Most people consider booking a tour when they are visiting the Vatican Museums. There are so many amazing artifacts contained in the museums that it is the only way to see the highlights and learn more about them. Otherwise, you would need days to explore everything from classical sculptures to the work of Michelangelo.
You will notice that different types are available when you are looking for a Vatican tour. Yes, there are many tour companies, but they also vary in how many guests they have on the arranged tour. Indeed, the smaller groups tend to cost more. So, is this price justified? Is it better to explore the Vatican Museums in a small tour group?
What Tourists Say
Generally, most tourists say that smaller tour groups are better when you are going to hotspots like the Vatican Museums. Since they are such a busy tourist attraction, you enjoy several advantages when you spend the money on a smaller tour. Let’s take a closer look at what those benefits are.
A More Comfortable Experience
When you are in a large tour group, you are going to be moving around with many people. This is something that not everybody likes. It might make the place feel busy for you and crowded. Indeed, it can affect your experience since the Vatican can already be very busy during the high season when tourists visit.
If big crowds are not your thing, it can be best to book a more private Vatican tour. This will mean there is a smaller capacity, allowing you to have a more comfortable and engaging experience. What a Life Tours offers small group Vatican tours, which can be up to 12 people. VIP private tours are also available, which you might be interested in. You can head to their website and check out the prices for yourself.
Opportunity to Ask Questions
Naturally, most tourists have questions when they are visiting the Vatican Museums. After all, if you are new and have never been, you might not know much about the artifacts on display. So, you will be curious, and questions can come into your mind at the time. When you are in a larger tour group, it is not always possible to be heard. There are so many people, and there is no time to answer everybody’s questions.
This is where it is better to arrange a smaller tour group. Since it is a more intimate experience, you are going to have the opportunity to ask questions. You can get to know the guide and feel comfortable enough to say your thoughts out loud and gain clarification on what you are seeing. Indeed, you can ask all of the questions you have since there are a few amounts of people there.
Feels Personal
Many tourists like an interactive tour. We have mentioned that you get to ask questions. Generally, a small tour creates a more personal experience. It feels like you are on a VIP excursion with the opportunity to talk to your guide. This can lead to a more memorable time and one where you can make the most of the Vatican Museums. After all, your trip to Rome might be one in a lifetime.
In addition, a small tour might mean only your family is there. This will depend on the group size. But, if quite a few of you are going, this can create your own private tour. Then, it is going to feel really personal and be a unique experience you can enjoy together. Thus, count how many are in your family and see if it matches the tour size. You might be surprised to find out that it works in your favor.
They Come with a Price Tag
As mentioned, a small tour of the Vatican Museums will likely come with a higher price tag than a general group tour. This is something that you have to budget for in advance. As you can tell, there are many advantages to this type of tour, which means that people generally prefer this option. After all, bigger tour groups can mean:
- Louder people
- Crowds inside the Vatican
- Harder to ask questions
Do not forget that you can shop around and explore what different companies offer. You might find that some tour companies are more affordable than others. Then, some might offer more perks for a slightly higher price. Weight up what you value and consider your vacation budget. If you are going to get more out of the experience, you may prefer to splash the cash.
Therefore, be prepared to spend more money on Vatican Tours that are more private. Since you know about this in advance, you have more time to save.
