Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tickets buying guide 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Rome, visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is likely on your list of things to do. These two attractions are some of the most popular in Rome, and for good reason – they’re home to some of the world’s most beautiful and historically significant works of art. But with popularity comes crowds, and lines at the Vatican can be notoriously long. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together this guide to buying tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

How much does it cost to enter the Vatican?

The cost of admission to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel varies depending on the type of ticket you purchase. As of 2023, a standard adult ticket costs €17, while reduced-price tickets for children under 18, students, and seniors over 65 cost €8. Visitors with disabilities can enter for free, but they must present a valid disability certificate.

How to get tickets to the Vatican?

There are several ways to get tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. You can purchase tickets online in advance, which is highly recommended to avoid long lines. You can also purchase tickets in person at the Vatican ticket office or from a tour operator. Note that the Vatican ticket office is located at Viale Vaticano, which is a short walk from St. Peter’s Square.

Is the Vatican free to visit?

No, the Vatican is not free to visit. You need to purchase a ticket to enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

Can you buy Vatican tickets at the door 2023?

Yes, you can buy tickets at the Vatican ticket office in 2023, but it’s not recommended. The lines can be long and you may have to wait for hours to get in. It’s much better to buy your tickets in advance online.

Can you just turn up to the Vatican?

Yes, you can turn up to the Vatican, but you may have to wait in long lines to purchase tickets. It’s highly recommended to buy your tickets in advance online.

Is it better to buy Vatican tickets online?

Yes, it’s much better to buy Vatican tickets online in advance. This will save you time and help you avoid long lines at the ticket office.

Can you buy Vatican tickets at the gate?

Yes, you can buy Vatican tickets at the gate, but it’s not recommended. Buying tickets online in advance is the best way to avoid long lines.

Is St. Peter’s Basilica free?

Yes, St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter. You do not need a ticket to visit the basilica.

Can you skip the line at the Vatican?

Yes, you can skip the line at the Vatican by purchasing skip-the-line tickets in advance online. This will allow you to bypass the long lines and enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel directly.

How far in advance can you buy Vatican tickets?

You can buy Vatican tickets online up to two months in advance. We recommend buying your tickets as early as possible to ensure availability and to save time.

What is the least busy day at the Vatican?

The Vatican is typically less busy on Wednesdays, as this is when the Pope holds his weekly audience. However, note that some parts of the Vatican may be closed to visitors during the audience.

Can you see the Sistine Chapel without a tour?

Yes, you can see the Sistine Chapel without a tour, but you must purchase a ticket to enter the Vatican Museums. Once inside the museums, you can follow the signs to the Sistine Chapel.