If there is one place that people are excited to see when they are in Vatican City, it is the Sistine Chapel. You will be in amazement at seeing Michelangelo’s masterpieces with your own eyes. What’s more, you can learn about history and experience one of the best landmarks in Europe all in a day’s work.
However, there is one thing that nobody prepares you for when you are visiting the Vatican and looking forward to the Sistine Chapel. They never tell you just how busy it is. Yes, you are going to be aware that it is a major tourist attraction. But, it is easy to underestimate how crowds form and how long you must wait. Here is a guide that is going to enlighten you on the waiting line at the Sistine Chapel.
Is the Line Long at the Sistine Chapel?
The simple answer to this question is yes. You can expect the line to be long for the Sistine Chapel, especially during the high season, which is the summer. Many people visit Rome on their vacation and come to Vatican City for a day to explore the Museums, St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Unfortunately, we have some bad news. First, the lines can be long to get into the Museums. This is the first step since you have to enter here. Then, you have to enjoy the history in here before you can make your way to the Sistine Chapel. This means that everybody in front of you in the line will be at the Sistine Chapel before you. Once you get there, busy days can mean the line to get into the Sistine Chapel is around three to four hours long.
Ways to Avoid the Long Line to Get In
Unfortunately, the line can be long to get into the Sistine Chapel. Sometimes, it is unpredictable and the quieter times are just as busy. But, there are some ways that you can minimize your wait. Here are some tips.
Book a Tour
One of the best things you can do is book a tour. This can allow you to skip the line at the entrance to the Museums and you can beat the crowds to the Sistine Chapel. There are even some private tours that will allow you to get straight into the Sistine Chapel too. Check out What a Life Tours for More in Rome: The Magnificence of the Vatican. You can see what skip-the-line tours they have on offer and book one for your trip. This is going to save you so much time. Plus, you can enjoy the upgraded educational experience with a guide.
Get There Early
If you do not want to book a tour, the next best option is to arrive at the Vatican early. You want to ensure that you are one of the first in line to get in. This ensures that there are not crowds forming inside and making their way to the Sistine Chapel. You can ensure that you are leading the way.
Therefore, check when the opening times are for when you are visiting. You want to ensure you are aiming to be in the queue for the opening time. While this will mean an early rise, most agree it is worth it.
Ensure you Dress Modestly
The last thing you want is to wait in line and find out you are denied entry. This can happen if you are not dressed appropriately. While some people are under the impression it is not that strict and they can sneak in, this is untrue. Security will turn you away from the line if you are not dressed correctly for the experience.
Thus, make sure you dress modestly when visiting Vatican City. This appeals when you are a man or a woman. It is best to be overdressed than underdressed. You do not want to be disappointed and denied access to the Sistine Chapel.
Choose Low Season
While the Vatican is always going to be busy, it is generally less busy during the low season. So, if you have flexibility on when you can visit, try to make it during this time. This can be months like February, March, October, and November. Ultimately, you are staying clear of the summer months.
There are always some days that are not recommended to visit the Vatican. For example, Monday is often a busy day since Sundays can be closed.
