The Vatican has some pretty amazing historical artifacts and architecture within. That was the ONLY good thing about it. The people who work there are incredibly rude and of no help. They treat people who do not speak the language rude, and treat you as if you're stupid. Just because you have questions about the Museum, or walk in the wrong direction (which is terribly marked). Huge disappointment read more

This is a museum that if you had the time and the money I'd recommend first taking a tour. Then the following day or whenever go back and spend your time exploring all the things that piqued your interest during your tour. There really is too much to see here in one day. We're talking centuries of collections of stuff that's all priceless that was given to or acquired by previous popes. Admittedly, most people will only have one day so I'd recommend a tour guide to get all those tidbits of information you'd miss solo or downloading Rick Steves tour guide to follow. The tour guide I was with actually yelled at a visitor for fondling one of the pieces saying that the piece she was fondling was hundreds no thousands of years old and out of respect do not touch anything. No no I didn't touch anything after she'd said that but I thought about it. NOT. You'll not regret going here so go. read more

It's an amazing and awe-inspiring museum. Massive and so many beautiful paintings, tapestries, artifacts and sculptures with the Sistine Chapel being the highlight of them all. The museum is technically located within the Vatican City, not Rome, behind the walls of one of the world's few sovereign city-states. Because the museum is located next to the massive St. Peter's Square where the Pope makes his speeches, where you can also visit the final resting places and pay your respects to Popes who've passed, be surrounded by breath-taking architectural structures, and also catch a glimpse of the Swiss Guard in their baggy clown-like-looking uniforms (purple with yellow stripes and red trim) wielding deadly sharp spears, it really feels like everything you see in the museum and the Vatican City are all blended together into one surreal experience. When I first stepped into the Sistine Chapel I was simultaneously in awe as well as slightly disappointed at the same time. I was slightly disappointed because I thought it was going to be much bigger than it was. It is actually quite large in the grand scheme of things, but the way it has been portrayed in all of the photos from our childhood history books and other periodicals makes it seem much larger than it really is. It is still very majestic but really also quite intimate and after visiting so many massive churches and cathedrals in Europe it really is a lot smaller in comparison. After seeing the iconic painting on the ceiling of God and Adam touching fingers however, I felt like I was in a dream and could only really think one thing to myself, "Oh my God, I'm really here." It's one of the most iconic images of the Renaissance created by one of my favorite Italian Renaissance artists, Michelangelo, who also happens to be my favorite Ninja Turtle. read more

The Vatican is Rome's treasure. I enjoyed spending several hours at this museum. Although, it was quite busy and crowded. There's a path you follow until to get to the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel pretty much ends the tour. No pictures allowed in Sistine Chapel, but I snagged one. There's a modern art gallery towards the Sistine Chapel too. I saw Ben Shahn and Francis Bacon, among others. There's several rooms with painted ceilings. There's a lot of spots to get souvenirs too. We got a plate with a painting from the Sistine Chapel. There's an outdoor area too. There's ancient Roman and Egyptian art. There's so much to see. It takes more than one visit to let it sink in. I went when I was at the end of high school and I went this year(I'm 31). I love the Vatican museum and hope to be back. I wish there was a little more info about popes and the history of popes, as well as info on history of Vatican. read more

Musei Vaticani is not for the heat sensitive, claustrophobic, or impatient... all three of which I am. While it is a "must see" when in Rome, there are things to keep in mind such as a lack of AC being one of them. It probably didn't help that I was in Rome in the middle of July when Italy is at it's "hottest." (or so my boyfriend's Nonna says) No matter when you go, though - do be prepared to be in a sea of people. If you're short, you will have an upper hand in darting in between people if you're trying to clear the museum 'quickly' (probably a weird thing to say if it's your first time attending, but you'll see what I mean when you get about half way through your tour.) From a historical stand point, it really is something to see and it's hard not to appreciate the artifacts, tapestries, portraits, and the papal tombs in St. Peter's Basilica. Attire is important to keep in mind -- conservative dress is a must in approaching certain pockets of the Vatican. Knees need to be covered, as do shoulders. read more

