Attending a Vatican Tour – Things You Need to Know

Are you excited to attend a tour of the Vatican Museums? Many tourists choose to go on a guided tour when they are in Vatican City so they can learn more about Catholicism and all of the artifacts that are on display. Indeed, you can come away from the experience with a lot of new knowledge, making the most of your trip to Europe.

But, you might not know what to expect when you book a Vatican tour. So, here is a useful guide on the things you need to know when you are attending a tour.

Book the Tickets Online

Know that most companies will need you to confirm your attendance at a tour online. You can book tickets through their company website. You do not have to call or confirm your purchase in any other way. Simply book the tour online, and this is going to be you ready to go. Check out https://www.whatalifetours.com/vatican-tours/ if you want to go ahead and book a tour for your trip to Rome. What a Life Tours is a popular company that many tourists select since they have a variety of Vatican tours on offer. Indeed, this allows you to skip the general admission line, as well as enjoy a private tour before the attraction opens to the public.

No Need to Collect the Tickets

One question that many people ask is whether they have to collect the tickets for the Vatican if they have already booked the tour. The answer to this question is no. This is something that a tour company will often sort out for you, and there will be no need to collect the tickets before your visit or on the day you are going to the Vatican.

Therefore, when you book the tour, you will often receive a confirmation voucher. This is going to show that you have already paid for tickets and the tour is all sorted. Then, on the day, your tour guide will have your tickets to give to you for entering the Vatican Museums. Indeed, this is one of the main advantages of booking a tour; you do not have to wait in the general admission line. 

Know the Meeting Point

Of course, in order to go on the Vatican tour, you need to meet your tour guide before it begins. This means that you should always ensure you are early to the Vatican so that you are not left behind or delay the tour by being late. Indeed, something you want to take note of on the confirmation voucher is where the tour is going to start and the meeting point for the group.

Most confirmation vouchers are going to have directions for the meeting point. Make sure that you read them in advance so that you understand where it is going to be. It is best to bring this voucher with you. This means that if you do forget the instructions, you will be able to look at them again and figure it out. Alternatively, you might be able to ask someone else for help.

Note that you will be able to recognize the tour guide most of the time at the meeting point. They will likely have a sign that states the company they are from. This allows you to go and introduce yourself.

Items to Bring on Your Tour

Many people like to know the items they should bring on a Vatican tour. First of all, you want your confirmation voucher. This is going to be useful if you need extra information or help with locating your tour. As we have discussed, the guide will sort out your tickets, so this is not something to worry about. Ultimately, this is all you really need for a tour. But, there are a few things that you might choose to bring.

For example, if it is hot during the summer, you know that you have to stay hydrated. This means drinking plenty of water. You will be permitted to bring a water bottle with you. This should be made from plastic, as there is a security check before entering the Museums. It is best to bring this empty, and there are water fountains you will find outdoors in Vatican City. Note that you should not drink when you are in the Museums. Make sure that you are outdoors.

Another good tip is to wear comfortable shoes to the Vatican. While they should be smart to abide by the dress code, you want to make sure you are able to walk in them. You can be there for several hours with a tour, and you want to be comfortable. Indeed, wearing new shoes is not recommended. Stick to something that is going to offer you support.

 

Image Credit: Photo by Caleb Miller on Unsplash