Unlocking Vatican City: Insider Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Journey
- Amy B
- May 15, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10, 2024
Visiting the Vatican is a unique and enriching experience, given its religious, historical, and cultural significance. We were lucky enough to book a Semi-Private Early Morning Tour with Livtours, and let me tell you, it was the best experience of my life!
LINK TO THE TOUR:
Semi-Private Early Morning Vatican Tour
If a shared tour is not for you, then check out the LivTours Private Early Morning Vatican Tour
The pictures say it all. The musuem was EMPTY. Now I can't guarantee your tour will be exactly like mine, but I will say that you have a better chance of having a quiet tour. The whole point of the tour is to get you inside before the rush of the public.
Getting up early is a struggle, especially when traveling with kids, but I promise you it will be worth it. Having heard from other people, there is a difference between the times you go. The same day another couple we spoke to said they went in the afternoon and they were standing shoulder to shoulder the entire time.
Here is a quick snip it of the tour:
-7:30AM arrival time- you will find your tour guide and anyone else who is joining your group. If choose the semi-private with Liv, it will be maximium 6 people. We met up with a lovely couple from London. There is a little bit of waiting in line before The Vatican museum opens, but the tour guides will use this time to give you some history and explain the things you will see.
-The doors opened around 7:45am and we entered through secruity, while our tour guide went to the box office to get our tickets. When I said he ran, he ran. We were thankful though because he grabbed our tickets fast and got us right on the elevator. When the doors opened we were the first ones in the musuem.
-We went through each part of the Vatican, learning about the rooms, the art, the history and some fun and interesting facts. Our guide, Francisco, kept it interesting for both the kids and the adults. He was also our professional photographer for the day!
**TIP: If you are planning to go during the summer, bring a fan or something to keep you cool. We had decent weather that day but I can' only imagine how hot it can get!
-After touring the entire Musueum, we entered the Sistine Chapel. Our guide gave us strict instructions not to talk and explained everything before heading inside. It is breathtaking! Our group spent about 20 minutes inside before moving on. (No photography allowed.)
-Afterwards, we visited the coveted Raphael Rooms and enjoyed some of the greatest artwork in the world.
-We ended our tour at St. Peter's Basilica. And yes, you get to walk right through and not wait in line! Our guide walked us around the largest Catholic Church in the world, and brought us to Michelangelo's Pieta and Bernini's Baldacchino, and then ended in the Papal Tombs. Our guide gave us ample time to walk around and discover on our own. And of course, take lots of pitures!!
I hope you enjoyed this recap. Some people will ask if a tour is worth it, and in my opionion it is ABSOLUTELY worth it.
Lastly, don't forget to spend some time in the gift shop!
Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth and memorable visit:
Book Tickets in Advance: Tour will sell out in advance! Make sure you go with a reputable company as well!
Choose the Right Time: Visit early in the morning (as we did) or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Check the Calendar: Be aware of special events or religious holidays that may affect opening hours or access to certain areas. St. Peter's Basilica may be closed for papal ceremonies.
What to Wear
Dress Code: Modest attire is required. Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. Avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, and mini skirts.
What to Bring
Light Bag: Security checks are strict. Bring only essentials. Large bags, tripods, and bulky items are not allowed.
Comfortable Shoes: You'll do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
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