By the time I arrived in Rome during the last leg of my trip, I've probably seen over a thousand masterpieces from the Renaissance. With all due respect, the glory of it all was getting a bit dull for me. Even some of the paintings were starting to haunt me. I even had dreams I was painting one of the Adoration of the Magi pieces. So, my husband and I promised each other that the Vatican Museum will be the last of it all. I think we fulfilled our museum quotas for the next decade. Anyway, we bought advanced tickets which is another worthy thing to do because I don't think I would have waited over an hour outside with the non-ticket holders. It was quick and smooth getting through security until we were inundated by the tour groups that were assembling by the main lobby. For some reason, we decided to purchase an audio guide. We never purchase these additional gimmicky things but we thought maybe it would heighten up the interest a little more. It was pretty good for the first 20 minutes until the audio numbers on the artifacts start to go out of sequence or were simply missing. The audio map was also puzzling at its best. Some exhibits were closed off so that probably cut off another 20 minutes of our journey through the museum. The ultimate end goal at the Musei Vaticani is to see the Sistine Chapel. All signs were pointing to the Sistine Chapel so there's no way you can leave the museum without seeing this holy place. read more

The Vatican Museums offer so much for the tourists to learn about Vatican City, offering huge varieties of books, souvenirs, and other trinkets. Many good coffee table books to be bought here. Get your education on the most holy of cities here and see and learn the history of Christiandom! read more

Today it was packed and we didn't walk through the museum we shuffled. No fun being elbow to elbow in a great museum. Had skip the line access and avoided a 2 1/2 hour wait outside. read more

It was beautiful believe me, but it's also PACKED. It's hard to enjoy all the beautiful artwork when there are swarms of people around you, especially in the Sistine Chapel. The experience is worth it for sure, there's a lot to see and you definitely get your money's worth. I just wouldn't do it again if I ever went back to Rome. read more

It's the Vatican museum, its incredible, and the Sistine Chapel is breathtaking, nothing more needs to be said

Our tour was excellent! Super easy to follow our guide and he gave the perfect amount of info about what we were seeing. I recommend going through the museums tour guide as it seemed we were granted the fastest entrance. I would recommend it for everyone! read more

Who complains about the Vatican Museums? Well, unfortunately, my husband and I did. I hope it's not because we're spoiled Americans who can't appreciate anything, but our experience could only be described as a trip down the rabbit hole. I think we had the extraordinarily bad luck of booking tickets over a holiday weekend between Italy's Liberation Day, which fell on a Thursday, and May Day, the following Tuesday. I think most of Italy was in the Vatican Museum that Saturday since the kids were off all week too. I am sure it is crowded in the summer, but we did not expect the crowds we got in late April. Definitely book ahead online. I am not sure I would go without them. The lines seemed to be *several* hours long without them. Once inside, beyond the Pinacoteca which was not too bad, the remainder of the Museum was completely insane. We were herded through the museum should-to-shoulder with thousands of people. It was overwhelming. The tour groups clog up traffic because they are enormous, look spaced out, and just plant themselves in front of major works. Everyone insists on stopping and taking a picture of every single work of art. I just found myself completely losing patience and wishing it would be over. By the time we were allowed into the Sistine Chapel, it was sheer chaos. I didn't see a single person near us in the crowd stop to see the Contemporary Galleries (including me) because we were all so sick and tired of it. We just wandered through in a daze, aimed for the Chapel. Another note about the guides: I heard more than one guide who did not speak great English giving a tour. I am not an art expert, but I am Catholic, went to twelve years of Catholic school and had one specific teacher who was obsessed with art so I know 'the basics' and this guide couldn't answer simple questions about the depictions of biblical scenes in some pieces. I assume it was the language barrier that prevented better explanations, but I felt really bad for the people she was talking to. I would definitely try to interview your guide before you pay them. I know this sounds awkward, but why waste your money in an already crazy situation? We took a turn into the Egyptian Gallery and it might have been the most enjoyable part because we were nearly alone to admire these ancient pieces. However, it turned out that no one went that way because it aimed you back nearly at the beginning of a path we had already undertaken (and you can't go back the way you came). We were beside ourselves when we saw we would be pushed back through a spot that took us probably 20 minutes to walk through previously with the rudest people imaginable. This second time through, we were waiting at a door, blocked by guards, and when they started letting the crowd through, the guards had to yell at people who were shoving and pushing older people and children nearly over to get through. Of course, while I don't condone this at all, it's hard not to see this as a problem of the Vatican's organization in general. If they didn't shut the crowd down at various points, maybe people wouldn't feel compelled to shove their way forward. I don't know what the solution is, but I feel awful that we didn't enjoy this experience more. My husband and I were both really looking forward to it and I find it hard to say anything positive about it. Some others here and on TA have argued that they should limit admission like they do at the Borghese Gallery. For enjoyment's sake, I agree, but I wonder if the Vatican sees that some people come once in their lifetimes to make a pilgrimage to the Vatican and some of those people are not wealthy and not necessarily super computer-literate. Not everyone would be able to see the Vatican if they used this system. They really need to think of something though because it was such a shame to waste this chance to see some of these works of art. I recommend going to a Papal Audience despite the crowds, however. It was a pretty amazing experience. read more

