We had a 7:20 time, which meant that was when we met the rep. From the meeting point we received our sticker, proceeded across the street to the Vatican Museum entrance, got through the security check fairly quickly, and followed the guide up the entrance ramp after receiving our entry tickets. While the rest of the group went directly into the museum, we had to wait until 8 am to rent an audioguide (SO WORTH IT). Regardless, purchasing the early entry was the best thing we did as we actually had the Hall of Maps to ourselves for 5 minutes, then after viewing the Sistine Chapel for 30 minutes (where the audioguide was most useful) we went back into the museum and toured for 4 more hours until the crowds became too much.

Sistine Chapel with no people, priceless

It was an early start but worth every penny. Being able to wander through the Vatican museums in some cases alone made for great photo opportunities. We were in the Sistine chapel with a maximum of 30 people so it really gave us the chance to look at all of the wonder that is Michelangelo's masterpiece, although taking pictures of it are strictly forbidden. When we left around 9.45 the line to get in was at least 150 yards in length. Our advice, BUY THIS TICKET!

All was perfectly well, except the morning arrangement.

The actual name of the host company must be made clear to the customers. Too many people in the morning with very little information. There were no ''pink shirt'' staff at the meeting point. It actually was in the rose shirt from a different company. Think it it wise for the host company to come at least some 15 min before the clock.