Vatikan VIP Früher Einlass 7:00 Uhr

We arrived at the meeting point at 0630, for the 0700 start time. Nobody showed. There was no communication from the operator, and no response to us when we reached out to them. I have an Italian number, so there should have been no problems calling or texting. When someone finally showed up after 0720, we found out that we had been moved to the later tour. Our names were on the check-in list with 0700 noted, and everyone else on the list was there for the 0730 tour. At the time of booking, there was a USD $30+ per person difference in price between the 0700 and 0730 tours. When I requested a partial refund for the difference between what we paid for and what we received, the operator claimed that we were booked for the later tour. I provided screenshots of our booking. Then they said that we got the longer tour (3 hrs vs 2.5 hrs). I provided time stamped photos showing when we hit the end of the tour outside of the Basilica. THEN they said that there was a delay because of security. I provided photos of the entry tickets the guide gave us, with an 0800 entry time. Still, Viator was unable to secure the partial refund. The tour itself was fine. A little crowded, a little rushed - but that’s expected at any location like this in Rome. Given the absolute lack of communication plus the bait-and-switch tactics of the operator, I would never recommend this to friends. I wish I had paid attention to the reviews on Viator that share similar experiences - I just assumed those were people that were being overly picky or critical. Go with the cheaper options, because you’ll get the same tour anyway.

Skip the line helped. Still a line but not bad. George was very informative but we should have spent more time on some of the viewable items and less on the detailed history leading up to viewing.

Meeting point was clearly indicated. Easy to recognize the flag as several groups meet there. Efficient set up. Checked in, stickers and headsets distributed and guide ready on time. The walk was brisk and the Vatican has more than a few stairs and few elevators. Be prepared to get your steps in. I can’t speak highly enough of our guide Barbara. While keeping us moving, and together, and “ahead of the tsunami” she was engaging, humorous and above all, extremely well-informed. No idea how she kept up her monologue for 3 hours nonstop. Got us to the Sistine Chapel in time for a blessing; at the front (pole position, as Barbara called it) for changing of the guard. Prepped us for the Basilica, even though she was not with us at that point. Highly recommend this tour.