TeaLoverDenise

Beginning 3 May 2013 and for selected Friday evenings throughout 2013, the Vatican Museums (including Sistine Chapel) will be open from 7pm-11pm - reservations essential.

We will be in Rome on 3 May and have never seen the Sistine Chapel. Because it's not particularly high on our 'Rome To Do' list, do you think an evening viewing would be a good option - also, possibly, less crowded?

RobIm

We did this and found it not crowded. We were able to easily sit on the seats on three sides of the Chapel and spend all the time we wanted. You can see our visit at www.rimerson.com in our Europe Trip 2011.
Rob

ekc

We have toured the museums and Chapel during the day and on a Friday evening and found the Friday evening to be MUCH less crowded and much more enjoyable experience!

kybourbon

The Friday night opening started a couple of years ago late summer only (late Aug to late Sept). I'm surprised they are starting in May this year. It's become more popular as it's better known. It seems it's not all summer:

***Night Openings 2013

Information
An extraordinary opportunity to visit the Vatican Museums after sunset.
Every Friday from May 3rd to July 26th and from September 6th to October 25th, the Museums will be open to visitors from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm (last entrance at 9:30 pm).
Visitors will be able to admire important collections, following an itinerary that includes the Pio-Clementine Museum, the Egyptian Museum, the Upper Galleries (Candelabra, Tapestries and Maps), the Raphael's Rooms, the Borgia Apartment, the Collection of Modern Religious Art, the Sistine Chapel.

Booking online is mandatory.***

It seems you don't have full access on the night tour.

http://biglietteriamusei.vatican.va/...sita=17&step=1