How to plan your Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour in Rome

Are you planning a trip to Rome? Do you want to visit the iconic Sistine Chapel without the large crowds that gather during the day? Look no further than the Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour. This unique combo tour allows you to enjoy the beauty of the chapel after closing time and indulge in a traditional Italian aperitivo in the Vatican’s Pinecone Courtyard. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to plan your Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour in Rome.

Overview of the Tour

The Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour is a small-group tour that takes you to the Vatican’s most famous sites after hours. Here’s what’s included in the tour:

• Skip-the-line early entrance to the Vatican
• Guided tour of the Vatican Museums main galleries
• Small-group tour of the Sistine Chapel
• An uncrowded visit in the Sistine Chapel
• Enjoy a refreshing spritz or wine in the Pinecone Courtyard
• Gratuities
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

The tour offers after-hours entrance to the Vatican, so you can avoid crowds and see the sites in a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The small-group tour of the Sistine Chapel ensures that you get an up-close view of Michelangelo’s masterpieces, including the Creation of Adam and the Last Judgment. Plus, a professional guide accompanies you throughout your tour, ensuring that you understand the significance of the museums and enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour is Viale Vaticano 100, Rome. You’re required to arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid any delay. In the morning, you’ll meet your guide between Hotel Alimandi and Caffé Vaticano at the top of the big staircase (Viale Vaticano 100).

How to Book Your Tour

To book your tour, visit the following link:

Book the tour hereIt’s recommended that you book your tour well in advance to ensure availability, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. When booking your tour, make sure to select the number of participants and the language you prefer.

What to Wear and Bring

It’s important to dress appropriately for your tour of the Vatican: no shorts, short skirts or sleeveless shirts are allowed. It’s also important to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through the museums and the chapel. You’re not allowed to bring large bags or backpacks into the museums, so it’s best to bring a small shoulder bag to carry your essentials.

Tips for Your Tour

Here are a few tips to make the most of your Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour:

• Take advantage of the after-hours entrance to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful, intimate setting.
• Listen carefully to your professional guide, who will help you understand the significance of the art and the museums.
• Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a refreshing spritz or wine in the Pinecone Courtyard, which is only open to select visitors.
• Bring a small shoulder bag to carry your essentials, as large bags and backpacks are not allowed.
• Wear appropriate clothing, as shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through the museums and chapel.

Conclusion

The Vatican Privileged Entrance Express Tour is the perfect way to experience the best of the Eternal City. With after-hours entrance to the Vatican and a small-group tour of the Sistine Chapel, you can enjoy the beauty of these iconic sites without the large crowds that gather during the day. Book your tour in advance, dress appropriately, and follow our tips to make the most of your visit to the Vatican.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rome

Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious food, it’s easy to see why. But before you pack your bags and head to the Eternal City, it’s important to have all of your questions answered. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Rome.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Rome?

Rome can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is in the spring (April-June) or the fall (September-November). During these times, the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner than in the summer months. However, if you don’t mind the heat and the crowds, the summer can be a great time to visit as well.

2. How many days should I spend in Rome?

To see all of the major sights and experience Rome fully, we recommend spending at least three days in the city. However, if you have more time, you can easily spend a week or more exploring all that Rome has to offer.

3. What are some must-see sights in Rome?

There are so many incredible sights to see in Rome that it’s hard to choose just a few. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The Colosseum
• The Roman Forum
• The Pantheon
• The Vatican Museums
• The Sistine Chapel
• The Trevi Fountain
• The Spanish Steps

4. Do I need to book tickets for attractions in advance?

It’s always a good idea to book tickets for popular attractions like the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel in advance. This will help you avoid long lines and ensure that you get to see everything you want to see.

5. What is the best way to get around Rome?

Rome is a very walkable city, and many of the major attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to cover more ground, the metro system is a good option. There are also buses, trams, and taxis available, but be aware that traffic in Rome can be quite congested.

6. What should I eat in Rome?

Rome is known for its delicious food, and there are many traditional dishes that you should try while you’re there. Some of the most popular include:

• Pasta alla Carbonara
• Cacio e Pepe
• Suppli
• Roman-style pizza
• Gelato
• Tiramisu

7. Is Rome safe for tourists?

Rome is a safe city for tourists, but like any major city, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep your valuables close.

8. Do I need to speak Italian to visit Rome?

While it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the local language, you don’t need to speak Italian to visit Rome. English is widely spoken in the city, especially in tourist areas.

9. What is the currency in Rome?

The currency in Rome (and the rest of Italy) is the Euro.

10. What souvenirs should I bring back from Rome?

There are many great souvenirs to bring back from Rome, from traditional Italian ceramics to artisanal food products. Some popular options include:

• Balsamic vinegar
• Olive oil
• Cheese
• Wine
• Limoncello
• Ceramic plates and bowls
• Leather goods
• Jewelry
• Art prints

Conclusion

Rome is a truly incredible city, with so much to see and do. Hopefully, this post has answered some of your most pressing questions about visiting Rome. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer stay, we’re sure that you’ll fall in love with the Eternal City.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Rome

Rome is the capital city of Italy, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is a city that is rich in history, culture, and art. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Rome.

Step 1: Visit the Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles during the Roman Empire. Visiting the Colosseum is a must-do activity for any first-time visitor to Rome.We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues. You can also opt for a guided tour, which will provide you with a more in-depth understanding of the history of the Colosseum.

Step 2: Explore the Vatican City

The Vatican City is the smallest sovereign state in the world, and it is home to numerous museums, galleries, and churches. The most famous attraction in the Vatican City is the Sistine Chapel, which features the stunning frescoes painted by Michelangelo.We recommend booking a tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, which will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the art and history of this famous city-state.

Step 3: Visit the Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, and it is considered one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Rome. The most notable feature of the Pantheon is its massive dome, which is made of concrete and is one of the largest in the world.Visitors are welcome to explore the Pantheon for free, but we recommend taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of this impressive structure.

Step 4: Walk around the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, and it is said that throwing a coin into the fountain ensures your return to Rome. We recommend taking a stroll around the fountain, taking in the beautiful Baroque architecture and listening to the sound of the water.While it can be crowded during peak tourist season, visiting the Trevi Fountain at night can be a more peaceful and romantic experience.

Step 5: Enjoy Rome’s culinary delights

Rome is famous for its cuisine, and it is home to some of the best restaurants in Italy. From classic pasta dishes to delicious gelato, there is something for everyone to enjoy.We recommend visiting the Testaccio neighborhood, which is known for its street food and traditional cuisine. You can also sign up for a food tour, which will provide you with a more in-depth understanding of the culinary delights of Rome.

Step 6: Relax in one of Rome’s parks

Rome is home to several beautiful parks where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Villa Borghese is one of the most popular parks in Rome, and it is home to several museums, galleries, and gardens.We recommend taking a stroll through the park, enjoying a picnic or renting a bike to explore the many paths and scenic views that the park has to offer.

Step 7: Shop like a local in Rome’s markets

Rome is home to several markets where you can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and fresh produce. The Campo de’ Fiori market is one of the oldest markets in Rome, and it is home to several vendors selling everything from fruit and vegetables to pasta and spices.We recommend taking a stroll through the market, sampling some of the local specialties, and picking up a few souvenirs to take home with you.In conclusion, Rome is a city that is rich in history, culture, and art. With so many activities to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. We hope that this step-by-step guide has provided you with some inspiration on how to spend your time as a tourist in Rome. By following these steps, you will be sure to enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.