Vatican City is wonderful to see BUT it's extremely extravagant. The stark contrast between the homeless people outside the gates of the city and inside the buildings is ridiculous and sad. The buildings are of course incredibly impressive and breathtaking but to see where so much money that is given to the catholic church has been going is a little hard to bear! read more

The art in the Vatican museums is amazing, but it's EXTREMELY crowded. I felt like a cattle as I was pushed along in a giant crowd. The sheer number of people causes you to sweat just from their body heat. You barely have time to appreciate the artwork and taking pictures is very difficult due to the size of the crowd. Without a doubt, it was the most beautiful, but the least comfortable place I visited in Italy. read more

Great collection buy your tickets in advance. The 4 euro surcharge is well worth the time you would be waiting in line. To fend off tour pushers say you already have a ticket (even if you don't) and they will leave you alone and spare you of a lecture of why their tour is worth signing up for. Inside it will get crowded clogged because people will be listening to tour guides oblivious of their surroundings. Be prepared to poke some sweaty tourists to make your way through the museum. read more

TOTALLY WORTH IT. On the self guided tour you will see things not available on the guided tour. There is so much here it is incredible covering 4 thousand years of art. BUY TICKETS ON LINE THROUGH THE VATICAN. This will save you about 4 hours in line (seriously). I felt like a rock star walking past a line six wide and a half mile long. read more

Buy a ticket online, we used Select Italy. You will be incredibly thankful you avoided the line which looked like it could take a few hours. We arrived at 1100 and walked right in, after a very quick security check. The art, and sheer magnitude of the museum is impossible to describe. However, it is not all air conditioned and the crowds are completely ignorant of personal space and devoid of manners so be prepared. read more

Make sure to go online to purchase ticket so you can avoid the long line. Do not buy guided tour. You can do it yourself. Pizza wasn't too good and there was a long line. I suggest that you eat before you go in the museum. read more

It's ok but me personally, I have been in better museums. If you are Catholic or just want to say you've been to Vatican City, then this is for you. Otherwise, expect to deal with long lines and wait times to get in or pay a tour group to skip the lines. Either way, once you're inside expect it to be super congested and overcrowded. Our tour guide rushed through all the photo op areas and spent way to long standing/talking in boring areas with no where to sit down. I wasn't able to stop and view the parts I was actually interested in. The guards won't let the kids sit on the floor either even if it's in a corner. By the end, my back and legs were killing me from all the standing still and I don't recall a single important or significant thing that I saw. To me, it's better to just view the city walls and St. Peter's Basilica than to actually go inside the museum. I guess if you really want to see the Sistine Chapel and the inside of St. Peter's Basilica, there's no other way that I saw except to go through the museums but it's a lot of walking to get there. I would say save this for last and prioritize other things in Rome that you want to see and do first in case you're short on time. read more

''Rome at least one in anyone's lifetime? ''Vatican city is a must see for anyone's memory flash back book!'' My wife and I were here in 2011 which is a spell of time back! But the once in a lifetime experience still is with us today?'' and on a walking tour through it all!'' A definite 5 stars 1'' To see the actual artwork there for seen only in magazines or travel Brochures is a life time experience one must do to understand how awesome this place is Musei Vaticani [Vatican Museum] ''5 stars here twice*****!'' 'Yhank you Italy?'' read more

