There are several options for accessing the Vatican Museums, but only one official entrance for visitors, located in Vatican Avenueon the north side of the Vatican walls. However, depending on the type of ticket or tour you choose, you can take advantage of different entry modes or special routes.
Entrance to the Vatican Museums: main entrance
This is the main entrance for visitors who have purchased a standard ticket or booked online. This is the entrance for both the free visit to the Museums and the Sistine Chapel. It is strongly recommended to book online to avoid long queues, especially in high season.
Entrance to the Vatican Museums: priority entrance or skip the line
If you have booked a skip the line ticket, you can enter through the general entrance but with a reserved lane that will allow you to avoid long waits. This is a very popular option among tourists.
Vatican Museums Entrance: Special Entrance to the Vatican Gardens
If you wish to visit the beautiful Vatican Gardens, there is a separate entrance fee for these special tours. This tour can be combined with admission to the Museums, but requires advance booking and is conducted with a guide.
Entrance to the Vatican Museums: Entrance to St Peter's Basilica
Although St. Peter's Basilica has its own free entrance from St. Peter's Square, if you visit the Vatican Museums and want direct access to the Basilica, you can do so through a passageway that connects the Sistine Chapel to the Basilica, without having to leave and re-enter.
Vatican Museums mon amour!
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