Sistine Chapel Tickets

Embark on a centuries-old pilgrimage to the crown jewel of the Vatican Museums with Sistine Chapel tickets and tours! As you wind your way through the countless galleries filled with priceless art and artifacts, you can feel the buzz of anticipation from those around you. One cannot think of this iconic attraction without thinking about the famous, rebellious artist Michelangelo. Time to grab Sistine Chapel tickets with other top Rome attractions like the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica now!

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Our tips for Sistine Chapel

  • Fashionably late. The Sistine Chapel draws quite a crowd. Try visiting during the mid to late afternoon to avoid feeling like herded cattle. Another option is booking the first tour of the morning when the chapel is likely to be almost empty.
  • Stay just a little bit longer. Due to the crowds, it’s common to feel pressured to breeze through the Sistine Chapel. But, for most, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Michelangelo’s work. So, fight the urge to flee and stick it out as long as you can.
  • Paparazzi Protection. You can’t take photos inside the Sistine Chapel. So, as much as you’d like to snap a shot for posterity’s sake, please keep your camera holstered.
  • Save money. Combine your Sistine Chapel tour with a Vatican Museum ticket to save extra bucks and make the most of your itinerary.

Good to know

Sistine Chapel is one of the most visited attractions inside the Vatican Museum for obvious reasons. The goal for everyone is to lay eyes on Michelangelo’s most popular masterpiece, causing some to rush through an otherwise intriguing museum visit. One cannot think of the Sistine Chapel without thinking about the famous, rebellious artist, and vice versa.

It is about a two-hour walk-through history before you reach La Capella Sistina and the lifework of a Renaissance master! Contrary to popular belief, Michelangelo did not paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel while lying down. Instead, he stood on scaffolding he designed himself.

Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam contradicts the literal interpretation of Genesis because Adam is depicted as having a navel, just like the rest of us. Many people believe Michelangelo intentionally created the shape of a human brain by careful placement of the angels and fabric surrounding God in The Creation of Adam. Supposedly, it depicts God bestowing intelligence on mankind.

Twentieth-century restorations of Michelangelo’s frescos removed the fig leaves covering most of the nudes, restoring them back to Michelangelo’s original vision. Also, Michelangelo had to repaint a large area of his work that covered a total of 12,000 square feet due to mould. The chapel is however still in use for its original purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What is the best time to visit Sistine Chapel?
    A:

    Vatican City is one of the hottest travel destinations in Europe, both literally and figuratively speaking. If you’d like to avoid having your shoes melt into the asphalt, consider visiting the Sistine Chapel in late spring or early fall. Also, Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays are your best bets to avoid the worst crowds.

  • Q: What are the opening hours of the Sistine Chapel?
    A:

    The Sistine Chapel is open from 9 am to 6 pm from Monday to Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, it is open till 10:30 pm. However, it is closed on all Sundays except the last Sunday of the month.

  • Q: What is the dress code to wear during a trip to the Sistine Chapel?
    A:

    Just like many other places in the Rome tour, it is important to dress appropriately while visiting Sistine Chapel. Men and women are not permitted to show their shoulders and knees in the Vatican City so you can skip wearing shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops.

  • Q: Should I book the Sistine Chapel tour in advance?
    A:

    Sistine Chapel witnesses long waiting times, so buying your ticket well in advance is recommended.

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