Ok, so the four stars isn't because the museum isn't fabulous... it is and the amount of amazing items to see in there is just breathtaking... in fact I really think that you need more than a day to see everything. The four stars is for the fact that you need specialized book guides to tell you the shortcuts through the museum. We had a book to help us figure out what we were seeing, but it didn't tell us how you can get from the Vatican Museum directly to St. Peter's Basilica... so we had to walk all the way around... in the rain. And it certainly didn't tell us how if we were a little rundown from walking through the entire museum, that there is a short cut to get to the Sistine Chapel at the end. Why would you want to skip things? Well, to be honest, Work BFF and I love museums, but sometimes... and I know that there are more of you out there just like us... sometimes it all becomes a bit too much and you get a bit restless, especially when you are following large groups of people. And to be honest, I am not a big fan of say... contemporary art (I believe this was the last part of the museum before we got to the Sistine Chapel) so for me that is a part of the museum I could miss. I also didn't see any cafes/rest stops on this route, so one could have a coffee, rest your feet, and get a second wind to continue on the journey... maybe I missed it, but that might help. I did enjoy a lot of the museum and my favourite is the hall of Maps... I know I'm a geek, but seriously they were just beautiful. Even if you are not a fan of maps, they are lovely to admire. So... the Sistine Chapel. Beware: 1) you cannot take photos (NO PHOTO!) and people will yell and chase you if you do attempt it, 2) it is very crowded and it makes it so difficult to stand, look up, and contemplate this masterpiece, and 3) if you go on a rainy, overcast day, it will be quite dark inside as they didn't have lights on, so it was even more difficult to see. Hints: 1) Buy your tickets ahead of time... online... and save yourself standing in the queue. Even though Work BFF and I didn't on our first trip... we went during Culture Week, so everyone was busy waiting in line for the free attractions and we didn't have to wait, but the second time, the lines were enormous, but because we had purchased our tickets ahead of time, we didn't have to wait that long. 2) bring a snack/water for refueling. You will need it to keep you going. 3) Do not bring huge bags... they do have items in the center of the aisles, and first I was always afraid someone would knock these things over with these massive bags, and second it makes it difficult for other people to get around... plus who wants to carry all of that stuff! 4) This is not a kid friendly museum. 5) Bring a guide book with you if you are not going to get a tour guide to take you around. It helps identify and give you information about what you are seeing and if you get the right ones, it will give you shortcuts... especially if you do not have a whole day to see the museum. 6) Please dress appropriately... I tell my students to cover everything between their neck and knees. No bare shoulders, no low cut tops, no mini skirts or short shorts... I always bring a cardigan so if it is hot outside and I am wearing a tank top, I can cover up when going into a museum/church. They are strict about it and I have seen people turned away for being dressed inappropriately... you've been warned. It really is a fantastic museum and if you are in Rome, you should definitely see it... if only for the Sistine Chapel. read more

its almost a must see in rome but its kind of boring at times, fx when you enter there are a display of boats but there arent really any explanation for why or how they are connected to the vatican. there are several cases like that were somewhat indifferent displays shows up along the way through the museum but not really connected either to each other or the vatican, at least explained. interesting if you like art, are religious etc, for us regular deadly people its not the most important sight in rome. go there if you are really interested or have a longer stay. read more

One of the most incredible places I've ever seen. If you're in Rome and make your way to Vatican City, the Vatican Museum is a MUST. I've been here twice and the collection is so vast and diverse, it's hard to see the same pieces twice. My favorites to see are The School of Athens in the Raphael Rooms, the Assyrian/Chaldean works, Nero's bath, and the Egyptian Rooms. It's usually very busy with a lot of tours going around. But once they pass, you can get some time to appreciate what's before you. I heard maybe 100 different languages being toured and spoken throughout. It's truly an amazing, special place. The Sistine Chapel leaves me speechless every time. They don't allow photos to be taken here and have the room actively guarded in all corners to make sure you don't take them in secret. If you get caught, they will make you go back and delete it...I have seen this happen several times on both visits so be careful. I highly recommend a visit. You'll never forget it! read more

Skip the line. Skip the line. Skip the line. Give yourself time. Come in January or November. Even March or October.

We booked an early your to the Sistine chapel (amazing) and got into the museum way before the crowds. We were so fortunate to be able to experience this history. From the tapestries to the sculptures to the paintings to the frescoes on the ceiling and all the richness of history of the Papal legacies were fantastic read more

My husband and 2 kids just go back from Italy. We went to the Vatican and the museum on April 5th. It was a blessed and amazing experience. My daughter and I agree that this and the San Pietro Basilica were the best place(s) we visited on our 12 day trip. My son and husband said this is in their top 5. Our kids are 7 and 9 so if you aren't sure if young kids will love it, trust me they will. There were some images that bothered my 7 year old daughter since it seemed so sad. She did have to close her eyes a few times... but she is pretty empathetic so that may be why. I will say, though, that one can never get tired of the amazing paintings scupltures and tapestries found in this fabulous museum. Happy viewing! read more

Very good museum to visit, but do not join those tour guys outside, just stay in line and you won't wait too long, it not worth to waste the money and join those tour guys outside, and this museum may take you hours to finish it read more

Super crowded and super touristy. Definitely should get the tickets online and pay the extra 4euro per ticket. Otherwise the lines are crazy long. read more

It is a good museum but just so big and so crowded and isn't well organized. It has amazing art from every corner of the earth at every moment of history. Worth a stop but bring your patience and good shoes. read more

