraction. Private morning tours offering early access before the museums open to the general public are excellent for enjoying the Vatican’s treasures in relative peace. Many, if not most, group Vatican Museums tours include the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), and the Vatican Gardens (Giardini Vaticani). Some include the Pinecone Courtyard. If you’re traveling with kids, consider a kid-friendly guided tour focusing on museum highlights.
Entry lines often stretch for blocks, and wait times can be two or three hours, especially in summer—book tickets in advance.
Vatican Museums tickets include entrance to the Sistine Chapel, and the same opening hours apply.
Appropriate behavior and attire (shoulders, knees, and abdomen covered) are required to enter the Sistine Chapel.
Security for entering the museum complex includes a metal detector.
There is a free cloakroom for checking large bags, umbrellas, and luggage.
Rent official audio guides from the Courtyard of the Cuirasses.
Entry to the Vatican Museums is on Viale Vaticano on the northwest side of the complex adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica. Ottaviano station on the Rome Metro Line A is about five minutes away on foot. Many, if not most, city sightseeing tours pass by or include a stop at this eternally popular spot.
The Vatican Museums see crowds of travelers year-round. It's busiest in summer when skip-the-line tickets or private tour guides are essential; the museums are less crowded during winter. At any time of year, the museums are most crowded at midday, so aim to visit in the early morning or late afternoon if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience.
On Wednesday mornings, the Pope gives weekly addresses in St. Peter's Square. The timing varies by season but the address typically starts at 9:30am or 10am. During the 1-2 hours address, the Pope gives speeches in various languages and extends official blessings to the audience. Note that the address draws massive crowds—book a ticket ahead of time and arrive up to 3 hours before the official start time.
