fourteen things to keep in mind when Visiting  vatican museum

Opening hours

Monday to Saturday, the Vatican Museum opens at 9 am and closes at 6 pm. Since you must go through the Museum to visit Sistine Chapel, the Chapel’s hours are also the same.

Duration required

Some visitors explore Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel on the first day and St Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square on the second. You will need 4 to 5 hours to complete it in a day.

Best time to visit

If you have booked your ticket online, the best time to visit Vatican Museums is as soon as they open at 9 am.

Dress appropriately

As the Vatican is a religious site, visitors are required to dress modestly. So avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing. In short, do not expose your shoulders and knees.

Wear comfortable shoes

To explore the Vatican Museums entirely, you will have to walk 7.5 Kms (4.7 Miles). Wear comfortable walking shoes for a better experience.

Take breaks

The museum can be overwhelming, so take breaks and rest when needed. There are plenty of benches and cafes throughout the museum where you can take a break and refuel.

Avoid larger bags

Big bags & suitcases are not allowed, but lockers are on-site to secure them. It's best to bring small bags and only essential items.

Photography 

Cameras are allowed inside the Vatican Museums, but some photography restrictions exist in certain areas. Photos & videos are strictly forbidden inside the Sistine Chapel.

Free Entry

Vatican Museums remain closed on Sundays. But the Museum is open from 9 am to 2 pm, and visitors can enter for free on the last Sunday of every month.

Standard tickets

These are also known as Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel tickets because they get you access to both attractions. You can also explore St Peter’s Basilica.

Guided tour

We highly recommend a guided tour. The local expert guide takes you on a two hours tour of all galleries & rooms in the museum, and in the end, you visit the chapel

Night tour

From April to October, every Friday, the Vatican Museums are open from 7 pm to 11 pm. During this guided 3-hour night tour, you can also explore Sistine Chapel.

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