Absolutely incredible! I would recommend buying tickets directly from the website in advance (like weeks). I didn't- went on a Saturday in summer at 9am. Had to wait an hour and a half and ignored all of the "come here skip the line join our tour" hustlers. Once we did the bag and meta detector the line for tickets wasn't bad at all. 17 euros (some of the "guides" say 20- so just a heads up). And if you're under 25 get the international student travel card- it gives you a discount. Once inside it's just marvelous! Walked in the courtyard, went to the restaurant out there (a little pricy, but that's museum restaurants for you anyways. They do take credit card but tip isn't included so make sure you have some euros on you). Then we were able to follow the flow to all the rooms on the way to the Sistine chapel- which was very convenient. In the Sistine chapel if you exit right you leave the museum but are dropped to St Peters Basilica (free, but better than waiting back outside again. Also breathtaking) and the place to go to the top of the Dome. They don't take card- cash only so I couldnt go. Sign said 10euros for elevator up, 8 for stairs up. read more

A nightmare! Hot and long. Everything was restored so not original. People were passing out from the heat

The Vatican was at the very top of my husband's list for Rome. Luckily I spoke with a friend who had visited before and she recommended paying extra for a guided tour. I cannot say it enough, schedule yourself a tour. We both loved the history and beauty of the Vatican - especially both having been brought up Catholic. BUT the museum was packed. In parts of the museum it felt as if we were being hearded like cattle. The Sistine Chapel was also extremely crowded. I know we would not have gotten half the information about what we were seeing as we did if we had just walked through on our own. We would have had more time in the museum had we not paid for a tour, but it was seriously worth it. Besides the Sistine Chapel (obviously), I thought the Map Room/hallway was amazing. It's hard to believe how accurate the maps are given the lack of technology. (If you're curious, I strongly recommend My Vatican Tour.) read more

Get a good rest before because this place will wipe you out. Wow. A maze of a museum with rooms and rooms and rooms of beauty. If I could do it again I'd pay for a guide, as much as I'd rather do things at my own pace I found this museum far too overwhelming. When I went (Sept 2012) they had Friday night openings which was nice as it was far less busy than I've heard it can be. There is tons to see and you need to set aside at least 3+ hours to do so. Make sure to go away from the crowd sometimes to check out hidden treasures. read more

This place is amazing, but the crowds! We booked a tour of the garden and necropolis via the Vatican site for the morning, and that allowed us to visit the museum afterwards. Like all the other reviewers have mentioned, book your tickets in advance. We arrived at 8:30am for our 9am tour, and there were already a ton of people waiting in line outside. There's a lot to see in the museum, so make sure you get a map (if you're not on a tour) and set aside the full day for this place. With some many people flowing through this place, the BF and I tried to take our time and linger to really see the art. And make sure you bring a pen if you want to send a post card! read more

I started crying the minute I saw the Sistine Chapel. Cannot believe I saw that thing in real life.

This place is a joke. Security was rude. Be sure to bring long pants when it's 98 degrees.. Or else they will deny you entry after waiting 30 minutes in the hot sun.. read more

TIP 1 if your a student don't forget your school ID, you get discounts all around Rome! If you don't pay for skip the line sadly you'll be waiting at least an hour to get in. I believe it was about 11 euros to just get in but then with a tour and skip the line about 30 euros if you look around and ask more than one tour guide. This place is one of the best museums I'm sure in the world, if your in Rome this is a must. Even if your not into museums because there is so much history something will interest you. read more

This site is in Rome, Italy. The fee there is 16,000 Euros the last time I was there. It's for the public to enjoy. The site is made of a museum with art notably the Sistine Chapel. I went here on 3/24/16. I gave this a 5 because the art is beautiful, the outside structure is amazing as well. If you love art then this is a must-see! read more

This is what Americans call "The Vatican". It is famous because this is where the Pope came out when the recent one was announced. The Sistine Chapel is part of it too. read more

The new entrance to the museum, designed under the directive of Pope John Paul II, is behind the Vatican, not in front where one would expect it. However, upon reflection it makes sense, as at the end of your tour you spill out into the square. The museum itself has many artifacts and priceless antiquities, however the hi light is the Sistine Chapel. Despite the allure of the chapel, some of the hallways of the museum and some rooms (such as the Egyptian Rooms) are just as beautiful as the main attraction...do not miss them The only complaint I had is that we purchased the Omnia Pass and upgraded to a tour with an English speaking guide. Far too much time was wasted wandering to the entrance (it's a good 20 minute walk through hordes of people, other tour groups and every imaginable street vendor) so by the time we arrived at the museum.s entrance, then waited for our audio guides, we did not enter the building until at least 3 pm (with a tour that started at 2). Due to this, a huge portion of the museum was skipped. If you do decide to visit the museum purchase an audio set and explore the museum on your own. read more