by Visiting the Vatican Museums, one of Rome’s largest and most renowned museums, requires careful preparation. Due to its immense popularity, expect long queues at the entrance. Given its vast history, you might also feel overwhelmed deciding what to see with the limited time available.
As a prominent landmark of Vatican City, the Vatican Museums are commonly featured in both private and general Rome tours. To help you navigate your visit smoothly, I’ve compiled this guide to minimize any surprises. Here, you’ll find up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticket prices, and tips for bypassing the line at the Vatican Museums.
Essential Tips and Guide for Visiting the Vatican Museums
Is a Visit to the Vatican Museums Worth It?
The Vatican Museums house five centuries of art and historical artifacts collected by popes from global leaders and patrons. You’ll encounter historic items like clothing and carriages alongside masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel and Raphael’s frescoes.
Planning Your Visit
To avoid disappointment, plan ahead rather than arriving at the entrance unprepared. Expect significant wait times or possible closures if you haven’t made prior arrangements.
Ticket Information for the Vatican Museums
As of January 1, 2024, ticket prices for the Vatican Museums will increase to €20 from the current €17. To combat unauthorized resale, the museums will implement nominative tickets and ID checks at the entrance.
How to Skip the Line
Avoid long waits by purchasing tickets in advance. While you can buy tickets at the entrance, pre-purchasing them online through platforms like Get Your Guide is highly recommended to save time.
Consider Joining a Tour
Instead of just buying admission, consider booking a private tour. This includes a guide who will escort you to key highlights that you might miss on your own. Although pricier than a standard ticket, a guided tour can enhance your visit with valuable insights and historical context.
Check Closing Times…
The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month when entry is free. They also close on major religious holidays like Easter Sunday, November 1 (All Saints’ Day), December 8 (Immaculate Conception), Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve.
… and Updated Opening Hours
Starting January 1, 2024, the Vatican Museums will extend their hours by two hours, opening at 8 am and closing at 7 pm from Monday to Saturday. During the high season starting March 2024, Friday and Saturday hours will be extended until 8 pm.
Adhere to the Dress Code
Although you’re visiting an art museum, remember that the Vatican Museums are located within Vatican City. Therefore, you must follow the dress code applicable to St. Peter’s Basilica and its Roman necropolis.
What Items Are Prohibited?
Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted inside the Vatican Museums and must be left in the cloakroom. Prohibited items also include weapons, sharp objects, and anything deemed dangerous.
Photography Rules
Photography without flash is allowed in most areas, but not in the Sistine Chapel or near Michelangelo’s frescoes. Video recording, selfie sticks, and professional photo equipment are also banned. Be aware of these rules as museum staff will enforce them.
Maintain Quiet in Certain Areas
While not all areas of the Vatican Museums require silence, you must be quiet or whisper inside the Sistine Chapel to ensure that others can fully appreciate Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
